HARRIERS boss John Eustace has backed his young side to recover quickly from their first away defeat of the season.

The Reds lost 1-0 at local rivals AFC Telford on Tuesday night as their six-game unbeaten run was halted by the Bucks.

The winning goal, deflected off Ty Williams, came in the first half and the visitors were unable to find a way back.

However, the defeat followed a fine 1-0 victory at Darlington last Friday and Eustace thinks his team will only improve for their recent experiences away from Aggborough.

"We have been involved in some big games recently and that will only help the players," he said.

"Darlington was a tough place to go but I was delighted with the performance and it was a good experience for the young boys.

"I was also pleased with the performance against Telford. It was a shame we couldn't back up the Darlington result but we were brave in possession again.

In the end their greater experience told on that occasion.

"Our build up play was good but our decision making in the final third let us down, which is something we will work on."

Harriers will look to return to winning ways with two quick-fire home games.

They will host second-placed Salford City this Saturday (3pm kick-off) before Tamworth visit on Tuesday (7.45pm).

"I want us to be competitive on Saturday," added Eustace.

"It is important that we show a reaction to the defeat and there is no reason why we won't do that.

"We are a good group and will get better with each game.

"The players are only young and every game is a chance for them to keep improving."

The Reds will be boosted by the return from suspension of midfielder James McQuilkin ahead of the Salford clash.

Meanwhile, Harriers have been handed a home draw in the second qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup.

They will host Tamworth on Saturday, September 17 at 3pm. The tie comes just days after the league meeting between the two teams.