Colchester United head coach John McGreal labelled his side's outstanding win over Crewe Alexandra as his best during his time in charge of the club.

The U's thrashed hapless Alex 6-0 to move up to third in League Two and extend their unbeaten league run to four matches.

Brennan Dickenson's brace and Frankie Kent's early strike gave Colchester a 3-0 lead, at the break.

And further goals from Ryan Jackson, Luke Norris and Tom Lapslie wrapped up the U's biggest home win since 1996.

McGreal said: "I think it was my most pleasing win as Colchester manager.

"Listening to the stats, I think it was the biggest win at the stadium in so many years and the boys have got to take the plaudits.

"They're the ones who put the energy and the hard work in and take in the tactical information, in and out of possession.

"It's all credit to the boys and they deserve all the plaudits.

“We’ve said to them they have to enjoy it.

“Defeats are tough to take at times – we know that ourselves.

“But when you get the wins, you have to enjoy them.

“It’s a start for us and we’re four games in - I’ve been fortunate to pick the same league team for the third game.

“But I’m going to put a dampener on it and nothing is won in August!

“We’ve had a couple of good performances and put ourselves in a healthy position but the games come thick and fast."

Colchester produced a superb all-round performance but Dickenson shone, scoring twice and setting up a further two goals.

McGreal said: “I think Dicko has got a wand of a left foot – he’s got power, he’s got caress, he can whip it and I think you’ve seen all the technical aspects of his left foot.

“He’s a runner as well and a strong boy.

“He’s getting back to those performances that he had before he got injured, which is fantastic for us.

“I think Brennan knows that there is a ton of competition now, like every other player.