STEVE Cotterill admits he was unhappy to hear jeers coming from the stands during Burnley's disappointing Championship defeat to Colchester.

The Clarets slipped 2-1 to the promoted U's - their third consecutive loss at Turf Moor.

Kevin Watson and a Chris Iwelumo penalty gave Colchester a two-goal lead, while Andy Gray's late consolation set up a grandstand finish.

At times during the game, sections of the home crowd voiced their disapproval towards the team, while transfer-listed Gifton Noel-Williams was booed when he came on as a second-half substitute.

"I thought they (Burnley players) were mentally strong when we got a few moans and groans and a few boos, which I haven't been used to here," said Cotterill.

"I wouldn't say I like that. I don't like that. The players didn't deserved to be booed at stages in the game.

"To be fair, there was quite a few good supporters at the end that carried on clapping them.

"When a few moans and groans are going, it's easy to not have the ball. It's easy to hide.

"None of them did that and they won't. They are good, honest lads. They didn't deserve what they got.

"If we'd have deserved it, I'd be the first one to say it.

"If we are not very good, I will say that. But we were the better team by a long chalk."

Noel-Williams helped transform the game after leaving the bench with half an hour left.

Cotterill added: "Gifton Noel-Williams was first-class when he came on.

"I'm just desperate for that goal to go in (for him)."