Battling Harriers heroes praised by manager (From Worcester News)

Battling Harriers heroes praised by manager

5:08pm Sunday 13th May 2007 in Reports

HARRIERS manager Mark Yates praised his players' efforts in Saturday's 3-2 loss to Stevenage Borough in the FA Carlsberg Trophy Final at Wembley.

Yates could not fault the hard work of his team who played brilliantly in the first half and powered to a 2-0 lead, only to be stunned by a determined Stevenage fight back in the second half.

"It was a fantastic game of football, my players more than played their part in that and they were a credit to themselves, the football club and the supporters," said Yates.

"We had the chances but a third goal didn't come for us. We took part in a fantastic final and played some fantastic football and I'm very proud of them.

"We have to take this experience and kick on for next season. Ultimately we didn't win the game but we have to use this as a springboard.

"I thought we were excellent, no other word for it. We were disappointed with the goals but the way we knocked the ball about and the things we practised on the training ground in the last ten days came off to a tee. We just conceded three sloppy goals and that was disappointing."

Harriers were cheered on by an army of fans at the new home of English football and the manager was quick to praise those who the fans' support.

Yates said: "The fans were absolutey brilliant, they came in numbers and really supported us. Stevenage did the same as well and it made for a great atmosphere."

Kidderminster's manager also praised the spirit of their opponents, who did not give up, despite being out played by Harriers in the first half.

"Credit to Stevenage's players, they should have been dead and buried but unfortunately we didn't finish them off.

"We didn't show any fear but just one or two of the lads felt the occasion in the end with the legs, pitch and the atmosphere and that's something we need to make sure we're better at next season," added the manager.