ASSISTANT manager Gary Whild was glad to see Harriers come through a potentially tricky clash against Alfreton to win 3-1.

First half goals for Josh Gowling, Anthony Malbon and Amari Morgan-Smith ensured a fifth straight win.

That was enough to lift Harriers to second in the table in the Blue Square Bet Premier.

But Harriers were made to work hard by Nicky Law's team, who controlled the second half, despite losing keeper Phil Barnes to injury and saw Theo Streete sent off.

He said: "I think on the back of the win the other night, it was important to push on again and it was a bit frustrating at times but we would have settled for 3-1 and three points.

"We said about the importance of scoring early on and Amari showed a bit of quality with a cool finish and I think because of his displays since he's been with us he's been due a goal."

He added: "We knew what to expect, Alfreton are still looking for a couple of points to make sure they stay in this division.

"They were set-up to be big and strong and make it difficult for us and that's what it was today."

It looks as though there are six teams still vying for the title after today's results, with Harriers firmly among that group.

Mansfield's 3–2 win over Luton reduced the Bedfordshire side's promotion chances.

"I think there are six or seven teams who could end up as champions and we're one of those," said Whild.

"We've got to keep doing what we're doing and we've shown lots of good signs we can results and hopefully that will continue for a while."