With Plymouth Argyle and Colchester set to do battle, we once again spoke to A View From S2 to get an opposition view on proceedings. The Colchester fansite also answered some questions for us before the meeting back in August.
First of all, how have things been at Colchester since we last spoke?
Generally, pretty positive. The highlight has certainly been the Carabao Cup run to the quarter finals, beating Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur before holding Manchester United until the 50th minute only to lose 3-0. In the league, our 16-match unbeaten run was a bit misleading as there were plenty of draws in the run. Overall, I think 6th is about right given our number of draws.
What did you make of Argyle’s 1-0 win in the reverse fixture?
That seemed a fair result, both teams had chances but Plymouth were more clinical.
Sitting in the play-offs at the moment, what would you say your ambitions are for the rest of the season?
If we didn’t make the play-offs the season would have to be classed as a failure. We haven’t had a better squad since we’ve been in League Two and it would be a huge missed opportunity.
Colchester seem to be draw specialists at the moment, with no side in the league having drawn more. Has that been frustrating to watch?
In a word, yes! One of our strengths has been how strong and settled our defence has been and one of weaknesses has been putting teams to the sword. So, its not much of a surprise to us! Especially when we go ahead and can’t kill teams off.
What did you make of Colchester’s dealings in the January transfer window, with Tafari Moore of course joining from Argyle?
Moore has looked good considering he hasn’t played much football. We were very light in the full back area so having him providing competition is very welcome. Securing Theo Robinson’s loan until summer is good bit of business, he has provided good competition for Luke Norris up front. Not selling any key players was the definite highlight.
Do you think there will be any difference in tactical style from Colchester at the weekend?
I wouldn’t have that thought so, John McGreal hasn’t really deviated from the tried and tested 4-2-3-1.
And are there any real weak links in the side you’re worried about?
Not being as clinical as possible in front of goal. So often we go 1-0 up only to get pegged back.
What have you made of Plymouth Argyle’s season so far?
Very strong in front of goal and can trouble any team in the division.
What are your predictions for the rest of the League Two season in general?
The race to avoid the one relegation place will be interesting and I reckon will go right to the wire. Promotion is anyone’s guess; there’s still so much football left, whoever who is in the play-offs and can put a winning run together in spring will fancy their chances.
And finally, what is your prediction for the game itself?
We’ll be hurting from our 2-1 defeat to Cambridge United, but I don’t think we have enough to blow Plymouth out of the water. 1-1.