JOHN Sussex has called on Basildon United to bounce back from their opening day setback when they welcome Romford to the Cousins Car Wash Stadium tonight.

The Bees were condemned to a 3-1 defeat by Bury Town as the Isthmian North campaign got off to a frustrating start.

But Sussex, who recorded his first win in charge of Basildon in the corresponding fixture against Romford last term, is keen to see a reaction from his new-look side.

The Bees’ boss said: “It was disappointing that we didn’t play well but it’s important to remember that is only one game in a long season.

“It’s important that we bounce back because we want to get our first points on the board as soon as possible.

“We want to win our home games and make the Cousins Car Wash Stadium a fortress.

“But we know it won’t be an easy game and I know they played well in their season opener against Canvey Island.

“I got my first win as manager of the club in our home game against Romford last season, so I’m hoping for a similar result.”

Adam Vyse could be included in Sussex’s starting line-up before his three-game ban comes into effect at the weekend.

The striker, who captained the Bees at Bury, saw his debut cut short after being sent off with just 33 minutes on the clock due to violent conduct.

And Sussex was disappointed to see the summer signing given his marching orders.

“Vysey had been involved in a couple of strong challenges because he was getting frustrated after going 2-0 down inside 10 minutes,” added Sussex, who took over as boss in March.

“He reacted to a challenge and was sent off for violent conduct.

“I can’t complain because he definitely put his hands on their player but, on another day, he might have got away with a yellow card.

“It’s not nice when it’s one of your more experienced players and the captain on the day who gets sent off.

“Going down to 10 men didn’t help and it’s not ideal that, after tonight’s game, we will be without him for three fixtures.”

However, Sussex believes he has enough options at his disposal which will allow him to cope without the ex-Canvey Island striker.

“We have strength in depth, so we have players who can come in to the side,” admitted Sussex.

“Ayo Odukoya scored against Bury, so he is off the mark, and Harry Doyle did well when he came off the bench.”