BOSS Steve Burr believes his much-improved side have closed the gap on play-off rivals Luton, even if yesterday's defeat at Kenilworth Road means their promotion destiny is out of their control.

Harriers need the Hatters to slip-up at Gateshead on Tuesday night, which could give them a chance of a top five finish in the final match of the season on Saturday at home to Mansfield.

The Aggborough outfit had lost at home twice to Luton in the Blue Square Bet Premier and FA Trophy but after weathering a testing first half yesterday, were more than a match for Luton after the break.

However, they slipped to their first loss in eight matches after a moment of indecision allowed Robbie Willmott to bag the winner against the run of play.

Burr said: "We've been on a terrific run and played some great football.

"The gap between us and Luton earlier in the season was quite big but I feel it is very minimal now.

"It pleases me we managed to close the gap, obviously they might get promoted and we might have to do it all again but I thought the players worked their socks off.

"I felt for them really with the type of goal conceded."

Harriers were backed by a 751-strong army of away fans, who had came down in 10 coaches and under their own steam.

For long periods the vociferous away crowd out sung the 7,500 Luton fans.

"The fans were absolutely fantastic and it would have been nice to get that sort of following at the beginning of the season but it was incredible," commented Burr.

"They was a teriffic atmosphere and it was a good advert for this level of football.

"I thought some of our young players were overwhelmed by the atmosphere but that's something they've got to learn.

"Even if Luton win at Gateshead we want to finish on a high against Mansfield, but hopefully Gateshead will do us a favour and there's something to play for next Saturday."