BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT manager James Webster is calling for a big reaction from his players in tonight’s derby at home to WITHAM TOWN.

The sides are set to meet in the Ryman League division north, with the hosts keen to get back on track after a 2-1 defeat at Soham Town Rangers on Saturday.

It was a rare setback - their first since December 15 and only their second in the league since October 17.

However, boss James Webster was unhappy with his side’s performance and wants them to put things right at North Road tonight.

“It was a disappointing day all round,” he said.

“We arrived late, which had an impact on our warm-up and preparation.

“However, we can’t make any excuses because we just weren’t good enough.

“Something wasn’t right and I can’t put my finger on it.

“Soham played well and are a better side than their league position suggests.

“We’ve played some good sides recently but this was as tough as any of those games.

“We had a couple of chances to nick a draw but, to be honest, didn’t deserve a point.

“The players were just as disappointed and the only good thing is that we’ve got another game tonight.”

Regent will be hoping to gain revenge against a Witham side that eliminated them from the FA Cup in September.

The sides drew 1-1 at the preliminary-round stage before Garry Kimble’s men - who beat Waltham Abbey 1-0 on Saturday - secured a dramatic 3-2 victory in the replay at North Road.

“It’s going to be another tough derby and I just hope the boys give us a big reaction,” added Webster.

“We’re just not starting games well enough and giving away too many cheap goals.

“But when we’ve been in this situation in the past, we’ve generally responded well and been able to put a run of form together.

“Hopefully the same thing will happen tonight, although we’ll have to roll up our sleeves because, like most games in this league, it’ll be a hard, physical battle.”

Terry Rymer will miss out through suspension - the last game of his six-match ban.

Warren Joseph could be a doubt after taking a blow to his nose on Saturday.

Webster will also check on Ricky Griggs, who was forced off due to illness inside 20 minutes at Soham.

Jake Phillips and Lamell Howell (both groin) both remain sidelined.

Elsewhere tonight, HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS - 4-2 conquerors of Cray Wanderers on Saturday, thanks to Jack Barham’s hat-trick - host Wroxham.

Neighbours MALDON & TIPTREE are also at home, against AFC Hornchurch.