Exeter move into League Two play-off places after comfortable Colchester victory

Posted Sunday, March 17, 2019 by PA

Matt Jay netted his third goal in five games to get Exeter’s play-off push back on track courtesy of a 3-0 win over Colchester.

The Grecians striker struck on the stroke of half-time, planting a half-volley past Rene Gilmartin.

Jay turned creator for the second goal in the 66th minute when he sent a deft chip into the path of Holmes, who lifted the ball over the advancing Gilmartin.

Nicky Law sealed the win in the 76th minute after latching on to Hiram Boateng’s pass and prodding the ball home.

It was only Exeter’s second win in their last seven games but the three points were enough to leapfrog Colchester back into the top seven.

The first half was a triumph of endeavour over creativity until Jay produced the only moment of quality.

Exeter survived a scare at the start of the second half as the ball ricocheted into the path of Sammie Szmodics and his shot was brilliantly saved by Christy Pym.

After Holmes stretched Exeter’s lead, Colchester poured forward and Mikael Mandron and Szmodics forced Pym into smart saves.

But Law wrapped up the win, leaving Colchester with only one win from their last six games.