Tuesday, January 24, 2006

THE Brunton Park hoodoo continued for Kidderminster Harriers who gave Carlisle United a real fright last night.

An 87th-minute winner by Glenn Murray knocked Harriers out of the LDV Vans Trophy northern semi-finals.

Mark Yates' Conference side worked tirelessly to keep the Coca-Cola League Two promotion-chasers at bay, particularly during a one-sided first-half.

But, in a more even second period, substitute Murray's cruel late blow ensured Harriers are yet to win at Carlisle with four defeats and a draw since 2000.

Last season the two sides swapped league places and Harriers have struggled to impress in the Conference since their relegation.

But Yates has won both league games since taking over as manager and his battling players did him proud last night.

Harriers' goal led a charmed life in the early stages as Carlisle put them under plenty of pressure. Ex-Walsall player Karl Hawley caused panic with a cross-shot that was cleared by defender Johnny Mullins and then provided strike partner Derek Holmes with a good opportunity.

But the forward missed his kick on seven minutes before managing to grab a second bite at the cherry which forced a good save from goalkeeper John Danby.

The visitors' back-line continued their good recent form with a series of blocks to prevent Carlisle's regular raids.

It took 34 minutes for Harriers to pose a serious threat when 'keeper Kieren Westwood pushed Jonny Harkness' dangerous inswinging right-wing corner over.

Striker Gareth Sheldon, retained in an unchanged first 11 from Saturday's 2-1 Conference win over Scarborough, also tested Westwood from distance. But Danby continued to be the busier of the two goalkeepers, tipping away a firm header by Carlisle centre-half Danny Livesey.

And he was grateful to midfielder Terry Fleming for a goal-line clearance from Zigor Aranalde two minutes before the interval.

Harriers did have their moments in a closer second-half with Sheldon worrying Westwood on several occasions.

Carlisle had a strong penalty call turned down when Aranalde's cross appeared to strike the hand of Mullins.

But they sealed a late success when Murray raced onto Chris Billy's long ball to fire a fine finish past Danby.

Harriers will be encouraged though going into a big game at fellow league strugglers Southport on Saturday.

HARRIERS: Danby; Mullins, Jackson, Burgess, Harkness; Russell (Francis 78), Penn (Howarth 90), Fleming, Blackwood; Sheldon (Pugh 90), Christie. Subs not used: Lewis, Heslop.

ATTENDANCE: 4,432.