MARK Bentley is seeking a reaction when Canvey Island visit St Ives Town tomorrow.

The Gulls are set to take on the Southern Premier Central outfit in an FA Cup second qualifying round tie.

And, following a thumping 5-0 loss at Maldon & Tiptree last time out, Bentley is hoping for an improved performance.

Canvey chief Bentley said: “It’s going to be a difficult game, particularly on the back of our result at Maldon in midweek.

“They got their first win of the season on Tuesday and that will have raised their confidence.

“But we will go there prepared and, with them being in the league above, we will need to be at our best.

“Both teams will go into the game with an opportunity to seal a place in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup and will be eager to take that opportunity.

“We want to be in the hat for the next round but it’s up to us to make sure we are good enough to get there.

“More than anything, I want a positive performance after the heavy defeat at Maldon.”

A Jorome Slew hat-trick, along with goals from Charlee Hughes and Danny Parish, resulted in Canvey being put to the sword by Isthmian North table-toppers Maldon last time out.

As a result, the Gulls have now suffered three league defeats on the trot.

And Bentley will be without some key players.

“It looks as though Jose Figura will be out long-term with an injury,” added Bentley.

“Ryan Melaugh is still out, while Alex Stephenson and Sammy Knott are doubts, which is a blow.”