Lyle Taylor struck in the second minute of stoppage time to earn Colchester a 1-1 draw at Barrow.
It was more late heartache for Stephen Clemence’s side, who were denied wins against Notts County and Bromley due to last-gasp penalties in recent weeks.
Barrow goalkeeper Wyll Stanway produced a good save to keep out John-Kymani Gordon in the early exchanges.
Dom Telford and Kian Spence both then squandered chances for the home side.
But they eventually went ahead through Elliot Newby’s powerful volley in the 31st minute after he was found at the back post by Neo Eccleston.
Connor Mahoney tested visiting keeper Matt Macey with a well-struck effort shortly after the restart while Harry Anderson forced Stanway into a good stop at his near post in the final quarter.
But the experienced Taylor was on hand to turn home Sam Tovide’s pass at the very end to ensure Barrow’s wait for a league win stretched to five games.
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