COLCHESTER United boss, Paul Lambert, described his side's performance against Brighton as “shocking” and “totally unacceptable.”

Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United boss, Paul Lambert, described his side's performance against Brighton as “shocking” and “totally unacceptable.”

The U's were deservedly beaten by Lloyd Owusu's 57th minute headed goal, from Gary Borrowdale's free-kick. They never looked like fashioning an equaliser and were booed off the pitch at full-time.

“We were poor, really, really poor!” confessed manager Lambert.

“We didn't deserve anything at all. Brighton had more hunger and desire than us, and they deserved to win.

“Once again we were undone by a set piece. I've lost count of the number of times that we have conceded from set pieces this season.

“But our general performance was not acceptable. The fans had every right to boo and every right to criticise us. It was a shocking display.

“I won't be putting up with that again. We lacked desire, and you can't play the game without that,” added Lambert.