The 2014–15 season was Colchester United's 73rd season in their history and seventh successive season in the third tier of English football, League One. Alongside competing in the League One, the club also participated in the FA Cup, the League Cup and the Football League Trophy. A string of four consecutive defeats meant Joe Dunne lost his job and Tony Humes was appointed his replacement. Colchester had an upturn in league form and leapt to mid-table, but soon a string of poor results mean the U's spent much of the campaign in the relegation zone. Aside from after a home win over Bristol Rovers in February, United were in the bottom four from late November until the final day of the season, when results went in their favour and they beat Preston North End to secure League One survival by the narrowest of margins. For the fourth successive year, Colchester failed to reach the second round of the League Cup following defeat by Charlton Athletic, and despite a bye to the second round of the Football League Trophy, Gillingham won 4–2 on penalties at the Colchester Community Stadium. Colchester did reach the third round of the FA Cup, featuring in two televised matches. Cardiff City comfortably beat the U's 3–1 following a first round win at Gosport Borough and a second round victory at home to Peterborough United. Season overview Pre-season Days after the final game of the 2013–14 season, Joe Dunne began making changes to his playing squad. Club stalwart Karl Duguid announced his retirement after playing in the final game of the season, while Clinton Morrison's impending exit was announced prior to the last match. In the midst of financial cutbacks, the club were unable to offer competitive terms to club captain Brian Wilson, who departed in search of a new club. Also leaving were Academy graduates Jordan Sanderson and Shaun Phillips, while Ryan Dickson was offered new terms after his one-year deal expired. Colchester made their first signing of the campaign on 14 May as young striker Dominic Smith signed following his release from Crewe Alexandra. He had been on trial with the under-23 side during the latter stages of the 2013–14 season. On 22 May, Dominic Vose signed a contract extension until summer 2016, while Ryan Dickson decided against a new deal at the club and opted to join League One rivals Crawley Town. Long-serving goalkeeper