FC CLACTON boss David Coyle insists his players must not be intimidated by “robust, direct and aggressive” derby opponents STANWAY ROVERS.

The Thurlow Nunn League neighbours are set to meet in an eagerly-awaited derby at the Rush Green Bowl tonight (kick-off 7.45pm).

It will be Clacton’s second home game in four days, following from Saturday’s 1-0 defeat against another high-flying team, Hadleigh United.

Stanway will also be looking to bounce back to winning ways, having suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to Felixstowe & Walton.

Coyle is adamant his side have nothing to fear against promotion-chasing Stanway.

And he wants his players to stand up and be counted against them.

“Stanway have a lot of characters who have a lot to say for themselves,” said the Seasiders boss.

“That’s not a bad thing.

“It’s a good thing, because they’re quality players who aren’t afraid to be vocal.

“They’re very good at what they do and we know they’re going to be robust, direct, aggressive, hard-working and committed.

“But we can’t allow ourselves to be intimidated.

“We’re fighting for points and have a job to do.

“We’ve got to try and match them in those departments, impose ourselves and show our quality.”

Stanway had not lost for 16 games before Hadleigh left with three points last Tuesday.

That was then followed by another defeat, this time against sixth-placed Felixstowe on Saturday.

As a consequence, Rovers have slipped from second to fourth in the table and will be desperate to get back to winning ways tonight.

“Saturday was tough to take,” said Rovers boss Angelo Harrop.

“I didn’t think we deserved to come away empty-handed, but, once again, our play in the final third let us down.

“We’re expecting another tough game tonight, but will certainly be looking to get back on track and get back to where we were before.”

Rovers goalkeeper Dan Beeson may be a doubt for tonight’s game, but everyone else is fit.

If Beeson fails to make it, former Clacton goalkeeper Joe Fowler could line up against his old side.