COLCHESTER United tumbled to a 3-0 defeat at Northampton Town, on Saturday afternoon.

Goals from Fraser Horsfall, Sam Hoskins and substitute Benny Ashley-Seal condemned the U's to defeat at Sixfields.

The defeat leaves Colchester three points above the League Two relegation zone.

Here are the Gazette player ratings, following a disappointing defeat for the U's.

SAM HORNBY 5

U's goalkeeper made a fine save to deny Hoskins early on but was beaten three times after that

TOM EASTMAN 5

U's defender part of a defence that conceded twice before being substituted on the hour

LUKE CHAMBERS 5

A day to forget for the experienced defender and his side on his return to Sixfields

TOMMY SMITH 5

U's skipper came close to scoring in the second half on a disappointing day for the U's

JUNIOR TCHAMADEU 5

U's right wing-back was given a tough test by Koiki and a lively Northampton attack

Gazette:

MYLES KENLOCK 5

On-loan Ipswich Town defender his best to drive Colchester forward from left wing-back but to no avail

COLE SKUSE 7

U's man of the match. Was an impressive performer throughout and cleared Guthrie's effort off the line

EMYR HUWS 5

Tried his best to impose his authority in midfield on his return to the team before being replaced with 20 minutes left

ALAN JUDGE 6

Was unfortunate to see his shot hit a post in the second half, on his 400th league appearance. Booked

OWURA EDWARDS 6

Had a close-range effort brilliantly blocked in the first half; tried hard to get on the ball and make things happen

Gazette:

FREDDIE SEARS 5

U's leading scorer worked hard but was given little service or support before being withdrawn late on

SUBSTITUTES

CORIE ANDREWS (for Eastman, 60) 6

Gave the U's a different option in attack in the final half hour following a change of formation

NOAH CHILVERS (for Huws, 70) 6

Made a difference and looked lively on the U's left after coming on with 20 minutes remaining

TYREIK WRIGHT (for Sears, 81) N/A

Substitutes (not used): Dallison, Coxe, Wiredu, George.