MANAGER Gary Whild felt Harriers could have won their opening game of the Vanarama Conference after yesterday's 0-0 draw with Lincoln City at Sincil Bank.

The Aggborough outfit produced a determined defensive display in the first half to keep the hosts at bay.

They then had the best of the second half with City keeper Nick Townsend in inspired form.

"You don't want to lose on the first day of the season or lose away from home," said Harriers' manager.

"In the second half we were the better team and if you look at the work their goalkeeper has had to do throughout the game he has pulled off three or four excellent saves."

Craig Reid came closest to scoring for Harriers, with a well hit first half effort and an even better 30-yard strike in the 52nd minute forcing the impressive Townsend into action.

The manager was also pleased with the performances of substitutes Michael Gash, Reece Styche and Marvin Johnson, who both enhanced Harriers' second half potency.

He said: "Craig didn't have too much of the ball in the first half but he worked the keeper with a magnificent shot.

"In the second half I thought he had done enough to score but their keeper made a difficult save look very easy.

"I thought we looked fit and should have scored from a well-worked free-kick move."

Whild added: "With Nathan Blissett and Craig we set out stall out to defend from the front and it is nice to be in a position to bring the likes of Michael Gash on."

Harriers will be hoping to follow up their point with a win at home to Alfreton on Tuedsdsy night (7.45pm ko).