Colchester United relegated after eight year stint in League 1

 

The U’s faced an uphill challenge against the promotion-chasing Brewers, requiring victory to give themselves hope of another miraculous escape, but their task was made all the more difficult by Joe Edwards’ early red card.

A Lucas Akins hat-trick secured a 3-0 win for the visitors, leaving the U's nine points from safety and confirming that they would join already-relegated Crewe Alexandra in the fourth tier next season.

It is the first time they have played outside League 1 since 2006­/07 season when they were relegated from the Championship. It brings to an end an eight year stint in League 1.

KN