Kidderminster Harriers survive late Rushall scare to win and go top
Kidderminster Harriers had a Good Friday to remember after a 2-1 win at Rushall Olympic sent them top of National League North.
Phil Brown's side needed to beat newly-relegated Rushall Olympic and have other results go their way, and enjoyed success on both fronts with leaders Scunthope going down at King’s Lynn.
Travelling to take on a Rushall side that officially lost their place in the division last weekend, Harriers started brightly but David Worrall and Zak Brown but were unable to convert good chances.
They almost paid for it when a misplaced pass put Ben Wodskou through on goal, but Christian Dibble made a save.
The visitors eventually took the lead just before half-time when Reece Devine's cross was met by a looping header from Ashley Hemmings, who found the back of the net.
Experienced midfielder David Davis then made it 2-0 after winning the ball back with a strong challenge, before exchanging passes with Hemmings and smashing the ball home.
Luke Benbow lashed the ball into the far corner in the 77th minute to grab a goal back for Rushall, but Harriers held on to secure a vital three points.
Kidderminster's win coupled with Scunthorpe’s win puts Brown's side top of the table, level on points with Brackley but possessing a far superior goal difference, with just two games left to play. They next host Hereford on Monday.
“When it gets to this stage of the season, it is all about getting it over the line,” said Brown. “The styles of play, the intricate play, passing formations and tactics, it all goes to pot to tell you the truth because at the end of the day it is just about getting over the line.
“We did, just about, do that. David Davis was probably the least likely player to score but that is the kind of game it was.
“It was not our greatest performance, not our best performance. But we got the job done and hopefully we are all OK for Monday.”
Hednesford Town also hit the summit, as they went top of Northern League Division One West courtesy of a 2-0 home win over Mossley.
Dominic McHale and Jake Jervis were on target in either half for the Pitmen, who went above Widnes on goal difference but have played a game more.
Their rivals are in action on Saturday when they host Nantwich Town. Play-off chasing Chasetown go to Witton Albion, while Stafford Rangers are away to Avro.
In the Midlands Division, Darlaston Town visit Grantham, Lye Town head to Hinckley London Road and Sporting Khalsa host Grantham Town (all kick-offs 3pm).
