Colchester returned to winning ways with a battling 1-0 victory at Bromley.

Owura Edwards’ fourth-minute goal was enough for the visitors.

His smart side-foot finish from Lyle Taylor’s through ball gave the U’s an early lead they never looked like relinquishing.

Jamie McDonnell could have doubled the lead five minutes later but his goalbound header was cleared off the line before keeper Grant Smith denied Jack Payne from 12 yards as Colchester dominated the opening proceedings.

The second 45 saw Colchester continue to create the better of the opportunities as Taylor and Mandela Egbo drew sharp reaction saves from Smith.

Bromley finally created an opportunity 15 minutes from time, Ellis Iandolo needing two bites of the cherry to prevent Louis Dennis’ cross being turned into his own net.

However, that was as good as it got for Bromley as the U’s saw out the remainder of the game with minimum fuss.