Colchester claim victory against Newport at Rodney Parade

Colchester inflicted a first home defeat on Newport in seven months as they secured a 2-1 victory at Rodney Parade.Goals from Ryan Jackson and Mikael Mandron gave the visitors the three points.The Exiles dominated the first half, but Colchester looked dangerous on the counter-attack with Brandon Hanlan forcing an important save from Joe Day.John McGreal's Colchester had their first chance when Mandron's header went close just after half time.Visiting keeper Sam Walker was forced to keep Padraig Amond's shot out after the Irishman was one on one when through on goal for the home side.And the Exiles came even closer when Scot Bennett hit the post following a header from close range.But Newport's worst fears then came true as Jackson smashed the ball into the back of the net following a cross by Mandron to put Colchester 1-0 up.Mandron then doubled the visitors' lead after finding the back of the net with a header following a Sean Murray free-kick.Shawn McCoulsky gave Newport hope with a header from short range in the 86th minute to ensure a nervy finish, but by then it was too little too late.