MANAGER: Long may it continue

Over 300 fans made their way to Colchester on Saturday afternoon and, judging by the reception after the full-time whistle, they left feeling largely pleased with what they’ve seen from the start to the season their team has made.

“It’s brilliant and it makes such a difference for the players to see it and to hear it,” manager Paul Simpson said.

“They appreciate it, so it’s a massive thank you to the people who have travelled this weekend for us.

“I’m sure that on a hot sunny day there are many other things they could be doing. It’s brilliant for us and long may it continue.

“The players have been excellent since the first day back and they’re earning the support of the fans.

“It’ll take a little bit of time for some of the other lads to catch up, the likes of Jay and Jack, and Dev who was missing with illness, but they’ll get there.

"There’s a really good spirit and the atmosphere in training on Friday was really good. The way they all were in the hotel was really good, and I can see that they’re all sticking in together.

“My message today was that we are going to need the bench to help, and I thought the lads who came on did a job for us as well.

“That’s what you need, that’s what fans buy into, when they see everybody pulling in the same direction.

“We can only say thank you for the support, and like I say, long may it continue.”

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