By Mark Taylor
November 18 2002

Nene Park will finally host another home FA Cup tie after the first round game was drawn 2-2 leading to a replay. Kidderminster Harriers held Rushden and Diamonds to a draw despite falling behind twice and a terrible refereeing performance. The Rushden line-up saw a number of changes to the team that beat Darlington the previous week. Welsh youth international Robert Duffy replaced the injured Onandi Lowe and Setchell earned a recall at left back with Underwood playing as a left-winger. The impressive David Bell continued on the right with returning Paul Hall on the bench.

The first half was a scrappy affair although Diamonds appeared to be on top possession wise. The away side went close when Underwood broke down the left, only to see his cross intercepted. However, Diamonds went in to half-time a goal to the good. FA Cup debutant Duffy crashed home a crashing volley on 45 minutes.

After the break Kiddy were handed a lifeline in the shape of an unfortunate own goal from Setchell. Attempting to lay the ball back to Turley he inadvertently passed the ball into the corner of the net.

Diamonds responded in dramatic style when Duffy headed home from a terrific cross by skipper Underwood. The young Welshmans celebration said it all, imitating the famous Klinnsman dive.

From then on Kiddy fought their way back into the game aided by the referee and linesman whom seemed biased towards the home team. The referee got his reward shortly after Duffys second when Kiddy equalised. Drewe Broughton headed past Turley from close range.

The replay will be held at Nene Park on 27th November with the winner facing either Forest Green and Exeter away.

Match Ratings-

Turley 7
Setchell 7
Bignot 8
Hunter 8
Peters 8
Underwood 8
Bell 9
Gray 8
Wardley 7
DUFFY 9 ~ has arrived
Darby 8