Colchester United equalled their biggest win of the season after thrashing fellow play-off contenders Stevenage 4-0 this afternoon to close to within two points of the League Two play-off places.

The U's produced a superb first-half display at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, scoring four times before the break through Brennan Dickenson, Chris Porter and own goals from Josh McQuoid and Charlie Lee.

And although they were unable to add to their tally in the second half, they were able to secure a big win and boost their chances of securing a top-seven finish in League Two.

Colchester head coach John McGreal made one change to his starting line-up for their game against Stevenage this afternoon.

Tarique Fosu was recalled to their side in place of Rekeil Pyke, who dropped to the bench.

Cameron James was passed fit to play after being substituted at half-time of their 3-1 defeat at Notts County with a head injury.

Colchester made a bright start and came agonisingly close to going ahead in the third minute when Richard Brindley’s shot smacked against the underside of the crossbar and post, after Chris Porter had knocked down Drey Wright’s throw.

But the U’s did make the breakthrough in the 11th minute through Brennan Dickenson, who emphatically lashed home a left-foot shot from inside the area after Wright had helped on Fosu’s cross into the box.

Stevenage responded well to the setback and Luke Wilkinson headed over from Steve Schumacher’s free-kick, while U's keeper Sam Walker made a fine double stop at his near post to deny Matt Godden who broke rapidly down the left flank.

But just before the half hour mark, Colchester were 2-0 ahead.

After George Elokobi’s header had bounced back off a post, Stevenage failed to clear and after Sean Murray had followed up, Chris Porter’s shot went in off Wilkinson and in.

Things got even better for Colchester in the 33rd minute when they scored again.

Tom Eastman helped on Murray’s corner and Stevenage midfielder Josh McQuoid inexplicably turned into his own net.

Wright’s low shot flashed just past the far post before Colchester went further ahead, seven minutes before the break.

After Wright had unleashed Fosu in the area, the Reading loanee’s cross was sliced into his own net by Stevenage midfielder Charlie Lee for 4-0.

Colchester went in at half-time in complete control against a shell-shocked Stevenage side, who started the second half brightly despite the scoreline.

Jobi McAnuff's curled effort was pushed over the bar for a corner by Walker and Jack King stabbed just wide from close range, as the visitors pushed for a much-needed breakthrough.

But Colchester still looked menacing when on the attack and Dickenson’s fierce effort was parried at his near post by keeper Day, while Wright’s low effort flashed wide.

The U's were unable to add to their lead before the end but they were worthy winners, to continue their excellent home form this season.