WE RETURN to home soil unbeaten from our two tough away assignments over the past week.

At Carlisle on Tuesday evening we showed plenty of character to keep plugging away and earn our reward near the end.

It is fair to say that we rode our luck somewhat during the first half, but that is all part-and-parcel of the game, and in the end we managed to finish the game strongly to bring home a deserved share of the spoils.

The attitude displayed by the whole team was there for all to see and it was nice to be able to bring on two players of the calibre of Michael Ricketts and Sam Williams.

Looking back at last weekend's game at Hartlepool, it was very disappointing to see us gift them two goals. However, once again I have to give full credit to the players for showing tremendous strength of character at what is never an easy venue to visit.

I must give a word of praise to those supporters who followed us on these two long journeys. Your efforts were much appreciated by the players and myself and we thank you for your valued support.

On Saturday we face a Colchester United side who have been on a good run of results recently and arrive here with confidence high despite losing at home to Tranmere in midweek. Paul Lambert has done well since taking over at the helm and has given them a chance of making the play-offs.

We know only too well that it will be a stern challenge as they look to start another positive run of results, but, as always, by working together and displaying plenty of endeavour and commitment to the cause, we will give ourselves every chance of achieving the desired result come the final whistle.

As supporters you have a very important role to play in this and we look forward to receiving more good backing.

CHRIS HUTCHINGS