KIDDERMINSTER Harriers coach Matt Gardiner has challenged his players to carry their National League North form into tomorrow’s FA Cup clash at Lancaster City (3pm).

The Reds have lost just two league games so far this campaign and maintained their recent unbeaten run with a fine fightback to earn a 3-3 draw at Alfreton Town last Saturday.

Harriers fell behind in the first minute and trailed 3-0 at the break with a mountain to climb.

But three second-half strikes from substitutes Liam Truslove (2) and Andre Brown saw them respond in fine style.

The second period delighted Gardiner, who now sets his sight on progress from the third qualifying round of the famous competition.

He said: “It was really pleasing the way we came back into the game.

“The players were disappointed to get themselves into that position in the first place but stayed calm and remained patient.

“They did really well in the second half and could have even snatched it at the end.

“That experience will be another learning curve for them. The way they were able to fight back really does bode well for the future.

“The challenge now is to carry our league form into the cup. Regardless of the competition we are playing in, we want to be competitive.

“We are expecting a tough test against Lancaster but will be fully prepared for it.”

Lancaster are fourth two levels below Harriers in Northern League Division One North after a 4-1 midweek win at Trafford.

Harriers warmed up with a 4-2 friendly win over Stourport Swifts on Tuesday night.

A brace from Sam Austin and strikes from Rob Stambolziev and Ash Carter saw them come back from a 2-1 half-time deficit.

Meanwhile, Harriers have appointed Adam Crowle as the club’s football development officer after eight years working with The Albion Foundation.

Teenage keeper Tom Palmer has signed a professional deal with the club.

The 17-year-old has made great progress while continuing with his studies at the Harriers academy and enjoyed a strong pre-season.