Late strike settles cup derby for Harriers

The 20-year-old forward was on the books of the Glassboys before signing professional terms with Walsall.

Now, on trial with Harriers, he scored the only goal to settle a generally disappointing quarter-final tie at the War Memorial Ground.

Indeed, the tie looked certain to be settled on penalty kicks before Murphy struck with just two minutes remaining.

The searing heat at kick-off was perhaps a factor in a rather sluggish first-half, in which Harriers were for large periods the better side but chances were few and far between.

It took until the final seconds of the half until either keeper was seriously tested.

Neat build-up from Harriers ended with James McQuilkin whipping in a cross which fell neatly for Murphy at the far post.

The former Saddlers man had time to pick his spot, but sent his half-volley a little too close to Glassboys keeper Matt Gould.

Harriers goalkeeper Jono Brown was largely untroubled during the opening half.

He was called into action shortly after the restart, punching clear a dipping Tom Tonks free-kick under pressure.

Stour gradually began to work their way into the match and smart reflexes were required by Brown to keep out Brandon Hague's close-range effort.

Tonks saw another effort deflect wide as the hosts pressed for a winner.

But with penalties looming, Murphy broke clear on the right and hammered a shot past Gould to win it. Harriers now travel to Evesham United for a semi-final tie on Thursday.

Stourbridge: Gould, Green, Hull, Duggan, Smikle, Hague, Tonks, Heath (Canavan 61), Lait (Dodd 76), Birch (Brown 61), Richards.

Subs not used: Probert, McPike, Hayward (gk).

Kidderminster Harriers: Brown, McQuilkin (Forsyth 67), Hancocks, Trialist, Trialist (Lowe 83), Tunnicliffe, Taylor, Trialist, Brown (Clarke 67), Trialist, Jordan Murphy.

Subs not used: Austin.