Fresh off the back of returning to winning ways last time out, Doncaster Rovers will go in search of consecutive victories for the first time since early March when they welcome Colchester United to Eco-Power Stadium on Monday.
Both teams are currently in contention for promotion as they sit second and seventh in the League Two table respectively heading into the final three matches of the season.
Match preview
© Imago
Doncaster Rovers secured a huge victory with regard to their title aspirations by comprehensively beating Tranmere Rovers 3-0 at Prenton Park thanks to a superb three-goal haul from forward Luke Molyneux.
Snapping a run of consecutive stalemates, Friday's victory also extended the Rovers' unbeaten run since March 8 to eight matches, although they have only managed to win three of those games, picking up 14 points from a possible 24.
With Port Vale, Bradford City and Walsall all dropping points last time out, Grant McCann's men took full advantage to move themselves up to second in the standings, just one point shy of Port Vale at the summit.
Doncaster will now set out against Colchester knowing there is little margin for error if they are to remain in contention for the title or secure at least a top-three finish, which would hand them an automatic ticket to League One.
Having beaten their upcoming opponents in three of the last four matchups, the hosts have every reason to confident of securing all three points on Monday before taking on fellow title challengers Bradford City five days later.
© Imago
Following a five-game winning run to kick off March, Colchester had their momentum halted with consecutive defeats against Bradford City and Grimsby Town but have responded with two wins and two draws from four matches.
Danny Cowley's men were left a tad disappointed for failing to claim all three points in their most recent outing against Crewe Alexandra at the Colchester Community Stadium, where they played the entire second half with a numerical advantage.
However, those dropped points last time out did not prove costly for the U's, who remain seventh in the table and continue to hang on to the final playoff spot as they lead Grimsby Town only on goal difference.
Following their shutout against Crewe, Colchester have recorded three straight clean sheets for the first time this season and will need that defensive solidity to come to the fore against an opposing side with the third-best attack in the league.
Just over 12 months since they managed to beat the drop by the skin of their teeth last season, Monday's visitors have the opportunity to continue their quest for a remarkable turnaround and edge one step closer to the playoffs with a win.
Team News
© Imago
Defender Joseph Oluwu has been unavailable for each of Doncaster's most recent eight matches and is not expected to play any part in Monday's encounter.
After his hat-trick against Tranmere, Luke Molyneux is now up to 27 goal contributions for the away side—16 goals and 11 assists—which is the second-most of any player in the division.
Midfielders Harry Anderson and Jack Payne are huge doubts to feature for Colchester here as they continue to nurse muscle and ankle problems respectively.
However, 19-year-old Milton Oni (knee) and Lyle Taylor (leg) will definitely miss out for the away side, although the latter is not far off making a return to action.
Off the back of consecutive cameo appearances, Anthony Scully returned to the starting XI last time out and could retain his place in the midfield alongside Arthur Read.
Doncaster Rovers possible starting lineup:
Sharman-Lowe; Crew, Senior, Anderson, Sterry; Broadbent, Bailey; Gibson, Clifton, Molyneux; Street
Colchester United possible starting lineup:
Macey; Egbo, Kelleher, Flanagan, Iandolo; McDonnell, Read; Thorn, Scully, Edwards; Tovide
We say: Doncaster Rovers 3-1 Colchester United
Despite their no-show in attack against Crewe, Colchester have had little problem finding the back of the net all season long, and we are backing them to enjoy another field day in front of goal en route to a routine triumph.
For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.
Adepoju Marvellous
