Michael O'Donoghue returned from a long-term injury as Colchester United under-21s’ fell to a 4-1 defeat at Coventry City.

O'Donoghue, who has been out for the last ten months after rupturing knee ligaments in training, came on for the final 20 minutes in the U's Professional Development League Two game.

John McGreal’s side headed to the Ricoh Arena in good form, having been unbeaten in six matches and moved to the top of Professional Development League Two.

But their fine recent run was ended by the Sky Blues, who enjoyed a comprehensive victory.

The U’s fell behind just before half-time when Ruben Lameiras cut in from the right and dribbled round his marker before slotting past Dillon Barnes from a tight angle.

And George Thomas doubled Coventry's lead after half-time when he showed quick feet to fire home.

Joe Tennent headed in a cross to reduce the deficit for Colchester but Lateef Elford-Alliyu quickly restored Coventry’s two-goal advantage.

And Devon Kelly-Evans added a fourth in the closing stages, to condemn the U’s under-21s to a rare defeat.

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