COLCHESTER United’s match-winner Mikael Mandron admits it was a great feeling to be back on the scoresheet after ending his barren scoring run.

The French striker hit the net for the first time in nearly nine months after bagging the U’s all-important winning goal in their 1-0 triumph over Macclesfield Town, to help his side remain third in League Two.

Mandron said: “It feels great to be back among the goals.

“I work hard every day in training and this is why.

“It was a good strike and I caught it quite well, with my left foot which is my strongest foot.

“I don’t usually score from outside the box so I was proud of that one.

“I just felt confident and I’m glad it went in the back of the net.

“I didn’t think it was a goal straight away because there were bodies but I’m glad it went in.”

Having failed to start any of Colchester’s opening 18 league matches, striker Mandron has featured in their starting line-up for each of their last three games.

The 24-year-old has helped John McGreal’s side claim seven points from a possible nine and admits he is enjoying being back in the side.

“To be fair to the boys, they’ve done really well when I wasn’t playing, so I’m happy to be back in the team now and help them win games,” said Mandron.

“It’s not always easy influencing games as a substitute but you just have to do what you can.

“No-one wants to be one the bench but I’m a team player and I’m delighted when we do well.

“Since I’ve been back in the team, I’ve been playing really well and I’ve got a goal.

“To be fair, you want all of your players playing really well and be on form especially the strikers, so the more the better.”

Mandron’s sweet left-foot strike just before the half hour proved the winner for Colchester.

The U's dominated the first half against Macclesfield but were forced to defend for a large chunk of the second period.

Mandron added: “We always have lots of chances and we managed to score one.

“The other team will always have some momentum but we were strong enough to keep them away from our goal and get the win.

“Sometimes you can’t always score three or four goals – sometimes one is enough and we’re happy.”

Colchester's under-23s are in action tonight.

The U's youngsters host Coventry City at the JobServe Community Stadium, kick-off 7pm.