COLCHESTER United's unbeaten run came to an abrupt halt when they were thrashed 4-0 by second-placed Walsall on Saturday afternoon.

Substitute Jack Earing’s late brace added to earlier goals from Albert Adomah and Jamie Jellis, as the U's were well beaten at the Poundland Bescot Stadium.

Here are the U's player ratings, following a disappointing defeat on the road.

MATT MACEY 5

U’s goalkeeper was beaten four times but made saves to deny Jellis and Allen

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

MANDELA EGBO 5

Had an intriguing battle with Gordon; did not have as much attacking impact as usual

TOM FLANAGAN 5

Made two fine blocks in first half and had an effort blocked but gave ball away prior to third goal. Booked

BEN GOODLIFFE 5

Will be disappointed with the manner of first goal and could not prevent Saddlers’ further strikes

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

ELLIS IANDOLO 5

U's left-back had a decent first half but was unable to prevent Walsall’s dominance after the break

ALEX WOODYARD 5

Was his usual tenacious self in midfield but was less influential in the second half. Booked

TEDDY BISHOP 5

Had an influence in the first 20 minutes but faded after that and went off injured in second half

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

JACK PAYNE 5

Had a good start to the game but had less influence after that as Walsall got on top

OWURA EDWARDS 6

U’s man of the match. Looked a threat on the left and went close with a header before going off injured soon after half-time

SAMSON TOVIDE 6

Had a tough battle with Williams; was unfortunate not to make more of a chance early chance

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

LYLE TAYLOR 6

Looked after the ball well and rarely surrendered possession but lacked service. Booked

SUBSTITUTES

ANTHONY SCULLY (for Edwards, 51) 5

Came on in a left-sided role in what was a disappointing all-round second-half display

ARTHUR READ (for Bishop, 64) 5

Had little opportunity to carve out attacks for Colchester in the final quarter of the match

AARON DONNELLY (for Iandolo, 81)

ROB HUNT (for Tovide, 81)

JK GORDON (for Taylor, 81)

Subs (not used): Kelleher, Smith.