HARRIERS coach Matt Gardiner says his players were rewarded for their patience against Worcester City.

They came from behind to win 2-1 at Aggborough thanks to a strike from Josh McQuilkin and an own goal from Sam Oji, which was forced by the fine wing play of substitute Sam Austin.

Harriers had toiled in the first half and found themselves behind at the break after Junior English struck.

However, they fought back in the second half after finally finding a way past Worcester resolute rearguard.

Gardiner said: "I thought the lads were excellent, very patient and they kept playing and showed their belief.

"We've said all along that it's a squad game and and it's credit to those guys that have kept themselves ready for when the chance comes.

"Worcester defended really well and were organised and got a lot of people behind the ball so we tried something a bit different and the manager was very positive in his substitutions.

"Sam (Austin) coming on gave us a different dynamic, as did Darryl Knights. It's nothing against the guys who came off, we know it's a squad game and it's just about doing something different to try and win a game.

"We always knew they were going to battle. It's a local derby and they did well in the first game and again today. We just had to keep the belief in what we were trying to do and we got the result in the end."