Saturday, December 10, 2005

KIDDERMINSTER Harriers slumped to their fifth successive away defeat in the Nationwide Conference.

Harriers could not match League leaders Accrington Stanley, who ran out winners after goals either side of the half-time interval at the Interlink Express Stadium.

Former Blues and Walsall midfielder Martin O'Connor was in temporary charge of Harriers for this game following the departure of Stuart Watkiss.

The visitors actually started the stronger of the two sides and Taiwo Atieno, who was back in the starting line-up because of an injury to striker Iyseden Christie, could have put them in front.

His shot ended up in the side netting while Simon Heslop was also proving to be a threat in the Accrington penalty area. But it didn't take long for the home side to get into their stride as they went in front after 12 minutes.

Gary Roberts struck a free-kick into the area which Kidderminster goalkeeper Daniel Lewis made a hash of and the ball wriggled underneath him into the net.

Earlier, Lewis had made a fine save to deny Accrington a goal after he puched a header around his post.

Marc Hugh came close to scoring as Harriers tried in vain to force the leveller.

With Harriers unable to find their way into the game Paul Mullin was on hand to score the points clincher 12 minutes from time.

Harriers did have chances to score late on. Firstly, Wayne Hatswell's effort was kept out well by Accrington keeper Rob Elliot and then Elliot was also on hand to deny Laurie Wilson.

But they could not muster an opportunity and are now in 16th place in the Conference, while Accrington move four points clear at the summit.

Harriers will be hoping for better when they meet Scarborough in the FA Trophy on Saturday.