Harrers swoop late to sign experienced pair (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Harrers swoop late to sign experienced pair

11:02pm Friday 31st August 2012 in News

Harriers have swooped just before the close of the transfer window by bringing in experienced pair Manny Panther and Josh Gowling.

Manager Steve Burr and Gary Whild have secured the services of the two 28-year-olds until January Gowling began his career in the Youth set-up of West Bromwich Albion but has since etched himself a lengthy career in the Football League after spells with Bournemouth, Hereford and Gillingham before his move to the Imps.

He was a regular fixture in the City team last season, making almost 40 appearances in all competitions before being made available for transfer by the club this summer for financial reasons.

Midfield man Panther, meanwhile, began his career in Scotland before moving to England and signing for York, making well over 150 appearances there between 2005 and 2008.

He joined League Two side Exeter in 2008 and spent two years there, featuring for the likes of Morecambe and Aldershot on loan in between, before his release in 2010 after which he joined the Shots permanently.

Last season he spent time on loan in the Blue Square Bet Premier with Grimsby Town and has spent this past pre-season with Chesterfield and Cheltenham Town.

Panther said: “I had a few offers but the one from Kidderminster was one that really popped out at me and one that I wanted to explore.

“I have no problem at all in dropping back down to the Blue Square Bet Premier because it is a level I know and one I’ve played a lot of games at in the past.

“It’s a challenge I’ve thrived on before and know I’ll thrive on again.”

Gowling, meanwhile, added: “I’m delighted to be signing for Kidderminster; it was a no-brainer once I knew they were interested.

“I am from the Midlands anyway so that is great for me and I just can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve heard so many good things about the manager, his assistant and the coaching staff and I’m looking forward to coming into a club and a team that wants to play good football.”

Harriers had confirmation from the Football Association late tonight that the deals had been registered in time so the duo should, all being well, be available for selection immediately at Barrow on Saturday.