Colchester United's play-off hopes suffered a blow after they were beaten 1-0 at Charlton Athletic this evening.

Nicky Forster's goal just before the midway point in the first half proved the difference between the two promotion-chasing teams, at the Valley.

Kevin Lisbie, who spent 12 years as a Charlton player, almost scored against his former club in the opening three minutes.

He played a one-two with John-Joe O'Toole in the area from Magnus Okuonghae's long free-kick but saw his shot saved by Addicks goalkeeper Darren Randolph.

U's keeper Ben Williams then denied Lloyd Sam and Colchester fell behind just after the 20-minute mark.

Sam escaped down the right and sent in a lofted cross which Nicky Forster dived to head home from eight yards.

O'Toole suffered a suspected serious knee injury in the build-up to Charlton's goal and was stretchered off.

A midfield battle ensued for the rest of the half, although David Prutton went close with a 20-yard effort just before the interval.

Substitute David Fox went close for Colchester and Prutton's close-range effort was blocked by Christian Dailly.

The U's pushed for an equaliser late on but Lisbie was shown a straight red card for an alleged headbutt on Nicky Bailey late on, as Colchester fell to defeat.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester United's game at Charlton Athletic, see tomorrow's Gazette.