Colchester United

After a thrilling game against Gillingham in mid- week which saw the U’s lose on penalties, Colchester went into the game in good goal scoring form as they looked to put their cup disappointment behind them in what is an improved side under their new manager.
In our latest player watch, we take a look at Gavin Massey's match winning performance against Fleetwood on Saturday, as the U's moved up the League One table.

Player Watch: Gavin Massey

Frankie Kent started in the heart of the defence alongside Tom Eastman and Sanchez Watt supported Freddie Sears in attack along with Gavin Massey who was the star of the show.

Massey hit the winner five minutes from time for the home side who battled their way.

Gavin had a frustrating first half, but his persistence finally paid off and on the stroke of half time he was rewarded after Sears clipped a fantastic ball, which eluded Fleetwood’s back four and Massey met the cross at the back post as he stuck it under the keeper’s legs and into the back of the net – a great team goal.

McAlinden had given Fleetwood the lead on 18 minutes despite the home side’s pressure, after he broke clear of the U’s defence and lobbed Walker brilliantly with a fine solo effort. 
Massey was excellent throughout the second half and was confident and effective on the ball as he looked to stretch the Fleetwood defence on the outside and  inside creating space for loanee Hewitt who started at right back.

As the game went on, Colchester grew with it and dictated the tempo of the game and started penetrating the ball all over the pitch and pressuring Fleetwood into mistake.

Fleetwood’s goalkeeper a few times looked uncomfortable in the second half as his defenders often passed the ball back and put him under pressure as he scrambled to clear the ball – much to the delight of the home crowd.

Massey’s moment came 15 minutes from time after Clohessy worked his way down the left hand side.

He pulled off to the edge of the box and collected the ball off Clohessy, Massey then turned and curled a beautiful curling shot into the top corner which will surely be a contender for goal of the season.

It was a goal that was very much deserved for Colchester as they certainly held their own in the game and despite an early mistake, they didn’t let any further problems happen and their concentration, desire and professionalism is something Humes  will certainly be enthused by.

After a tough start, this was definitely a display which could kick start their season and see them cement their place in League One again.