KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' delicate defence have been challenged to cope with the absence of captain Daryl Burgess at York City on Sunday.

Burgess will miss the trip to Kit Kat Crescent after being shown a straight red card for a professional foul in last Saturday's 0-0 draw with Stevenage.

Because he was sent off against Burton earlier in the season his punishment has been doubled and he will also sit out the visit to Canvey Island on Good Friday.

But although assistant boss Neil Howarth admits the loss of Burgess is a big blow he has thrown down the gauntlet to the skipper's young colleagues.

"He's got a lot of experience so there's no doubt we'll miss him," said Howarth.

"We've got one or two options and we'll have to be at our best because they've got Andy Bishop and Clayton Donaldson.

"Whoever comes in needs to show the same commitment and concentration as we did at the back against Stevenage."

Gavin Hurren could move to partner Simon Rea in central defence with Jonny Harkness recalled at left-back.

Harkness was left out for tactical reasons against Stevenage as Harriers reverted to a back three with Michael Blackwood preferred at wing back.

Dan Lewis is also likely to get the nod again in goal after a man-of-the-match performance in place of John Danby.

Paul Smith is still missing because of personal problems, while Wayne Graves has suffered a setback with his groin injury.

Midfielder Michael McGrath could be on the bench.

l Harriers report - Page 94