Director of rugby Les Ashe says everyone is looking for a big reaction from Workington Town against Barrow tonight.

Town went out of the iPro Cup at the hands of Gloucestershire All Golds last weekend in a poor display and Ashe says it is now all about how the players hit back.

They take on league One leaders Barrow at Craven Park tonight, 6.30pm kick-off, in what will be a big test for Dave Clark’s men.

“We want to see a complete reaction at Barrow from the players and get back on track,” said Ashe.

“We have two tough derby games coming now and this is already a critical point in the season in terms of our aspirations.

“We are all still very positive and upbeat but we do need a reaction after last weekend.”

Town will be going up against a few familiar faces in the Barrow team with Jarrad Stack, Tom Walker and Declan Hulme all leaving Derwent Park for the Raiders at the end of last term.

The fourth star to leave was full-back Brett Carter, who will miss this clash through injury.

“Barrow have a lot of connections to West Cumbria, so everybody will pretty much know everyone on the field,” added Ashe.

“It will help Dave in his preparation but it will also help Paul Crarey as well.”

Barrow boss Paul Crarey is hoping their recent form will see a bumper crowd turn out for the showdown with Workington.

But he says he is well-aware of the dangers posed by Town.

“We’re doing our job as players and coaches, we’re getting wins and we’re unbeaten now since we play Toulouse last year in France,” said Crarey.

“It’s a great achievement, even though we’ve brought some players in and we’ve had to teach them our systems.

“They’ve bought into it really well and, at the moment, we’re a defensive force – probably more so than an attacking force, but that will be tested this week.

“They’ve got a great kicking game and Stuart Howarth is a master with the ball and plays at the line.

“Kris Coward and people like that will take them forward, and we’re expecting a really tough encounter and a big crowd.”