Colchester United got back to winning ways with a 2-0 win over Newport County, on Saturday afternoon.
Second-half goals from debutant Ben Stevenson and Tom Eastman gave the U's all three points at the Weston Homes Community Stadium and helped them chalk up a first victory in seven matches.
The result sees Colchester close to within five points of the play-off places in League Two and John McGreal’s men make the long trip up to Carlisle United, next weekend.
Here, Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the players following the 2-0 win over Newport:
SAM WALKER 7
U's keeper was delighted to help secure a clean sheet on his 200th U’s appearance.
TOM EASTMAN 8
Capped an excellent all-round performance with a well-taken goal.
LUKE PROSSER 8
U’s club captain was outstanding on his first start in nearly 15 months.
FRANKIE KENT 7
Won a number of challenges and was comfortable in possession throughout.
RYAN JACKSON 7
Came close to scoring just before half-time against his old club.
SEAN MURRAY 6
Went close with a long-range effort early on before going off injured.
BRANDON COMLEY 7
Was effective against his midfield adversary Labadie and his corner paved the way for Eastman’s goal.
KANE VINCENT-YOUNG 7
Had his work cut out when Nouble switched to right wing but dealt with it well.
COURTNEY SENIOR 8
U's man of the match. Produced another dazzling display on his first-ever home league start and provided assist for Stevenson goal.
KURTIS GUTHRIE 6
Was disappointed to miss an excellent second-half chance but worked tirelessly.
MIKAEL MANDRON 6
Squandered a good opportunity before his cleared header led to Eastman’s goal.
SUBSTITUTES
BEN STEVENSON (for Murray, 49) 8
Took his goal very well and impressed after coming off the bench for his U’s debut.
SAMMIE SZMODICS (for Senior, 74) 6
U’s leading scorer offered something different for Colchester after coming on.
JUNIOR OGEDI-UZOKWE (for Guthrie, 88)
SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): Lapslie, Wright, Mandeville, Gilmartin.
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