Football results: Beattie scores on Blades debut

Blades 2 Colchester 2

United twice surrendered the lead to Colchester. James Beattie in his debut headed United in front only for Kevin McLeod to make it 1-1. Michael Tonge came off the bench to make it 2-1 but in the 88th minute Clive Platt headed home to give Colchester a point.

Ipswich 4 Owls 1

Wednesday conceded a penalty after 36 seconds and that set the scene for a disastrous start to the season and the half-time exit of captain Lee Bullen after he had been involved in two out of three first half goals. Sub Leon Clarke hit a late consolation effort.

Reds 1 Coventry 4

Barnsley started the season with a heavy defeat at home to Coventry. Barnsley boss Simon Davey's new look team failed to gell as four goals were hammered past them. Brian Howard scored the Barnsley consolation.

Rovers 0 Millwall 0

Doncaster Rovers were held to a goal-less draw by visiting Millwall in their League One opener at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Despite a lack of goals it was an entertaining game with chances at both ends.

Chester 0 Spireites 0

CHESTERFIELD had the chances but failed to put Chester to the sword, Jamie Ward was guilty of failing to put away the best two openings, he shot wide in the first half and saw the keeper save near the end.

Hereford 0 Millers 0

Rotherham, with seven of their newcomers, battled their way to a point.

Rotherham enjoyed the better of the first half but the home side were closest to winning in the second. Andy Warrington made a superb save 10 minutes from time. Graham Coughlan made point-saving clearance in last minute.

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