Colchester United recovered to beat Crewe Alexandra 3-1, on Saturday afternoon.

Mikael Mandron's brace and Tom Eastman's header gave the U's all three points at the Weston Homes Community Stadium to lift them to within five points of the play-off places, in League Two.

The result sees Colchester move up to 13th in the table and John McGreal’s men now have a fortnight's break from league action, with their FA Cup home tie with National League South outfit Oxford City taking centre stage, on Saturday.

Here, the Gazette's Colchester United reporter Jonathan Waldron rates the players in the impressive comeback win over Crewe:

SAM WALKER 7

Was unlucky not to keep out Crewe’s goal and made fine save to foil Dagnall.

TOM EASTMAN 8

Took his goal well and was effective in defence and attack on 250th U’s appearance.

RYAN INNISS 7

Another competent display; won his fair share of headers and showed authority.

FRANKIE KENT 7

U’s skipper led the side well and helped them turn things around after half-time.

RYAN JACKSON 8

Full of running again and provided the excellent cross for Mandron’s second.

BRANDON COMLEY 8

Provided the assist for Eastman’s goal and played the game at his own pace.

DOUG LOFT 8

Made a difference on his return to the team and showed his experience in midfield.

DREY WRIGHT 7

Grew into the game in the second half after a testing first half at left wing-back.

KYEL REID 7

Saw more of the ball in the second half after providing the corner for Mandron’s opener.

BRANDON HANLAN 7

Worked very hard for the team despite having to shrug off ankle injury to play.

MIKAEL MANDRON 8

U’s man of the match. Showed predatory instinct for his goals and was excellent throughout.

SUBSTITUTES

CRAIG SLATER (for Loft, 87) 7

Impressed when he came on and almost scored with a fine shot saved by Richards.

LEWIS KINSELLA (for Jackson, 87) 6

Helped Colchester see out victory in the final minutes after coming on for Richards.

NICKE KABAMBA (for Hanlan, 90) 5

Had little time to make an impression after entering the fray in stoppage-time.

SUBSTITUTES (NOT USED): James, O’Sullivan, Odelusi, Gilmartin.