COLCHESTER United claimed a memorable Essex derby win over their county neighbours Southend United, on Tuesday night.

First-half goals from Michael Folivi and Harry Pell put the U's in charge, at the JobServe Community Stadium.

And the hosts comfortably wrapped up victory in the second half, helped when Southend were reduced to ten men following Jason Demetriou's red card for the visitors.

Here are our Gazette player ratings following a fantastic win for Colchester which put them on the brink of League Two safety.

SHAMAL GEORGE 8

Was seldom tested but showed flawless handling and looked assured whenever called upon

MILES WELCH-HAYES 8

Battled hard for his side and played his part in their clean sheet

TOM EASTMAN 8

Was typically dominant and won every single header and challenge

TOMMY SMITH 9

Followed up his excellent performance against Walsall with another superb display

RYAN CLAMPIN 8

Produced a display full of energy, passion and desire at left-back

HARRY PELL 9

U's man of the match. A huge performance. Scored one goal, made the other and was involved in the sending off.

BRENDAN WIREDU 8

Battled superbly for his side and showed typical commitment and endeavour for the cause

NOAH CHILVERS 8

The former Southend schoolboy again showed maturity beyond his years playing in a wide position

CALLUM HARRIOTT 8

Went close in the first half and showed plenty of his skill and trickery on the wing

FRANK NOUBLE 9

Held up the ball superbly throughout and used all of his experience to help his side

MICHAEL FOLIVI 9

Another eye-catching display by the former Watford youngster marked by a second goal in as many games

SUBSTITUTES

JEVANI BROWN (for Folivi 54)

Subs (not used): Sowunmi, Stevenson, Lapslie, Senior, Oteh, Gerken.