JOE Rothwell knows Oxford United must brush off their midweek disappointment as they head to Port Vale today.

The U’s will arrive at Vale Park with something to prove following their defeat at struggling Coventry City in Sky Bet League One on Tuesday night.

The Valiants have the best home record in the division and will pose a tough test for United, who have an encouraging record against the top sides this season.

Vale’s place in the top-six should also eliminate any complacency, which Rothwell felt contributed to the Coventry loss.

The U’s midfielder said: “After the game last Saturday (when they became the first team to beat Bradford City) everyone was high on confidence and maybe a bit over-confident.

“It showed, we didn’t get going until the second half and in this league then it’s too late. It’s summed up our season.

“We’ve picked up great results against the so-called stronger sides in the division and when we come to the other teams we just keep losing.

“We have this game to put Tuesday out of our minds and hopefully get the three points.”

Meanwhile, Oxford United have been drawn at home to Bristol Rovers in the first round of the FA Youth Cup.

Oxford City will travel to Andover Town.