Holloway sends message to fans after stalemate with Colchester

Boss Ian Holloway insisted the connection between his Swindon Town squad and their supporters was “not strong enough” during the 0-0 home draw with Colchester United.

The stalemate at the Nigel Eady County Ground saw Town stretch their winless run to three games in League Two.

But Holloway insisted his side needed encouraging, rather than a negative reaction he sensed by some fans at full-time this afternoon.

Speaking post-match, Holloway said: "Are my lads playing as well as I want them to? No, but are they trying as hard as I want them to? Yes, so I am full of praise for them, unlike some people.

"That doesn't help, I have to be honest, and the lads noticed it.

"We are joint-top of the league, and if that is not good enough for some Swindon fans then I do not know what else to say.

“I told the truth that I feel like I have failed until we go up, but it can't be right, as I saw everybody trying, so why are they being booed?

"As Swindon Town today, we were not strong enough, the connection with the supporters and the team was not strong enough, and we needed you today.

"When we are not doing well sometimes we need you, and we didn't get that today.

"You have every right to do what you want, but if someone had a nightmare, then clap the other one as it is much easier for me to pick him up afterwards."

The draw left Town second in the League Two table, level on pints with leaders Walsall.

Next up for Holloway’s side is an EFL Trophy clash at home against West Ham under-21s on Tuesday (7pm kick-off).