It's often said a team has to take a step backwards to take two forward. And having witnessed Colchester’s hugely impressive performance on Saturday, it’s hard to disagree with that sentiment in the U’s case.

On this corresponding weekend last year, they slumped to a miserable 3-0 defeat against Burton Albion at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

It was a painful result that confirmed the inevitable – relegation to League Two.

The club were left nine points from safety and resigned to fourth-tier football for the first time in 18 years.

Two days later, manager Kevin Keen departed and there was doom and gloom aplenty as another deflating season reached a particularly sad conclusion.

Turn the clock forward a year and the outlook could hardly be more different.

Colchester failed to gain maximum points against Plymouth. However, the quality of a performance laced with eye-catching attacking play was plain to see.

In the space of just eight days, the U’s have impressed against the league’s top two sides and, unlike last year when their performances were dogged by fear, this latest display was one oozing confidence.

John McGreal’s men showed intensity, flair and creativity and also defended stoutly.

They are relishing playing in front of their own fans – a far cry from some of the tentative, error-strewn displays served up in recent seasons.

It just shows what a difference a year makes, albeit at a lower level, and I’m sure supporters have gleaned far more satisfaction and enjoyment watching their team sparkle in 2017/18.

Speaking after last term’s relegation was confirmed, U’s owner Robbie Cowling said: “Sometimes I can think ‘let’s go on a joyride and do well with a few quid’ but I’m not interested in that. I’m interested in investing the money to do good with the club.”

Well it may not be a joyride but it certainly appears the journey back to more prosperous, successful times is well under way. Hopefully the destination is a place back in League One.