Hartlepool through on Craig Midgley, who scored in the 3-1 home win over Harriers in November, for the busy Henderson.

Scott Stamps gave the visitors a scare early in the second half with a free-kick struck from the right-hand side which landed on the top of a back-pedalling Williams' net.

Miller shot straight at Clarke on 56 minutes after Skovbjerg had lost the ball in midfield to Stephenson.

A minute later, Hartlepool's Tinkler was booked for a late challenge on Stamps just inside their own half.

Hinton was booked almost immediately for the home side after referee Prosser harshly ruled him to have fouled Midgley on the left-wing.

Harriers boss Molby brought on Tony Bird on the hour for winger Skovbjerg.

Bennett drove inches wide from the edge of the area on 62 minutes after a quick free-kick was worked to the midfield man.