TONY Sullivan says his side owe their supporters an improved performance when they play 1874 Northwich tonight, Tuesday.

The Witton Albion boss told the Guardian that he is expecting a reaction following a 3-1 defeat against Grantham at the weekend.

“It’s a big game for us,” he admitted.

“I’m not going to downplay it – it’s massive for our fans and also because we can keep alive a chance to win a trophy.

“They’ll want to beat us, and will be right up for it.

“But my players have something to prove – they’ve capitulated far too easily in the past two away matches, which isn’t like us.

“I want to see some honesty from them, that’s what I’m looking for most.”

Albion haven’t lifted the trophy since 2009, when they defeated Congleton, nor have they reached the final.

They are without a win from their past four league games too, losing three.

Defender John Shaw, a player Sullivan says Witton have missed badly in reverses at Matlock and Grantham, remains a doubt with a knee injury.

Newcomer Michael Simpson (knee) has been ruled out for a fortnight, while goalkeeper Dean Porter (groin) is a long-term absentee.

Sullivan said: “We’ve had some rotten luck with the timing of injuries, but that’s something we have to get over.

“My message is simple, but clear; we have to battle, and be better than we have all over the field.”