Colchester United were thrashed 5-1 at high-flying MK Dons this afternoon.

The U's were put to the sword in the driving rain at stadium:mk, to fall to their heaviest defeat of the season.

The U's fell behind to Luke Chadwick's fine finish in the 28th minute and the Dons doubled their lead on 36 minutes through Shaun Williams, who scored from the penalty spot after Tom Eastman had fouled Dean Bowditch in the area.

Things got worse for the U's on the hour when Jon Otsemobor headed home unmarked from Bowditch's corner.

And although Ian Henderson drove home to make it 3-1 in the 63rd minute, the Dons restored their three-goal advantage when Eastman's weak backpass allowed Chadwick to run on and score his second of the game.

Colchester were reduced to ten men when substitute Gavin Massey was sent off for violent conduct, following a foul on Dons left-back Adam Chicksen.

And the U's misery was compounded with eight minutes to go when substitute Ryan Lowe scored a superb goal from long range, to complete the Dons' big win.

For a full match report, pictures and reaction to Colchester United's defeat at MK Dons, see Monday's Gazette.