THE first thought that came into Gary Rowett's mind after Tuesday night's win over Wigan Athletic had nothing to do with the glory of Burton Albion beating a Championship side.
Even though the Brewers had seen off the Latics 2-1 on a memorable night at the Pirelli Stadium, Rowett's thinking was elsewhere.
He was already looking ahead to the visit of Dagenham tomorrow ( 3pm), and the need for a win to make a good start to the season a great one.
"That was the first thing that came into my mind after the game on Tuesday," he said.
"It's not about complacency – that isn't the right word and these players wouldn't show any sign of that.
"But it's about following that performance up. The league is our bread and butter.
"It's okay doing that on a Tuesday night at home to Wigan in the Capital One Cup but we've got to follow it up.
"We've got experienced players and enough desire to recognise that we've got to do that."
Key to the result tomorrow will be Albion displaying the winning mentality they have fostered.
Rowett has worked hard to instil it in his players and tomorrow will be a test of whether they can follow up the 1-0 opening-day victory at Oxford and the win over Wigan.
"We've got to go out there and show our winning mentality," said the manager.
"We want to be the best, regardless of the opposition we're playing against.
"That's something we've tried to embed into the players over time."
Dagenham arrive having played 120 minutes as they went out on penalties to Brentford following a jaw-dropping 6-6 draw in the Capital One Cup.
They could have tired legs – and they have conceded nine goals in two matches – but Rowett is wary.
"You can look at Dagenham and say they played 120 minutes on Tuesday in a 6-6 thriller," he said.
"They've had extra time and now they've got to travel away with tired legs.
"You can look at the game in different ways.
"But there's never a good time to play anyone. I would think a team like Dagenham, with so much pride in their performances, might have extra determination to change that run of results.
"I think they're a good side on their day and you could argue they've just scored six against a Championship side, so that will give them great heart."
Adam McGurk (back) is doubtful for Albion, while Lee Bell, Jimmy Phillips and Damien McCrory (all knee) remain sidelined.
l Burton have confirmed that their Capital One Cup second round tie at home to Queens Park Rangers will be played on Wednesday, August 27 (7.45pm).
