ORIENT failed to build on moving into the top half of the table for the first time this season by coming unstuck against Colchester United at Brisbane Road on Saturday.

O's boss Russell Slade said ahead of the meeting with the U's that finding consistency at home would be key to Orient climbing the table further, but Terrell Forbes's first half own goal meant an afternoon of frustration for the hosts.

Forbes was unfortunate in turning Karl Duguid's cross beyond Lee Butcher just before the half hour and Orient struggled to get going as they searched for an equaliser after the interval.

Referee Mark Haywood turned down strong penalty appeals for what looked like a foul on Kevin Lisbie, but that moment aside, Colchester looked strong in defence as they stood firm for victory.

Photos by Simon O'Connor.