KIDDERMINSTER boss John Eustace says his players have shown no ill effects after their FA Cup exit against Blackpool.

Harriers lost 2-0 at Bloomfield Road on Sunday after conceding two first half goals, one of which came from former forward Jamille Matt.

But attention quickly returns to the league this Saturday with a trip to take on fifth-placed Halifax Town, who sit just one place and one point below Eustace's men.

The manager says his players won't dwell on the cup exit and have been in good spirits ahead of their return to National League North action.

He said: "The players have just got on with it this week in training.

"I wouldn't even consider it a set-back for us. The players did really well to get that far in the competition and the club can be proud of that.

"Very one is now focused on the Halifax game where we can try and get back to another league win.

"Every game is a big one for us and Saturday is no different. But we have shown that we can bounce back after a loss and lets hope we can do that again."

Eustace thought his young players froze during their FA Cup encounter with the League Two side.

"I didn't really enjoy it," he added. "I was disappointed with the performance and I think a few of the lads froze out there.

"But the lads have got to learn from it. It showed we have got a very young group.

"Obviously I'm very proud of the way they kept going but I think we could have done a lot better."

Midfielder Ryan Croasdale is set to return for the trip to Halifax after missing the Blackpool game.

Attacker Elton Ngwatala made his return from a shoulder injury to feature last Saturday and will continue his comeback this weekend.

"Elton will benefit from the Blackpool game and should improve for having the game under his belt," added Eustace. "He was short of match fitness and that showed a little but he'll hopefully be in contention to feature again this Saturday."

Meanwhile, Sam Austin has extended his stay with the club by signing a new contract.

He joined from Burton Albion in the summer and has made a big impression.

Still only 19, he’s made 13 substitute appearances this term and netted during the 6-0 win over Tamworth at Aggborough.