Colchester United boss John McGreal insisted that Kyel Reid “let everyone down” following his 43rd minute red card during today’s 4-1 home defeat to Cheltenham Town.

Kurtis Guthrie crowned his long-awaited return to the starting line-up with an opening goal, but 10-man Colchester eventually slithered to a home defeat at the hands of Cheltenham.

The turning point was left winger Reid’s sending-off, just two minutes before half-time, with the U’s 1-0 up. He was shown the red card for striking out at Joe Morrell.

The Robins struck with four unanswered goals in the second period, ex-Colchester striker Sanmi Odelusi (57), Nigel Atangana (70), Jerell Sellars (74) and Mohamed Eisa (84) all on target.

“The sending off was the crucial moment. It was pivotal,” insisted McGreal.

“I’ve seen it back on the video and there can be no excuses. Kyel has let everyone down.

“He raised his arms, not once but twice. He’s let his side down.

“I think the sending-off was a shock to the team, and it clearly affected us in the second half, especially with fatigue setting in after all the recent games.”

On a brighter note, McGreal praised the returning Guthrie, who scored a great goal just before Reid’s dismissal.

“Kurtis had been ready-ish for a start, and I was just biding my time waiting to put him back in,” said McGreal.

“It was a great strike by Kurtis, and it was a terrific performance and effort to last the full 90 minutes.”