Purches: We must think big to avoid drop

Leyton Orient captain Stephen Purches says only "big, strong characters" can prevent capitulation in the FA Cup being followed by relegation from League One.

Last night's 4-1 thumping by Sheffield United was the worst tonic for Orient, who have won just two of their 11 League games at Brisbane Road, ahead of games against fellow strugglers Bristol Rovers, on Saturday, and Southend, next Tuesday.

"It hurts but we've got to pick ourselves up for Saturday," said Purches (above). "We're good enough to stay up but when you're in the relegation zone maintaining confidence becomes harder."

JJ Melligan put Orient ahead in the third-round tie with a penalty but the visitors hit back with goals from Greg Halford (twice) Billy Sharp and Kyle Naughton.