Hats off to a very technically gifted, physically strong and determined Kidderminster Harriers team. They put us under some real pressure right from the off, and knocked us off our stride.
Right from the word go we couldn’t get a hold on the game, and their pressing put us under lots of pressure. When we managed to play some football we were able to hit them on the break and almost took the lead through a typically strong run from Tom. It took a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock, and a beautifully weighted pass in behind our defence put their striker through for the first.
The difference between the work rate, hunger and desire between the two sides can only be described as vast! Where we didn’t have any time on the ball, they were able to take advantage of our boys waiting for things to happen. They deservedly extended their lead with their pressure taking its toll and we were heading into the final third facing an uphill task.
That task didn’t get any easier when we gifted a third. To the boys credit they came back into the game a little more and finally showed some desire and we were winning more balls.
Sadly the game ended in an all too familiar fashion with tensions escalating. It should not detract from a very good performance from Kidderminster but we are left wondering what might have been if we had given a true account of ourselves. At times the football was there for all to see, but unfortunately the work rate and front foot football was not.
GOLD
Ben battled hard throughout and was determined in defence, highlighted by two goal saving tackles. We’ve been asking him to use his left more and he tried on several occasions.
SILVER
It took a little while for Tom to get going today, but when he came to life the whole team responded.
BRONZE
Dylan’s been asked to play lots of different positions this season and always responds positively. Always determined and strong in the tackle he was industrious throughout.