Josh Gordon’s strike was well held at his near post by Colchester goalkeeper Thimothee Lo-Tutala early on while, at the other end, the hosts had an effort ruled out for offside when Bradley Ihionvien headed in Oscar Thorn’s cross.

Lo-Tutala collected Charlie Cummins’ deflected shot and, just before half-time, Thorn’s deflected effort flew just past the far post for a corner for the U’s in an even first half.

Colchester started the second half well and came agonisingly close to going ahead in the 55th minute when Jack Tucker’s strike hit the underside of the crossbar, following Moses Sesay’s shot towards goal.

Thorn’s dipping volley from the edge of the area flew over while Exeter goalkeeper Jack Bycroft had to push away Ihionvien’s low shot for a corner as Colchester pressed.

The hosts looked the more likely team to grab a winner in the closing stages but the spoils were shared.