JOHN Eustace says he's proud of his Kidderminster players despite their narrow defeat against Barrow in the FA Trophy.

Harriers were knocked out of the competition by the Bluebirds last Saturday but the boss was pleased with how his side performed.

Richard Bennett netted the winner for the National League side before the Reds spurned late chances to secure a replay.

Eustace admitted it was a matter of fine margins, saying "I’m proud of the lads because they stood up to the task very well.

"I was delighted with that side of it but there was a little lack of concentration that allowed them to score.

"We played some good football at times. I didn’t think there was much in the game and we had a couple of chances."

Of the late chances, he added: "These are the fine margins and with the effort the lads put in, I’m really pleased.

"Barrow are very experienced and, as I say after every game, it is something we have to learn from.

"[The FA Trophy] has been exciting. I was delighted with the run we’ve had but I’m disappointed with the result."

Harriers will now return to league action when they host Curzon Ashton at Aggborough this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

The teams last met on the opening day of the season when Eustace's men bagged a 6-1 away success to get their campaign off to a flying start.

The Reds are now in third place in National North but have two games in hand on leaders Fylde and second-placed Salford City.

They were due to take on Stalybridge Celtic on Tuesday night but the clash was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. It will now be played on Tuesday, March 7 at 7.45pm.

Menawhile, defender James Hancocks has joined Stratford Town on loan this week.

The youngster will stay with Town until March 11 and will be in line for a debut when they travel to Dunstable in the Southern Premier this weekend.

The left back had previously impressed during a spell at Halesowen Town.