Appéré’s close-range finish came late in a very scruffy first-half, his fifth goal of the season. Cobblers had chances to increase their lead in the second period and nearly paid for not doing so as Colchester finished strong and almost grabbed a late leveller. Here are our player ratings from a hard-fought win in Essex….
13. Will Hondermarck
Did well after replacing McWilliams at the break, giving Cobblers more presence higher up the pitch. Looked certain to score his first goal only for Hall to deny him with a remarkable goal-line clearance... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
14. Josh Eppiah
Outstanding work to set up Sowerby's late chance... 6.5 Photo: Pete Norton
15. Mitch Pinnock
N/A Photo: Pete Norton