Colchester's water polo aces produced one of their best performances in a long time as they beat a strong Cambridge side 8-3.

Although the score suggests the home side won with ease, this was far from the truth.

Cambridge are a strong, fit and technical side, but Colchester rose to the challenge admirably as they pressed the visitors into mistakes from the start.

Martin Vinter in particular worked hard, defending well and scoring two penalties. Simon Lecomber grabbed two quick goals as Colchester showed their intent from the start to take a 2-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.

By the second quarter, Cambridge were rattled and they lost a player for the rest of the game when he showed dissent to the referees as Colchester were awarded their first penalty.

This, coupled with a fine Simon Nicholson goal, saw Colchester lead 4-2 at half-time.

Goalkeeper Ross Knevett was solid as usual when called upon between the sticks, pulling off some great saves to add to Cambridge's frustration.

It was not until the third quarter that Colchester took control of the game, using quick breaks and capitalising on man-up situations.

During one of these counter attacks, Colchester used patient build up play, before James Tomlinson was finally rewarded with a goal after hitting the bar numerous times.

The final goal of the game was scored by Craig Snowdon, who swam through unmarked and beat the keeper.

Colchester played with determination and in the end has a little bit more class to win the match.

Man-of-the-match was Vinter.