U’s Vs Cardiff

FA Cup semi-finalists Cardiff are the second of three teams to visit North Essex, within seven days, in a pivotal week in the U`s season.

The U`s midweek loss to Sheffield Wednesday made it five defeats on the bounce for Geraint Williams` side.

If the U`s fail to gain all three points tomorrow, it will look even more likely that the U`s will be playing League One football come August.

Colchester Team News:

Chris Coyne, the U`s record signing, misses out after picking up a hamstring injury, midweek, against Sheffield Wednesday; he will be on the sidelines for a fortnight. Loanee Matt Heath, who has been brought in as defensive cover, could start.

Veteran midfield linchpin Kevin Watson, who picked up a calf injury in training, will also miss out.

The pair join Teddy Sheringham (foot), Jamie Guy (Achilles), Pat Baldwin (knee) and Mark Cousins (appendicitis) on the injury list. Mark Yeates and Aiden Davison (both shoulder) are also out.

Kevin McLeod (illness) could return, Luke Guttridge (neck) is available once more.

Player to watch: Kevin Lisbie

The Jamaican has notched in his last three games, to take his season’s tally to thirteen. Described as ‘on fire’ by Williams, he will be looking to find the net once more.

Cardiff Team News:

The Bluebirds are set to be without Kevin McNaughton, after he was forced off in Cardiff`s midweek victory over Hull City.

Joe Ledley is hoping for a role from the start, after appearing as a substitute on Wednesday, Warren Feeney (ankle) could also feature.

Dave Jones has to decide whether to recall sought-after midfielder Aaron Ramsey, for the game at Layer Road, Robbie fowler (hip) is the only long-term injury worry for Jones.

Player to watch: Aaron Ramsey

Premiership giants Manchester United and Arsenal are thought to be preparing bids for the highly-rated 17-year-old, after impressing for Dave Jones` side. Rested against Hull, on Wednesday, Ramsey will be looking to start once more.

Match Facts & Stats

The U’s will be looking for their first win in March.

Ref Watch:

Refere: K K Wright – From Cambridgeshire.

Games: 3 – All League Two Games.

Yellow Cards: 5

Red Cards: 0

Assistants: I F Bentley and J G Comley

Fourth Official: M D Stewart

Match Prediction:

A 1-1 draw!

Next Fixtures:

The U’s host Hull City on Tuesday.