Luke Norris penalty enough as Colchester edge Northampton

Posted Sunday, August 25, 2019 by PA

Luke Norris was on target as Colchester claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Northampton to register their first Sky Bet League Two win of the season.

Norris bagged their winner from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after Shaun McWilliams had fouled Ben Stevenson in the area.

Northampton almost took an early lead through Sam Hoskins, whose fierce 25-yard effort was parried away by goalkeeper Dean Gerken.

And the Cobblers nearly scored again in the 27th minute when Ryan Clampin did brilliantly to nod Vadaine Oliver’s header off the line.

Norris headed a good chance over for Colchester, who almost went ahead six minutes before half-time when Northampton goalkeeper David Cornell pushed away Jevani Brown’s curled effort.

Cornell then denied Courtney Senior early in the second half and Charlie Goode almost converted Frank Nouble’s cross into his own net, soon after.

Ryan Watson hooked a shot just over for Northampton, on the hour mark but – seconds after Cornell had denied Luke Gambin – Colchester took the lead through Norris, who picked out the top corner with his spot-kick.

Gerken pushed away Nicky Adams’ low shot as the match wore on but Colchester held out for maximum points.