A disgruntled Derek Townsley has called for some perspective on Workington Reds’ season following a heavy defeat to high-flying Salford City.

While the manager admits the 4-1 home loss to the Class of 92-owned Salford was disappointing, he feels the team is in a strong position and wants people to be more positive.

Reds occupy the fifth and final play-off position on 30 points, which is a higher position in the table for the West Cumbrians compared to this time last season.

Townsley said: “We are sitting fifth in the table but you constantly hear negativity around the place.

“The lads don’t respond to criticism and negativity.

“We are still fifth from the top.”

Reds will back in league action tomorrow when they travel to 12th-placed Frickley Athletic (3pm ko).

The West Yorkshire club have made an inconsistent start to their season, winning eight, drawing three and losing seven.

However, they won their last three games in all competitions.

Reds took four points off Frickley last season after a 1-1 draw at Borough Park and a 2-1 win at Frickley.

Townsley added: “We were disappointed after last weekend. Tomorrow is a chance to get back on track.

“Every team is capable of taking points off each other, that’s the kind of league it is.

“I will speak to one or two managers and get some information on Frickley.

“At this level you need consistency and it’s down to who performs on the day.”

Reds prepared for tomorrow’s game in the perfect way after hammering Whitehaven 5-0 away in the Cumberland Cup.

“It gave a bit of game time to the lads that hadn’t played a great deal of late,” Townsley said. “It was an opportunity for them.

“The players that played on Tuesday didn’t do themselves any harm.”

Defender Sam Smith will miss tomorrow’s game through suspension after picking up five yellow cards.

James Earl and Jake Simpson have knocks and will be assessed, but Gareth Arnison is set to make a return after recovering from illness.