Boss Matt a Bloomin’ optimist

COLCHESTER boss Matt Bloomfield insists his rock-bottom side are close to turning their season round.

Doncaster are the visitors today with the hosts propping up the rest of the Football League in 24th spot in League Two.

Despite having just 11 points to their name, Bloomfield (inset) said: “I keep saying to the players that we’re not far away.

“Obviously we want the outcome and the results but if you’re not getting that, then you have to concentrate on the performances.”

Hartlepool sit just a place and a point above Colchester and have a tough trip to Barrow, who have surprised many people this season and are in the play-off spots.

Bluebirds boss Pete Wild said: “We watched Hartlepool on Tuesday. They are a side that never die, they are never going to give up and we need to be the best versions of ourselves.”

Leyton Orient will look to increase their three-point lead at the top when they go to Stockport, while secondplaced Stevenage head for Grimsby.

Northampton round off the top three and visit Bradford in arguably the pick of the day’s games.

Neil Harris’ Gillingham are without a league win since October 1 and host Newport looking to move clear of the drop zone.

Out-of-form Harrogate will look to today’s visit of Mansfield as a chance to kickstart their season, while Tranmere and AFC Wimbledon meet at Prenton Park.

Salford face Carlisle, Rochdale visit Sutton, Walsall welcome Crawley and Swindon take on Crewe.