Kidderminster’s injection of new blood failed to give their ailing play-off hopes a much-needed shot in the arm.

With four new players in their starting line-up – plus a home debut for left-back Alex Jeannin – Yates had been hoping for a return to winning ways.

Harriers, however, failed to find a cutting edge up front and were foiled on at least three occasions due to excellent saves by Vics’ goalkeeper Lewis Edge.

All four of Kidderminster’s newcomers – goalkeeper Chris MacKenzie, defender Luke Jones, midfielder Matthew Bailey and striker Darryl Knights –  played their part in an encouraging display by Yates’ men who will be looking to produce the killer touch in tomorrow’s home Setanta Shield fifth round clash against Rushden & Diamonds.

Centre-back Jones, on loan from Shrewsbury Town, caught the eye and came in for praise from Yates.

He said: “We took the decision to bring in some fresh, young legs and there was a lot of promise. The one for me in particularly was Luke Jones. I thought he was outstanding.

“We haven’t won the game as we’d have liked but their goalkeeper made two or three excellent saves.”

Kidderminster: MacKenzie; Kenna, Creighton, Jones, Jeannin; Bennett (Russell, 59), Bailey (Barnes-Homer, 59), Penn (McGrath, 73), Ferrell; Christie, Knights. Subs not used: Coleman, Hurren.

Northwich: Edge; Meadowcroft, Welch, Belle, Brown; Mullan, Wilson, Crowell, Byrom; Sakins (Hanley, 66), Burns. Subs not used: Connett, Maylett, Kerr, Horrocks.

Attendance: 1,282.