Colchester United's under-23s ran out 3-2 winners at neighbours Ipswich Town in their opening Professional Development League Two game of 2017.

Wayne Brown's side made the perfect start when trialist Tommy O’Sullivan curled home a free-kick to give them the lead after 15 minutes, following a foul on Femi Akinwande on the edge of the box.

And the U’s doubled their lead nine minutes later through Akinwande, who fired in following a delivery from out wide.

But Ipswich pulled a goal back five minutes later through Adam McDonnell, who netted a fine free-kick that flew in off a post.

And Ipswich got back on level terms through Ben Morris, who finished powerfully to equalise.

However, Colchester restored their advantage just before half-time when Dunne scored to round off a frantic first half.

The second half was a much more low-key affair.

There were no further goals added after the break, ensuring the U’s under-23s got the calendar year off to a winning start.