PAUL Bowyer has backed 1874 Northwich to put behind them the disappointment of an FA Cup exit when they return to action later today, Sunday.

The fact that Oldham Boro, their conquerors at the same stage of last season’s FA Vase, provide the opposition is an added incentive.

“In the past we’ve bounced back quickly after losing,” said Northwich’s assistant manager.

“The lads were gutted straight after the game in midweek, but they’ll remember how that felt and react in the right way.

“There isn’t a lot wrong, nor was their much between us and Prescot, but it’s important to cut out defensive mistakes that cost us in both FA Cup games.

“We’ve switched off once or twice, and been stung.

“But there is a lot of experience in the group, and they’ll want to put it right.”

Oldham won after extra time when the teams met last term for 1874’s debut in the FA Vase.

Before that Boro had, in part at least, pooped a party on the campaign’s opening day by pinching a point following a 1-1 draw at Barton Stadium.

The teams’ fortunes have contrasted since; 1874 are in the Premier Division after being promoted, while Tony Mills’ men have won only once so far this season.

Bowyer said: “They pushed us every time last season, even when we beat them.

“We’ll remember that, and not underestimate them.

“We’re confident we can get through, but only if we don’t repeat those defensive lapses.”

1874 will be forced to field a much-changed team, with front pair Mike Brandon and Matthew Beadle both on holiday.

Danny Thomas is unavailable, while injury rules out both Mike Aston and Ryan Stewart.

It has forced Bower, along with manager Ian Street, to target new recruits this week.

At least one, on-loan Trafford defender Callum Jones, is expected to start at Seel Park.

“We’ll have to make changes,” conceded Bowyer.

“It’s an opportunity to bring in new faces, but we’ll only do that if it improves on what we have already.

“Of course it’s important to have competition for places too – that’s healthy.

“The first month of the season has also shown us where we need to be a bit stronger, so we’ve been reflecting on that too.”

To read a preview of today's FA Vase tie, click here: http://bit.ly/1uD6MJR