Colchester United’s youngsters suffered penalty heartache after they were beaten on spot-kicks by Ipswich Town to go out of the FA Youth Cup at the third round stage.

The U’s and Town could not be separated after normal and extra-time, after a tightly-fought contest at the Weston Homes Community Stadium ended 0-0.

But Town ran out 4-2 winners in the shoot-out, with Victor Guldbrandsen scoring the crucial spot-kick to send the visitors through and book them a fourth-round tie at Sunderland.

Colchester adopted what was effectively a 4-5-1 formation, looking to contain Town as much as possible and capitalise on any opportunities that came their way.

They were largely successful, although Town did edge the better of the attacking play in a somewhat scrappy first half.

Colchester goalkeeper Callum Robinson had to tip away Cemal Ramadan’s fierce cross early on.

But neither side was successful in keeping possession for long periods, with the swirling wind not helping matters.

Nevertheless, Colchester warmed to the task as the half wore on, with Tyler Brampton and Joe Tennent both registering efforts on goal.

The closest either side came to scoring before the break was just before half-time when Colchester defender Jamie Stephens sliced a cross towards his own goal, forcing Robinson to take evasive action at his near post.

And Robinson made an even better save with the second half four minutes old, to prevent Kundai Benyu’s swirling free-kick from sailing in.

Monty Patterson’s drive flew into the side netting from the edge of the area and Victor Guldbrandsen’s fierce drive flew over, as Ipswich pressed for a winner.

But much like the opening 45 minutes, the second half was a close affair.

And although Ipswich substitute Andre Dozzell went close with a late free-kick, the tie went to extra-time.

Colchester might well have had a penalty in the closing stages of the first period when substitute Khristopher Oti’s goalbound shot appeared to be handled in the area by Town defender Luke Woolfenden.

But their claims were waved away and although Robinson was forced to parry Patterson’s powerful shot at his near post in the closing stages of extra-time, the tie went to penalties.

And after Tariq Issa and Tyler Brampton missed from the spot, Town went through.

COLCHESTER UNITED: Robinson, Andrews (sub Downey, 102), Brampton, James, Tennent, Stephens, Brown, Harrison, Atkin (sub Oti, 75), Issa, Dunne (sub Cosgrave, 105).

Substitutes (not used): Syrett, Wilson.