COLCHESTER United boss John Ward conceded that the better side won after Huddersfield Town comprehensively brought to an end their unbeaten start to the League One season.

Following a club record 10-game undefeated start to any league campaign, the U’s were beaten 3-0 on home turf thanks to a combination of slick football by the visitors and some sloppy passing on their own behalf.

First half goals from Lee Novak and Anthony Pilkington saw Colchester trail by two goals for the first time in the league this season, before former Ipswich Town striker Jordan Rhodes wrapped up victory 12 minutes from time.

“The better team won – it’s as simple as that,” said Ward.

“We looked a little bit tired today and short on ideas, but big credit to the opposition.

“Lee (Clark) changed their shape a little bit to stop us playing and they did that with aplomb. Not only did they nullify us but they were able to create and finish off chances at the other end too.

“Possession has been a strength of ours in the previous game but today it was poor.

“As I say though, and I keep repeating myself, credit to the opposition because they played better than us.

“That’s our first defeat in 13 league games (including two at the back end of last season) and I’ve just said to the boys that if carry on losing one in 13 then we’ll be okay.

“Now we’ve got to make sure we bounce back from this.”

– More reaction, including an interview with keeper Ben Williams following his first league start of the season, in Monday’s EADT.