Colchester United kept their League Two play-off hopes alive with a 2-0 win over MK Dons.

Goals from Sammie Szmodics and Frankie Kent kept the U's two points off the top seven, ahead of the final round of fixtures next weekend.

John McGreal's side will head to champions Lincoln City next Saturday needing a win and hoping other results go in their favour, in order to finish seventh.

The Gazette's Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the U's players, following their fine victory.

ETHAN ROSS 8

Looked assured on his first-ever league start and particularly competent dealing with crosses

RYAN JACKSON 8

Dealt well with the Dons’ potent attack and showed great energy levels once again

TOM EASTMAN 8

Was rock solid throughout alongside Kent and hardly put a foot wrong throughout the entire game

FRANKIE KENT 9

Outstanding once again at the back and scored a fantastic goal to cap his fine display. Booked.

BRENNAN DICKENSON 8

Produced a whole-hearted display at left-back and also added something to the U’s attack

SAM SAUNDERS 8

Produced another classy display and showed his football intelligence in guiding his side through the game

TOM LAPSLIE 8

Epitomised Colchester’s spirt and seemed to get his body in the way of everything

COURTNEY SENIOR 7

Showed electric pace and gave Lewington a tough time but missed two excellent chances

SAMMIE SZMODICS 9

U’s man of the match. Took his first goal superbly and also provided assist for Kent’s goal

ABO EISA 7

Started very well and did his fair share of defensive work on the left dealing with Brittain

FRANK NOUBLE 8

Played his part in Kent’s goal and gave Brittain plenty of problems, especially in first half

SUBSTITUTES

MIKAEL MANDRON (for Eisa, 72) 7

Helped add some physical presence to the U’s attack in the final 20 minutes or so

BEN STEVENSON (for Senior, 79) 7

Came closing to sealing the U’s victory with a shot straight at Nicholls near the end

LUKE NORRIS (for Nouble, 90)

Fired a decent chance straight at Nicholls. Booked.

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Kensdale, Clampin, Wright, Vose.