Colchester United boss, Joe Dunne, praised his side for a very “professional performance” during this afternoon’s 4-2 win at Carlisle.

The U’s continued their good recent run, thanks to a sweet brace of first-half goals from Sanchez Watt, a 68th minute header by Marcus Bean and then a 73rd minute own goal from defender Max Ehmer.

An 18th minute own goal by Magnus Okuonghae had earlier levelled the game at 1-1, but Carlisle’s second goal, by Ehmer, did not arrive until stoppage time and so was a mere consolation.

“The result was all important. It was a good win today,” enthused Dunne.

“How we got to the result is by-and-by. We have certainly played better and lost this season.

“We knew from early on that this was going to have to be a backs-to-the-wall display, and so it was.

“The players rolled up their sleeves and ground out a result.

“It was a very professional performance. We were not at our best today, and Carlisle will feel aggrieved, but it’s another good win,” added Dunne.

PICTURES: RICHARD BLAXALL