Colchester were good value for their first away point at Tranmere in a close contest.
The Merseysiders finished with ten men after striker Eugene Dadi was dismissed in the 81st minute for an off-the-ball incident spotted by a linesman.
Tranmere manager Ray Mathias explained: "Dadi said he was elbowed by one of their players and flicked his foot out. But he has no excuse, he should have been more disciplined." Colchester got no reward for a bright start and it was Tranmere who took the lead after 12 minutes. Gary Jones netted with a close-range shot after a header by Graham Allen was hooked off the line.
John Achterberg in the home goal saved well from Rowan Vine in the 26th minute, but could do nothing on the half hour when a spectacular shot by Wayne Andrews from the corner of the box found the far corner of the net.
Jones was unlucky to hit the outside of a post for Tranmere in the 64th minute. Vine and Andrews wasted good opportunities for the visitors.
"One win in five games is not a good enough, but it is early days yet," said Mathias.
Colchester boss Phil Parkinson was well please: "Tranmere are a strong side and we did well to get a point.
"I was disappointed with the goal we gave away but we felt comfortable for the most part. Andrews' goal was exceptional and I was absolutely delighted with his contribution throughout the 90 minutes."