AFTER a positive end to last season's campaign, followed by yet another all so close yet so far from our national team, it's finally time to turn our attention to the domestic competition and all things Colchester United.
So far, so good, is the best way to sum up the way things are progressing.
Off the field, Danny and Nicky Cowley are firmly ingrained in the club and their passion is rapidly infecting one and all.
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This was clearly demonstrated at last weekend's Open Day.
It is always a highly anticipated event for the fans, as it has traditionally become the occasion of our new kit releases and a chance to get our hands on them.
This year did not disappoint and both the home and away kits went down a storm.
With from the numbers being worn, I’d say the away kit was the fans' favourite but only just.
Once out of the hustle and bustle of the shop, walking around the stands and watching the various displays and events such as the Mascot Race, there was a feel-good factor in the air.
(Image: STEVE BRADING)
Everyone was on the same page and it really felt like there was something big on the cusp of happening.
It is, of course, the new season that everyone is excited for and although we say it every year, it really does feel like this is different; it’s a expectation of improvements on the pitch, rather than a hope.
This is not only down to the managers making time for the fans but also the players we have brought in.
I think it is fair to say that there are a few who we never expected to sign for a team that has been fighting at the wrong end of the table for a number of years.
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From the brief glimpses we were treated to at the recent friendly against Maldon and Tiptree, it was clear they are players with not just the talent but also the want to play positive, fast attacking football.
There is the ability to switch to a number of formations and the squad depth is taking shape nicely.
Normally by now, we would have seen two or three more games, but in a way this lack of public games is only helping to ignite the flames of positivity in us fans.
We are all buzzing to see the lads in action and enjoy the fruits of these behind closed doors games that have only been seen though a report and the odd photo.
(Image: Richard Blaxall)
I won't mention any of the new lads by name, as I am sure I would be here for hours writing about just how much of a wealth of experience and winning mentality they bring.
One player I will mention though is one of my favourites, every though he has not featured as much as most fans would have liked - of course, I'm talking about Matt Jay.
As one of the contracted players who it is believed was told he could leave in the summer, it's impressive and a clear sign of the professional he is that instead of shutting up shop and throwing his dummy out of the pram, he's got his head down and worked hard during the pre-season, so far.
He was lively against Maldon and played his part in the number ten role, leading up to a penalty being awarded.
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Then by all accounts, he scored a very well-taken goal at Wycombe when no fans were there to see.
He looks fit and hungry and this coupled with the fact that we have a limited number of true number ten players will hopefully mean he will have a part to play in the coming season and show us all what we have been missing, while he was confined to the bench.
If he was to leave, which is not sadly out of the question, then I fear we will suddenly find what we could have had when he no doubt flourishes elsewhere.
There's still a few weeks until the season starts at AFC Wimbledon on August 10 and I'm sure there will be some slight tweaks to the squad, yet to come.
But as it stands, I truly believe we are in for a season that will be remembered for more positives than negatives. Up the U’s.
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