COLCHESTER United were outclassed by league leaders Charlton Athletic on home turf tonight, sliding to their first league defeat of the campaign.

COLCHESTER United were outclassed by league leaders Charlton Athletic on home turf tonight, sliding to their first league defeat of the campaign.

A slick brace from striker Bradley Wright-Phillips inside the first half-hour safeguarded the Londoners’ 100% record. On this form, they look strong candidates for a return to the Championship.

Second best throughout a one-sided first-half, the U’s improved after the break without ever threatening Charlton’s lead.

Wright-Phillips bagged his first goal after 13 minutes. He intercepted a stray pass from left-back Michael Rose, who was to endure a torturous evening, and released Scott Wagstaff down the wing.

The powerful Wright-Phillips continued with his run to receive Wagstaff’s return pass and then beat Mark Cousins with an accurate low shot from just inside the penalty area.

It was all too easy for Charlton as Wright-Phillips completed his brace in the 28th minute. Ex-U’s midfielder Johnnie Jackson curled over a cross which Paul Hayes headed on for Wright-Phillips to steer home from five yards out.

The Addicks could have added further goals, but Mark Cousins had a good night in the U’s goal to keep the scoreline down.