Progress giving fans optimism for futurepublished at 15:33 Greenwich Mean Time 28 February
Victoria Polley
BBC Essex Sports Editor

Danny Cowley and his brother Nicky have built up a strong bond with fans
At the start of the 2024/25 League Two season, Colchester United fans would’ve told you they would settle for anything other than another campaign of battling relegation from the EFL.
But fast forward to three quarters of the way through and with the U’s form, which has seen them lose just three of their last 21 games, ers might be forgiven for harbouring hopes of a late play-off place bid.
The Colchester United chairman and owner Robbie Cowling’s decision to appoint Danny and Nicky Cowley in January 2024 looks to have been a wise move after four seasons of struggle.
They were given the resources they needed to build a virtually new-look squad over the summer, and they are now nine points off the League Two play-off places.
Not only that, but with good results on the pitch and stability off it, a real community spirit and connection seems to be building between the Cowleys, players and ers.
Tonight presents an opportunity to discuss the U’s progress this season with the chairman, find out about the ambitions of the club going forward, and with the recent sale of non-league side Maldon & Tiptree, where Cowling was also involved, where he sees his future with Colchester United.