MANAGER Julian Workman issued a call to arms ahead of Redditch Borough’s revenge mission against Earlswood Town on Saturday (3pm).

Borough host their derby rivals for the first time since being pegged back by a last-ditch free-kick in a 2-2 draw at the Pavilions in August.

Workman’s men have since laid claim to the local bragging rights by building up a six-point cushion over Earlswood from three fewer matches but the boss remains keen to add to it in the return fixture.

“It is a derby game, the lads will be up for it and we are determined to get back to winning ways,” said Workman.

“It has been a difficult start to 2017 with injury, illness and suspensions affecting us but we have players back this weekend.

“The lads have not forgotten their late goal in a match we deserved to win earlier this season so that adds some extra spice.”

Meanwhile, Workman declared himself content with Borough's display despite Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Wednesfield in the Birmingham Vase.

Without suspended trio Ryan Young, Luke English and George Westwood and cup-tied striker Steve Joynes, they still competed with a Cottagers outfit that went into the clash boasting nine straight wins.

Keith Thomas scored in the opening minute but Redditch had their chances as Billy Garvey rolled wide when one-on-one and then hit the post after half an hour.

Borough’s Liam Fullerton was denied by a series of fine saves but another goal from Thomas and a late strike by Scott Sandland ensured Wednesfield's progress.

“We brought in some young lads and they did us proud,” added Workman. “The score didn’t reflect the game, we had our chances and I think we would have got a result with a full side.

"Wednesfield are a good team. They moved the ball really well but so did we, it was down to us not taking our chances and they got the third late on because we were chasing the game. Overall, I was pleased with our performance.”