HALESOWEN Town assistant manager Matt Clarke has called for a reaction from his players following their disappointing defeat against Nantwich.

The Yeltz remain seven points clear of bottom placed Sutton Coldfield but missed a big chance to ease their relegation concerns when losing 1-0 at home last Saturday.

Assistant boss Matt Clarke was disappointed with the result and called on his players to show their character when they go to fourth-placed Shaw Lane this weekend.

He said: "It was a poor performance and we gave away another poor result, which is an indication of where we are. Players keep making the same mistakes.

"We spoke to the players before about how important it was but then we just didn't turn up. I don't know where that sort of a performance came from.

"It's up to the players that have been criticised, and we have criticised them in no uncertain terms, to react. That is what we want to see against Shaw Lane.

"Everyone except ourselves is expecting us to lose so we go there without that pressure."

The Yeltz will be handed a timely boost in midfield with skipper Danny Bragoli closing in on a return. He may even be able to play some part this weekend following a knee injury.

Clarke added: "He's a player that may not be the most pleasing on the eye but he will run through walls for you. That is the kind of person you need when you're in a dog fight and they are the people you turn to."