Colchester United were beaten 3-0 by East Anglian neighbours Ipswich Town in a pre-season friendly tonight.

U's keeper Sam Walker pushed David McGoldrick's effort onto the bar inside the opening 30 seconds as Town started as they meant to go on.

They took the lead in the 27th minute when defender Luke Chambers headed home unmarked from former U's midfielder Anthony Wordsworth's corner.

And Town doubled their lead five minutes later when McGoldrick lashed home a low shot through a crowded area, to put the visitors in command.

Colchester improved in the second half and looked more dangerous as an attacking force, as both sides made several substitutions.

But Ipswich rounded off their win with 16 minutes to go through substitute Daryl Murphy, who scored from the spot after being brought down by Walker in the area.

U's boss Joe Dunne said: "It was a great game for us.

"We've learnt so much from it, because it was a proper match.

"It was the perfect defeat, based on the fact that everything had been going well against high-profile teams.

"Ipswich were terrific - we struggled in the first half with what they were doing.

"It was played like a proper league match, which is a credit to both teams.

"We have to redefine one or two things but overall, I'm really pleased with how the players have gone.

"The first two goals were disappointing for us.

"They came rapidly and we should have dealt with them a lot better.

"But we've set up a certain way to be ready to start the new season.

"I'm pretty sure Mick (McCarthy) is also delighted with the workout."

See Wednesday's Gazette for a full match report and pictures from the U's game against Ipswich.