Colchester United boss John McGreal admitted that today’s dismal 3-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Leyton Orient was a “devastating result.”

Striker Jay Simpson bagged a brace for the O’s (11 and 67 minutes), who had begun the day in the relegation zone, with right-back Nicky Hunt also on target early in the second half.

It extended the U’s winless run to 12 matches, nine in the league and three in cup competitions.

“We’ve had a dip this season, but today was the first time that we lacked real conviction,” explained McGreal.

“It was a poor result, but I’m not too dejected because we still created tons of chances, and I still have tons of faith in the squad.

“I’m obviously gutted about the result, but it’s only three points. There are still 30 matches to go.

“But we have no excuses for today’s performance. We lacked conviction in both boxes, and we missed chances at crucial times.

“It’s a fairly devastating result.

“Some of my players are lacking confidence, but others are still buoyant,” added McGreal.