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.