Colchester United's unbeaten run was ended this afternoon after they were beaten 2-1 at home by Port Vale.

Freddie Sears and Gavin Massey both went close for the U's, in the opening stages.

And Colchester wasted a great chance to take the lead later in the first half when Freddie Sears' penalty was saved low down by Port Vale keeper Chris Neal, after Richard Duffy had fouled Gavin Massey in the area.

The U's were made to pay for the miss ten minutes after half-time when Mark Marshall finished well from Adam Yates’ cross.

And the Valiants doubled their lead four minutes later through substitute Colin Daniel, who scored less than a minute after coming on when he finished well from Marshall’s assist.

Massey hit the woodwork with a spectacular effort and Colchester found a route back into the game with 12 minutes remaining when Sears tapped in from two yards after Macauley Bonne had headed Sanchez Watt’s deep cross back across goal.

Colchester looked for an equaliser after that but Vale held on, to condemn the U's to a home defeat.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to the U's game with Port Vale, see Monday's Daily Gazette.