Andy Carmichael previews this weekend’s fixture…
As frustration builds toward both manager and chairman at Colchester, a positive result will be the only respite for their loyal fans as they play host to fellow strugglers Leyton Orient.
The reverse fixture back in September saw Colchester grab their first win of the season, defeating Orient by two goals to nil, whilst playing out the majority of the game with ten men.
If results go their way Humes’ men could clear the drop zone for the time since late November, which will would be some achievement following the departure of top scorer Freddie Sears.
For Orient, on the other hand, a defeat could see them drop into the relegation zone, a stark contrast from last season’s heroics which saw them into the League One Play-off Final.
Whilst Colchester had the perfect start to 2015 with a neat victory away to Peterborough, last week’s dismal showing against Walsall ended in defeat making it no win in six at home.
Orient fans will be buoyed by their team’s performance at high-flying Preston last time out, with goals from ex-Colchester striker David Mooney and Chris Dagnall securing them a good point.
The Essex side have been quick to replace leading marksman Sears and Saturday is likely to see new permanent signing Chris Porter stake his claim as U’s first choice striker.
January loan signings Mathew Briggs and Jack Marriott will also be hoping to make an impact as they link up with their new Colchester teammates for the first time.
The East London side have made moves of their own in the loan market, bringing in Neal Eardley from Birmingham and Ryan Hedges from Swansea who will both be in contention to start on Saturday.
The 60-mile trip down the A12 is likely to see Orient take one of their largest away followings of the season with predictions of almost 1,000 fans travelling to hopefully see their team get back to winning ways.
Colchester recent form: WLDLWL – GF: 5 – GA: 7
Likely line-up: Walker, Briggs, Eastman, Gorkss, Wynter; Fox, Gilbey, Szmodics; Hewitt, Watt, Porter
Orient recent form: LDWWLD – GA: 10 – GA: 8
Likely line-up: Cuthbert, Lowry, Clarke, Sawyer; Pritchard, Lundstram, Wright; Dagnall, Plasmati, Mooney