It seems an age ago, but it’s only two weeks since Colchester United rallied to record a 3-1 win over Crewe and so move up to 13th in the League Two table.

Confidence was sky-high after that fixture, the U’s having taken 14 from a possible 21 points in their last seven fixtures.

But since then, John McGreal’s men have been booted out of two cup competitions, the most serious being the 1-0 defeat at home to non-league strugglers Oxford City last weekend in the FA Cup.

The midweek 2-0 loss at Southend United, which ended their stay in the Checkatrade Trophy, meant that the U’s had been knocked out of all three cup competitions this season at the very first hurdle.

Of course this at least gives the U’s a chance to concentrate solely on the league, and their recent league form suggests that they can make further progress up the table and perhaps challenge the top seven.

“We’ve been picking up points away from home, so confidence remains high,” insisted boss McGreal.

“A few fans have been disappointed with our last two games, and have let us know about it, but the core of the fans are sticking with us.

“It won’t be easy this weekend. It’s a good game for us, a local one as such, but then it’s a good game for Barnet. They have not done so well of late, but they have continued to pick up points at home,” added McGreal.

On the basis of current form, the U’s should start this afternoon as favourites to record a third away win of the season, or at the very least extend their unbeaten run on the road to five matches.

In fact, the U’s have the best record in League Two, over the last six matches, alongside current third-placed team Luton Town.

Both the U’s and Hatters have picked up 13 points from those six fixtures, with Swindon and Accrington Stanley the next best on 12 points.

By contrast, Barnet are propping up the form table, with regards the last six matches, with just three points accrued and no wins gained.

Just above them are basement dwellers Chesterfield and second-from-bottom Morecambe, both on four points from those six games.

Overall, the Bees are 21st, but only clear of the relegation zone on goal difference.