KIDDERMINSTER will head into the busy festive period looking to extend an eight-game unbeaten run.

Harriers progressed into the second round of the FA Trophy last Saturday thanks to a 2-1 success over holder York.

First half goals from James Pearson and Mani Sonupe at Aggborough set up the battling success.

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 (full report inside).

Head coach Matt Gardiner praised his side's defensive resolve after their win, saying: "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."

The victory handed Harriers a home tie with Stockport County in the second round, which will take place over the weekend of January 13.

It also takes their unbeaten run to eight games heading into the hectic festive period.

They will first welcome Nuneaton Town to Aggborough this Saturday (3pm kick-off), where the Reds will be looking for revenge after Town beat John Eustace's men in the very first week of the campaign.

That will be quickly followed by a double against AFC Telford United. They will go to New Bucks Head on Boxing Day before the return clash on New Year's Day (both 3pm).

Meanwhile, Kidderminster's game with Chorley has now been re-arranged to a new date.

They were due to travel to Victory Park on December 9, only for the match to be called off due to the weather. It will now take place on Tuesday, January 9 at 7.45pm.