HEAD coach Ryan Watkins says his Luctonians players need to instil some of the club's identity back into their game following five straight defeats.

The Kingsland outfit were hammered 48-5 by Sale last weekend, which has left them rooted in 13th place in National League 2 North.

"We want to put the Luctonians identity into performance where we are gritty and are in the opposing players' faces," said Watkins.

"I think we gave Sale too much respect.

"They are a good side but we let them be a good side and we struggled to get to grips with them.

"The boys were bitterly disappointed with how they defended and we could have got a few more points.

"But credit to them, they were the better side and we have no complaints.

"The boys are still working hard, but confidence is a little bit low at the minute.

"But they're doing everything they can to make amends."

Next up for Lucs is a home clash against South Leicester and Watkins is hopeful his players can put in a much better performance at Mortimer Park.

Lucs' last two games have seen them ship more than 40 points against Sheffield Tigers and Leicester Lions respectively.

"We've got Josh Watkins available, who will make a difference, and Aiden Cheshire had a good game for the seconds at the weekend and could be in contention," added Watkins.