Time to show the real Witton, says Pritchard (From Northwich Guardian)

Witton Albion manager Brian Pritchard expects reaction at Curzon Ashton

5:15pm Friday 16th December 2011 in News

BRIAN Pritchard will urge his players to prove last Saturday’s stumble was a one-off when they face leaders Curzon Ashton tomorrow.

Witton slumped to a shock home defeat against rock-bottom Cammell Laird last weekend in a showing the manager says was spluttering from the start.

“I expect a reaction,” he said.

“It was unacceptable performance, well below the high standards we have set before now.”

Albion slipped out of the play-offs places as a result, missing out on an opportunity to close the gap to the standings’ summit.

Curzon sit there before kick off this weekend, albeit on goals difference from closest rivals Skelmersdale United.

Witton are nine points further back.

Pritchard has threatened to shuffle his pack for the trip to Ashton-under-Lyne, although injuries and unavailability restricts his room for manoeuvre.

“Nobody can be sure of a place in the team,” he said.

“There is a question mark against everybody, and it’s been up to them to justify their selection in training.”

Oliver James (calf) and Liam Newman (shin) continue to convalesce, while midfield pair Carl Clampitt and Jamie Harrison are unavailable to play.

Assistant manager Mike Moseley (groin) is battling to be fit too.

Pritchard added: “I expect us to be galvanised.

“It’s important to send out a message that we had an off day, so we’ll go there without fear. That’s what has worked well for us so far this season.”

Curzon, who include Northwich-based Graham Kay among their number, have lost only once in the league to date.

Nobody has beaten them on their own pitch.

“They’re there because they deserve to be so it’s up to everybody else – including us – to be up for the challenge of closing the gap to first place,” said Pritchard.

“They’ve come up with a game-plan and executed it brilliantly so far, which is why they’re top of the league.”