Colchester vs Crawley prediction 13.03.2026 | League Two

Colchester return to League Two action after a well-deserved 2:1 win at Newport County last time out. Second-half goals from Harry Anderson and Jack Payne secured a vital road victory for Danny Cowley's side.

The U's have been in mixed form in recent weeks, but have secured victories in three of their last five home fixtures, including an impressive 4:1 win against Barnet last month. 

While sitting 12th in the division, Colchester remain in contention to qualify for the end-of-season playoffs. The U's sit only four points behind seventh-placed Grimsby.

Head coach Cowley has a handful of players unavailable for selection. Ben Perry (cruciate ligament tear), Ellis Iandolo (knee), Owura Edwards (shoulder) and Harvey Araujo (broken cheekbone) are sidelined, while Micah Mbick is also unavailable for selection.

Crawley make the trip to Colchester after a dramatic 2:2 draw with Swindon last weekend. Despite falling behind in added time, Kellan Gordon's goal in the 98th minute rescued a point for Scott Lindsey's struggling side. 

The Reds have endured a poor run of form, and come into this weekend's fixture now winless in their last seven matches. Crawley sit 21st in the division, just one point above the relegation zone.

A poor away record has been a major issue for Lindsey’s men this season. The Reds have lost 12 of their 18 matches on the road, managing just two victories in that run. Crawley hold the worst away record in the division.

Head coach Lindsey is unlikely to make too many changes from the side that held Swindon last weekend. The visitors have no reported injury or suspension issues.