COLCHESTER UNITED finish by far one of the most tumultuous days in recent club history in what will either prove the best or worst way possible -playing football!
It`ll be grand for the U`s if they can continue their fine form in the opening two League One games, which has seen them bounce to the top of the table, against a tricky Gillinham.
On a day of much talking, that would be just deserts for the fans who have endured Paul Lambert`s shock walk through the Essex exit door, capped by news of Dean Hammond`s all-but confirmed departure to Southampton.
Bad is what it might be if the team has suffered adversely from the impact of those leaving; United are currently in the care of first-team coach and former Gillingham hero, Joe Dunne.
Vital Quotes:
Acting Boss Dunne Promises U’s Will Fight Tonight:-
“This town is built on its fighting spirit and we will be working on that basis this evening when we take to the field.
This team of players are focussed and ready to go and we’ll give our best against Gillingham.”
Colchester United Team News:
Clive Platt is still suspended, while Southampton-bound Dean Hammond will probably be missing. Other than that, a full complement of players for the U’s, bar injured duo Paul Reid and Steven Gillespie.
Player to watch: Ashley Vincent
Scored a cracking goal against Yeovil with his head and Vincent has pledged plenty more before the season is out – pace to burn.
Gillingham Team News:
Gillingham have no new worries ahead of the game.
Simon King and Stuart Lewis are both out long-term.
Player to watch: Simeon Jackson
Wanted by a few Championship sides after his impressive strat to the season, Jackson is one to watch for sure and if he keeps up such form the Gills will be lucky to hang onto him.
Match Facts & Stats
Date: August 12, 2008
Venue: Priestfield Stadium
Gillingham 0-1 U’s.
Gillingham: Julian, Fuller, Richards, King, Nutter, Southall (Berry 63), Crofts, Bentley, Miller (Oli 63), Jackson, McCammon (Mulligan 63).
Subs Not Used: Kiely, Lewis, Clohessy, Mills.
Booked: Fuller.
Colchester: Gerken, White, Reid, Heath, Ifil, Yeates (Elito 71), Hammond, Izzet, Wordsworth, Platt, Vernon.
Subs Not Used: Lockwood, Jackson, Coyne, Wasiu, Cousins, Batchelor.
Booked: Reid, Heath.
Goal: Heath 11.
Att: 2,566.
Match Prediction:
Matt_Us match prediction: I’ll go for a 2-1 loss for the U’s tonight – I know, I should have faith!
Next Fixtures:
Who? MK Dons
Where? MK Stadium.
When? 22/08/2009.
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Sorry – gone to the game. Will finish preview upon return. Been that kind of a day!