Text at top (next game etc)

Next Game: Home Against Farsley Celtic On Saturday March 23rd Kick-Off 3.00pm

Thursday, February 28, 2002

Boss wants top eight finish

Hereford United coach Phil Robinson is hoping that his side will finish in the top eight of the Nationwide Conference this season.

A final league position of eighth or above means qualification for the potentially lucrative LDV Vans Trophy, which involves teams from Divisions Two and Three.

The Bulls go to Yeovil Town, who are third in the Conference, on Saturday in hope of repeating last season's performance - Hereford's 3-2 win ensured Yeovil stayed in the non-league ranks for at least another twelve months.

Robinson told the Hereford Times: "It's nice to be in a position to affect the promotion race and we hope to be able to do to Yeovil what we did to Boston. But it will be a tough game because Yeovil are on a rich vein of form and have a very strong squad."

Yeovil's Huish Park is liable to waterlogging and so keep an eye on HU-FC.co.uk for details of a potential postponement on the day.

Hereford go into the match with doubts over coach Phil Robinson, defender Matt Clarke and midfielder Scott Goodwin, who have calf, hamstring and abdomen problems respectively. However, Steve Piearce will return to the squad after coming through last night's reserve match successfully.
Surrey Racing quote Hereford as 4/1 to win Saturday's encounter. Yeovil are firm favourites at 8/13, with a draw quoted at 12/5. The Bulls are still 25/1 to get relegated from the Conference this season.

Meanwhile, former Hereford United boss Colin Addison will bring his current side, Swansea City, to Edgar Street in order to play for the Herefordshire FA Senior Invitation Cup Final. No date has ben set yet, but it is hoped that the match will be played before the end of the season.

Reserves through to cup final

On another bitterly cold night at Edgar Street around thirty people turned up to watch Hereford United reserves beat their Hednesford Town counterparts 3-0 in the semi final of the Doxhill Cup. Graham Turner was there to watch.

The United team included an number of first teamers including Steve Piearce (back from injury), Rob Elmes, John Snape (captain), Jimmy Quiggin, Lee Evans, Daniel Davidson and Jon Hill.

John Snape led the team out and the game got underway. Immediately United were on the attack, and Town had little in reply. In the opening minutes Snape and Quiggin worked tirelessly whilst Jon Hill mopped up at the back. A number of chances went begging, including several headers from Daniel Davidson, but the best of the chances in the first half fell to Quiggin who received the ball to the right of the Blackfriars End goal but could only fire it across the face. Another chance later on hit the crossbar after a header from Davidson, setup by a wonderful Quiggin cross. A frustrating half ended with a Hednesford shot going just wide of the left hand post after good work in the midfield. Town's goalkeeper commanded his area for the whole half and it was clear we needed something special to beat him.

Four mins into the second half Quiggin broke forward, and from about twenty yards out fired a low shot passed the desparing keeper, a goal worthy of a first team place. This spark ignited the rest of the team, and the second goal was a bizaare one. Steve Piearce, who had been playing well tried to cross, his shot bounced off a defender, Piearce tried again the cross, it bounced off the defender and looped over the goalkeeper. From the right, it hit the top of the post and bounced into the opposite corner of the net.

The third was a fantastic goal, although unfortunatley no-one seems to know the name of the man that scored it! Running onto a long throughball from Jon Hill, the 'player' brought it down turned past the goalkeeper and calmly and confidently floated the ball over a waiting defender. The scorer had come on for John Snape and played well for the fifteen minutes or so, and his goal was netted five minutes from time. The rest of the half saw continued flowing attacking football from United. Only in the last few minutes did Hednesford pose any real threat, once going close. Other chances in the second half fell to Davidson, who hit the post and squandered another.

So an entertaining game, Jimmy Quiggin was man of the match for his tireless work. His pass and move plan working very well with Snape and Elmes played in the centre of defence for most of the game. Daniel Davidson was hopeless, but Quiggin's performance deserves a first team place at Yeovil. Lee Evans had a quiet but confident game in the Hereford goal.
Hereford are now in the final of the competition, and further details about the match will be announced soon.
Meanwhile, the Hereford United youth team went out of their League Cup competition last night, 2-1 at Paget Rangers.
Written by Matt Grisman (and Rob Powell) - 28th February 2002.

Bulls' future - an update

Hereford United midfielder Paul Parry has had no official approaches, according to coach Phil Robinson.

Parry has been linked with Leicester City and Celtic in recent weeks but has just signed a new contract with Hereford. Any move could be financially lucrative for the club, and help secure their future.

Herefordshire Council leader Terry James has also discussing the future of the club with the liaison committee. A statement about the proposed redevelopment of Edgar Street is expected to be released sometime next month.

The fundraising efforts of the supporters have kept the club alive over the past few years, and entertainer Danny Lee is set to help Hereford United again by recording a new song called 'The Giantkillers'. All proceeds will go to the club but he wants supporters to gather in the Meadow End next Tuesday at 7.15pm, before the Telford United game, to help him with the recording.

Follower arrested after goal

A Hereford United 'fan' was arrested and charged for encroaching on the playing area as the Bulls scored their only goal in Saturday's 2-1 FA Trophy defeat at Chester City.

The events followed clashes between rival groups in the city centre, which caused much damage.

HUISA chairman Kevin Wargen said: "Obviously the rules are that people should not go on the pitch." He said he could not condone such behaviour.

Tuesday, February 26, 2002

Season still alive: coach

Hereford United have to recover from Saturday's FA Trophy defeat and focus on the league, according to coach Phil Robinson.

Chester City scored a last minute goal to put Hereford out of the Trophy, 2-1 at the Deva Stadium, and the Bulls go to third-placed Yeovil Town on Saturday. There are also games coming up against local rivals Telford United and league leaders Dagenham & Redbridge.

"Losing to Chester was a blow because we'd done well to get back into the game and it looked like it was going to be a draw," he said. "We need to focus on these matches and make sure we are properly prepared."

Monday, February 25, 2002


Fans clash in city centre

Shoppers looked on in horror as rival football 'fans' clashed in Chester city centre – resulting in hundreds of pounds worth of damage to pubs.

Trouble erupted between Chester City FC 'fans' and Hereford United 'supporters' before Saturday’s match among hundreds of shoppers.

Fights both inside and outside bars had the police and publicans on red-alert from about 11am.
Pubs in Watergate, Frodsham, Bridge and Brook Street were all targeted, one pub owner saying the bloody barroom brawls were disgusting and a poor advertisement for the city.

The police also urged landlords to lock their doors after the match and maintained a high police presence in the city centre to deter fans of both clubs from causing any further serious trouble.
Officers attended the match in an attempt to diffuse any further violence inside the ground.

A police spokesman said: “We were keeping an eye on both groups and constantly monitoring the supporters on CCTV, but after the initial incidents, the behaviour from both sides was generally acceptable.

“Police officers also walked fans to the train station and stayed until the final train had left to ensure there were no serious confrontations after the game.”

Jean Summerhill of the Ye Olde Cottage Inn, in Brook Street, said: “We locked our doors just before 5pm. There were some football supporters who hadn’t gone to the match in here drinking, but all was pretty quiet,” she said.

“Then we heard some mobile phones going off and in a matter of seconds we had a brick come through the window and the lads drinking heading outside to join in.”

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to the incidents to come forward. Contact Detective Constable Paul Evans at Chester CID on 01244 613134 or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111.

Robbo choked by defeat

Hereford United coach Phil Robinson was extremely unhappy with his side's 2-1 FA Trophy defeat at Chester City on Saturday.

"Their winning goal was a real choker," he told the Evening News. "We started to defend a bit too deeply. When you defend deep and you make a mistake, as we did, then it can prove costly."

He added: "It's common knowledge that we are struggling financially and we desperately wanted to do well in this competition. I have told the players to get themselves prepared to come in this week and work hard."

City's chairman Stephen Vaughan told the Chester Chronicle: "It's been a great weekend for the club; firstly we progressed to the quarter-finals of the Trophy with a superb victory, then we see two of our great young prospects signing new deals because they can see what a bright future we are building at the club."

Chester now play Burton Albion in the quarter finals, whilst Hereford hope to improve their league form.

Saturday, February 23, 2002

Injury time heartbreak for United

Chester City 2 - 1 Hereford United

Hereford United will count themselves very unlucky to have exited this season's FA Trophy at the Deva Stadium this afternoon as a late, late goal from Chester City's Jimmy Haarhoff secured a 2-1 victory.
The Bulls made two changes to the side that beat Boston United 4-3 on Monday night with Tony James replacing Jon Hill after injury and Jimmy Quiggin filling in for player-coach Phil Robinson in midfield. Chester's Mark Wright was unable to field Mark Williams, the former Hereford defender, as he was cup-tied, but Brian McGorry was named in midfield.

The game started slowly with few early chances. Hereford had the wind behind them but the bitterly cold conditions combined with occasional snow showers did little to boost the spirits of either the players or the fans, who were treated to a fairly drab opening period. The Bulls' first effort came when a surging Paul Parry run was ended by the back-tracking defender Phil Bolland.

Ian Rodgerson fired over from twenty five yards after fourteen minutes as Hereford dominated, but Chester had the advantage prior to that. After twenty minutes, attacker Mark Beesley hit a cross from the Chester right, but Dean Spink failed to connect cleanly with the ball as his header flashed wide of Matt Baker's goal.

Scott Goodwin squandered a cross that had been flicked on by Gavin Williams, and a minute later John Snape hit a low twenty-five yard drive at Chester goalkeeper Wayne Brown. At the other end, Dean Spink wasted a couple of chances as the home side looked most likely to take the lead.

With eight minutes of the first half remaining, Chester did as they had been threatening. A corner from Stuart Whittaker was headed in on the far post by Bolland and City had the lead. Hereford's defence had failed to notice the threat of the defender and they were destined to be behind at the break. Only Matt Clarke could challenge the Chester goal in the dying minutes, and his cross-cum-shot was easily dealt with by Brown.

Hereford had to play better in the second period, but it wasn't looking good when Chester came out and immediately opened up the Bulls' defence! The ball was eventually cleared but a minute or so later, Lee Woodyatt fired over from just outside the box. Hereford eventually got a good move together eight minutes into the half when Gavin Williams and Scott Goodwin linked to force a corner, but it was wasted.

At the other end, Chester should have doubled their lead. A corner was swung in for Bolland to head and Baker to save superbly. The ball was knocked out to Chris Blackburn who forced Baker into another acrobatic stop. Hereford had to react, and did so by bringing off Jimmy Quiggin for attacker Rob Elmes. Gavin Williams appeared to drop back into midfield and Paul Parry remained in attack to partner Elmes. The new striking partnership seemed to be working well two minutes later when Elmes hit a through ball to Parry who turned well before volleying the ball at the goalkeeper.

Paul Parry went close on the hour mark when he fired just over, and Elmes' introduction paid off sixteen minutes later when he levelled the scores. An Ian Rodgerson cross from the right was met by Elmes who headed home on the far post, an almost identical move to the winning goal against Boston on Monday night.

Everyone was set for a replay at Edgar Street on Tuesday night until, three minutes into added time, Chester's substitute Jimmy Haarhoff broke Bulls' hearts. He was allowed too much space and hit a low shot past Baker from six yards out.

Hereford were eliminated from the Trophy in the cruellest fashion and the six hundred or so travelling fans were understandably disappointed. United never really got going and a performance like that against Yeovil next week will result in another defeat.


Written by Terry Goodwin - 23rd February 2002.

Chester City Hereford United
Wayne Brown Matt Baker
Lee Woodyatt Matt Clarke
Paul Carden John Shirley
Martyn Lancaster Jimmy Quiggin (off, 57 minutes)
Phil Bolland Ian Wright (captain)
Gary Brabin (captain) Tony James
Brian McGorry Ian Rodgerson
Chris Blackburn John Snape
Dean Spink Paul Parry
Mark Beesley Gavin Williams
Stuart Whittaker (off, 78 minutes) Scott Goodwin
Subs Subs
Steve Rose Rob Elmes (on, 57 minutes)
Michael O'Brien Lee Evans
Chris O'Brien Danny Davidson
Jimmy Haarhoff (on, 78 minutes) Jon Hill
Danny Collins
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Phil Bolland (44 minutes, foul) Jimmy Quiggin (24 minutes, foul)
John Snape (59 minutes, dissent)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Phil Bolland (37 minutes) Rob Elmes (76 minutes)
Jimmy Haarhoff (90 minutes)
Man of the Match Ian Rodgerson
Attendance 1,747
Referee Mr. S. Castle (Wolverhampton)

Friday, February 22, 2002

Confidence high in United ranks

With good morale and an excellent run behind them, Hereford United are confident of victory in tomorrow's FA Trophy fifth round tie at Chester City, kick off 3pm.
The Bulls beat second placed Boston United 4-3 on Monday night and have now lost just once in eleven game, but know that Mark Wright's Chester side will provide stiff opposition tomorrow.

Chester are unbeaten in their last eight matches but Hereford have scored eighteen goals in their last seven games and hope to extend that run on Saturday.

"The performance and the way we battled back from a poor start has given us a big lift," said coach Phil Robinson to the Evening News after the Boston victory. "We are still in a good run of form though it was disappointing to lose to Leigh RMI which was a bit of a blemish on our record, but our tails are up.

"I thought the match against Boston would be a bit tight with both teams having the two best defensive records in the Nationwide Conference but it was a really good, open game and I hope everybody enjoyed watching it."

Chester have moved out of the drop zone since Mark Wright took over last month, and Robinson is cautious about his opponents. "He has near enough signed a whole new team with good experienced players at that," he said after City signed several new players in the last month. "Their mini-revival had started before the cup draw and on the two occasions I have seen them they beat Telford 3-0 and Nuneaton 3-1.

"We lost there earlier in the season and it is a difficult place to go when their crowd get behind them. They've got a decent stadium and a good bit of support when they are going well but hopefully we can take a few up there as well and it will be a good cup atmosphere."

Both Tony James and Roy Jordan should be in the squad for the game after missing Monday's encounter through injury.

Chester boss Mark Wright is optimistic about his side's chances, as he told the Evening Leader: “I know the FA Trophy means a lot to the supporters and to everyone at the club, and we should do well because we’re starting to perform. I thought Chester would go on and win the FA Trophy last season after they’d beaten Southport when I was manager.
“I know how good Hereford are – they’re strong and well organised, and I’ll be talking to Mark Williams about them, but I don’t like to fill my head with news about the opposition. If we start to worry about Hereford it will present a negative attitude and put us on the back foot.”
“Players on the bench on Tuesday, like Stuart Whittaker, Paul Carden, and Chris Blackburn will have a point to prove in our FA Trophy tie. If they don’t there is something wrong. Every one of my players is wanting to play at the moment because we’re doing well. The boys are confident and I hope that continues. There is great competition for places, and I’m not going to settle for a draw or a replay against Hereford.”
Wright will be without midfielders Shaun Carey, Michael McElhatton, and Andy Porter, and defenders Mike Rose and Mark Williams. Carey and Williams are both cup-tied for the clash, McElhatton was not signed by Chester on a one-month loan from Rushden and Diamonds in time for clearance to play, and the duo of Porter and Rose are suspended.
Admission tomorrow for adults will cost £10 (standing), and £12 (seated); pensioners will be admitted for £7.50 (standing), and £9 (seated); and it will cost £5 for children to stand, and £6 for them to sit down.
If a replay is required, it will be at Edgar Street next Tuesday, kick off 7.45pm.

Thursday, February 21, 2002

Baker signs new contract

Hereford United's young goalkeeper Matt Baker has signed a new contract with the club.
The former Hull City stopper, who has missed just one first team game this season, has agreed to a new two and a half year contract keeping him at Edgar Street until May 2004. The twenty two year old has impressed many with his performances this season, especially in the televised FA Cup tie against Wrexham which the Bulls won 1-0.

Meanwhile, the Football Association are set to investigate claims that Hereford United were underpaid for their FA Cup second round tie at Swindon Town back in December.

The Bulls lost 3-2 on the day but had to wait a month to receive around £18,000 of gate receipts, although it should have been paid within two weeks. The club have protested that they have not received enough money and as a result, the FA will investage the matter.

The dispute is a common one, according to the FA, and it will take a few months to sort out.


Reserves lose to Boston

Hereford United reserves slumped to a 2-0 Central Conference defeat against Boston United at Edgar Street last night.
The game, played at Edgar Street although it was scheduled as an away fixture, saw two early Boston goals, one after a dreadful mistake by goalkeeper Lee Evans. United squandered the chance to get back into the game when Danny Davidson hit a penalty straight at the goalkeeper after Jimmy Quiggin was fouled.

First teamer Rob Elmes also played in the game.

Many thanks to Matt Grisman who attended the game for HU-FC.co.uk.


No progress in stadium moves

Hereford United's liaison committee have met with Chelverton director Simon Morgan, who reaffirmed his company's stance on the redevelopment/relocation issue.
Herefordshire Council leader Terry James is set to meet with the liaison committee on Monday night to discuss the issue further.

Meanwhile, the cattle market is not expected to relocate to Beeches Park, as originally suggested. Instead, the market is to move to Hospital Farm, according to today's Hereford Times.

The market is currently adjacent to the football club in Edgar Street, and when the site becomes free, it is expected to house new council headquarters, a multi-screen cinema and other leisure facilities.


City favourites for Trophy tie

Chester City are favourites to win Saturday's FA Trophy tie at the Deva Stadium when they host Hereford United.
The Blues are quoted at 5/4 to progress to the quarter finals, with Hereford at 7/4 and a draw at 11/5. However, for the competition outright, Hereford are 12/1 and Chester at 16/1. The favourites are Doncaster Rovers and Yeovil Town at 7/1, with Stevenage Borough, Margate, Morecambe, Scarborough and Northwich just behind in the stakes.

For Saturday's game, Chester will be without Michael Rose and James Dean who are suspended, and ex-Hereford defender Mark Williams is cup-tied. Brian McGorry, another former Hereford player, could compete against his former side in the Chester midfield.


Tuesday, February 19, 2002

Robbo delighted with comeback

Hereford United player/coach Phil Robinson congratulated his side's comeback in yesterday's 4-3 Nationwide Conference win at second placed Boston United.
"At 2-0 down after only 12 minutes I was a little bit worried," he told the Evening News. "Thankfully, the players showed a lot of character."
The Bulls' next game is on Saturday when they go to Chester City in the FA Umbro Trophy fifth round. The tie will be a difficult one but according to City's new boss Mark Wright, their priorities lie elsewhere. "The game is a bonus which will bring in some much-needed revenue, but I want to get on with our league performances," he told the Non-League Paper of the upcoming fixture. "The fans like cup competitions and in a perfect world you like to win everything, but at this moment we're concerned with the league. The further you go in the cups the more fixture overload you face."
Chester have signed Rushden & Diamonds midfielder Michael McElhatton on-loan who will make his debut in the match, but ex-Hereford defender Mark Williams is ineligable. Williams signed for Chester last week but he played eighteen minutes of the third round replay against Chesham United, so is cup-tied.
Meanwhile, The England National Game XI will play their second full International fixture of the season against The Netherlands at Yeovil's Huish Park on Wednesday 24th April, kick off 7.30pm.
Tickets for this fixture will cost £6 for Adults, £2 for Children, and a Family Ticket costing £10 will also be available (2 Adults and 2 Children). Hereford's Matt Baker, Matt Clarke and Ian Wright could make the squad for the match.

Elmo hero in seven goal thriller

Boston United 3 - 4 Hereford United

As our normal reporters couldn't attend the game, HU-FC.co.uk's new signing Helen Weaver provides the following report.

In a seven goal thriller at York Street, no one expected the Bulls to take home three points but they overcame the odds after going 2-0 down early on.
Hereford made only one change to the side fielded in last Tuesday’s FA Trophy game with Hampton & Richmond Borough, for this Monday night game with Boston, live on Sky TV. With Tony James out through injury, Jon Hill made his first team debut for Hereford United.
Boston started the game the brighter of the two sides, creating many chances in front of goal, forcing Matt Baker to make some fine stops and rush out of his area to clear the ball. Boston continued to put the Hereford defence under pressure, this paid off in the sixth minute when Daryl Clare shot passed Matt Baker to give Boston an early lead.
Boston pushed forward, making many attempts on goal, one of which was cleared off the line by John Shirley. Ian Rodgerson went close on ten minutes, but his shot on goal only managed to hit the side netting. Boston continued the better side, and on twelve minutes Daryl Clare curled in the ball from thirty yards out to get his, and Boston’s second goal of the game.
With sixteen minutes of the game gone, and Hereford trailing by two goals, Paul Parry made a good attempt on goal, only to see it scooped up by keeper Paul Bastock. Hereford then began to create more chances in front of goal, and on seventeen minutes, Phil Robinson tapped a Matt Clarke cross into the back of the net, to bring Hereford well and truly back into the game.
Hereford continued to pressurise Boston, as they pushed forward to find an equaliser, which came in the twenty-third minute after a free kick was awarded to Hereford about two yards outside of the box. Paul Bastock, Boston keeper, failed to collected the ball from Gavin Williams’ free kick, and Scott Goodwin was on standby to coolly slip the ball into the back of the net and bring both teams back onto level terms.
With both teams now aiming to take the lead, the game hotted up. In the thirty fifth minute Paul Parry brought the ball down the rightwing crossing it to Robinson in the middle, who headed the ball in for his second goal of the game, and Hereford to take the lead. In the fourty fifth minute, referee Steve Brand showed Jon Hill a yellow card for a foul on McGarry, but Matt Baker had no problem collecting the free kick.
Boston came out for the second half keen to get a quick equaliser, and they created many chances, but this didn’t stop Hereford, with Scott Goodwin and Paul Parry both going close. With fifteen minutes of the second half gone, Hereford made their first and only substitution of the game, with Robin Elmes replacing Phil Robinson.   This change saw Boston regain control of the play, and two minutes later, Mark Angel put a cross in from the left, which was headed in by Neil Tarrant.
The scoreline was now level for a second time, and both sides were looking for a goal. Boston forced Matt Baker to make a series of outstanding saves, but on seventy four minutes, Robin Elmes headed in a superb Ian Rodgerson cross from near the corner flag, giving Hereford the lead.
The attacks continued from both sides, but to no avail, and on eighty four minutes Robin Elmes was cautioned for a push on a Boston player, but the score line remained the same, and Hereford returned home happy with all three points, pushing them up to ninth place in the table.

Written by Helen Weaver - 18th February 2002.
Boston United Hereford United
Paul Bastock Matt Baker
Jim Rodwell Matt Clarke
Mark Monington (off, 85 minutes) John Shirley
Mark Clifford Phil Robinson (off, 57 minutes)
James Gould Ian Wright (captain)
Darren Beesley Jon Hill
Mark Angel Ian Rodgerson
Neil Tarrant John Snape
Daryl Clare Paul Parry
Simon Weatherstone Gavin Williams
Steve McGarry (off, 78 minutes) Scott Goodwin
Subs Subs
Simon Rusk (on, 85 minutes) Rob Elmes (on, 57 minutes)
Anthony Elding (on, 78 minutes) Lee Evans
Kevin Evans Jimmy Quiggin
Lodge Danny Davidson
Conroy  
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Gould (69 minutes, foul) Jon Hill (45 minutes, foul)
Jim Rodwell (74 minutes, foul) Gavin Williams (50 minutes, handball)
  Rob Elmes (84 minutes, unsporting behaviour)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Daryl Clare (6 minutes, 12 minutes) Phil Robinson (17 minutes, 35 minutes)
Neil Tarrant (58 minutes) Scott Goodwin (23 minutes)
  Rob Elmes (75 minutes)
   
Man of the Match Scott Goodwin
Attendance 3,013
Referee Mr. S. R. Brand (The Wirral)

 

Sunday, February 17, 2002

Boston Preview

Hereford go into Monday nights live Sky match with no new injury worries, but this is being written on a Sunday so keep an eye open on http://www.thisishufc.co.uk in case this situation changes. The Bulls will be keen to impress on the TV, and to make amends for the last minute defeat earlier in the season at Edgar Street

As for Boston, they have new signings Kevin Evans, from Cardiff, and Jim Rodwell, from Rushden, waiting to make their debut for Boston. Also, Boston have not played a match since the 26th of January when they lost 2-1 away at Stalybridge and have been replaced at the top of the Conference by Dagenham, who drew 3-3 yesterday with Yeovil to over take Boston at the pole. Other results have seen Woking beaten 4-0 at York Street, draw away at Nuneaton, a trashing of FGR 6-1 at home, plus a win and loss against Northwich. Again this is being written on Sunday so keep an eye on the Boston United official site at http://www.bostonunited.co.uk

Match coverage by Sky starts at 7:30pm on Sky Sports One, with a 8:05pm kick off.

Cooksey looking to the Future

Former Bulls Favourite Scott Cooksey is looking to the future after he was forced to retire from football following a freak hand injury and it now looks unlikely that he will collect any insurance.
The 29 year old Hereford keeper has called it a day after being told he could become physically deformed if he carried on playing. "I spent two weeks in hospital vertually fighting for my life, the this happens." he said. "Something somewhere has gone badly wrong. It is frightening to go into hospital with a slight problem in my hand, then come out with a hand that I can bearly move and with arthritis."
"I has three operations in six days and now I need another one that would keep me out of the game for nine months anyway. The long term prognosis is severe arthritis and I am left with the rest of my life in jeopardy."
Cooksey has a sports studies degree but would like to move into football managment.
Hereford have promised to discuss the possibility of a benefit match. "It is very sad," said secretary Joan Fennessy, who confirmed Cooksey's injury was not covered by club insurance. " I will discuss the possibility of a benefit game with owner Graham Turner."
The club have settled Cooksey's contract. It is believed that a benefit match could take place at the end of the season possibly against Shrewsbury Town, for whom Cooksey used to play.

Baker not to blame

Hereford United's player/coach Phil Robinson said his young goalkeeper is not to blame for his challenge that led to Richmond Borough's Darren Deegan breaking his leg.
Robinson commented: "We were all a bit shaken by it including Matt himself but it was an accidental collision, with no blame attached and indeed no free kick was given."

He added: "We all feel for the player and Matt is a bit down about it but it is an occupational hazard of the game."

Feb 15th:
 Boston on wrong side of the law

Nationwide Conference leaders Boston United, who face Hereford on Monday night, have encountered further difficulties with a threat of legal action from Lincolnshire Police.
The local constabulary have claimed that Boston have failed to honour an agreement over repaying the cost of match-day police.
Boston also face a winding-up order on Monday brought by a local garage over an unpaid bill of £6,000.
The only good news is that Des Wood, a north Nottinghamshire-based businessman involved in property, is believed to be on the point of buying the club from the Malkinson family.
This will certainly add further interest to the Sky game on Monday night. Boston will gain £5,000 and The Bulls will receive £3,000 from the game.

 Squad looking forward to third TV Appearence

Being on TV for the third time this season had led to a huge lift in the United squad, according to Bulls boss Phil Robinson.
The game against Boston United is due to be shown on Sky Sports One on Monday night and kick off time is 8pm.
Robinson said "Everyone is very much looking forward to it particularly at this level when appearing on television is a rarity for the players,"
Hereford are expected to be at full strength for the game.

Thursday, February 14, 2002

Bull and Breakfast

Former Hereford United player coach Steve Bull has been promoting breakfasts.
The former Wolves star said: "You can't properly start the day without a good breakfast." He was tucking into a sumptuous spread put on cook Frances Kennedy of the Staffordshire Womens Food and Farming Union.
But he admitted in his playing days for Wolves, he would have given the sausages a miss, and gone for the lower fat, high carbohydrate, breakfast cereals.
He and England's Womens cricket captain Rachel Heyhoe Flint had both joined around fifty breakfast guests at a farm house near Stafford to celebrate Farmhouse Breakfast Week.

Wednesday, February 13, 2002

James reacts to club statement

Herefordshire Council leader Terry James has responded to the Hereford United statement issued on Tuesday regarding the club's survival.
The statement read: "It is with increasing concern that we view the public debate, claims and counterclaims, about the future of this club. As the representatives of the club shareholders, most of whom are supporters, we feel that we should be prominent in future discussions and decisions.

"We are therefore urging the personnel involved to think about the implications for the future well-being of the club, put personal feelings to one side and sit round a table with us, the purpose being to overcome the impasse between the different parties to ensure that 2003 is reached without the club facing the prospect of going out of business."

Hereford have to pay around £1.3million to Chelverton Properties on May 19th, 2003 and it was their response to recent statements from Councillor James.

In this week's Hereford Times, Terry James is quoted as saying: "I don't disagree with what the club says but we are not in a position yet to discuss matters publicly because the people interested in supporting the club have not yet met as a group. But things will start to happen once the draft version of the Unitary Development Plan is published in March.

"I have every confidence that we can redevelop Edgar Street, including Hereford United's ground, in partnership with others. I have got at least one more main meeting with an individual very soon."

Hereford chairman Graham Turner said: "As a club we have no real power because the leases have gone to the developers and we haven't got any money. The stark facts are that the loan, plus interest, is about £1.25million and the deadline is May 2003."

The directors would welcome a discussion with any proposed consortium that has the club's best interests in mind, according to the Hereford Times.


Six grand raised from dinner

Hereford United raised over £6,000 through last week's FA Cup fundraising dinner.
Over £2,700 came from the post-meal auction and the event was a great success. It was attended by Ricky George and John Motson, and 300 guests. The current board have raised £30,000 for the club since the start of 2001.

Meanwhile, Mark Williams, who was released by Hereford recently, could face the Bulls in an upcoming fixture. Williams has joined Chester City, who Hereford are to face a week on Saturday in the FA Trophy fifth round. The Chester City league game at Edgar Street , moved from 23rd February, is now on 26th March.


Cooksey to move into teaching

Scott Cooksey has responded to his forced retirement from football.
The Hereford United goalkeeper quit the game last week after he was told another wrist operation was neccessary to continue his playing career.

The twenty nine year old told the Hereford Times: "I was told that I needed another operation which would have kept me out for a further nine to 12 months and there was still no guarantees that I would be able to play. This was one of the hardest and most upsetting decisions that I have ever had to make."

Hereford chairman Graham Turner said: "It's a shame for Scott because football was his big love. But the problem is that Scott's wrist appears to have deteriorated and there is a long-term possibility that he may need to have a metal plate inserted. We have settled the remainder of Scott's contract, which would have run until May, and he will be trying to pursue a career in teaching."
Two late goals seal Bulls' win

Hereford United 4 - 1 Hampton & Richmond Borough

Hereford United progressed to the fifth round of the FA Umbro Trophy after overcoming Hampton & Richmond Borough at Edgar Street, eventually convincingly.
The 4-1 victory sets up a big tie in the fifth round - away at Chester City - but tonight's result do not display the resiliant nature of the Hampton performance for eighty minutes.
Phil Robinson named an unchanged Bulls side for the encounter, with Gavin Williams and Paul Parry in attack. Hampton played Craig Maskell at number 10; it was his shot that rebounded to Robbie Reinelt five years ago that sent Hereford out of the Football League instead of Brighton & Hove Albion.
The twice-delayed tie saw Hereford dominate early proceedings; Gavin Williams' first minute shocked was blocked and from the resulting corner, captain Ian Wright headed inches over Stuat MacKenzie's crossbar. Despite the Bulls dominating the attacking play and possession, Hampton's Darren Deegan clashed with Matt Baker whilst on a rare attack after twelve minutes. Baker cleared the danger but Deegan had gone down in the challenge and after a spell of treatment, he was stretchered off. It was announced after the match that Deegan had broken his leg, and he was replaced on the field by Marvyn Watson.
Midway through the half, United's Gavin Williams fired over from twenty five yards as Hampton were restricted to counter attacks. Five minutes later, Hereford took a deserved lead. Scott Goodwin crossed from the left and Matt Clarke, who was well positioned on the far post, headed home from close range.
Ian Wright and Scott Goodwin went close with efforts as Hereford looked to increase their advantage, but it was Hampton who were next to get the ball in the net. After thirty eight minutes, goalkeeper Baker came out to clear a loose ball but John Snape, who had come back to challenge the attacking Raphael Nade, appeared to slip the ball past Baker and into his own net. The goal was credited to Snape, but Nade appeared to get the final touch.
In the remainder of the half, Hereford had all the possession. Gavin Williams tried another long range effort as seen against Wrexham and Swindon, but the goalkeeper was able to save low on his line. The 1-1 half-time scoreline did seem a little unbalanced, but the twenty eight travelling fans from Hampton were delighted to be holding a Conference side. The first half statistics reveal one shot on goal for Hampton compared with five for Hereford.
Four minutes into the second half, Hereford took the lead. Gavin Williams was brought down in the box by Steve Omonua, and Tony James stepped up to slip the spot kick down the middle as Hereford scored just their second penalty of the season. Hampton can have no complaints as two minutes before the break, Matt Clarke's appeal for a penalty were turned down.
Paul Parry was foiled on two occasions as Hereford searched for a killer third goal, but Hampton's Nade fired over from the left at the other end as the Ryman League's were restricted to counter attacks. Both sides made changes, with Rob Elmes coming on for Scott Goodwin for the Bulls, and with seven minutes left, Hereford found another goal. An Ian Rodgerson cross was headed home by Gavin Williams, effectively sealing a Hereford victory.
A superb double save from Stuart MacKenzie meant Paul Parry was prevented from getting on the scoresheet again, but in added time it was Parry's free kick from the left than set up the fourth. Captain Ian Wright got onto the end of the ball to fire home as Hereford progressed to the fifth round.
The crowd of 1,167 will be pleased with the Hereford performance, but would be excused from thinking that the Bulls should have scored more. Man of the match Tony James was outstanding at the back, and scored a penalty, but nobody had a bad game for Hereford. The Bulls will play Chester in the next round, after they overcame Solihull Borough 4-2 in the replay tonight.

Written by Terry Goodwin - 12th February 2002.
Hereford United Hampton & Richmond Borough
Matt Baker Stuart MacKenzie
Matt Clarke Richard O'Connor (off, 79 minutes)
John Shirley Ronnie Girvan
Phil Robinson Phil Dicker
Ian Wright (captain) Matt Flitter
Tony James Fiston Manuella
Ian Rodgerson Darren Deegan (off, 16 minutes)
John Snape Gavin Rose
Paul Parry Steve Omonua (off, 79 minutes)
Gavin Williams Craig Maskell
Scott Goodwin (off, 77 minutes) Raphael Nade
Subs Subs
Rob Elmes (on, 77 minutes) Tony Houghton (on, 79 minutes)
Lee Evans Steve French
Jimmy Quiggin Paul De Luca (on, 79 minutes)
Jon Hill Marvyn Watson (on, 16 minutes)
Roy Jordan Dominique Jean-Zepherin
Yellow cards Yellow cards
- Steve Omonua (28 minutes, foul)
  Phil Dicker (90 minutes, dissent)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Matt Clarke (27 minutes) John Snape (own goal, 38 minutes)
Tony James (52 minutes, penalty)  
Gavin Williams (83 minutes)  
Ian Wright (90 minutes)  
   
Man of the Match Tony James
Attendance 1,167
Referee Mr. R. Desmond

Tuesday, February 12, 2002

Two late goals secure Bulls win

Hereford United 4 - 1 Hampton & Richmond Borough
Hereford will play Chester City in the fifth round of the FA Trophy after they beat Hampton 4-1 at Edgar Street tonight. Matt Clarke, Tony James, Gavin Williams and Ian Wright scored the goals for the Bulls.

Club call for unity

The Hereford United board of directors have released the following statement through ClubCall (09068 121645):

“It is with increasing concern that we view the public debate, claims and counter-claims, about the future of the Club. As the representatives of the Club’s shareholders, most of whom are supporters, we feel that we should be prominent in future discussions and decisions. We are therefore urging the personnel involved to think about the implications for the future well-being of the Club, put any personal feelings to one side, and sit around a table with us. The purpose being to overcome the impasse between the different parties, ensuring 2003 is reached without the Club facing the prospect of going out of business. Discussions with any proposed consortium who have the interests of the Club at heart would also be welcomed.”
Hereford hope for two wins
Not only do Hereford United hope to win against Hampton & Richmond Borough in tonight's FA Trophy fourth round clash, but need to beat the weather in order for the game to go ahead.

Tonight's game is ON at the moment, kick off at Edgar Street is at 7.45pm. The Bulls have to revive themselves after a 1-0 league defeat against Leigh RMI at the weekend, and coach Phil Robinson wants a good performance. "We can play at a higher tempo and we will need to because Hampton are treating it as their cup final," he told the Evening News. "They rested some players on Saturday for tonight's game and are really approaching it as a one-off. I think Hereford fans enjoy their cup football and it would be nice to have them out in force cheering us on."

Hereford have no injury doubts after Saturday, in which he was very disappointed with the result. "We missed having a game in the middle of a two-week break and didn't perform," he said. "The unbeaten run had to come to an end sometime but it was a shame it happened the way it did. We restricted them to two efforts one of which went in but we had a number of chances but it didn't go for us."

Hampton drew 1-1 with second-placed Canvey Island on Saturday, but are still languishing in seventeenth in the Ryman League Premier Division.

If the game is called off, further details will be added here.

Monday, February 11, 2002

James still leads award
Tony James is still top of the Ray Mercer Evening News Trophy as the best-rated player in the two counties this season.

Hereford's highly rated defender averaged 7.43 from thirty-two games and he is ahead of rivals from Stourport Swifts and other Herefordians. Matt Baker and Gavin Williams are both averaging 7.0.

Kidderminster Harrier's Dean Bennett is leading their team's performances with 6.85, Worcester's Paul Carty has 7.11, Stourport's Asa Charlton is on 7.32 and Evesham's Jay Powell has 6.65.

Meanwhile, Hereford coach Phil Robinson was disappointed with Saturday 1-0 defeat against Leigh RMI. After the match, he told the Evening News: "We didn't really perform today and, fortunately, I don't think that we can play that badly again. Our passing and shooting wasn't up to standard and I have had a word with the players.

"At least we have got a game under our belts now and hopefully that should put us in good stead for the FA Trophy fourth round match tomorrow night. But we have got a few things to work on."

Sunday, February 10, 2002

Waywell full of Harrison praise


LEIGH RMI boss Steve Waywell told Football.Nationwide.co.uk that ex-Hereford defender Gerry Harrison was the key in his side's 1-0 win over the Bulls at Edgar Street yesterday.

"Gerry Harrison missed last week's game at Margate and we missed him - and against Hereford he was outstanding," said Waywell. "He's a cocky, confident sort of lad and the other players respond to that. He was definitely our man-of-the-match."

Waywell praised Hereford's excellent pitch and their supporters. "The pitch was brilliant and not bobbly, which is surprising with all the rain we've had. It was a good surface and a good atmosphere which always gives you a lift.

"But our lads deserve a lot of credit for beating a side who have been on a good run of form lately. We have an excellent away record and a lot of that is down to the fact that at Hilton Park we haven't the best of surfaces, a small crowd and not much atmosphere. Players respond to a crowd and that's what they did at Hereford."

In other news The Liaison committee have written to Chelverton to ask for the removal of Simon Morgan from relocation negotiations.

In his column in yesterday's Bullseye magazine, chairman Kevin Wargen wrote that HUISA had a meeting with council leader Terry James but the details had to be kept confidential for the time being. He also said that he had spoken to a person who may be looking to help the club in the future, who was concerned about misinformation being posted on the internet. He pleaded with supporters to be careful when publishing information and although the current situation was frustrating, "things are beginning to happen".

Meanwhile, HUISA have revealed that away travel will be going to two upcoming matches. A minibus will travel to the Boston United away game next Monday night (18th February), to be televised live on Sky Sports 1. The minibus will leave Edgar Street at 2pm and cost £21. If the Bulls get through in the FA Trophy fourth round, they will play at either Chester City or Solihull Borough. Any coach will cost £11 and leave at 11.30am. Should the Bulls draw on Tuesday night, please call the club on 01432 276666 regarding transport to the replay.

Saturday, February 09, 2002

Dodge Blames Throat For Defeat


HEREFORD United's veteran midfielder Ian Rodgerson used his sore throat as an excuse for his side's 1-0 defeat to Leigh RMI today.

"I woke up this morning and my throat was on fire so I got some antibiotics from the doctor," he told BBC Hereford & Worcester. " I felt a bit lothargic but I wasn't playing to well so I'll use that as my excuse!"

The game saw plenty of Hereford chances but Leigh nicked the vital goal and Rodgerson commented: "We didn't play well today; we certainly didn't pass it well. The last few weeks have been a bit scrappy with the weather, trying to get venues to train, and it showed today. Leigh are a decent side and they're putting a little run together. We had one or two decent chances early on and if we had scored, I think we'd have gone on and won the game."

Michael Twiss, the former Manchester United trainee, got Leigh's winner with fifteen minutes left and Rodgerson continued: "It was a bit sloppy. He had a little bit of luck but these things happen. On the day, we were disappointed."

Hereford's next match is on Tuesday night, when they take on Hampton & Richmond Borough at Edgar Street in the FA Trophy. "It is extremely important," said Rodgerson. "Hopefully it will be a money-spinner for the club. We've gone eight games unbeaten until today so we've got to get back on track on Tuesday and make sure we win."

After that, Hereford's next league game is at Boston United on Monday night. The Pilgrims are top of the table and Rodgerson said: " I'm sure we can raise our game."

IN his Bullseye column HUISA chairman Kevin Wargen has written about the latest development with Chelverton.

"Since our last home game the Liasion committee have written to Chelverton to ask Simon Morgan to be removed from negotiations as far as relocation is concerned. This was quickly followed by a very strong rebuke to Morgan from Cllr Terry James."

Leigh Defeat Bulls

Hereford United 0 - 1 Leigh RMI


Hereford United's unbeaten run is over and they lost it deservedly at Edgar Street this afternoon with Lancastrians Leigh RMI securing a 1-0 win.

It was not that Leigh deserved their victory, but that Hereford threw away the game as they squandered chances and lacked the cutting edge. One lapse in concentration cost them dearly.

The Bulls won 1-0 at Hilton Park back in October and the reverse in the scoreline came as a result of a strong Leigh defensive performance and lacklustre efforts on goal from the Bulls. Coach Phil Robinson welcomed Gavin Williams back to the starting line-up and he was partnered by Paul Parry in attack. Rob Elmes was named on the bench and only entered the action after the hour mark. Leigh named former Hereford defender Gerry Harrison in defence after he was recently signed by boss Steve Waywell from Halifax Town.

The first half was dominated by Hereford, but Leigh's Tony Black forced Matt Baker to make the first save of the game in the third minute. The Bulls responded with Phil Robinson testing Mark Westhead, and then the player/coach headed against the crossbar as Hereford threatened.

Ian Rodgerson went close again on the eleventh minute before Dino Maamria tested Baker, and then Paul Parry ran onto a Gavin Williams through ball on fifteen minutes before firing a deflected shot wide. Hereford's defensive partnership of Tony James and Ian Wright coped well with Leigh's attacking force and Ian Rodgerson headed at Mark Westhead with seven minutes left of the half. Gavin Williams and then Michael Twiss went close as the two sides aimed to find the lead, and Paul Parry missed the target in the last minute of the half.

The second half was slightly more even, but Hereford again failed to hit the target after creating plenty of chances. Ian Wright, from the kick off, headed at Westhead wasting another chance before Leigh's Black fired at Baker. Paul Parry then hit a screaming effort over from twenty five yards as they dominated possession but were unable to break down a solid RMI defence.

Rob Elmes was introduced to the action but made little impact in a team lacking creating and dropping in confidence after facing a brick wall. Their morale was hit further with fifteen minutes left when Leigh took the lead against the run of play. Ian Monk crossed in from the right wing for Michael Twiss to pick up. The ball bounced off the post and Twiss was on hand to hit home from a yard out with the defence stranded. Leigh's solid defence and opportunist attacking tactics had worked and they had the lead, whilst the Bulls missed several chances to go ahead themselves.

With four minutes left, Ian Wright headed a forceful effort goalwards, only for Mark Westhead to tip over the bar to ensure three points for Leigh. Hereford didn't deserve anything from the game and there was little to get the crowd of 1,443 to return on Tuesday night.

The Bulls have to pick themselves up quickly for next week's FA Trophy tie against Hampton & Richmond Borough, who will be a difficult side to guage. Only thirty one supporters will be happy with today's result - and they were from Leigh RMI.

Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, John Shirley, Phil Robinson, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Ian Rodgerson (off, 62 minutes), John Snape (off, 81 minutes), Paul Parry, Gavin Williams, Scott Goodwin
Subs: Rob Elmes (on, 62 minutes), Lee Evans, Jimmy Quiggin (on, 81 minutes), Danny Davidson, Jon Hill
Yellow cards:Scott Goodwin (foul, 44 minutes) Rob Elmes (dissent, 85 minutes)
Man of the Match: Not awarded
Attendance: 1,443
Referee: Mr. S. Hapgood (Swindon)

Snapper Hopes For Nine


JOHN Snape is hoping to extend Hereford United's unbeaten run to eight games today as the Bulls host Leigh RMI, kick off 3pm.

The livewire midfielder is in his fourth season at Edgar Street and is known as one of Hereford's most committed players who is never afraid to go in for a challenge.

"Snape has been one of the unsung heroes in the years gone by but this year he has also proved a goal threat with something like five to his name," said coach Phil Robinson in tonight's Evening News. "He is very hard working and a real battler and as I said is now contributing with some goals. His strengths are that he is very strong and powerful and you need these kind of players in your team.

"Basically you know what you are going to get from him - he is a very consistent and committed player. Every team needs to have somebody who every week will work hard and win the ball back and he is certainly one of them.

"Central midfield is the hardest position on the field. They have to get forward in goalscoring positions and support the forwards, then get back and work hard defensively. You normally find at every club that in the fitness tests central midfielders come out on top because they have to do so much running."

Friday, February 08, 2002


RMI to provide tough test

Hereford United host Leigh RMI at Edgar Street in the Nationwide Conference tomorrow, kick off 3pm.

Leigh's away record is better than their home after to recent wins at Northwich and Telford but Hereford player/coach Phil Robinson is eager to end that run. "Their current form is decent and they have picked up quite a few places in recent games," he told the Evening News.

"Even though they are below us we are not going to be taking them lightly and know we have to carry on our recent form if we want to continue our eight-match unbeaten run. Everybody is fit apart from those three (Cooksey, Voice and Piearce) and everyone is raring to go having had the last few matches called off."

"Attendances have slipped gradually away during the season and what I am trying to say to people who have not come for a while is come and have a loot what we are about. We're playing some excellent football, scoring a lot of goals and the more people we have cheering us on the better."

Leigh boss Steve Waywell expects to have a virtually fully-fit squad for the trip to Hereford. Midfielder Gerry Harrison is set to return to the side after missing the 2-0 FA Umbro Trophy defeat at Margate last week. Harrison played for United in the 1996/97 season,

RMI could welcome Mark Westhead - who was expected to sign for League of Wales side Barry Town this week - into their squad for the game. The goalkeeper could start in a struggling side.

Waywell said: "Of course, every game is a cup final for us in our situation but team spirit has probably never been better than it is now and I am just looking forward to Saturday's game. The lads will be really up it and to get back into a groove and Hereford are only a few places above us so it should be a really tight game."

HEREFORD United goalkeeper Scott Cooksey has been forced to retire from football after another injury setback.

The twenty nine year old stopper hasn't played this season with a wrist injury which almost killed him, and he found out earlier this week that he requires another operation. Chairman Graham Turner commented on ClubCall that it was a sad day for the club.

Also departing Edgar Street is Mark Williams. The defender was released after a breach of discipline.

However, there is some good news coming from the club. Attacking midfielder Paul Parry has signed a new two year contract with Hereford, securing his future at Edgar Street until June 2004. Also considering new contracts are Matt Baker, Tony James and Gavin Williams. However, if offers come in from higher-graded sides, then they have a release clause allowing them to move on, if they wish so.

Thursday, February 07, 2002

Feb 7th 2002


HEREFORD United coach Phil Robinson has asked for supporters to back two wins in four days.

The Bulls take on Leigh RMI at Edgar Street on Saturday in the Nationwide Conference before playing their delayed FA Trophy clash at home against Hampton & Richmond Borough on Tuesday.

Crowds at Edgar Street are still too low with the club unable to cover costs, and Robinson told the Hereford Times: "We have been playing some good football lately, and it would be fantastic if the supporters who hadn't been to Edgar Street for a while came along and gave us another go.

"We received tremendous support from the terraces when we played Wrexham in the FA Cup earlier in the season and that level of support gives the players a huge lift."

Hereford should have a fully fit squad for Saturday's encounter with only Steve Piearce a doubt with an ankle injury. Long term victims Scott Cooksey and Scott Voice remain sidelined, but the Bulls are confident of securing the double over Leigh who they beat 1-0 at Hilton Park in October.

Captain Ian Wright said: "The confidence is high at the moment and we have been scoring a few goals at home lately, so we will be desperate to continue our unbeaten run. We played well at Leigh and I recall that John Snape scored a great winner that night."

Leigh are sixteenth in the Conference but have won five of their thirteen away games. In their last match, they were defeated 2-0 at Margate in the FA Trophy but haven't lost a league game since their start of January when they were hammered 5-0 by Southport.

On Tuesday, Hereford host Ryman League Premier Division strugglers Hampton & Richmond Borough in the FA Trophy fourth round. The winners will play Chester City or Solihull Borough in the next round, who replay in the Black Country on Tuesday night. 

Meanwhile the official website (www.herefordunited.co.uk) have reported that Hereford United's Edgar Street stadium was broken into last night (Tuesday).

Whilst the intruders did little damage, two doors were damaged and stewards' coats were scattered onto the pitch.
 

Wednesday, February 06, 2002

Feb 6th - Cooksey To Quit?


Scott Cooksey could retire from football after being told that he needs more surgery on his injured wrist.

The Hereford United goalkeeper hasn't played since last May after blood poisoning destroyed the ligaments in his wrist and severely weakened it. He featured for the reserves in January, but coach Phil Robinson told the Evening News: "Doctors are considering a further operation to try and improve things. Scott is currently considering his options and his future because he has a lot to think about."

Cooksey said the damage done by the infection, which left him in hospital for three weeks and almost killed him, made it unlikely the wrist would ever recover its full strength and mobility.

Tuesday, February 05, 2002

Feb 5th 2002


IT was thirty years ago to the day that Hereford United recorded their finest hour.

The Bulls, then in the Southern League, defeated Newcastle United 2-1 in the third round of the FA Cup after a replay at St. James Park four days earlier. The game finished 2-2, after being postponed several times.

The story that shocked the football world on February 5th, 1972 came from Edgar Street, Hereford, in the FA Cup third round replay...
Southern League side Hereford United, one of the biggest teams in non-league football, had progressed to the third round of the FA Cup and had held first division Newcastle United several days earlier at St. James' Park to a 2-2 draw. Hereford were pleased to bring the former league champions back to Edgar Street for another crack, but surely had no chance of winning.

Malcolm McDonald, the England international striker and one of Newcastle's best ever players, promised to score ten goals past Hereford but the Bulls, managed by Colin Addison, had other ideas.

Perhaps McDonald was a little optimistic, but with eight minutes left he neeted the first and it looked as if Hereford were going out after a good fight at Edgar Street. Cue a substitution!

Roger Griffiths was replaced by the attacking-minded Ricky George minutes before Ronnie Radford, a midfielder not renowned for scoring goals, unleashed a thirty yard screamer out of the mud to equalise in the most spectacular fashion.

The goal eventually was voted 'goal of the season' by viewers of BBC's Match Of The Day, and Hereford went into extra time.

Surely, the part-timers of Hereford United would tire? True, they were but substitute Ricky George had fresh legs.

It was George who scored to put Hereford into the lead in extra time from close range, and Newcastle searched for a desperate equaliser. It was not to be found, as Fred Potter in the home goal saved everything Newcastle could throw at them. Hereford had secured the biggest FA Cup upset ever, 2-1 over Newcastle United.

The season was one of sweet success for Hereford reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup (eventually losing in a replay to West Ham United), the semi final of the FA Trophy (losing to Hillingdon Borough), and finishing second in the Southern League. The Football League member clubs voted the Bulls into Division Four after a second vote at the expense of Cumbrian side Barrow.







Everyone celebrates after the Ronnie Radford goal (top).

Ricky George's winner goes in (middle).

The Hereford players celebrate in style after the game (bottom).

Thanks to Nigel Hill for the images.

John Motson, the BBC commentator on the day, spoke of the remarkable atmosphere: "In terms of atmosphere at English league grounds I've lost count really, but people say to me that the game that really got me off to a flying start at the BBC was Hereford v Newcastle in that famous Cup tie. Now that was a day that you'll never forget, and the atmosphere was... well, you'll never find anything to compare with it."

A LUNCHTIME pitch inspection has resulted in Hereford United's FA Trophy fourth round encounter against Hampton & Richmond Borough being postponed.

The pitch was playable yesterday, but heavy rain has resulted in the cancellation of the fixture for the second time in four days.

The winners of the tie, whenever it is played, with compete with either Nationwide Conference side Chester City, or Solihull Borough from the Dr Martens Western Division in the next round; the two teams replay at Solihull next Tuesday. The game was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch today.

"It would have been nice to have been handed a home tie, but with Chester City in the lower reaches of the Conference and Solihull Borough from a lower league it is still a good draw for us," said Robinson.

Monday, February 04, 2002

Feb 4th 2002


Trophy draw made - Hereford or Hampton away

If Hereford United overcome Hampton Borough in the FA Trophy fourth round, they will face an away tie to the winners of the Chester City vs Solihull Borough match.

If Hereford and Conference rivals Chester progress, they will play at the Deva Stadium in the Trophy but if both are eliminated, the two will compete in a league match at Edgar Street. Solihull play in the Dr. Martens League Western Division, and are currently fourth. Chester and Solihull drew 0-0 on Saturday, and replay at Damson Park tomorrow night.

The game will be played on Saturday 23rd February, along with the other fifth round ties. The draw in full is:
1 Barnet or Scarborough vs Morecambe
2 Gravesend & Northfleet or Hendon vs Mangotsfield United or Stalybridge Celtic
3 Margate vs North Ferriby United or Braintree Town
4 Stevenage Borough vs Forest Green Rovers
5 Yeovil Town or Doncaster Rovers vs Canvey Island
6 Farnborough Town or Burton Albion vs Woking
7 Chester City or Solihull Borough vs Hereford United or Hampton & Richmond Borough
8 Northwich Victoria vs Telford United


Meanwhile, ex-Hereford and Swindon defender Gareth Davies looks set to join Chippenham Town of the Dr. Martens Western Division.

He quit professional football with a knee injury last month, but the 28-year-old is likely to run the academy and trained with the first team on Thursday night.

Sunday, February 03, 2002

Feb 3rd 2002


THE majority of non-league clubs have voted for their choice for the restructuring of the game - and have selected 'Proposal C'.

Teams such as Burton Albion, Chelmsford City and Altrincham have all backed the proposal for a north and south league below the Conference, and then four feeder league below the semi-national divisions. The Southern Football League, Hellenic League and Conference are likely to back the proposal, but the Northern League would rather see a split Conference league (north and south), as outlined in proposal B. The Isthmian League secretary Alan Turvey, who are most likely to lose out under new reforms, see the proposals as "change for change sake", as reported in today's Non-League Paper.

For a full outline on the five options, see a full report written by Yeovil Town's Ciderspace website - http://www.ciderspace.co.uk/features/0102-fa-proposal.htm

KINGTON Town chairman Bill Mayglothing has expressed his disapproval at Hereford United over the signing of two of their players.

The Express & Star West Midlands League Premier Division side have allowed Roy Jordan and Jon Hill to join Hereford on non-contract forms, but Mayglothing was annoyed at the manner of the moves.

Whilst he said he had no problems allowing the youngsters to move to Edgar Street, he told the Non-League Paper that nobody from Hereford contacted his club before signing the players. "This is not the way to go about things," he said.

Saturday, February 02, 2002

Feb 2nd 2002


TODAY's game between Hereford United and Hampton & Richmond Borough has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

The FA Trophy fourth round game was not subject to a pitch inspection last night but after much heavy rain, and more on the way, the match had to be postponed. At 8.45am, the pitch was just about playable but the referee felt the rain and winds would have made it unplayable within hours.

The Hampton team coach was due to leave at 9am, so an early decision was welcomed to prevent them travelling.

The teams will try again on Tuesday night, kick off 7.45pm.

Friday, February 01, 2002

Feb 1st 2002


HEREFORD United will have to play well tomorrow to gain a place in the last sixteen of the FA Trophy, according to coach Phil Robinson.

The Bulls host Ryman Leaguers Hampton & Richmond Borough at Edgar Street in the fourth round, kick off 3pm, and after the Chesham tie in the last round, Robinson has every reason to be cautious.

He told the Evening News: "We know the quality of the Ryman League from our game with Chesham, who were a quality side. There is not going to be any complacency about the way we have been approaching this game, and have been working hard preparing for it. It will be a real tough test and we will have to be at our best to win the game."

Hampton are struggling in the Ryman League but won 2-0 against Newport County in round three. However, Robinson continued: "They are very strong physically through the middle of the team, have a bit of pace on the wings and have Craig Maskell up front. Everything seems to come through him - he has a lot of skill and a lot of experience, and has scored a lot of goals for them."

Hereford, though, have won their last eight games but Robinson said: "We are confident at the moment and our home form has been very good, but we can't be over-confident. We have to approach it like we have done our previous games."

The Trophy is a vital competition in Hereford's finances, after they reached the semi finals last year. "It is extra games and extra crowds coming in, and a chance of earning some prize money, which is vitally important to us at the moment," said Robinson.

Only one change is expected to the side that drew 1-1 at Southport last week with Gavin Williams returning after a one-match ban.

Meanwhile, all tickets have been sold for Hereford’s forthcoming evening with BBC commentator John Motson. `Motty’ will be joined by Hereford legend Ricky George at the eagerly awaited gala dinner event, which will be held at the Three Counties Hotel in Belmont on February 7th.

HEREFORD United have said that tomorrow's FA Trophy fourth round game will go ahead as planned and no pitch inspection is expected, despite heavy rain in the city.

A club spokesman told HU-FC.co.uk: "It's been raining but the water is running off it. It's been wetter."

The game will be called into further doubt if the heavy rain continues. We will keep you informed on any developments between now and kick off, which is at 3pm tomorrow.