Colchester boosted their League Two play-off hopes as they handed Gavin Cowan his first defeat as Shrewsbury manager.
The home side took a fourth-minute lead when Will Goodwin converted from close range from Samson Tovide's low delivery, after Rob Hunt had done brilliantly to win possession on the touchline.
Arthur Read's low 25-yard strike was pushed away to his right by Shrewsbury goalkeeper Matthew Cox while George Lloyd then headed wide for the visitors.
But Colchester doubled their lead through Read, who struck a magnificent first-time left-footed shot into the top corner from more than 20 yards, leaving Salop keeper Cox with no chance.
Cox saved Jack Payne's fierce strike in first-half stoppage time, and after the break Kyreece Lisbie hooked a shot wide of the target at the far post for Colchester.
Shrewsbury rarely threatened and although substitute Tommy McDermott saw an effort flash wide of the target for the visitors, Colchester's victory – that moves them within four points of the play-off places – was never seriously in any doubt.
Report supplied by PA Media.
Will Goodwin after scoring in a 2-0 win
