Rams' boss Andy Kelly has urged his team to regain their confidence ahead of Thursday's televised derby clash with Batley.

Kelly is still facing an incredible injury toll, with nine first team players on the treatment table by the end of last weekend's Northern Rail Cup fixture against Rochdale.

He said: "We've got to focus on ourselves. It wouldn't have mattered who or where we were playing this week - the focus is on us.

"I know the players have got it within themselves, they've just got to drag it out and start to play with a bit more confidence."

Batley are preparing for their second appearance on Sky Sports in a week with coach Gary Thornton offering a huge endorsement of his side's recent approach.

Thornton said: "Our performance will improve, but you can't coach spirit, character and pride - that comes from within the individual - and we showed plenty of those qualities (at Barrow)."

Thornton is hoping to have Francis Maloney and Kevin Crouthers back in contention for Thursday's match.