U's fans can silence the Pompey chimes (From Gazette)

U's fans can silence the Pompey chimes

9:12am Tuesday 21st August 2012 in Sport By Jonathan Waldron

Come on feel the noise - U's manager John Ward is hoping the club's fans can cheer their side to victory tonight against Portsmouth.

John Ward has called on Colchester United ’s fans to roar his team to their first win of the season tonight.

Having claimed a point at Preston North End on the opening day, the U’s are now preparing for back-to-back home games in League One.

They host Portsmouth this evening, before entertaining promotion favourites Sheffield United at the Weston Homes Community Stadium on Saturday.

Despite their troubles, Portsmouth are still regarded as one of the division’s biggest clubs, having graced the Premier League little more than two years ago.

Boss Ward wants players and fans alike to rise to the occasion, as the U’s go in search of three points.

Ward said: “We want the Colchester fans to respond tonight but I think they respond anyway.

“We had a lot of big games in March and we stood up well to the big teams - both on and off the pitch.

“Portsmouth and Sheffield United will come to us and make a lot of noise and I’m sure that our supporters will respond.

“Tonight’s game has a special edge to it, with it being under the lights.

“I’m sure that they’ll have the guy ringing the bell and that will all add to the atmosphere in the stadium.

“But when the big boys turn up, we respond strongly.

“Our home record has been very good over the last three seasons and it’s vital that it continues.”

See Tuesday's Gazette for a full preview of Colchester's game against Portsmouth and interviews with Michael Rose and Kem Izzet, ahead of the match.