Tony Humes believes Colchester United’s survival battle is gathering momentum, ahead of their important home clash with Barnsley today.

The U’s host the Tykes at the Weston Homes Community Stadium four points adrift of safety in League One, following their 2-1 win at Port Vale on Good Friday.

Colchester will attempt to secure back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

And after seeing his U’s side claim seven points from a possible nine in their last three games, boss Humes feels they are on the right track as the season reaches a critical stage.

Humes said: “It’s about what we do and we’ve said that all along.

“We’ve got seven points from nine now and it gives us that belief that it’s possible we can do it.

“We keep picking up points and it’s bringing us closer.

“That confidence and belief of the players is the major thing and they have to trust that they can do it.

“They’ve worked their socks off over the whole season – we can’t knock the players but also, we can’t get carried away and say we’re going to roll up and just win.

“They need to show the same desire and hunger for each other as they have for each of the last seven games now.

“We hope that we’ve got a bit of momentum going and we can keep building on it.

“The confidence and belief is a big thing and there’s a focus and steel about them - it’s a huge game against Barnsley now.”

For a full preview of the U's game with Barnsley and pictures, analysis and reaction to the U's win at Port Vale, see Monday's Daily Gazette.