Macclesfield started the stronger with Whitaker's early 30-yard shot smothered by Brock who then watched efforts from Tipton and Dunning fly over his crossbar.

Harriers took control from the quarter-hour mark with Williams running the show in midfield and Scott dominant at the back.

Bishop just failed to connect with a volley after a Flynn free-kick and then Williams provided Broughton with a chance to turn and shoot but keeper Wilson saved easily.

Six minutes before half-time Shilton passed inside for Parrish whose first-time shot from the edge of the area again caused the home keeper few problems.

Midfield man Williams was involved again soon after with a good pass to find Sbilton on the left and his perfect cross was headed wide by Bishop who should have done better.