Peterborough United boss Darren Ferguson hailed his side's battling qualities as they withstood a spirited effort from visitors Colchester United to claim a 2-1 home success in front of nearly 7,500 supporters at London Road.

Ferguson believes the win over the U's was a 'big result' and insisted that his squad have the character to finish in the top two of Coca-Cola League One this season. 'It was a big win for us as Colchester provided tough opposition. They really gave it a good go.

'I think we scored the first goal at a good time just before the break but the minute that they scored was a terrible one for us. I felt we should have definitely had a penalty kick and they went straight down the other end and scored, so I was very frustrated by that.

'However, the lads showed great character to bounce back and score within a couple of minutes of the leveller. I think we have a lot of talent in that dressing room and they have showed in recent weeks the traits that I think we need and that is good self belief and the ability to dig in.

'We defended very well at times and it was an entertaining game for the neutral and I am sure the supporters enjoyed it. We had a large crowd and I would like to thank them for their support. I know the Supporters' Trust gave away some tickets to new fans and I hope they will be back,' Ferguson told theposh.com.

Craig Mackail-Smith had opened the scoring for Posh on the stroke of half-time with his 14th goal of the season only for former Posh striker Clive Platt to level from close-range. George Boyd fired the winner after Gabriel Zakuani saw his header parried by Dean Gerken.