Report: Colchester United U23s 3-2 Bristol City U23s

The first-team captain got his 60-minute run-out as planned - his first action on the pitch since the summer as he recovers from injury.

Luke Williams' development group traveled to Florence Park training ground for their Professional Development League clash with the Us, who took a 1-0 half-time lead.

Ricardo Rees met Barney Soady's cross, after good work involving Sam Pearson, to draw City level just after the interval, before the hosts took a two-goal advantage.

City U23s reduced the deficit late on when Harvey Smith rose to nod in Marcus Day's cross from the right.

City weren't without their chances to get a draw or the three points from the contest, but Rees was off target while Tom Richards and Pearson saw efforts saved.

"We gave it more of a go in the second-half," assistant coach Alex Ball said.

"Bailey also played an hour and he did well. He looked comfortable, was pleased with himself to be back playing too and he was great to have around this young team. He's helpful to have around these players and he added quality."

City starting XI: Wollacott, Turner-Williams, Soady, Wright (H Smith 60), Harrison, Holden (Day 65), Williams, Richards (Ali 75), Pearson, Rees, Bell. Sub not used: Buse.