Harriers picked up a priceless away win in Russ Penn’s first game as Manager, a 1-0 victory at Farsley Celtic.

The three points came just hours after the club confirmed the departure of Jimmy Shan, who left Aggborough after a little over three months at the helm.

Neil Male, the club’s interim CEO, said: “Jimmy has moved onto pursue a football career opportunity at a higher level, I would like to personally thank him on behalf of the club for his time with his input and assistance over the last three months.”

Penn, handed the reins until the end of the season, made a number of changes for his first game in charge, with Correy Davidson and Ethan Freematle handed recalls, Ryan Johnson among those missing out with injury.

Penn saw his side work out the best and most clear-cut chance of the first half when Freemantle, on 24 minutes, was denied by a the faintest of touches by the goalkeeper, Jones, on his shot. Despite that, though, the home side actually fashioned a greater share of opportunities, though without going as close. Syers, Higgins and Clayton all chanced their arm at Will Mannion’s target without success.

Walton and Syers, before the break, both forced saves from the Hull City loanee, before Spencer kept his gloves warm barely two minutes after the restart with an effort that needed tipping around the post.

Prosser, still dreaming of his drive in the draw with Darlington, then fired off target from distance before Shenton, either side of the hour, saw an attempted finish over the goalkeeper drop just over, and another effort parried strongly.

Freemantle then tested Jones with a header before the explosive Prosser went within inches of the opener when his drive from almost 20 yards fizzed just past the post. Spencer, just three minutes later, was thwarted by Mannion’s strong stop as the hosts punctured Harriers’ momentum.

To their credit the visitors did their best to stay in the ascendancy and, with just 17 to play, they were rewarded when they broke the deadlock at last – Davidson’s delivery not dealt with decisively, and Shenton on hand to expertly angle it back beyond Jones and into the net.

That spurred the host into arguably their best and most concerted spell in front of goal and, within minutes of going behind – Ellis and Cartman among those denied - but Harriers held on, and might have added to their score late on when both Prosser and Chambers were kept at bay by Jones.

An already hectic week continues this weekend when Harriers make another long journey, this time to Gateshead.