DIDCOT Town manager Andy Ballard is demanding a response when his side host Shortwood United in Evo-Stik South West tomorrow.

The Railwaymen have suffered heavy back-to-back defeats at Billericay in the FA Cup (5-0) and last weekend at Cinderford (7-1).

Ballard said: “Defensively, we have been very poor, and we didn’t attack with any real conviction last week.

“It’s almost as if the FA Cup defeat has knocked the players’ confidence.

“We’ve been playing some really good stuff this season and need to get back to doing that.”

Shortwood were also thumped last week, losing 8-0 at home to Salisbury.

Ballard added: “I expect a reaction from my players. I want us to get back to playing without fear, but more importantly, we need to get a result to get ourselves back on track.”

Defender Sam Barder returns after missing last week’s match due to work commitments.

North Leigh boss John Brough wants more of the same after last week’s 5-0 victory over Barnstaple Town.

However, he is aware tomorrow’s trip to Slimbridge will be a different test.

“Slimbridge are the hardest-working side in the league,” he said.

“Last week was a pleasing display, although we could have maybe scored even more goals.”

Ryan Paddick, Sam Mattick and Sean Wood all return, presenting Brough with a dilemma.

“There will be a few players in the squad who do not get a shirt for Saturday – that’s great competition for places,” he added.

In the East Division, Thame United host unbeaten Moneyfields.

Craig Hill is set to make his home debut after joining from Oxford City.

The keeper signed last week and played in their 3-2 win at Arlesey Town.

Boss Mark West said: “He’s a good signing for us. Hopefully we can keep hold of him for a while.

“We are slowly finding out about our players – whether they are good enough for this level.

“One or two have struggled a bit, but some have done OK.”

“It’s all about keeping the squad together and adding some players to strengthen us when the opportunity arises.”

Didcot Tn (v Shortwood Utd, home): from Bedwell, Barder, Jeacock, McNeil, Elkins, Cattell, Learoyd, Humphries, McNish, Reid, Pin, Woodley, Hayden, Lamptey, Woodley, Joyce, Ballard, Parish.

North Leigh (v Slimbridge, away): from Agboola, Keightley, Grabe, Wellon, Stevens, Wood, Seacole, Waldon, Hopkins, Mendes, D James, Carroll, Harris, Petriaggi, Thomas, Paddick, Mattick, Wood.

Thame Utd (v Arlesey Tn, away): from Hill, Murray, Lynn, Smyth, Hercules, Sturgess, Connell, Goss, Morris, West, Ricketts, Johnston, Gledhill, Dennis, Evans.