Five talking points from Colchester United win over Macclesfield Town

Streets ahead

JOHN McGreal once lived in the same Ipswich street as his Macclesfield Town counterpart Mark Kennedy.

After seeing off the challenge of his former neighbour, the Colchester United boss will feel that his side are on the right road to success.

The U’s 2-1 win over the Silkmen was by no means easy; the hosts had to work hard for the three points, especially in the second half.

But they were nevertheless able to extend their unbeaten league run to 13 matches and claim their first win of 2020.

On a roll

COLCHESTER United lie three points off the automatic promotion places, following their win over Macclesfield Town.

They are a point off the play-off places in League Two and their victory against the Silkmen was vital, not least because they now face three successive games against sides currently residing in the top five.

It’s Bradford City up next for the U’s on Tuesday night and they are sure to present a tough challenge.

But having not lost since mid-October in the league, John McGreal’s side can feel confident that they can beat anyone at the moment.

A spectacular strike

CALLUM Harriott gained a reputation of scoring impressive goals during his loan spell at Colchester United, in the 2015-16 season.

But his spectacular long-range strike against Macclesfield probably tops the lot.

Harriott’s magnificent looping shot from nearly 30 yards is definitely a candidate for the U’s goal of the season award and with the talent he possesses, the former Charlton Athletic attacker always has the potential to score spectacular goals.

Looking for Moore

TAFARI Moore had not made a league appearance for more than a year, prior to making his Colchester United debut against Macclesfield.

So with that in mind, the young right-back can be pleased with his competent display after finding himself thrust into the action after joining the U’s on loan from Plymouth Argyle.

Ryan Jackson is likely to return to the Colchester side for the Bradford City game after serving his suspension but Moore can nevertheless be pleased with his solid display.

Respect for Chris

THE minute’s silence which took place in memory of former Colchester United defender Chris Barker prior to their game against Macclesfield Town was impeccably observed.

The popular full-back, who tragically died earlier this month at the age of 39, was an integral part of the U’s team that performed so impressively in their first-ever Championship campaign, in the 2006-07 season.

While on loan from Cardiff City, he established himself as a firm favourite at Layer Road and his passing is a tragic loss.