Colchester United fell to their sixth successive defeat this afternoon when they were beaten 3-1 at home by Brentford.

The U's suffered a nightmare opening 12 minutes, with Marcello Trotta given the visitors a fourth-minute lead and then Josh Thompson being sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity, before Adam Forshaw doubled the Bees' lead soon after.

The outstanding Drey Wright reduced the deficit for the U's midway through the first half when he fired neatly home, from Kem Izzet's assist.

And Colchester's hopes were raised further when Brentford midfielder Tom Adeyemi was sent off after picking up two yellow cards in the space of ten minutes.

However, despite a spirited second-half display, Colchester's fate was sealed late on when Harlee Dean tapped in to leave Joe Dunne's side two points above the League One relegation zone.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester's defeat against Brentford, see Thursday's Gazette.