Sammie Szmodics' first-half penalty proved only a consolation, as two goals from Kevin Dawson and Jamie Grimes' second half strike gave Cheltenham Town all three points at Whaddon Road and condemned Colchester United to their fourth league defeat of the season.

The result sees Colchester slip to 17th in the League Two table, and John McGreal’s men host Wycombe Wanderers, next weekend.

Here, Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the players in the disappointing 3-1 defeat on the road:

SAM WALKER 7

U’s man of the match. Made a good penalty save and could do little about the goals conceded.

TOM EASTMAN 5

Had work cut out containing the impressive Eisa at times on a day to forget for the U’s.

RYAN INNISS 6

Won his fair share of high balls in both boxes but Palace loanee was on losing side.

CAMERON JAMES 5

Was at fault for Cheltenham’s first goal before being substituted at half-time.

RYAN JACKSON 6

Caused problems with his long throw but was unable to help prevent defeat.

TOM LAPSLIE 6

U’s skipper hustled hard as usual but Cheltenham won the midfield battle. Booked.

BRANDON COMLEY 5

A largely frustrating afternoon for the QPR loanee; withdrawn just after the hour.

KANE VINCENT-YOUNG 6

Played on both flanks for Colchester and twice came close to scoring late on. Booked.

SAMMIE SZMODICS 6

Slotted his penalty away well and was also denied by Flinders before half-time.

NICKE KABAMBA 5

Missed a gilt-edged chance in the opening minute and had little joy after that.

MIKAEL MANDRON 5

Had little service and had a frustrating day even prior to his second-half dismissal.

SUBSTITUTES

DREY WRIGHT (for James, 46) 6

Added some vibrancy to the U’s attack and unlucky not to earn a second-half penalty. Booked.

BRANDON HANLAN (for Kabamba, 60) 6

Looked lively after coming off the bench and fired a fierce shot straight at Flinders.

SEAN MURRAY (for Comley, 63) 5

Came on with the U’s chasing the game and was unable to help them turn it around.

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Kinsella, Kpekawa, Odelusi, Gilmartin.