KIDDERMINSTER head coach Matt Gardiner praised his side's defensive resolve after their win over York in the FA Trophy.

Harriers progressed into the second round with a 2-1 success at Aggborough thanks to first half goals from James Pearson and Mani Sonupe.

However, they had to weather a late York onslaught after former Reds attacker Amari Morgan-Smith pulled one back with 15 minutes left on the clock.

Gardiner said: "We knew it was going to be tough but we're very pleased to be in the hat for Monday.

"York are a very experienced team. They made it tough for us so to see that young group stand up to it and see the game out in the manner that they did, I think it was very positive for the future.

"I thought the two centre backs were magnificent. Tyrone (Williams) came in with Fraser (Horsfall), backed up with the midfield players and the full backs around them. We're very pleased with the way they've defended and the way they've stuck to their guns to get us over the line.

"We probably weren't as fluid this week but we've had a bit of illness in the camp, training wasn't as consistent as we would have liked but we can't do anything about that with the weather, so to get the two goals was very pleasing and, obviously, for the lads that have scored we are pleased for them also."