KIDDERMINSTER Harriers manager John Eustace wants more bravery from his players after losing their pre-season opener 4-0 to a strong Derby County line-up at Aggborough.
David Nugent opened the scoring for the Championship giants with a crisp finish and Craig Bryson doubled the lead after rounding the keeper.
Chris Martin’s cushioned volley made it three before the break before ex-England international Darren Bent’s header completed the scoring in the second half.
Eustace, whose National League North side host Aston Villa tonight (7.45pm), was pleased with a number of aspects of the workout.
But he said: “I felt we could have been braver and believed in ourselves a bit more in the first half.
“We are missing a lot of players from last season so it is about getting to know each other and getting fit.
“They’re playing against top players but I expected us to do a bit better though you can’t take anything away from Derby.
“They’re a class team and it is a fantastic learning experience for the boys.”
Harriers' Easter league trip to Boston United has been brought forward to Friday, March 30 (3pm), from the following day.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here