SAM WALKER 7

Pulled off a fine first-half save to deny Nolan and had no chance with Alex’s winner.

TOM EASTMAN 7

U’s man of the match. Produced a strong defensive display and got forward effectively.

LUKE PROSSER 7

U’s captain read the game well and was unlucky not to score with header late on.

FRANKIE KENT 7

Produced another solid performance and dealt well with Alex’s front line.

RYAN JACKSON 6

Enjoyed his tussle with Bakayogo on his return to the side and worked hard.

BEN STEVENSON 6

Was industrious in the first half before fading in the second half and being replaced.

BRANDON COMLEY 5

Tenacious in the tackle throughout but conceded the free-kick that led to Crewe’s winner.

DREY WRIGHT 6

Was effective in the first half at left wing-back and unlucky not to score; switched to a central position after Crewe scored.

COURTNEY SENIOR 5

Showed flashes of his trickery in the first half but was taken off on the hour.

MIKAEL MANDRON 6

Provided a physical presence for the U’s in attack but to little avail. Booked.

JUNIOR OGEDI-UZOKWE 5

Was strong in the air but struggled to make any real impact in attack before being replaced.

SUBSTITUTES

BRENNAN DICKENSON (for Senior, 61) 5

Made another welcome appearance for the final half hour after his long-term injury.

LIAM MANDEVILLE (for Ogedi-Uzokwe, 65) 5

The Doncaster loanee was unable to help Colchester produce an equaliser in the final 25 minutes.

SEAN MURRAY (for Stevenson, 70) 6

Was full of energy after coming on but his industrious display failed to lead to a late goal.

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Inniss, Lapslie, Shodipo, Gilmartin.