Chester coach Jan van Deventer has demanded a reaction from his players against Leicester Lions at Hare Lane on Saturday.

The Deva side's recent resurgence was halted abruptly by a heavy 45-0 reverse at second-placed Sedgley Park last weekend.

Deventer criticised his side for their 'lack of physicality' in the game, which was dominated by the hosts from the outset.

The result saw Chester surrender their impressive three-game winning streak and fall to eighth in the Division Two North standings.

Deventer said: "There were lots of missed tackles on our part and we were punished for not matching Sedgley's physicality.

"We made a very poor start against a strong side and they took us apart before half-time with their finishing power.

"If we had to come unstuck, it's better that we did it against a strong side that is challenging at the top of the table.

"But it's vital that we learn from that game and bounce back with a home win this weekend."

Currently level on 55 points, Chester and the Lions boast similar league records heading into the clash.

The Lions took the honours and a winning bonus point in November's reverse fixture, running in five tries to inflict a 35-14 defeat on Chester.

"Earlier in the season we found it difficult to pick up points away from home and that was a game we struggled in" added Deventer.

"At home we've been much better and that's a record we're very keen to preserve until the end of this season.

"We need a big performance against Leicester and to do that we need to improve in all areas of the field and not play into the opposition's hands.

"The beauty of having a big first team squad that is nearing full health means we can make changes if we need to for this game."

Sedgley Park can close the nine-point gap on leaders Sale with a home win against Otley.

Other league fixtures see Stourbridge host Sheffield Tigers, Huddersfield visit Blaydon Macclesfield host Luctonians, while Tynedale head to Wharfedale.