Colchester United strolled to a 3-0 win over Newport County on Saturday afternoon.

Goals from Sammie Szmodics, Courtney Senior and Frank Nouble gave the U's all three points at the JobServe Community Stadium.

The result sees Colchester move back into the play-off places and up to sixth in the League Two table, and John McGreal’s men host fellow promotion hopefuls Forest Green Rovers, on Tuesday night.

Here, Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the players following the convincing 3-0 win:

RENE GILMARTIN 8

Helped U’s keep another clean sheet and made a fine save to deny Labadie just after half-time.

RYAN JACKSON 8

Played a big part in the U’s opener and was a tireless performer against his former club.

TOM EASTMAN 8

Made an impressive return to the side and was unlucky not to score with a first-half header.

FRANKIE KENT 8

The classy U’s centre-back was outstanding throughout and made all the right decisions.

KANE VINCENT-YOUNG 8

Was his usual consistent self and enjoyed several attacking forays into Newport territory.

BEN STEVENSON 8

Produced another mature display in the heart of the U’s midfield despite his young age.

MIKAEL MANDRON 8

Was hard working in a midfield role and helped Colchester’s flair players get opportunities to attack.

FRANK NOUBLE 8

Scored a fantastic goal that is candidate for the U’s goal of the season and also had a big hand in Szmodics’ opener.

SAMMIE SZMODICS 8

U’s leading scorer made a triumphant return after illness and showed clinical awareness for his goal.

COURTNEY SENIOR 9

U’s man of the match. Scored an impressive long-range goal and gave the Newport defence problems throughout.

LUKE NORRIS 8

Captained the side in the absence of Prosser and led the line well, giving Newport little time to breathe.

SUBSTITUTES

BRENNAN DICKENSON (for Nouble, 68) 7

Was unlucky not to score late on when his effort was saved by keeper Day.

ABO EISA (for Senior, 88)

NOAH CHILVERS (for Szmodics, 90)

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Prosser, Wright, Roberts, Barnes.