HARRIERS manager John Eustace felt his side came through a test of character to beat Stalybridge Celtic 2-1 and record their first home win of the season in the National North.

Despite first half goals for Mani Dieseruvwe and Tyrone Williams firing Harriers into a 2-0 lead, they had to endure a tense second half.

Nick Ryan’s goal caused them to wobble and things got worse when Ashley Carter was sent off for squaring up to Aaron Chalmers.

But they held on to record a third win and move to fourth in the table.

"The lads were magnificent in the second half and showed great character and I am delighted with the win," said manager John Eustace.

"It was a disappointing start to the second half and the manner Ashley Carter was sent off was very disappointing and we will be having a word with him about that.

"Both players were at it but Ash got caught by the referee and he will be dealt with."

He added: “It was a test but winning did our young players a world of good. The second half was what this league is all about, you have to be stand up and be counted and my players did that. I was really pleased.”

The final whistle came with a sense of relief for the team and fans alike and Eustace dedicated the success to the supporters.

He said: "It is very tough to get two halves the same and it was disappointing we didn't score more goals.

"I thought are players did really well and I was pleased with the way we defended.

“The last two home games we had disappointing results and I was really pleased to get a home win for the fans because they’ve been fantastic coming out and supporting us.”

Carter is set to start a three-game ban on Saturday, when Harriers play Boston, with Ryan Croasdale set to come into the side.