WHEN Kidderminster Harriers’ New Year’s Day derby against Hereford United fell foul of the weather, Chey Dunkley was left cursing his luck.

The postponement dashed the highly-rated young centre-half’s dreams of facing League One high-fliers Peterborough United in the FA Cup third round at Aggborough tomorrow (3pm).

Dunkley, 21, was sent off for a professional foul in Harriers’ 6-0 Skrill Premier drubbing at Luton Town last Saturday and was due to serve his one-match ban at Edgar Street.

But, with that fixture being called off, Dunkley now has to sit out one of the most eagerly-anticipated games of the season.

Manager Steve Burr said: “It’s a blow for him because, although he doesn’t like to miss any match, it’s a big game in the cup — but it’s just unfortunate that’s how the cards have been dealt.

“We thought the sending off was very harsh, a yellow card at best, so it’s a shame because it’s a big stage.”

Dunkley’s absence could mean a recall for James Grimes alongside Josh Gowling but left-back Mickey Demetriou is more likely to cover in the middle of defence after recovering from a hamstring injury.

New loan signing Jack Dyer is also in contention after gaining permission from parent club Burton Albion, who visit Bournemouth in the competition.

The box-to-box midfielder has joined Harriers for a month as Burr looks to revive Harriers’ fortunes following four defeats in their last five league matches.

But Kidderminster saw off League Two play-off hopefuls Newport County 4-2 in the previous round and captain Kyle Storer believes they can repeat the feat.

He said: “We always go into games thinking we can win and Peterborough won’t be any different.

“We like to get forward and, at home with the backing of our fantastic fans, we always have a chance of winning.”