Report | Colchester United U23s 1 Swansea City U23s 1

Ali Al-Hamadi’s penalty rescued a point for 10-man Swansea City Under-23s in their draw with Colchester United.

The Iraqi-born forward took his tally for the season to eight goals as Kris O’Leary’s side recovered from a difficult start to earn a share of the spoils at the Wallace Binder Stadium.

O’Leary made various alterations from the win over Sheffield United three days earlier.

Jacob Jones was welcomed back from injury on the left side of defence, while Jamie Searle returned in goal and there were also recalls for Scott Butler and Michael Murphy.

The young Swans were looking to build on back-to-back wins over United and Wigan, but struggled to settle into their rhythm at the home of Isthmian League North side Maldon & Tiptree.

They fell behind in the 35th minute when the hosts’ striker latched onto a neat through ball, before beating Searle from close range.

The visitors’ task became even more difficult when one of the trialists was given his marching orders within eight minutes after the restart.

But despite the numerical disadvantage, they demonstrated brilliant character and ensured a share of the spoils as Al-Hamadi slotted home from the spot 19 minutes from time. 

O’Leary’s side went close to finding a winner later on, but the point means they have now suffered just one defeat in their last 10 games.

Swans U23s: Jamie Searle, Harry Jones, Jacob Jones, Ryan Bevan, Trialist (Cian Williams, 89), Scott Butler, Bradley Gibbings, Trialist, Ali Al-Hamadi, Michael Murphy (Ben Lloyd, ht), Trialist.

Subs not used: Tyler Evans, Ryan Bassett, Rio Campbell.