Lowestoft Town joint boss Micky Chapman is expecting to see a much-improved performance from his side when they travel to Cray Wanderers tomorrow, kick-off 3pm.

Chapman admitted his side slipped below their normal performance level in the 2-0 defeat at Kingstonian on Monday night as the Trawlerboys frittered away one of their three games in hand over league leaders Billericay, who sit two points above the Blues.

The Lowestoft chief refused to make any excuses for his side's display but insisted that he expects to see a response from his players on Sunday.

'We just weren't good enough (at Kingstonian) and all of us have got to look at ourselves to make sure that doesn't happen again,' he said. 'One or two of the lads were at their normal performance level, but there were too many others who just were not up to their usual standard. You can afford to perhaps have one or two who aren't on their game, but any more than that and it makes things difficult.

'As far as we are concerned the Kingstonian result has been completely forgotten about now though. We learn from it and move on, that's all we can do – I know the lads will want to give a response when Sunday comes round.'

Promotion is still firmly in Lowestoft's hands although many more results like at Kingsmeadow will hand the initiative to Billericay and AFC Hornchurch as a three-way title race develops.

A trip to Cray Wanderers presents another stern test for Chapman and Co. but he said they will be able to stand up to the physical challenge.

'As soon as that final whistle went everyone was determined to get back on the training field and right the wrongs at Kingstonian,' he added. 'Hopefully, that will bear fruit at Cray this weekend in what is sure to be a very tough game.

'They are a strong, physical side and we're going to have to match that like we have on so many other occasions this season.

'There are going to be ups and downs in the season – that's what football is all about. Perhaps the result at Kingstonian was the kick up the backside we needed.'

Dale Cockrill is still struggling with the back injury that has kept him out recently whilst the management team have been monitoring the fitness of goalkeeper Andy Reynolds, who missed the loss at Kingstonian – Jake Jessup is ready to step into the breach if necessary.

Chris Henderson could continue up front after impressing there in recent weeks while the physio has been working on Matt Nolan to ensure he doesn't aggravate the heel injury that has blighted his season so far.