THE likes of Jonny Harkness and Michael Blackwood 'put themselves on the line' for Harriers at Stevenage last night, understandably delighting boss Mark Yates.

A somewhat patched-up Harriers' side managed to grind out a 2-1 success at Broadhall Way on Tuesday evening but it was a physical affair.

Tired legs are always going to be more venerable to knocks and niggles during such a game and despite a less than positive reaction from home fans last night towards some Harriers' players, boss Yates had nothing but praise for his men.

Speaking directly after last night's game, Yates said:

"When I signed a few players on-loan until the end of the season a couple of weeks ago it was designed to give some players the chance to have a break and also to give other lads a chance - others have been crying out for a chance.

"Jake Sedgemore has been as patient as anything but tonight he's shown his worth, as have the rest of them.

"Their crowd were moaning at us, but we've got a lot of tired boys - Blacks, Jonny Harkness and they've gone down and got genuine knocks.

"I don't really care about what the Stevenage fans think about them going down - they're genuinely hurt - they've got knocks and they'll be in tomorrow (now Wednesday) to get treatment.

"It just showed their spirit and belief and their willingness to put themselves on the line for the club and that's great."