KIDDERMINSTER Harriers started their new season with a win after a 2-1 success at Darlington. 

After relegation last season, Phil Brown’s men got life back in National League North off to a perfect start at Blackwell Meadows. 

Amari Morgan Smith’s superb first half header had the visitors in strong position,  before debutant Maz Kouhyar doubled their advantage with eight minutes to go with a perfect angled finish across Pete Jameson and into the net.

Darlington favourite Will Hatfield’s delightful free kick reduced the arrears six minutes  later, but there was no other way through a stubborn and impressive Reds rearguard. 

Speaking after the game, Brown applauded the quality of all three of the day’s goals, saying:  “If you’re looking at quality in the National League North, the three goals today, just have a look at them. 

“There was quality on all fronts, either movement or ability in the six-yard box to head the ball towards goal, or free kicks or whatever. 

“There was a lot to admire about today’s performance, but the most important part was the three points, and the resilience we’ve built up over the pre-season.”

Harriers controlled much of the first half, Morgan-Smith’s sublime 21st-minute finish silencing the home crowd and opening his account for the term just days after it was confirmed he would Captain Harriers this season. 

Zak Brown later fired over from a promising position before Kouhyar struck off target, Harriers notching their deserved second when Kouhyar capped a fine individual display with his goal. 

Darlington firing back with two minutes from time when  Hatfield’s 25-yard effort curled into the net ensured Harriers tightened up the shop with defender Reiss McNally coming on over a debut for new striker Ben Beresford.

Beresford signed on a season loan from Birmingham City on Friday, but Brown admitted he was happy to keep him on a watching brief – for now at least. 

He added: “He was ready to come on but I thought it was best if Ben, as a 19-year-old lad, just had a look  to see what this looks like. 

“Don’t get me wrong, he scored goals at this level last year, but we didn’t actually need his goals today  because Amari started well, Hemmo started well, and Maz started well.

“With enough quality in the final third, if they keep Ben Beresford sitting on his backside and on his hands, he won’t be happy but he’ll see what kind of work it takes to be a number nine for Kidderminster Harriers.”

After Saturday’s lengthy trip to begin the season, Harriers now have back-to-back home games, with Radcliffe and Brackley Town visiting Aggborough on Saturday (17th) and Tuesday (20th) respectively.