Ray Crawford: It feels a bit like Groundhog Day

Accrington Stanley v Colchester United – Sky Bet League Two – Wham Stadium – Saturday (3pm) – Preview

Ray Crawford was both delighted and relieved to see Colchester United end their recent run of Sky Bet League Two defeats but is concerned that consistency will remain an issue, what with continued uncertainty surrounding the managerial position at the JobServe Community Stadium.

“It was great to see the boys get a win at Grimsby,” Crawford told Yellow Sport.

“It was much-needed and a far better performance. But why couldn’t we reach those standards in any of the previous four league games?

“We can only speculate what has gone on in the dressing room. But whatever way you look at it, a team that has lost four matches on the trot and slipped into the relegation zone playing poor football which cost the manager his job, has all of a sudden gone away from home, scored three goals and won.

“As we speak, Matthew Etherington is in the hot seat while the club mulls over their options. That might change before Saturday when Colchester heads to Accrington Stanley and faces a side that has won four in a row and has been terrific at home this season.”

Crawford continued: “I’d like to think that the players have taken something from the game on Tuesday. We have certainly shown potential earlier in the season, particularly when beating high-flying Gillingham and Notts County. 

“But it feels a bit like Groundhog Day. Here we are, wondering what is going to happen, who is coming in and how it will affect the team.

“Colchester needs stability. It needs direction on the pitch. I thought we were starting to get it right under Ben Garner but then everything changed in double-quick time.

“Saturday at Accrington will be difficult but not impossible. The result will not define our season. But going forward, the next managerial appointment will.

“Whether Matthew gets the job or we hire externally, we need a platform, a foundation. The supporters don’t deserve another season of struggling. Whatever happens at Accrington, going forward, I just hope we get it right.”

Ray Crawford’s prediction: Accrington Stanley 0-0 Colchester United

Jeevesie’s prediction: Accrington Stanley 2-0 Colchester United