AN improved display saw Great Harwood Town push high-flying Kidsgrove all the way.

While it brought a seventh consecutive defeat in the NWC league's first division, Town boss Denis Underwood was happier with the performance from his side.

"We had been poor over the previous two games, so we decided that we would play to a certain pattern and we were better," said Underwood.

"Kidsgrove are a good side pushing for the top and we looked to be in trouble when they went two up in 20 minutes.

"But we got back into the game before half-time and in the second half we had our chances and even had a call for a penalty five minutes from time which was turned away."

Kidsgrove streaked into the lead as Paul Robinson scored on 12 minutes and Darren Twigg hit second six minutes later, but Town struck back on 32 minutes when Kristian Trippier found the net.

Great Harwood face Salford City at home tongiht and Underwood was just hoping that the new standards set at Kidsgrove would be maintained -- and possibly their run of defeats may be ended into the bargain.

"I was unhappy at the way we lost our recent games against Darwen and Ramsbottom, but at Kidsgrove we found some form," said Underwood.

"Salford are similar to Kidsgrove in that they are going for the top spot, but if we can carry on from what we did at Kidsgrove, and with home advanatge, maybe we can get something out of what will be a very tough game."

KIDSGROVE...2

GREAT HARWOOD...1