A dramatic finish at Rodney Parade saw Colchester United close the gap on the League Two play-off spots, yet manager Danny Cowley insists that composure and performance remain the only priorities.
The U’s left it late but ultimately claimed a vital three points against Newport County, thanks to goals from Fiacre Kelleher and Anthony Scully in the final moments. With Grimsby Town dropping points elsewhere, the result leaves Colchester just one point adrift of the top seven.
However, Cowley was adamant post-match that his team must remain grounded, stressing the importance of consistent displays rather than scoreboard watching.
“All about focus on us, which I think is the right way to be. Not for us to get too excited, there will be lots of twists and turns. [It’s] for us just to stay focused on trying to perform.”
Fast Start and Nerve-Wracking Finish
The visitors made a strong start, creating three chances in the opening ten minutes. Arthur Read and Oscar Thorn both fired narrowly wide, while Samson Tovide was denied by a sharp save from Nick Townsend. But momentum shifted when Lyle Taylor suffered a concerning injury, leaving the pitch on a stretcher midway through the first half.
Newport took advantage, enjoying their best spell before the break and testing Matt Macey with two dangerous efforts. The second half resumed with David Ajiboye rattling the woodwork, but Colchester soon regained control of the tempo.
As the match edged towards a goalless draw, Cowley turned to his set-piece specialists. Mandela Egbo’s late free-kick was whipped perfectly into the danger zone, where Kelleher rose highest to power home with just minutes remaining. The goal was reminiscent of his strike at Port Vale earlier in the season, once again proving his knack for timely contributions.
The icing on the cake came in injury time. After a Newport free-kick was cleared, Owura Edwards led a rapid counter and found Scully, who calmly slotted home to seal the result. It was a moment of redemption for the forward, who has struggled for form and fitness throughout the campaign.
“Nobody sees how hard he has had to work and fight to get that moment and I knew he would score, he don’t miss, he’s a really good finisher.”
The result, coupled with Grimsby’s late collapse against Harrogate, suddenly puts Colchester in striking distance of the play-off places. Yet Cowley’s cautious approach suggests he is fully aware of how quickly fortunes can change in this tightly contested division.
Site Opinion
While fans may dream of play-off glory, Cowley’s realism is refreshing. His emphasis on discipline, set-piece execution, and mental strength is laying a solid foundation. The timing of this upturn in form — combined with a healthy squad rotation — may provide just the edge Colchester need. With momentum swinging their way, the next few games will reveal whether this team can convert belief into results.
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