COLCHESTER United suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat at Morecambe, on Saturday.

The U's had hit the post through Callum Harriott and Tommy Smith and had enjoyed the better of the first half.

But Adam Phillips gave Morecambe the lead just before half-time, before substitute Toumani Diagouraga doubled the hosts' advantage after the break.

U's skipper Harry Pell was sent off for violent conduct on the hour before John O'Sullivan wrapped up the Shrimps win.

The defeat leaves Colchester in 15th spot in League Two, ahead of Tuesday's trip to play struggling Stevenage.

Here are the Gazette player ratings following an away defeat for Colchester.

DEAN GERKEN 6

U’s keeper made a good save from Phillips’ free-kick and had little chance with goals

TOM EASTMAN 6

Kept Slew quiet in first half but had less influence after the break at right-back

TOMMY SMITH 6

Was dominant in the air but was unable to prevent a heavy away defeat

OMAR SOWUNMI 5

Battled hard but will be disappointed with the nature of Morecambe’s second and third goals

COHEN BRAMALL 5

U’s talented left-back generally performed well but appeared to lose his runner Phillips for Morecambe’s opener

HARRY PELL 6

U’s skipper was shown what looked a harsh red card on the hour after clashing with Cooney

NOAH CHILVERS 6

Was always in the thick of the action in the first half before hosts took control

BEN STEVENSON 7

U’s man of the match. Looked composed on the ball and tried to get things moving

KWAME POKU 6

Was foiled by keeper Andresson and was lively in the first half but replaced just after the hour

JEVANI BROWN 6

Denied by keeper in the first half; showed good link-up play in first half before being taken off

CALLUM HARRIOTT 6

Hit a post with a fierce first-half effort but was replaced on the hour mark

SUBSTITUTES

ARAMIDE OTEH (for Harriott, 61)

MILES WELCH-HAYES (for Poku, 64)

MICHAEL FOLIVI (for Brown, 81)

Subs (not used): Sayer, Marshall Miranda, Senior, George.