Freddie Sears declared the only way is up for Colchester United after helping them claim back-to-back wins.

The in-form forward scored for the third successive match to help the U’s to a 3-2 triumph over fellow strugglers Portsmouth, at Fratton Park.

Colchester are now three points above the relegation zone in League One, after notching up successive wins for the first time since October.

Sears said: “It was a massive three points for us.

“This is the stage of the season where you need wins, to stay ahead of the teams in and around you.

“The win against Walsall the week before took a lot of pressure off our shoulders and the boys have been flying.

“The only way is up for us now, if we keep digging in and winning games."

For more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full match report, pictures and reaction to the U's win at Portsmouth, see Monday's Gazette.