Colchester continue their National League rugby campaign with a long-distance trip to the Channel Islands this weekend to play bottom club Jersey (kick-off 2.30).

The Blacks go into the match in a very creditable fifth place in National 2 East after two wins and two defeats, all four matches yielding a try bonus point, with 21 tries scored in total.

Colchester are making something of a habit of starting matches slowly, only to follow up with a stirring second half comeback.

On Saturday they trailed 33-7 to unbeaten Guernsey at half-time, only to fight back with four second half tries. And while it would perhaps be an exaggeration to say Guernsey were holding on at the end, the 41-33 final score made for thrilling entertainment.

Like Colchester, Jersey were promoted from the fifth level of English rugby last season, but the islanders are still looking for their first win of the season, though they came mighty close last weekend.

Jersey were leading with five minutes to go in their match at Henley, only for the home side to cross for an unconverted try to level the match at 31 points apiece.

Colchester head coach Mike Haywood maintains Jersey will be challenging opponents.
“We know what it’s like to be down the bottom of the league and not have a great start.

Last time we were in this league we went 10 games before we picked up a win.
“We know they’re going to be hungry and they’re going to be champing at the bit to get a win. They’re fighting for their lives, even though it’s the beginning of the season. They’re going to be a tough side to beat.

“We know we need to prepare right and we’re looking forward to the challenge of going away. I think the boys are excited to fly over there and experience more time together as a group.”

It looks like Colchester will have the support of a significant number of followers, with many taking the opportunity to have a bit of an early autumn break on the popular tourist island.

Elsewhere on Saturday, The Ravens travel to play Holt (kick-off 3pm) in Counties 1 East Counties.

The fixture list has thrown up a tough start for the 2s, with the Norfolk side the second opponents running to have been relegated to this league last season, following The Ravens’ 29-55 defeat to Norwich last weekend.

The As are at home to Felixstowe (kick-off 2pm) while the Cavaliers go in the opposite direction as they play Felixstowe 2s away (kick-off 3pm).