Colchester boosted their League Two play-off hopes with a 2-0 home win that handed Gavin Cowan his first defeat as Shrewsbury manager in his second game in charge.

Colchester took a fourth-minute lead when Will Goodwin converted from close range from Samson Tovide's low delivery, after Rob Hunt had done brilliantly to win possession on the touchline.

Arthur Read's low 25-yard strike was pushed away to his right by Shrewsbury goalkeeper Matthew Cox while George Lloyd headed wide for the visitors.

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But Colchester doubled their lead in the 37th minute through Read, who struck a magnificent first-time left-footed shot into the top corner from more than 20 yards, leaving Salop keeper Cox with no chance.

Cox saved Jack Payne's fierce strike in first-half stoppage time ,while after the break Kyreece Lisbie hooked a shot wide of the target at the far post for Colchester.

Shrewsbury rarely threatened and although substitute Tommy McDermott saw an effort flash wide of the target for the visitors, Colchester's victory - that moved them within four points of the play-off places - was never seriously in any doubt.

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