Batley are in the rare position of seeking a league double over the Cumbrians, who have beaten them so often in all competitions in recent years, but the Bulldogs won 19-6 up there in the second game of the season.
Whitehaven had a slow start to the National League One campaign but in their last two home games have gained resounding wins over Celtic and Leigh to suggest they are on the way back.
They were crushed 106-8 at Wigan in the Challenge Cup on Monday when the Super League side very much had a point to prove after being humiliated by keen rivals St Helens in Cardiff.
From the Batley point of view it would have been preferable for the tie to have been a hard, close contest, but it appears Whitehaven were not knocked about too much as they conceded 18 tries.
Thornton added: "We don't know how Whitehaven will react but they are never easy and must be keen to regain form after an absolute hiding the other night.
"They will obviously be anxious to put that right. We have to worry about our own form because we have to stop the slide. It's important we react positively after three very average performances."
The Bulldogs are also anxious to sort out their home record after losing their three home league games to date and four on the trot including the cup tie against Dewsbury.
Half-back Paul Mennell and winger Ollie Marns are fit after missing out at Halifax, while Jamie Stokes will have a run with the Reserves at Widnes tonight. It is also hoped prop Byron Smith will be fit after a foot problem to add his weight to a pack who are sure to be tested.
Stand-off Francis Maloney is working hard on his rehab and is now doing some straight-line running. It is hoped to have news of an intended return date for him in the near future.
John Gallagher, very much a forgotten man, has at last had the plaster off his damaged ankle and is keen to check his position regarding rehab so he will be able to step up training.
It tends to be overlooked that Gallagher, who is a key figure, hasn't played at all this season and Thornton remarked: "We would have had a decent side with Francis and John available.
"Perhaps some time in June things will be much brighter for the long-term injuries. They tend to affect us more than most teams in the division because we have such a small squad and Dewsbury are in a similar position."
The coach added: "It's about time we started putting things right on the field. We have stepped up training and done a lot of physical work in the past week or so and that in itself builds spirit and bonding."
Sunday's winners will go into the top six as the teams immediately above them, Leigh and Featherstone, meet at Hilton Park.
Batley have been in touch with Castleford regarding a loan deal for Anthony Thackeray, who looked a quality player at The Mount last season. Dewsbury, Halifax and Widnes have also shown keen interest but the Super League club, with injuries of their own, have halted any such deals.
A curtain-raiser featuring the Hainault Bulldogs of the Southern Conference kicks off at 12.15pm. Gates open at noon.