Colchester United maintained their unbeaten away record in League Two after battling back to secure a 1-1 draw at Tranmere Rovers, on Saturday afternoon.

Harry Pell's second-half equaliser secured the U's a point at Prenton Park, after in-form striker James Norwood had given the hosts the lead just before half-time.

The result means Colchester are fifth in the League Two table, and John McGreal’s men host Joe Dunne's Cambridge United, next weekend.

Here, Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the players following another good point on the road:

DILLON BARNES 7

Made two good first-half saves from Smith and a smart stop to deny Jennings in second half.

RYAN JACKSON 8

Another very impressive performance by the in-form Colchester right-back.

TOM EASTMAN 7

Solid showing from the U’s centre-back although distribution was not as slick as usual.

FRANKIE KENT 8

U’s man of the match. Led the way in Prosser’s absence and battled hard against Stockton and Norwood.

KANE VINCENT-YOUNG 7

Allowed Tranmere little room to exploit on the U’s left with another athletic display.

HARRY PELL 8

U’s stand-in captain battled hard in midfield and took his goal extremely well. Booked.

DIAZ WRIGHT 7

Grew into the game and was more of an influence in the second half on first-ever league start.

SAMMIE SZMODICS 7

Came close to scoring in the first half and forced Davies into a good save in the second half.

LUKE NORRIS 7

Cut a frustrated figure at times but might easily have had a penalty when dragged back by McNulty. Booked.

BRENNAN DICKENSON 7

Had a quiet game by his own high standards but still played his part in Colchester’s hard-earned point.

FRANK NOUBLE 7

Another industrious display by the powerful forward who found himself pushed out wide at times.

SUBSTITUTES

COURTNEY SENIOR (for Dickenson, 83)

Looked bright when he came on for the final stages.

MIKAEL MANDRON (for Norris, 84)

Offered something different in attack as the clock ticked down.

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Clampin, Kensdale, Gondoh, Collins, Ross.