THE chance of watching the U’s play at a “new ground” will appeal to many fans tomorrow.

The opportunity to scratch Salford City off the list will in some cases override need to go after the disappointment suffered on recent outings to the likes of Cambridge and Port Vale.

Let us all hope that the extra support on show from the fans will be a boost to the team, because let’s face it, they need it.

Much like the fans need the players to give them a boost, of course.

We do not want to endure another “nearly” end to the season.

I have to confess that last Saturday I was taken on a birthday treat to my second sporting love, rugby, so I missed out on what

several fans have told me was one of our worst performances in years.

If it’s any consolation, the rugby wasn’t much better viewing thanks to Storm Dennis.

I’ve seen the goals we conceded at Port Vale and they weren’t good watching.

Much like the Grimsby defeat, from being a picture of defensive solidity most of the season, we now look very open, and in my view that’s an issue for the whole team, because I am afraid that one or two of our players are often wasteful in possession, poor in the tackle and slow to help out in our own half.

These failings are easy to gloss over when the team is on a high and playing with confidence, but when the U’s are under the cosh, they stick out like a sore thumb.

John McGreal is apparently considering changes to try and avoid a drop out of the play-offs. We shall wait and see tomorrow afternoon.

Maybe that is why a few first-team players were involved in the academy game on Monday night against Coventry under-23s.

An entertaining 4-4 draw thanks to some iffy defending from both teams really.

Luke Norris scored two in what looked an easy game for him while Michael Fernandes came off the bench to score his own brace, and in my view he should definitely be on the coach to Salford.

He looked hungry and positive during his brief yet productive stint on the pitch, and he stood out when compared to others on show.

Our team need a result at Salford. They need to get their smiles back and relieve the pressure a bit. Let’s try to help them do that.

Good luck U’s and if you’re off to support them, may I wish you a safe journey.

Jon Burns, Colchester United Supporters Association chairman