GARY Whild is hoping to bring in a proven goalscorer to fire Kidderminster Harriers’ play-off push.

The Aggborough outfit, who are sixth in the table, face a vital clash in their chase for the Vanarama Conference top five on Saturday when they tackle third-placed Macclesfield at home (3pm kick-off).

Whild is keen to bring in a striker with a proven track record to help forwards Jamie Spencer, Akwasi Asante and Craig Reid.

With Reece Hales joining Stourbridge on loan for the rest of the season and the departure of Michael Gash, who has signed for Barnet, the manager feels the club needs a lethal finisher after drawing blanks at home against Southport and Altrincham in recent weeks.

After Saturday,’s 1-0 defeat to Altrincham ended their hopes in the FA Trophy, the club are focused on returning the Football League.

While Harriers’ cashflow issues remain, there is scope to strengthen after the transfers of Nathan Blissett and Chey Dunkley went through.

“With the position the teams are in, this is a huge game,” commented Whild.

“Macclesfield have done very well and they are a little bit like us.

“It’s an important game and I am looking for one of my strikers to stand up and take responsibility.

“If you look at the Southport and Altrincham matches, we had plenty of chances and their ‘keepers were men of the match.

“We’re used to scoring goals but we want to see if we can bring in someone who can do it regularly.

“We’ve got 17 games to go and I don’t want to look back at the January transfer window with any regrets.”

Striker Reece Styche, who signed a two-year deal in the summer, has joined Tamworth for a second loan spell until the end of the campaign.

The forward was the subject of boos from a section of Reds fans, prompting Whild to defend him but Styche lashed out at the minority who criticised him on social media.

He tweeted: “Little message for the ‘minority’: grow up, support the team and start two act like fans! Fans don’t boo and jeer their own team!”

Whild also stood up for Reid, who missed a penalty on Saturday.

He said: “Craig would be the first person to put his hand up and say he is disappointed he hasn’t scored more goals.

“But if you look at his overall contribution, he’s worked hard, played a part in the team and produced a few assists.”

Jordan Tunnicliffe and Spencer are available for Saturday’s clash after being cup-tied in the Trophy, while Marvin Johnson has shaken off a hip problem to be ready but Josh Gowling is another week away from fitness as he recovers from a knee injury.

Tyrone Williams has also been sent out on loan to play for Stourbridge.

Harriers have brought in Birmingham City’s rookie defender Nathaniel Kelly after target Kelvin Langmead opted to join Ebbsfleet.

They have also drafted in young goalkeeper and former youth team player Haydn Whitcombe, who has also featured for Stourport Swifts, Halesowen and Littleton, on non-contract terms.

After Macclesfield, the Reds then face Aldershot away on Tuesday night (7.45pm ko).

l Fans who can’t make Saturday’s clash can follow The Shuttle’s live updates.