John McGreal takes his rejuvenated charges to North London on Saturday to play Barnet at the Hive. Now many years ago I use to watch Enfield and they often played Barnet at their old ground Underhill. I have also watched Colchester play there on occasions. It is however 5 years since we last played Barnet and they now have a new ground with a 5,176 capacity in Edgware.

The faithful, or perhaps I should now start to call them the Roman Army, will have the opportunity to stand and salute the team at the ground because the North Terrace at the Hive is standing accommodation for Away fans.

The atmosphere should be very good and the Colchester legions (probably 550) will be in good voice after a good win against the Tangerine Army last weekend.

Now absolutely no disrespect to Martin “Mad Dog” Allen and his team but this is a game that the U’s should be expected to win. The table is already beginning to shape up with the big hitters Pompey and Plymouth together with the Hatters and Doncaster likely to be there or there abouts come May. It is essential therefore that we keep pace with these clubs and three points at the Hive will keep the pressure on them and off JM.

Next month we play both Doncaster Rovers and Plymouth Argyle, both Away in what already are shaping up as very important games. Still let’s not get ahead of ourselves, Barnet will be determined to play well and we must ensure that we are at our best to ensure the right result at the Hive.

JM has selected a strong squad and has included Femi Akinwande within the travelling 20.

I would like to see both loanees included in the starting eleven and although JM is “beesotted” with young Lapslie, I think that Fosu and Kamara should definitely start.

Team:

Walker

Brindley Eastman Prosser Kinsella

Fosu Szmodics Kamara Dickenson

Guthrie

Porter

Now I would be remiss if I fail to mention that after the criticism I heaped upon Chris Porter after the Hartlepool game he has responded with great professionalism and his goals last week, particularly the second showed great skill and commitment. Happy to set the record straight.

The pitch might be heavy after all the rain and localised flash floods recently but Saturday should be an entertaining game and hopefully a profitable one for the U’s.

Safe journey to the Roman Army and enjoy the game.

Photo: Action Images

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