Macari was stretchered off and taken to hospital after suffering a serious leg injury in the 29th minute, while attempting to make a challenge on Owura Edwards.

Notts County went on to score their winner in the 47th minute when Nick Tsaroulla composed himself before shooting past Colchester goalkeeper Matt Macey, after Tom Iorpenda had picked him out in the area following a swift break.

The Magpies had had first-half chances prior to that, with Alassana Jatta’s shot deflected wide with only Colchester goalkeeper Matt Macey to beat early on and the striker also having a header saved, before the break.

Notts County went ahead early in the second half and although Samuel Kuffour headed over for Colchester, substitute Keanan Bennetts’ shot was saved by Macey late on, leaving the visitors two points off the automatic promotion places with one game left.