Scott Malone’s second-half strike was enough to secure Gillingham a 1-0 victory at struggling Colchester - who sacked head coach Matty Etherington after the game.

"Following this afternoon's defeat against Gillingham, Colchester United have relieved Matty Etherington of his duties as Head Coach," wrote the club in a statement. "The club would like to thank Matty for his time in charge of the first team."

Gillingham almost took a third-minute lead when Dom Jefferies burst into the area but was denied by Owen Goodman, who made a smart low save.

But Colchester squandered a great chance in the 14th minute when leading scorer Joe Taylor somehow missed the target at the far post from Noah Chilvers' cross.

Max Ehmer's header was pushed away by the diving Goodman and Gillingham went even closer just after half-time when Oli Hawkins' header from Connor Mahoney's delivery clattered the woodwork.

Gillingham went ahead in the 54th minute when Malone collected Jefferies' pass and escaped Jayden Fevrier's challenge near the touchline before advancing into the area and planting a shot past Goodman at his near post.

The Gills were a whisker away from doubling their lead four minutes later when Shad Ogie's close-range effort hit a post but one goal proved enough for the visitors.

Win £500,000 with Super 6!

The Super 6 Christmas Rollover hits £500,000! Play for free, entries by 3pm Saturday.