Boos rang around Brisbane Road after 10-man Colchester United grabbed their first win of the season over a wasteful Leyton Orient side.

Second-half goals from constant threat Freddie Sears and former Arsenal youngster Sanchez Watt punished the O’s, who dominated a patchy first half but failed to provide a convincing final ball — largely due to Sam Walker’s impressive performance in the visitor’s goalmouth.

Colchester, who before the match were languishing at 23rd in the table, looked like they would continue their bad run of form as captain Magnus Okuonghae saw a harsh red at the close of the first half for a challenge on Orient forward David Mooney.

But as the home side looked to make the most of their man advantage after the break, they left themselves woefully open at the back.

A pace-filled run from Watt saw him slot neatly past Gary Woods to take the lead and from then on Colchester looked the more likely to put their chances away. A deserved goal from Sears capped off a fine performance that left Orient still seeking their first home win.