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CUFC & CUSA News Many
thanks to all our members who came to see us on our stall at the again popular Open Day.
CUSA Quiz Night Congratulations to the Fox and Hounds team - winners of the CUSA Quiz Night on Friday night at the Weston
Homes Community Stadium. 16 teams braved the freezing temperatures outside to enjoy a fun but tasking evening at the
hands of quizmaster Steve Pickles. Not far behind the Fox and Hounds were the Leg Ends captained by Peter and Steve
Wright, who proved that they knew quite a bit extra than just football! The evening raised £300 for the Colchester
United Community Sports Trust and their Extra Time / Legends projects with the community. Many thanks to all of the
teams, and to Steve Pickles and the U's for hosting us. We all look forward to the next one in the New Year, after
we've all done a good bit of swatting up! Banter with Burns (from 26th
November 2010) What goes around, comes around, and those who live by
the sword, die by the sword. The U’s are in a philosophical mood at present. This week has really been the story
of two penalties, one given when it shouldn’t, and one not given when it clearly should. You almost couldn’t write
a script like this one, and just as the U’s can start to believe that they were going to get back some of the rub of
the green that has eluded them so far this season, reality is restored thanks to the wonderful officials that command the
game. The lads did well on Saturday to come back as they did against Hartlepool. At times you could question some of
their decisions and quality around the pitch, especially in the first half, but you have to admire the come back that began
the second 45. Could the U’s have kept the ball better after the taking the lead? Did they welcome too easily the late
equaliser that almost cost them? Maybe, but before we all scream and shout our frustrations, it’s my opinion that the
U’s are still very much work in progress, so don’t be too tough with them just yet. Never fear though, and
we’ve all seen it on the TV. Handball a good two yards outside of the penalty area obviously means penalty kick these
days. An incredible decision, but a very welcome one. It would have taken a Di Canio moment of sportsmanship for the U’s
to say “sorry ref, we’ll take the free kick instead thanks”. Never fear though as the balance was
restored quickly enough. The U’s were again having a second half renaissance against Brentford and had their tails up
when the ref blew up for a foul on Vincent. He had his back to goal and was fouled from behind and yet he still ended up in
a heap inside the box. Free kick says the ref and sorry I couldn’t see says his assistant. Thanks guys! You couldn’t
make it up. A successful spot kick could well have brought a different result on a cold Tuesday night, and whilst 6th place
isn’t that bad, 3 points closer to Brighton would have been sweeter. All forgotten for a couple of days though
because FA Cup action comes to Colchester tomorrow. Swindon Supermarine FC, virtually an infant in footballing terms and saved
by their fans this year, demand every respect both off the pitch and on it. They’ve worked very hard to get this far
so they won’t roll over for the U’s. Unusual name though, and how many times have fans uttered Submarine by mistake?
Let’s hope that they don’t torpedo our 3rd round chances, or dive in or around the penalty box (we’ve had
enough of those) or come “sonar” to the U’s as to make us sweat. “U boat” I won’t be happy
if they do! The gap between the two clubs should mean that a giant killing is extremely unlikely, but cast your minds
back U’s fans to the inglorious 90’s and the likes of Gravesend and Northfleet, and Bedlington Terriers. Good
days out, but we didn‘t take it seriously enough. Bad times as they were, I can’t see them happening again.
We’ve all talked about the size of the U’s squad this season, so let’s use it tomorrow. Lloyd James deserves
a shout and I’d like John Ward to have a look at something different up going forward. Pity really that Ben Coker and
Medy Elito are out on loan. I’m really looking forward to the game. It’s something that bit different and
I like the non-league v league challenge. All being well, 6pm on Sunday the U’s will be in the hat for the always intriguing
draw when the big boys come out to play, but there’s plenty of work to do until then me thinks. I hope that you’ll
be along to support. Enjoy the game if you do and please keep singing. Up the U’s! Jon Banter with Burns (from 12th
November) There is a little initiation that the new U's players have
to do before the whole squad, and that's to sing a song. As you can probably guess, they won't be releasing an album
for Christmas, but given the recent shift in formation and the way the U's play, I wouldn't be surprised if when they
tempt John Ward to take the microphone, he might well launch into that Robbie Williams' classic "Let me entertain
you". 12 goals in the last two home games shows a definite change of thought and if you picked up Ashley Vincent's
quote this week, it's a planned move to entertain and to halt the minority voices of discontent unhappy with low scoring
tight games, most of which have been draws of course. Well done to all concerned. It may get the heart beating more but when
the weather's cold that's no bad thing. Whether we should be conceding 3 goals to Bradford City is subject to debate,
but as the old saying goes, winning is all about scoring more goals than your opponents. The U's have done just
that and are in a rich vein of form. 4 wins from 4 is tremendous. 3rd place in the league and in the 2nd round of the FA Cup,
with a reasonable chance of progressing. You'd think that we'd get more home support wouldn't you? After Swindon
Town tomorrow, we have 3 home games in a week, so I know it'll be tight on pennies, but don't forget that tickets
are cheaper when bought before the day. I have my fingers crossed for strong support. Back to the Bradford game and
to be fair with a team of hulking brutes, apart from Wee Lee Hendrie, they were always going to compete. They had nothing
to lose and put us under great pressure. But the U's responded well each and every time they were asked questions. Brian
Wilson is fast becoming a free kick hot shot and it was good to see Mooney showing his class in front of goal. It was also
good to Marc Tierney back in action and if there's one player who needs to be locked in a cupboard throughout the January
transfer window, it's him. Into another cupboard I would lock all those new FA Cup footballs. I kid you not, I could hardly
see it against the Bradford shirts and against the grass thanks to my colour blindness. Perhaps black would have been a better
choice of colour! A couple of funny Bradford moments for me. One being their Stoke City loanee forward, Moult, who obviously
feels that it's a God given right that when a Premiership player falls to ground, a free kick must follow. The other one
being Kem's revenge on Hendrie. Every time they came into close proximity on the pitch, you wondered who would start the
fireworks first, but Kem got him with a beauty of a crunching tackle, won the ball, took his legs and put him firmly on his
backside. Hendrie struggled to his feet with a look of utter disbelief and the ref played on. I hope that it makes the end
of season DVD. What next in the Cup then? Swindon at home, but not quite the Swindon you're thinking of. If what
I hear is true, they were formed in 1992, almost went out of business recently, are possibly used as an academy by our opponents
tomorrow, and they flutter with 100 or so as their home attendance. I'm delighted that the U's can be a part of this
seasons FA Cup romance by welcoming Swindon Supermarine FC to the WHCS in a fortnight. Such a fantastic story and I'm
really looking forward to the game. I'm also looking forward to our trip to the other Swindon in the morning. Please
behave M25! Don't be fooled by their lowly league position, they blasted Plymouth out of the Cup last week and they've
got David Prutton ploughing the midfield for them. A couple of quid on first booking might be in order for the ex-U's
man. I would also put money on a strong backing from the travelling U's, and if we could re-produce Bournemouth from the
stands that would be terrific. Finally a couple of dates for your diary, our Quiz Night on Friday 26 November is open
to all, and the U's are holding an Exiles Day when Exeter visit in March for all those U's fans spread around the
UK or the universe. If you know of an exile, please look at the U's website, where you also find details of the Quiz Night. Up
the U’s, and please keep supporting Jon CUSA programme notes from Bradford City game Good afternoon, and on behalf of the Colchester United Supporters Association, I would like to wish you all
a very warm welcome back to the Weston Homes Community Stadium. It's absolutely fantastic to be back in FA Cup action
again, and the even better news is that we're at home when you think of the other far flung parts of the country that
we might have been trekking to today. I am delighted to be able to welcome the supporters of Bradford City for their very
first visit to the WHCS. Thanks for making the journey and whilst I hope that you enjoy your day, but not the result, please
have a safe passage back home after the game. My learned friend Dan, a huge advocate of Wikipedia and proud owner of some
Jamie Cureton lines, has pointed out that Bradford's FA Cup campaign marks exactly 100 years since they last lifted the
trophy, winning a replay against Newcastle Utd at Old Trafford thanks to Jimmy Spiers goal. Perhaps this season it will
be our turn to have Wembley joy, and many years from now, U's fans will be turning up to the now 80,000 capacity WHCS
with the 8 lane A12 running beneath it, to stand in the Kem Izzet Stand or group behind the goal at the Ben Williams End,
to mark an anniversary in the U's FA Cup history. I hope that you noticed that I said "stand" because eventually
this country will see the light over safe standing areas! FA Cup dreams, and why not? It provides a healthy distraction
from the league action, although equally as important. It's good to keep a winning feeling going and at the time of writing
the U's have got it right thanks to a hard fought victories over Notts County and Bournemouth. Last weekend was easily
the best result so far this season, stealing the Cherries 15 match unbeaten run at home. Hard work, some good goals from Tom
Williams and Ian Henderson and some courageous defending from Matt Heath and Paul Reid. All the more better when you consider
that we were playing 12 men, if you know what I mean! Off the pitch, 400 travelling U's can be extremely proud of
the support they gave the lads that afternoon. I truly hope that they're all here again today (with friends), because
what they gave the team must have been a terrific boost. It was just one of those great days out with the U's. The journey
was good for the CUSA coaches, and Bournemouth have just opened a supporters bar so we popped in for a couple or three before
the game. All very friendly and such a good idea. It makes you look forward to the next away games, so if you fancy
joining us for Swindon, Brighton (bring a brolly) or Bristol Rovers, then please pick up the phone or email us. Brighton is
confirmed as being on the Saturday, and could be a real cracker as they're running away at the top of the league, so please
let us know early for this one. Crazy to think that the next away trip after these is on Boxing Day to Peterborough! Just
where has 2010 gone? Please don't forget that Friday 26th November is the CUSA AGM and also the CUSA Quiz Night
with the U's. All at the WHCS, the formal business of our AGM begins at 7pm with all CUSA members allowed entrance. All
should be completed well in advance of the Quiz which will start at 8pm with quizmaster Steve Pickles testing us with his
questions. The Quiz is open to EVERYONE and the more, the merrier, because we all want to have a good night out amongst friends,
family and fellow U's fans. Teams of up to 6 are allowed, and it's free for CUSA members and just £2 each
for everyone else. With a raffle and other bits and bobs, all money raised will be donated to the CUCST Legends project. Please,
please, please get a team together and join us for a bit of fun. To enter a team, please speak to any Committee Member or
call/text me on 07752 531600. The next meeting of the Fans Consultation Group is this Monday and we're still keen
to hear more from our members on what you feel are the solutions to the key issues to attracting more support for the U's
and in general making it a better matchday experience all round for everyone. Your feedback and input is always welcome, so
please visit our website for more details and our contact email addresses, or you can email or call me on jburns11@btinternet.com
or 07752 531600. We're especially keen to hear from you with ideas on how to spread the word to the general public, to
those who have never been to watch the U's even though they have a keen interest in football. As always, thanks
for your support and keep it coming. Let's give the players tremendous backing today and remember that our last memorable
FA Cup run, when we visited Stamford Bridge and almost undone Chelsea, also coincided with a U's promotion. Up the
U's! Jon Fans Consultation Group Representatives of the CUSA attended the first meeting of the Fans Consultation Group in October. Chaired
by U's General Manager Tim Waddington, the Group was made up of a good number of U's fans, all with differing aspects
and histories of life watching and following Colchester United, however it was noticed that there was sadly no contribution
at this stage from the fairer sex who support the U's. The aim of the Group is to bring to the table as many ideas
and solutions as possible which will help both the fans and the football club achieve what we all want - sustainable success
and a stronger, larger fan base to help achieve it. Many suggestions were brought forward and it was agreed to focus
on some of the "quick wins" initially, with the more complex topics to be the subject of future work. The
next meeting is on Monday 15th November and we are seeking input from our CUSA members to take to this and future meetings
please. Therefore, please take time to read the minutes of the first meeting and contact us at enquiries@cusa.co.uk In
addition, please could members consider two topics: How best to use the Centennial Suite during the course of the week? How
can the football club use their existing fanbase to promote the football club within the local area? Thanks Jon
Burns CUSA Chairman Fans Consultation Group Minutes - October CUSA Podcast Exciting
news - Episode 2 of the CUSA podcast is now available to download. Featuring an exclusive interview with club legend
Lomana Lua Lua, the podcast can be downloaded by following the link to Podbean at the side of the page or if you have iTunes
installed on your computer, either by opening iTunes and typing ‘The CUSA Podcast“ into the search engine, or
by following the iTunes link at the side (you will need to select 'allow' when the message box appears so that it
can open iTunes). CUSA 2010 Annual General Meeting The 2010 Annual General Meeting of CUSA will be held on Friday 26 November 2010 at the Weston Homes Community
Stadium at 7pm. This is your opportunity to decide matters of CUSA policy. Resolutions on matters of CUSA policy should
be sent to Roger Westlake, CUSA Secretary, 9 Twining Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 9XG to arrive by noon on 19 November 2010. Sky Sports Yearbook 2010-2011 Offer to Members At prices like £14 (paperback) and £23.50 (hardback) who could refuse? The 41st edition
of the football bible is available to CUSA members through our membership of the Football Supporters Federation, and if you
would like us to order you a copy please call/text Jon 07752 531600 or email enquiries@cusa.co.uk. Help with U‘s Away Match Tickets Do you find it hard to pick up and pay for your match tickets to watch the U's away? Many CUSA members
who travel on the Talisman coaches already take advantage of our offer to take care of this for them by pre-ordering with
Chairman Jon Burns. They are then handed out and paid for on the day of travel. It's quite simple really, and we're
happy to help. If you would like to be added to our contact list, please call/text Jon on 07752 531600. Banter with Burns Not such a bad week at the office for the U's. Fair enough, the expected 6 easy home points turned into
4, but we managed to break the home win voodoo and also come from behind against an impressive Dagenham outfit who looked
at one point as if they might run away with it. So where does that leave the U's? Yes, still unbeaten in the league
and from the top 4 divisions, only Ancellotti, Ferguson and Warnock can boast that statistic. John Ward is in some very good
company then so we must be doing something right. The worry then is that just as soon as we hear in press of yet another managerial
casualty, you can picture the list of favourites with a certain J Ward near the top. Thankfully I credit our present manager
with more backbone than certain recent U's managers. Hands off! So good stuff on the pitch, and then we hear of
more good news off the pitch. Robbie is edging closer to a U's training facility and the new A12 junction is opening in
November/December which will certainly help traffic flow after the game. Shuttle buses, "special" buses from pubs
the other side of the town centre through town, train ticket discounts. I have to say that the list of reasons not to go to
watch the U's is dwindling fast in my opinion. OK, so until the area develops there's not much to do or see before
the game, and the car park can leave you moist and dirty, but seriously if people are staying away because of that, then my
new company "Piggybacks R Us" could make a killing. Are attendances disappointing then? To me they are, and
I feel that a club off to a good start and playing decent football deserves better. Our 3,500 regulars are excellent, but
we need more, and now rather than when we are hopefully banging on the promotion door in a few months time. If you're
sitting on the fence, why not have a look at the prices, especially for U14's in the East Stand or adults in the South
Stand. I'm loving it this season, with £2 off for buying in advance, I'm watching the U's for less money
than last season. I know that the club have plans to bring in their buddy schools again and that's a great idea. Pack
the East Stand with enthusiastic youngsters. Yes please. Certain media have been focussing on the crowds this week.
Good stuff and I would have liked to have spoken for longer to BBC Essex on Tuesday about it. We need football fans in this
area to get over the barriers that they think are there - and that doesn't mean invading the pitch please! Back
to the football, and the U's destroyed a sleepy Tranmere in the opening half hour last Saturday. Delighted that Mooney
was back on the scoresheet, and again on Tuesday, and what a superb free kick from Woody. Everyone played well, although Odejayi
may need a hug if you get your arms around him, and although we took the foot off the gas in the 2nd half there was only going
to be one winner. I just knew that it wasn't going to be that easy against Dagenham. They started at 100mph and finished
at 100mph. Terrific work rate and the U's were hanging on for a while. We did very well to come back and hold the lead
until a bullet header shared the points. I do hope that the lad Vincelot is OK after that awful clash of heads with Magnus,
and likewise I hope that our impressive centre half is fully fit for tomorrow. Tierney I'm less hopeful about as it looked
like he'd popped his shoulder, but hopefully I'm wrong. MK Dons are unbeaten at home and with cheap, cheap admission
prices they'll be backed by a good crowd, but so will we I'm sure as the U's fans hit the road. Don't they
have Dietmar Hamann playing for them? Don't worry, Perks and Kem will run rings around the aged German. I wouldn't
be surprised if JW made an unenforced change or two if he sees any sign of tiredness. Then it's Wycombe at home on Tuesday
(only £6) and Huddersfield at home next Saturday. The football is coming thick and fast, so hold on tight and
enjoy the ride. Up the U's! Jon Trip to Harwich Brewery - 22nd October CUSA legend John Tweed has organised a tour of the Harwich Brewery starting at 7.20pm on the evening of Friday
22nd October, and has kindly offered a number of places to CUSA members. Cost is just £6 (£5 for CAMRA members)
and it's very easy to get to by train. If you're into your real ale and fancy a good night out with fellow U's
fans, please call or text Jon Burns on 07752 531600 as soon as possible. Banter with Burns So near and yet so far, again, for the U's and their supporters. I certainly wouldn't say that it's
hard to take, 3 draws out of 3, but it does get you scratching the old head, especially as we seem to have found a winning
formula away from home so far. But as I've said not worth worrying too deeply. We're still playing well, being
very hard to beat, and often out playing the opposition. It's just that lack of firepower that's needed to make things
right - that final piece of the jigsaw to finish teams off. It's not going to be ex-Shrimper Francis Laurent though, and
only with a lot of hard work will it be Gilly - although I would like to see him up front with Mooney at some point. I have
an inkling that they'll click together. Kayode Odejayi? Nice, honest guy who needs a goal. An easy chance missed
against Plymouth won't help his cause. Entering the fray though, we have another Henderson. Sadly not the Darius variety,
but a young Watford reserve forward called Liam looking to make his mark. Although untried, let's hope that John Ward
has unearthed a gem to give us what we need. Our current goal problem always seems worse when we see former players
hitting the net on the same weekend, so thanks Chris Iwelumo, Platty, Hogan and Aberdeen hot shot, Scott Vernon. Typical! Now
if I was our esteemed manager, I'd also be scratching me old, wise head about our Plan B formation at home. I like the
way the U's set up, pass the ball and get it out wide, but the sole forward can look short of support. A few more forwards
around will help his decision making and give the opposition more to think about. It worked at Walsall, and as I've said
and heard from fellow U's fans, goals are the missing piece of what could be a very attractive U's jigsaw. These
U's fans though are seemingly in short supply. Now thankfully we avoided losing one last Saturday, as with good fortune
the chap managed to avoid severe injury from his South Stand fall, but I have to admit that I was sad to see so few supporters
at last weeks game. I expected more with our Suffolk neighbours away. True that 4 other League One games had less viewers,
but I would still expect more to get behind our boys in blue and white. Like I said, thankfully we are not now one short.
Is it time to look again at fans safety? After this sort of incident I would say it's very likely, but I would caution
that handrails down the middle of the stairs could be a trip hazard themselves. It’s a difficult one. Our safety is
paramount and for now I’m just glad that fans continue to use caution and care. Southampton tomorrow and despite
their current position, they have the new manager factor to give them an extra boost. Not that it did them much good at MKD
on Wednesday, but the U’s shouldn’t be complacent. Still there’s a game to win and I hope that we’ll
take a good following. St Mary’s is a nice stadium, although awful for parking. I’d like to see Woody have a good
game and our midfield trio bossing Dean Hammond and Co. Looking a bit further ahead, please take note of the low prices on
offer for our trip to MKD, the visit of Wycombe Wanderers and the U’s v Ipswich Legends game on October 17th. I’ll
say it again - it would be great to see some new faces and have the opportunity to get them hooked on the U’s. Have
a great weekend and thanks for your support. Up the U’s Jon Let Your Hair Down at the Weston Homes! Live music is coming to the Weston Homes Community Stadium! The club have enjoyed great success on the
pitch over the last twelve months, but the coming year will see Colchester United offer more than just the excitement of the
ninety minutes. Making use of the superb facilities on offer at the stadium, the U's will be hosting some great
live music events between now and Christmas. There will be a wide range of fantastic bands available for you to watch,
starting with our Bee Gees tribute night on September 3rd. For just £12 per ticket, you can relive the sounds of the
Seventies, as you enjoy Friday Night Fever with Colchester United. Following the Bee Gees event, there are also got
nine other great nights on offer - please see the Events page. To book your place and to find out how you could also
eat on the night, call Leanne Sporle on 01206 755106 or e-mail leanne.sporle@colchesterunited.net. CUSA FC v Fat Cat XI On Sunday 23 May the lads from the CUSA FC Sunday League team took on a team from our sponsors, the Fat Cat,
at the Weston Homes Community Stadium. It was a severely hot day with temperatures close to 28 degrees on the pitch,
but this didn't deter from a good game of football which despite the scoreline was pretty evenly contested. CUSA
FC Bob Sidlow (GK), Nick Sharpe, Dan Renton, Richard Coghill, Leigh Woods, Trevor Lee, Ryan Quinlan, Rob Foulkes, Joe
Jackson, Dan Foulkes, Michael Boswell, Richard Blaxall, Adam Goddard, Dave John, Dan Roberts, Dave Streatfield Final
score 7-0 CUSA FC scorers - Rob Foulkes, Richard Blaxall, Dan Roberts, Dave John (2) and Michael Boswell (2) Catch Up With The U‘s News You can now follow the CUSA on Twitter! To find us simply log on to www.twitter.com/CUSAsupporters and click “Follow”. Like our website & facebook page, the aim is to keep you updated with all the latest
news & info regarding the CUSA. So look out for those all important “tweets” coming to a computer screen
near you soon! Thank you As
well thanking our members this season, and especially those who have sought us out on match days for away travel, programmes
etc, the CUSA have been very grateful for the support of the Colchester United Community Sports Trust and the U’s who
have found “housing” for us on match days. In the first few months, pending the building work for the Community
Café, we continued in the unit next to reception. It was certainly a challenge in the colder months with a lack of
heating and any lighting. You may have noticed the odd extension lead trailing from a Layer Suite window! Perhaps it
was a good thing when the builders moved in and we were allowed to join Ian, Paul and Co in the portakabin near the North
Stand. It certainly saved us doing any dodgy electrics! Many thanks to everyone who has looked after us. It is our hope that
the CUSA will be allowed to use the now finished Café on match days for our usual business, and before the new season
we should be able to inform members where we’re likely to be. Also, the U’s and the security guys have looked
after us when we travel away. Often in the very early hours the CUSA has been allowed into the West Stand concourse before
boarding the coaches. Many thanks again for all of the help given to our members. Question please
members - since the closure of Layer Road & the CUSA Corner Bar, how far away is your nearest Colchester United Supporters
Bar ? Amazingly, you may be surprised to learn that it could be over 6000 miles away! That’s right, life
long U’s fans Ian Mills and his wife Kerrie have decided to up sticks and move to the beach paradise that is Maenam
Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand. Ian has set up his own bar called The Thirsty Moose and has officially labelled it as a
Colchester United Supporters Bar. As you can see from the pictures in the Photo Gallery, Ian is certainly keen to spread the word of the U’s, even if it is on the other side of the world! The bar has
already proved to be a huge success with the locals and visiting tourists. So, if you are stuck for a holiday idea this
summer, why not pay Ian a visit, even better, Ian is such a U’s fan that he has even offered to give a free drink to
any CUSA member who pays him a visit, just make sure you are wearing your U’s shirt ! (old shirts are also welcomed
as kind donations to help further decorate the bar !) If you are interested in paying Ian & his fantastic bar a
visit, feel free to email him at ian@imills.fslife.co.uk. Or if you are a facebook user, simply type in “The Thirsty
Moose, Koh Samui” in the search bar & join the group. Col U fans who bought tickets to the Essex Senior Cup Final originally scheduled for 29th March
should be aware that the original tickets will not be accepted for the rearranged game . Fans will instead need to claim
a refund for their ticket (and buy a new ticket should they wish to do so). Full details can be found on the Essex FA Website. The CUSA is pleased to support the work of Lea and Ernie Finch and others who
are again going the extra mile in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust. The sponsored bike ride from Portman Road to the
Weston Homes Community Stadium on Saturday 8th May, before the U's game against Leyton Orient, will again be a fantastic
event, so if you're fit and able and fancy pumping those pedals for a good cause, please get involved. U's Chairman
Robbie Cowling looks as if he's going to get his bike out for this one too! Even if you're no good at all on
a bike, and fancy helping out on the day, then they would love to hear from you. If you want to take part or lend a helping
hand, please contact Jon Burns who will put you in contact with Lea. This Sunday U‘s mascot Eddie the Eagle will take to the streets of London to run the London
Marathon. Eddie the Eagle will be raising money for St Helena‘s Hospice. The CUSA have already sponsored
Eddie for £100 for this worthy cause. If you too would like to sponsor Eddie, you can do so on Eddie‘s Just Giving page. It‘s that time of year again when we start looking towards handing out trophies to the
players who have performed best over the course of the season. If you want to have your say, your vote for the CUSA
Player of the Year needs to be in by (or on) 24th April 2010. Don‘t forget to place your vote! Does anyone have
a match ticket stub from the U‘s game at Exeter? A friend of John Tweed (well known to many CUSA members) has
been to every U‘s game this season and kept all of his ticket stubs, but as no tickets were sent ahead to Col U for
the Exeter game he is missing one for the Exeter game. If anyone has a ticket stub from sitting in the stands at Exeter
and would like to donate it, please contact the general contact email for the CUSA. On a lovely sunny day at Colchester Garrison twelve people from the Extra Time group, which meets
at the Community Stadium on Monday mornings, joined the rest of the 900 people who had registered to walk or run for the charity
Sport Relief. Setting off from Abbey Field and finishing at the Garrison's athletic track, nine of the Extra Time
group took part in the one mile event while Peter Dennis ran three miles and Keith Brandom and Trevor Bailey walked the six
mile route. The whole event was superbly organised and it was a real family occasion with lots of children and even babies
taking part! It was apparently the first time the event had been full to capacity and was greatly enjoyed by the participants
as well as the many spectators present. For a photo of CUSA members Trevor Bailey and former CUSA Travel Secretary Keith
Brandom on their walk see the Photo Gallery. Lost programmes from Walsall As if the trip to Walsall wasn’t
made bad enough by the result on the day, for one U’s supporter the day got even worse when they left their bag of programmes
behind in the stand, no doubt in their attempt to escape the ground as quick as possible following the last minute drama. However
a good Samaritan spotted the bag in the stand and deducing that it must belong to a fellow U’s supporter, couriered
it back to Colchester. Now he would like to reunite supporter and programmes, so if you were the hardy soul that made
the trek to Walsall and left behind their souvenirs, contact Jon Burns on the usual number and he will put you in contact.. Essex Senior Cup Final The CUSA are taking a coach to the Essex Senior Cup Final, U‘s v Hornchurch at Dagenham on
Monday 29th March. The coach will depart
W.H.C.S. at 5.15pm and will cost £10 for adults and £8 for concessions. This applies to both CUSA members and
non-CUSA members. Pick ups are possible within reason. To book or for further information, call Jon Burns on 07752 531 600. Trail Trekker Challenge Perhaps foolishly, myself & four colleagues - Andy
Stride (he's the one in the Ipswich shirt that Eddie has in a head lock), Sharon Sanders and her husband Dean, ably
supported by Jon Burns (CUSA Chairman) & Robin Fisher (CUSA Vice Chairman) have entered a team into this years Oxfam Trail
Trekker challenge which is due to take place over the weekend of 5/6th June. Trail Trekker is
a 60 mile non stop walk in 30 hours around the Yorkshire Dales. Approximately 1500 people take part each year with a completion
rate of around 60%. We have already commenced our training plan (basically walking everywhere)
and will be upping the mileage over the coming weeks. As well as giving us a big focus for the
year, we are also asked to raise funds in aid of Oxfam. We would be delighted if you are able to support us with a donation.
Giving is made easy by logging onto the Virgin Money Giving website and contributing on line. Any support you can give us will be very much appreciated. Save the Roman Horse Racing Chariot Circus! Organisers of the ‘Save Colchester’s
Roman Circus’ campaign are looking for bucket collectors to help collect donations to the cause before and after the
U‘s game against Oldham on 20th February. If you would like to volunteer your services, please contact Jon Burns
(contact details on the Away Travel page). CUSA coaches to Leeds As of Monday 25th January, there
are only approximately 12 places left on the CUSA coaches to the U's game against Leeds United. If you would like
to travel with the CUSA to the game, please book as soon as possible. Boxted Road Safety Campaign The campaign to improve safety in
Boxted Road is ongoing and a letter was sent on 27th November by Malcolm Nicholson to Robert Overall. Robert Overall
is the Executive Director of Essex County Council, who are the responsible highways authority. A link to the letter is below. Exclusive Offer for CUSA
Members! As
members of the Football Supporters Federation, the CUSA is able to secure a massive discount for members who would like to
buy the latest Sky Sports Football Yearbook. With prices at £22.75 hardback and £12.00 softback, if you'd
the like to order yours for you, please contact Jon Burns on 07752 531600 or see him on matchdays before each U's home
game. Youth Team Accommodation CUFC require home stay accommodation
for their scholars (16 – 19yrs). This would need to be a permanent arrangement for the duration of the season.
At the moment they require immediate lodgings for 1-2 boys. The pay is £80.00pw per boy. Basic requirements would be: If you are interested, please contact Jennifer Aves on 01206 755144 or jennifer.aves@colchesterunited.net for more information and an application form. Boxted Road Petition After a meeting between those involved
organising the petition and campaign to improve Boxted road for WHCS patrons and local residents, it was decided to present
the petition on the steps of the Town Hall in Colchester before the cabinet meeting on Wednesday 21st October. We would
therefore ask that any sheets be returned by Monday 19th October. They can be returned either to Jeanette Westlake, who will
be collecting more signatures en route to the Wycombe match, or Jon Burns, CUSA Chairman. You can contact both contact email
addresses to the right or use the email address on the Boxted Road Facebook page. It would be good to see some support
at the Town hall for the presentation so please join us. Details of presentation time will be circulated once this has been
confirmed. We also intend to comment under the "Have your say" section at the meeting therefore you are also welcome
to attend with us. We would also like to make users of the WHCS aware that due to recent parking issues in Boxted Road,
which compromised pedestrian safety, parking enforcement may take place as this is a clear way. Stadium Legends Football has an important impact on the emotional lives
of many people. It helps to bring diverse people together from all age groups and backgrounds. By bringing together
diverse groups "Stadium Legends" will help break down barriers, challenge pre-conceptions, and enhance understanding.
Looking at what people have in common (football and other issues) and working together on projects with shared goals, will
bring people together and challenge an "us and them" attitude. The project can also look at the importance
of communication, and managing change and loss (eg. stadium move) through the process of telling stories and reminiscing. The
CUSA has been invited to join the Stadium Legends project by the Colchester United Community Sports Trust, and work alongside
partners that include Colchester United, former U's players and employees, local schools, Colchester Museums and Age Concern
to bring together older and younger generations through various activities that use football as the vehicle for learning new
experiences. I am looking please for U's supporters who are approx 50 years old or more to contact me. Perhaps some
of you have friends or relations who are long standing supporters, and you may wish to become involved together in what I
believe will be a unique and enjoyable community opportunity. Please call me on 07752 531600 or see me at U's home
games to register your interest as soon as possible. The more, the merrier, as I don't expect that everyone will be able
to make each session at the Weston Homes Community Stadium. The launch event is on Monday 19 October 10am-2.30pm, with
6 more sessions throughout November and December culminating with a celebration at the home match v Carlisle on 19 December. Thanks Jon
Burns, CUSA Chairman U‘s fans at Swindon When the U’s played Swindon
Town a few weeks ago it coincided with Armed Forces Day at the County Ground, a fitting event considering Colchester’s
close links with the army. Swindon Town fan Lt Col Darren Crook was there on the day and his daughter was one of the
Swindon mascots. In writing to thank Swindon for the day Lt Col Crook also extended his thanks to the travelling U’s
fans. His comments are below: “Finally, I hope you might be able to extend my thanks to Colchester United Football
Club, particularly their travelling support. Along with the Town fans, the Colchester fans were simply marvellous at extending
a warm and generous round of applause to all of the children as they left the field. As a Town season ticket holder who was
posted to 16 Air Assault Brigade, I often watched CUFC at Layer Road and was made to feel very welcome. On Saturday I thought
their fans were an absolute credit to their Club, the Football League and Lower League football in particular. Football is
too often marred by the antics of the few – the few that were at the County Ground on Saturday set a fine example to
those ‘supporters’ of the perceived more glamorous clubs.” Boxted Road Safety Improvements The CUSA has been aware for some
time of the issues surrounding the WHCS junction onto Boxted Road. In fact, in March this year Committee Members joined forces
with local residents to lobby the Borough Highways Committee for funding. Sadly, we were unsuccessful in our efforts and the
project was deemed "low priority". Given that the dangers of winter are fast approaching and that supporters
have approached us already this season in concern for their safety, the CUSA has again joined with local residents to ask
for the support of fans, residents and indeed all patrons of the WHCS to back a petition to Colchester Borough Council. Our
objective is to achieve the required funding from CBC and ECC to make safe Boxted Road between the United Way and St Pauls
Hospital junction. Four good reasons why the improvements should be made: 1) The Road is being closed following
matches because the police fear for the safety of pedestrians. This causes delays to the shuttle buses and it creates increased
frustration for those supporters waiting for the shuttle buses. 2) The road closures also restrict traffic movement
along the road and residents are stopped from gaining access to their homes. 3) The Club now has to apply for a "formal
road closure" each time the road is closed and their costs will increase when Stewards operate the road closures. 4)
The narrow, unlit pavement means pedestrians cannot see where they are walking and already a supporter has fallen. Clearly
if something isn't done more accidents will occur, and one may be serious. Please support the petition by printing
copies from the link below and asking for the support of your friends and families. Finally, to declare your further
support of we would also ask you to print and send the letter below, drafted by all involved parties, to Anne Turrell, Leader
of the Council. Please add your own name and address, and signature and either post yourself or hand to the CUSA on matchdays
so that we can send it on your behalf. Jon Burns CUSA Chairman Peition letter to Anne Turrell U‘s Match Day Rover Ticket - First Bus CUSA Secretary Roger Westlake has
spoken to the people at First Bus with whom former U's Chief Executive Marie Partner and himself negotiated the £1
Matchday Rover, and they acknowledge that it had mistakenly been removed from their ticket machines. However it has
now been reinstated and they confirm that the ticket is available subject to the time restrictions that were originally agreed. If
anyone has problems on Saturday v Leeds United, could they please email Roger at enquiries@cusa.co.uk. Next CUSA Committee Meeting Our next CUSA Committee Meeting is
on Monday 5 October, 8pm at the Weston Homes Community Stadium. All current members have the right to attend our meetings,
and you would be very welcome. However, we would be grateful if you could provide us with notice, so that we can make sure
we have enough chairs. Anthony Wordsworth On behalf of our members, the CUSA
has chosen to continue the sponsorship of young U's midfielder Anthony Wordsworth for the coming season. We are
hoping the Woody will be playing a big part in the push for success this campaign, and in the process score more exciting
goals like the one at Southend last season. CUSA Membership Membership has almost doubled in just a few weeks! The
CUSA now has over 570 members, and forms are still coming in. Many thanks to you all - your contributions all help to maintain
our funds and enable us to keep our away travel prices attractive to all members. If you have not yet joined but wish
to do so, the application form can be downloaded on the Membership page. Football Prediction Competition Long time U’s season ticket holder Martin Thurlwell will once again be running his Football Prediction Competition
this season. The competition is run to raise money for East Anglia's Children’s Hospices and will be particularly special this
year as it will be run in memory of Martin’s daughter Olivia who died at just 3 days old in October 2008. To read more about the work that the Hospice do, go to their website, www.each.org.uk. To enter the competition, simply download the entry form below and follow the instructions. Forms will also be available from Jeanette on the coaches to Norwich on Saturday. W.H.C.S. Community Day The 2nd August saw the W.H.C.S. host a Community Day to celebrate the ground‘s first anniversary.
The day was a fantastic success with over 1000 people visiting the stadium. A range of activities took place on the day including autograph signing by Stephen Gillespie and Alan Maybury, questions
and answer sessions with Ian Phillips and Paul Abrahams and cooking sessions for the kids. Committee members Jamie and Kylie
helped out by giving tours of the stadium. Visitors got to see a variety of hospitality rooms, the West Stand, the pitch and
the dressing rooms as well as hearing all about the work of Educ@teUtd. To those who haven't seen the newly decorated home
dressing room, our CUSA tour guides can certainly testify that blue and white stripes have taken over the place
and the U's players certainly won't get confused which team they're playing for next season! There was a real mix of visitors on the day, including young, old, regular match goers, occasional match goers and
some that had never been to the stadium at all before. Hopefully all enjoyed their day and we might see and few people
back to support the U's next season. CUSA Membership The CUSA are delighted to announce that nearly 300 members have signed up already for the new season. If you haven’t done so yet and need a membership application form, please see the Membership page, where you can now download the form. CUSA Away Ticket Service Yet again, the CUSA is here to help members obtain their away match tickets! As many regulars aboard the CUSA coaches will already know, we organise it so that you'll be next to friends and family,
or at the very least, fellow U's fans that you know from travelling on the coach. For example, we've already helped close to 50 members with their match tickets for the first game of the season at Norwich
City.
If you would to take advantage, please call or text Jon Burns on 07752 531600 to discuss. 2009-10 Season Bar The 2009-10 Season Bars is now available before match days in the CUSA Unit next to reception or by post. Bars are £3 + 50p postage & packing. To order via post, see the Badges & Bars page. Programme Service The CUSA Programme Service will be up and running again this season. To ensure you don’t miss out on a Colchester United programme, the CUSA service allows you to order your programme
in advance. CUSA Vice-Chairman Robin Fisher will then organise purchasing the programme. We will also be offering a postal service again. If you wish to order individual programmes, this season’s programme
costs £3, plus £1.50 postage & packing for each. Alternatively for the complete 23 home league games the total cost is £94.50,
including postage & packing. Similarly you can order all 23 away league games for £94.50 (again, this includes postage & packing).
All cup games can be ordered separately. So for all your programme needs home & away, see Robin in the CUSA Unit or contact Robin via email (see the general enquiry
address on the home page). W.H.C.S. Community Day A Community Day will be held at the W.H.C.S. on 2nd August to celebrate the ground‘s first anniversary. The day will include a variety of fun events including stadium tours, five-a-side football games and an opportunity to
meet some of the U‘s players. The CUSA will be helping out on the day so why not pop down with the family and have a nosy round the U’s home! More
details including tour times can be found on the CUFC Official Website. Away Travel The travel details for the U's first three away fixtures of the 2009/10 season have now been finalised and are available
on the Away Travel page. Is you wish to book a seat to travel on the CUSA coaches for the game against Norwich City, MK Dons or Southampton you
can now do so by either phoning Jeanette or Jon or by going into the CUSA 'facility' before the Aston Villa friendly. Dream with the U’s! Colchester United will be hitting the airwaves this season, thanks to an exciting new partnership with local radio station
Dream 100. U’s players will be regular guests on Col U Live, which will go out on Dream 100 between 6pm and 7pm every Thursday
evening. They will be joined by U's fans to discuss the hot topics surrounding the club with Dream 100 drivetime host
Murph. There will also be plenty of fun and games through the hour to keep you entertained whether you're still making your
way home from work or listening from the comfort of your home. The partnership will also see the U’s sponsor the sports bulletins during the course of the week, as well as providing
some exciting ticket giveaways. Col U Live launches this Thursday (9th July) at 6pm, with Steve Bradshaw as the main guest on the show. For more details
of how you can get involved on the show, stay tuned to the U’s official website and listen to Dream 100 this week! Dream is on 100.2 FM and you can also listen to the show online on the Dream 100 website. Tiptree United v U‘s - Saturday 11th July In case U's fans aren't clear, although Tiptree are due to ground share with Maldon Town this game is confirmed to be played
at Tiptree's Chapel Road ground - 3pm kick off - admission £10 adults and £5 concessions. Let the music play! In a bid to ensure the U‘s have a thumping good season at the W.H.C.S. next season the CUSA and U‘s players
have jointly clubbed together to purchase a drum and trumpet for the South Stand. The U‘s players decided that they would like to help boost the atmosphere in the stadium and having contributed part
of the money themselves approached the CUSA to join them in the purchase by contributing the remaining money. "We are all in the business of helping to bring success on the pitch for the U's, and some South Stand rhythm and brass
will really help to raise the noise levels and give the lads a boost,” CUSA Chairman Jon Burns said. “The CUSA
is very proud to work with the U's players on this venture, and look forward to the positive results we hope it will deliver." Mann's Music, based in the High Street, were happy to source the instruments, pictured below, which will hopefully be played
loud and proud for the U's next season! CUSA AGM - Thursday 2 July 2009 Our Annual General Meeting took place on 2nd July at the Musket Club, Colchester. Many members joined us to complete the formal business of the Association, and enjoy the company of Colchester United President
Peter Heard and former Colchester United Chief Executive Marie Partner. Members received the Annual Report and Treasurers Report from the CUSA and voted on the adoption of the 2008 AGM minutes,
the CUSA accounts to 30 June 2008 and the appointment of our Auditor Mr Bill Wood for another year. Under CUSA rules, the Committee is re-elected every two years, and details of the newly formed Committee can be found on
the Rules page. The main part of the evening was our presentations to Peter Heard and Marie Partner in recognition of their many years
of service to Colchester United, and also for the special relationship with the CUSA that both parties enjoyed during that
period. Marie and Peter were presented with specially framed prints of Layer Road created by Alderney-based artist, U's fan
and CUSA member, Alastair Riley. Peter and Marie then entertained and enthralled the meeting by speaking for more than an hour and a half on their lives
in football and their experiences with the U's, covering all topics from referees to former players, squirrels to plastic
falcons, and of course, Mick Wadsworth. Our thanks to Peter and Marie for joining us for the meeting, and to all our members who attended, and to the Musket Club
for looking after us in their excellent facility. Pictures from the AGM can be found on the new Photo Gallery page. Fabian Wilnis Testimonial - Ipswich Town v U‘s
- 25th July Members should be aware that after much deliberation the CUSA regrets that we have decided not to organise coaches from
Colchester to Ipswich for this friendly fixture. CUSA FC Player of the Season awards Congratulations to the whole of CUSA FC for a decent season in the Colchester & District Sunday League Div 1. At our
recent awards night, the winners were as follows: It‘s A Knockout! St Helena‘s Hospice will be running their fun fundraiser, ‘It’s a Knockout‘ again this year. Water
and bubbles will be in ample supply as teams tackle an obstacle course to raise money for the hospice. The event will be held on Sunday 12th July at Colchester Rugby Club. Ideally teams should consist of 10 people and raise
at least £750 between them in total. Anyone interested in entering a team should contact Kate Alden on 01206 791 740. CUSA to make presentations to U's former Chairman
and Chief Executive Most of you should already be aware that this year’s AGM will be held on 2nd July at the Musket Club. The May newsletter
also announced that this year’s AGM will double up as a presentation evening. The CUSA have invited Peter Heard and Marie Partner, two "off the pitch" legends of Colchester United Football Club to
join us so that we can mark their outstanding service to our Football Club with a fitting presentation. We hope that Peter
will share his thoughts on the changes he has seen in football and just where football is going these days and that Marie
will regale us with some anecdotes of her most memorable moments in more than 20 years with Col U. We would like as many members as possible to join us for the evening so that we can pay a fitting tribute to two people
who played such massive roles in taking us all with them on that unforgettable journey to the Championship. Anyone with a
membership card that expires on 31/07/09 is entitled to attend and vote on an matters that require a vote. On this occasion,
in order to allow as many fans as possible to show their appreciation to Peter and Marie, non-members will also be allowed
to attend the AGM in a non-voting capacity on the understanding that they must join CUSA for the 2009/10 season on the night. England Women come to W.H.C.S.! Hope Powell‘s England side will be in town on Thursday 16th July for a friendly against Iceland. In their last friendly, England won 3-0 against Norway and Powell’s side will hope to build on that success in July.
The game against Iceland is the first of a double header of friendlies designed to prepare the side for their European Championship
campaign in August. Both Iceland and Denmark (their other July opponents) have also qualified for the tournament so should
provide good opposition. Tickets for the game against Iceland are just £5 for adults and £2.50 for concessions and tickets can be bought by ringing
0845 437 9089. CUSA FC Congratulations to Ryan, Leigh, Wayne, Bob, Rob, Dave, Jamie and Dan of the CUSA FC "A" team for being runners up in the
Colchester United 6 a side competition on Sunday 31 May at Weston Homes Community Stadium. Baldwin‘s Three Peaks Challenge Popular U’s defender Pat Baldwin will be taking on a challenge of a different sort this June - the Three Peaks Challenge! Pat and a group of friends will be climbing Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust
in memory of U’s fan Emily Begg, who passed away after loosing her battle with leukaemia in 2006. The defender’s efforts follow a range of fundraising activities for the TCT by U’s players and supporters,
including the annual bike ride and the re-recording of ‘Up the U’s’ and the total raised has now topped
£30,000, most of which has gone towards the work the Begg family have done for the new TCT unit at Addenbrook’s Hospital. You can help add to the total raised by sponsoring Pat on his Just Giving page. A Day At The Races After the success of their inaugural dinner the night before the U’s game against the Leeds, the Colchester United
Former Player’s Association now have their next event lined up. On Friday 10th June a trip has been arranged to Newmarket for a day of racing. The trip will include executive coach travel,
a two course pub lunch and a premier enclosure admission at Newmarket race course, allowing access to the paddock and grand
stand. Anyone interested in going should contact Roger Westlake on 07778 018 835. CUSA 2009 Annual General Meeting The 2009 Annual General Meeting of CUSA will be held on 2nd July 2009 at The Musket Club, Fallowfield Road, (Off Layer
Road), Colchester, CO2 9LL commencing at 7.30 pm. This is your opportunity to elect the officers and committee, who will oversee
the running of the CUSA for the next two years, and to decide matters of CUSA policy. Nominations for the posts of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Travel Secretary,
eight Committee Members and resolutions on matters of CUSA policy should be sent to Roger Westlake, CUSA Secretary, 9, Twining
Road, Colchester, CO3 9XG to arrive by noon on 19th June 2009. So, make sure you've put the date in your diaries and watch out on the website as more information is coming soon! The "Layer Bricks" When the "Layer Bricks" project was launched fans were assured that the bricks would be located in a prominent place at
the new stadium. Later in cases where several members of a family had purchased bricks at various times they were invited
to state if they wished the bricks to be grouped together as a "family". Matt Hudson was collating such requests. Well the current location of the bricks is hardly "prominent" and the request to group family bricks has been overlooked.
CUSA believes that the bricks should be moved and grouped to a more prominent location and invites members to send their ideas
of suitable locations to CUSA Secretary Roger Westlake by email to enquiries@cusa.co.uk. My Layer Road U’s fans may be aware that My Layer Road, a collaboration between U’s media manager Matt Hudson and
writer Jim French that chronicles U‘s fans memories of Layer Road, is now available to buy. The CUSA have two signed copies for a competition to be run in the coming months for CUSA members, so watch this space! If however you can't wait for that, the book can be purchased at the CUFC Online Shop. A press release with more details of the book is available to view below. Charity Sportsman’s Dinner On Wednesday 20th May a charity Sportsman’s Dinner will be held at the W.H.C.S. Alan Brazil and Ronnie Irani will be
will in attendance at the dinner which will help to raise funds for Little Haven's Children's Hospice. Anyone wanting more details or wishing to buy tickets should contact John Schulz on 01206 767678. Details can also be found
on the CUFC Official Website. News on the U's Welcome back to this season’s final instalment of “News on the U’s”, bringing you up to date on
all the U’s news in the last seven days. After the disappointment of the defeat on the final home game of the season against Peterborough, the U’s had the
chance to end the season on a high with a win at Yeovil’s Huish Park, the very ground the U’s secured promotion
to the Championship three years ago. The U’s impressive away form was to continue as they ran out two nil winners and it was to prove to be a game to
forget for Yeovil keeper Weale as he was to be at fault for both goals. The U’s starting eleven was to include Scott Vernon who returned to the club after his loan spell at Northampton
, there was also a start for U’s defender come striker Matt Heath! The goals came in three first half minutes, the first goal came from Vincent, who picked up on a Yeates cross in to the
penalty area and his low drive squirmed under the Yeovil keeper Weale. The travelling U’s fans did not have long to wait before they were celebrating again, just two minutes later on 15
mins, Yeates looked to have been fouled just outside the Yeovil penalty area, however, he had time to regain his balance,
before unleashing a shot out-of-the-blue that flew past Weale at his near post. As the game went on, the closest Yeovil came to scoring was on 58 mins, when Obika let fly from distance with a fierce
shot that beat Gerken, only to cannon back off the post. The U’s saw out the rest of the game and secured their eleventh away win of the season, a club record. Speaking after the game, Lambert described the win as “comfortable” and he also revealed that he would be sitting
down with the players on Monday to discuss how they feature in his plans for next year. After hearing Lambert speak, the impression I was left with was clear, I believe we can expect big changes in the pre season,
I imagine there will be several comings and goings in the next few months as Lambert looks to rebuild for next season. Next season will also see the addition of further “derby” games as due to promotion and relegation, Wycombe
and Norwich will be joining us in League One. These types of games always add an extra dimension to the season and will hopefully
generate increased support. The U’s Achilles heel this season has clearly been their home form, the performances and more importantly results
have simply not been acceptable, if we are to achieve promotion next year then this issue will have to be rectified, hopefully
with the rebuilding exercise over the summer and the “new stadium” tag not being so prevalent, the U’s will
succeed in their aspirations to become a championship team. Till next time. Dan. ‘U‘s Central’ Opening The big launch of Col U’s new shop will take place in the town on Saturday 9th May. Named ‘U’s Central’, the shop is located in Sir Isaacs Walk and will be opened at 10:30am by U’s
manager Paul Lambert and his assistant Ian Culverhouse. Eddie the Eagle will also be in attendance and the U‘s have
a range of opening day activities planned including face painting and give aways. For more details, see the countdown on the U’s official website. West Stand Concessions Following representations from one of our members CUSA spoke to Chief Executive Steve Bradshaw about the decision to discontinue
Junior/Student Concessionary Season Tickets in the West Stand. We struck an agreement that for EXISTING Junior/Student Concessionary
West Stand Season Ticket Holders they could renew in the West Stand for £10 less than they paid last year. There is anecdotal evidence that the Ticket Office is unaware of this agreement so if CUSA members have had difficulty
in getting Junior/Student Concessionary Season Tickets for the West Stand will they please contact CUSA Secretary, Roger Westlake
on 07778 018835. News on the U's Welcome back to this season's penultimate instalment of “News on the U’s”, bringing you up to date on
all the U’s news in the last seven days. Following on from the win at Hereford, this week saw the U’s final home game of the season against promotion chasing
Peterborough. Despite an improved home performance, the U’s disappointing home form was to continue as they succumbed to their
13th home defeat of the season, losing one nil, a result that was to see Peterborough secure a much deserved back to back
promotion. Clive Platt returned to the starting eleven for the U’s, furthermore, Lambert decided to include several fringe players
for the game, clearly wishing to cast an eye over them prior to the end of the season. Injuries and a reported bug in the
camp were also clearly starting to take their toll on the U’s with Lambert only able to name four players on the bench. Peterborough dominated from the outset, and the games decisive moment occurred after 40 mins with Charlie Lee popping up
with the all-important goal. Lee was in acres of space following George Boyd's lay-off and he took his chance well, giving
Dean Gerken no chance with a thumping left-footed shot that flew into the roof of the net. Peterborough showed their class on the day as they outclassed the U’s, in fact, had it not been for a man of the
match performance from Dean Gerken, the win could have been by a greater margin. Gerken almost single handily kept a truly impressive Posh side at bay with a string of quality saves, especially in the
second half as Darren Ferguson's side searched in vain for a second goal. The U’s created little, arguably their best chance fell to Yeates, who was unlucky to see his shot go just over the
bar in injury time. Speaking after the game, Lambert was clearly unimpressed by another home defeat and has promised to “rebuild”
in the summer. As the final whistle blew, it was greeted by jubilation and joy by Posh fans, players and staff alike as their dream had
now become a reality, with their win and MK Dons’ defeat, they were promoted to the championship. As I looked on in envy at the Posh celebrations I couldn’t help but be reminded of our own glorious promotion day
back in 2006 at Yeovil. One bright note from yesterday, was the U’s fans who stayed behind after the final whistle to applaud Peterborough
for their promotion. Fifteen months can be a long time in football, in fact it was only last January when the two sides met in the FA Cup third
round at Layer Road, on that day, It was the U’s who were in the championship and their hosts a League Two side. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Peterborough every success for next season, they have a class team and it
just goes to show you what gems can be unearthed from non league football, George Boyd being a particular highlight, a truly
class player, who will no doubt shine in the championship. Off the field (well kind of) the CUSA player of the year was announced, Dean Hammond won your vote, with Kem Izzet winning
the away player of the year. This week also saw the launch of the eagerly awaited “My Layer Road” book, celebrating the U’s time at
Layer Road , after its launch at Cuckoo Farm on Friday, the book is now available for purchase. Finally, we end with yet another “U’s Fact”, the U’s enjoyed their best ever home support back
in 1948 when the average attendance was 12,339. Till next time. Dan. CUSA Player of the Season Awards The votes are in, they’ve been counted and the trophies have been awarded so here are the winners of the CUSA awards
for the 2008/09 season: CUSA Player of the Season CUSA Away Player of the Season Many thanks to all of our members and those who vote on the CUSA coaches throughout the season! 3rd Annual Emily Begg Memorial Bike Ride The 3rd annual bike ride in memory of Emily Begg was
held on the 25th April before the U‘s home game with Peterborough. Raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust, the bike
ride started at Portman Road in Ipswich, and ended at the W.H.C.S. weaving its way through the beautiful Constable Country,
covering around 20 miles in total. Anyone wishing to donate money to this very worthy cause can make a donation via the Just Giving website - the link is
below. More information on the wonderful work of the Teenage Cancer Trust is also available on this page. David Stacey The CUSA are very sad to hear of the recent sudden death of David Stacey of the Football Programme Directory. Over the
years, David was of immense help to the CUSA when we worked together on joint programme fayres in Colchester. He will be greatly
missed by everyone involved in football, and our thoughts are with his family. Welcome back to the latest instalment of “News on the U’s”, bringing you up to date on all the U’s
news in the last seven days. After the disappointment of Easter Monday’s performance against Brighton, the U’s had the week to prepare for
their next fixture, away at relegation threatened Hereford. The U’s would be looking to revenge the defeat they suffered earlier in the season at home to the Bulls and take
all three points. The game was a “must win” for Hereford as anything less would condemn them to relegation and League Two football
next season. The U’s had clearly put the Brighton defeat behind them and took the game to Hereford from the outset. In fact, there was only 2 mins on the clock when the U’s created their first chance, Mark Yeates picked up on a Hereford
error and was unlucky to see his shot rebound of the post after beating the keeper. The U’s enjoyed total domination during the first half and got their just rewards on 37 mins with Mark Yeates scoring
from a trademark freekick. Things got even better for the U’s when Hereford's Dean Beckwith deflected a Yeates cross into his own net just before
the break. The second half passed without major incident and the U’s cruised home to a much deserved 10th away league win of
the season and subsequently relegated their hosts. The result clearly pleased Lambert, after the game he described it as an “excellent win” and singled out Yeates
for much deserved praise. The win puts the U’s in 12th and with two games to go, a top 10 finish is a distinct possibility. Off the field, and in light of recent complaints from fans, the club issued a statement regarding stewarding at WHCS. Obviously, the club was keen to clarify the rules regarding stewarding and standing, however, the club is clearly trying
to find some middle ground with fans as they announced they will be speaking to the relevant authorities regarding a proposed
“safe standing” area at the new stadium. Finally, although not U’s related, I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate AFC Wimbledon, who on Saturday,
all but secured their promotion to the Blue Square Premier aka the Conference. Rising from the ashes of the Wimbledon FC demise and the subsequent “rebranding” and “relocation”
of their club into the MK Dons, the fans took it upon themselves to form their own club in 2002. Their rise since then has
been truly remarkable, they regularly draw crowds of over 4000 and are now just one promotion away from league football. Up next for the U’s, it’s the final home game of the season on Saturday against promotion chasing Peterborough. Till next time. Dan. At the U's Easter Monday game v Brighton, former CUSA Committee Member Glenda Grogan and her daughter Lindsey were our
guests in the Centennial Suite. Glenda was awarded life membership at our last AGM after some 12 years of service on the Committee, and we agreed that
a fitting way of celebrating the occasion would be to invite her to a game at the new stadium. Apart from the result, Glenda really enjoyed her day and sent her thanks and best wishes to the CUSA and all U's fans who
knew her from her days selling programmes at Layer Road. Welcome back to the latest instalment of “News on the U’s”, bringing you up to date on all the U’s
news in the last seven days. Like a can of coke left open all day, the U’s season has lost all its fizz. It was an Easter weekend to forget for U’s fans as they saw their team fall to consecutive defeats at Geraint Williams'
Leyton Orient on Saturday and then home to Brighton on the Monday. The Orient game was sadly an all too familiar story for U’s fans this season, despite dominating for large parts
of the game the U’s failed to make their chances pay and ended up on the losing side. The U’s dominated the first half and got their just rewards on 43 mins when Clive Platt headed home his 10th goal
of the season from a Marc Tierney freekick, the lead was, however, short lived with Orient equalising 4 mins into 1st half
injury time thanks to a free kick of the highest quality from Charlie Daniels. The U’s could not build on their good first half performance and were quiet in the second half, their best effort
came from Marc Tierney, who’s long range shot rattled the crossbar. The decisive moment came on 80 mins where the U’s were undone by U’s old boy Scott McGliesh who tapped home
from one yard out to secure a vital three points for Orient, a result which all but ensures their League One status. Despite the defeat, I’m sure all U’s fans will agree with me in congratulating George on his success since
he took over Orient and we wish him all the success in the future. Just 48hrs later, the U’s were back in action again, this time at home to Brighton. The U’s poor home form continued and they fell to a one nil home defeat thanks to a Lloyd Owusu header on 57 mins. To say the U’s were poor was an under statement, they lacked creativity, passion and more importantly quality. For me, the game was best summed up when a man two rows down from me stood up on 60 mins, his friend next to him said,
“you going to the toilet John?” to which he replied, “no, I’ve just heard they’re showing that
film Jumanji on the TV downstairs!” Away from the poor showing on the pitch, the other notable performance of the day came from the Colchester United stewards
who again adopted their seemingly zero tolerance policy on anyone daring to stand up for more than 5 seconds, I counted at
least 5 Brighton fans being shown the exit and from what I hear there was even more in the home sections. On a brighter note, there was the announcement on the first pre season friendly at the Weston Homes Community Stadium,
the U’s will welcome Martin O’Neill’s Aston Villa on Tuesday 21st July in a real glamour friendly that should
draw in a sell out crowd. Finally, as always, we end with an Colchester United related “interesting fact” and this week there is an Easter
theme (quite literally). The U’s are the only side to have “Easter Sunday” upfront, that being former on
loan striker Jermaine EASTER and SUNDAY Wasiu ! (well I tried) Till next time. Dan. W.H.C.S. Car Park Season Permits When Chairman Jon Burns and Secretary Roger Westlake met U's Chief Executive Steve Bradshaw last week among the items discussed
was the compensation due to fans who had purchased a Car Park Season permit for £230. It was agreed that if no other form of compensation for the reduction in car park charges had been received then the permit
holder should write to Steve Bradshaw requesting a refund of £65. Our next Committee Meeting will be held at the Weston
Homes Community Stadium on Monday 27th April at 8pm. All current CUSA members are welcome to attend as usual, but we kindly
request that you notify a Committee member in advance so that we can make sure that the room we book is of adequate size. Congratulations to the CUSA FC who secured a Quarter
Final place in the Wally Castle Trophy last Sunday after a 3-2 victory at Feering United. A goal from Wayne Woods plus a brace
from Dan Foulkes saw the U’s fans progress towards their victory. Welcome back to the latest instalment of “News on the U’s”, bringing you up to date on all the U’s
news in the last seven days. After the disappointment of last Saturday’s result at Scunthorpe, the U’s had the perfect opportunity to put
the defeat behind them, when just three days later, they faced another away trip, this time at high flying Millwall in the
rearranged league game. Whatever Lambert said to the players in the dressing room after the Scunthorpe game obviously had a great effect on the
players as the U’s put in a solid performance to take all 3 points in a classic 'smash and grab' away performance. It was an absorbing first half, with both sides working hard in closing down & trying to get a stronghold on the game,
chances were limited, with the most notable falling to Millwall’s Gary Alexander, who went close for the Lions, but
his header was saved by Cousins. The second half followed suit, with the U’s back four working hard to limit Millwall’s chances, the most notable
falling to David Martin who was again denied by the impressive Cousins. With the game seemingly being destined for nil nil, the U’s created a moment of magic when Clive Platt headed home
via an excellent Mark Yeates cross with seven minutes remaining. The U’s saw out the remainder of the game & held
on to take all 3 points much to the delight of the travelling fans. The games were coming thick & fast for the U’s & next up was the home game against Leeds United on the Saturday. In front of a sell out crowd the U’s failed to build on the impressive Millwall result & fell to a 1 nil defeat,
making it 10 league defeats at home this season. The U’s created the best chance early on with Mark Yeates going close, only to be denied by Leeds keeper, Casper
Ankergren. The decisive moment came on 29 mins when Leeds striker Luciano Becchio fired home the only goal of the game from the edge
of the area after a pass from Robert Snodgrass. The best chance of the second half fell late on to Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford, & only a good save from Cousins
prevented Leeds making it two nil. Throughout the whole 90 mins, The U’s never really got going and lacked any real cutting edge. Off the pitch there was the positive news regarding the A12 junction, funding has been agreed & work is due to begin
shortly with completion expected within 2 years. This is a fantastic boost for the club & the town, as with the junction being built this will assist with the accessibility
of the ground & also allow for further development of the surrounding stadium area. Finally, the CUSA was proud to support & attend the “Former Players Association” dinner at WHCS on Friday
evening. The evening was themed around the U’s famous giant killing win over Leeds in the FA Cup back in 1971. The remaining 10 players involved in that game who were not already in the U’s hall of fame were inducted on Friday
night. The night was a fantastic success & a big thank you must go to John Schultz and Peter Wright for organising the event. As always we end with a U’s related interesting fact. Back in November 1970 & during a league game against the
U’s, the then Brentford Keeper Chic Brodie was forced to retire from football after a stray dog ran onto the pitch and
shattered his kneecap after pouncing on him whilst the keeper attempted to pick up a back pass! Till next time. Dan. Welcome back to the second edition of News on the U’s. We start with yesterday’s game away at promotion chasing Scunthorpe. Against poor conditions and an in form side, the U’s succumbed to a 3 nil defeat. Despite a pretty even first half,
the U’s fell behind on 36 mins when striker Gary Hooper fought off Trotman, rounded Cousins & slotted home. Hooper then made it two nil on 59 mins with another good finish taking his season tally to 29. Their was almost an instant
reply from the U’s, however, Karl Hawley’s powerful shot hit the crossbar, although there was some doubt that
it might have actually hit the "A" frame in the goal and bounced out. The game was then put beyond doubt on 69 mins when highly rated Arsenal loanee Henri Lansbury scored with a well placed
shot from the edge of the area. To be fair, Scunthorpe are a good side, who play attractive football & I am sure they
will be there or there abouts come the end of the season. The result however, now all but ends the U’s playoff dream. On a more positive note, the other main story this week was the release of the much anticipated season ticket prices for
the next campaign . The club have clearly listened to fans feedback & have put together an interesting package, included
in this, is the welcome addition of a "Payment Plan" allowing fans to spread the payments over 10 months, with the whole country
being in the grips of a much published "Credit Crunch" this can only be a positive move. Off the pitch there was further good news with the new club shop being named - "U’s Central", a good name and a fantastic
location just off Culver Square right in the heart of the town centre, this can only help raise the clubs profile and hopefully
attract new fans to Cuckoo Farm. Coming up, the next seven days sees the U’s face tough tests away at Millwall on Tuesday and home to Leeds on Saturday,
a club so big that we have to build them their own special wall. God only knows what would happen if Man Utd or Liverpool
came to town! Finally, we finish off with another U’s related "Interesting Fact" - out of the 92 professional football clubs in
England, there are only 3 teams the U’s have never played in a competitive game, the 3 being Liverpool, Spurs and West
Ham. Till next time. Dan U's fans may be interested to know that former U's player and manager Steve
Wignall has written an autobiography! Entitled 'You Can Have Chips' - The Autobiography of Steve Wignall, the
book is available to buy on the U's website at the link below.
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