Crostyx had fond memories of their last drive up the A12, having beaten Colchester 6-0 on their patch last season, but it was Colchester who had the best of the early chances, taking the lead from a rebound from a short corner. Despite some promising build-up play, Crostyx struggled to find an equaliser before Willoughby confidently finished a chance created by Harrison. The equaliser galvanised Styx, and Harrison was on hand again to create a goal for man of the match Hunn just before half time.

Coach Steve Ashton’s half time talk did the trick, as Crostyx looked much the better team in the second half. They were rewarded for their improvement as Jake Burke scored a magnificent deflection from Willoughby’s bullet-like cross from the left, as Styx looked to take control of the game.

Whitehead had caused both defences headaches in the first half with his forays into the opposition’s D, but was rewarded for his positive play with his second goal in two weeks and Crostyx’ fourth of the match, putting the game completely beyond Colchester’s reach.

Crostyx weren’t done yet. Meier superbly intercepted the ball at the top of the D from a short corner and began a swift, decisive breakaway with Lawes slotting home from close range after an unselfish pass from Burke. Despite a late push by Colchester Crostyx held firm to record a resounding victory of 5-1.