15/2/00 - Barton targets Burton repeat

City scored one of their best results of the season with a 3-2 win in the league at Eton Park last month -- Burton's only home league defeat of the season.

That result enabled City to bounce back quickly from a home defeat -- and Barton wants them to do the same tonight following Saturday's setback against Bath, to help put their league form back on track.

The former Burton boss said: "To bounce back as quickly as possible is important, regardless of what competition it is in.

"We know nothing less is required than what that performance was a few weeks ago. Burton still feel they have an outside chance league-wise and are still pushing for that, but their most realistic chance of winning something is through this.

"We have used the cup to good effect recently and we are looking to do the same tonight."

Midfielder Ian Cottrill could return tonight after missing the last five matches through thigh and ankle injuries.

Martin Weir will return to the starting line-up in central defence with Carl Heeley ruled out by a shoulder injury sustained against Bath.

Midfielder Steve Lutz is likely to be rested because of an ankle niggle. He is expected to be pushed up front in Saturday's league game at Havant and Waterlooville, with Sam Bowen serving a one-match suspension.

Should City win they will reach the semi-finals of the competition for the first time in 27 years.

Burton, whose manager Nigel Clough recently failed in a bid to sign City's star striker Mark Owen, paid a record £17,000 for Ilkeston front man Christian Moore last week, and he is expected to figure tonight.

Worcester (from): Watson, Sandeman, Willetts, Tucker, Weir, Carty, Knight, Bowen, Owen, Lutz, Jukes, Cottrill, Deakin, Purdie, Frost, Upton.

City's youth team twice led but had to settle for a 2-2 draw at Hereford United in the Midland Floodlit Youth League last night.

Matt Bishop and Dan Cox scored for Worcester.