Preview: South Shields Vs Kiddiminster Harriers

The National League North Play-Off final is set to be played on Saturday 9th May at the 1st Cloud Arena.  

Finishing 2nd after 46 league games, South Shields have lost the fewest games out of anyone this season. After a heartbreaking final day defeat to their upcoming opposition, Shields lost the league to AFC Fylde. 

Kiddiminster Harriers finished the regular season strongly, winning their previous seven matches. The Harriers beat Macclesfield Town 3-1, in their route to the final. 

In recent form, it would suggest the away team are favourites in this final, however not many teams come out of the North East happy. 

Previous meetings  

Kidderminster have been victorious in their last four games against the Sand Dancers, including two 4-0 and 5-0 battering’s last season.  

The two sides last faced each other on the final day, where Ryley Reynolds goal was enough for the Harriers to claim all three points.  

Players to watch – 

League top goalscorer, Paul Blackett is expected to feature for South Shields on Saturday. His 30 goals in the league this year carry vital importance to Ian Watsons side. 

In the other corner, Ryley Reynolds has been a standout player in Kidderminster’s campaign, scoring 11 goals for the team. 

Only one team can join Fylde in the Enterprise National League, both clubs will be hoping they can push on to the English Football League.