Text at top (next game etc)

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

Sunday, August 31, 2003

Odds drop again

The odds available on Hereford United winning the Conference have dropped at several bookmakers after yesterday's win at Stevenage.

The lowest price quoted is now 5-1 at Victor Chandler. SkyBet are offering 11-2 this morning, and not 6-1 as reported in the Non-League Paper.

Chester remain favourites at 3-1 with Shrewsbury at 4-1. Stevenage are, like Hereford, at 11-2 with SkyBet.



NLP reports on mooning row

The Non-League Paper has confirmed that Aldershot manager, Terry Brown, has received a number of letters from Hereford fans complaining about the actions of Shots midfielder Fiston Manuella at Edgar Street last Monday.

It says that the player could face disciplinary action by his club after making obscene gestures towards the crowd. It is believed that he gave a two-fingered salute and dropped his shorts twice.

NLP photographer James Maggs was directly in front of the fans. "Manuella twice dropped his shorts," he said. "His shirt was outside his shorts. He took them down, then lifted up his shirt. I didn't hear any racial abuse from the crowd then.

Both Terry Brown and Hereford manager Graham Turner are thought to be in with a good chance of receiving the Conference Manager of the Month award for August. Hereford United are unbeaten but some consideration will be given to Brown for steering Aldershot to second place in the league after only gaining promotion to the Conference at the end of last season.


Saturday, August 30, 2003

Guinan happy with goal tally

The scorer of the second goal in today's 2-0 win over Stevenage Borough, Hereford United attacker Steve Guinan told of his delight with the start of the campaign.

The Bulls are top of the league and Guinan told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "We've started really well and picked up a lot of points. Hopefully, we'll just keep the ball rolling; everyone is enjoying it and it's a great club to be with at the moment, because we're top of the league."

Today's opponents, Stevenage, were always likely to be a tough nut to crack because of the financial investment. "They've spent a lot of money here on players, and that's a huge difference between us," added the former Nottingham Forest attacker.

Attacking play as been the name of the game for United, and Guinan is delighted with his current haul of five goals. "It took me six games to get a goal last year," he said. "Hopefully, this time, I won't have a patch where I don't score but we're creating chances and as a team, we've scored the most goals at the moment."

"Hopefully, we've surprised a few teams and they will sit up and notice us."

Stevenage manager Graham Westley was downbeat about his own side's performance, and praised the Hereford team. "It was a very disappointing day," he told BBC Three Counties Radio. "We were well beaten by the better side."

When asked whether United were the best side in the league, he added: "We don't know because we've only played six sides, but they're the best we've so far. They were bright and quick and sharp. They are a good benchmark; if we can go beyond them we won't be far away."

Of the penalty decision, Westley proclaimed: "It shouldn't have been a penalty."


Stevenage penalty miss costly
A penalty save by Matt Baker from Anthony Elding proved costly for the home side as Ben Smith and Steve Guinan secured a 2-0 victory for Hereford at Stevenage.

Guinan strike keeps United top

Stevenage Borough 0 - 2 Hereford United

An exciting match at Broadhall Way saw plenty of chances and an outcome that satisfied another sizeable away following, with Hereford United making sure they remained top of the Nationwide Conference.

In front of 2,705, Hereford scored a goal in each half to secure the points, but had to overcome a penalty given after Anthony Elding went stumbling in the area under a challenge from Michael Rose. The ball, though, was going out of play and it was not a goalscoring opportunity.

The Stevenage Borough top scorer, with four goals in five matches, could not add to his total, though. His spot-kick was pushed away by United stopper Matt Baker, and with the ball loose in the area, Elding fired the rebound over the bar.

The Bulls, fielding the same starting eleven for the sixth game in succession, felt hard-done-by with the decision. The tackle appeared well timed, but referee Mr. G. Sutton on Lincolnshire signalled that a shirt pull was the offence on twenty one minutes.

Prior to the spot-kick, Hereford's Ben Smith had had his long-range volley pushed over the Stevenage crossbar by Nathan Abbey while a similar effort from Elding sailed wide at the other end.

The league leaders took the lead on twenty six minutes, thanks to Ben Smith. The former Southend United midfielder notched his fifth goal of the season as he weaved past a Boro' defender before firing a low shot onto the far post, and this bounced into the net.

Paul Parry could have made it 2-0 on the half hour, but he turned the ball inches over the top after Rob Purdie had beaten Simon Travis on the Hereford left.

After the break, Stevenage could have got back onto level terms but Baker made an excellent save from Peter Costello's fierce drive after seven minutes, but soon afterwards a long run took Michael Rose from his own half to the Boro' area, and Steve Guinan's shot went across goal from the byline.

The United attacker made no mistake nine minutes later, as he launched a right-footed effort into the roof of the net to double the advantage.

The game then looked beyond Stevenage, although Elding did test Baker with a header, and United could have added a third two minutes before time when substitute David Brown nodded a Paul Parry cross into the arms of Abbey.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 30th August 2003.
Stevenage Borough Hereford United
Nathan Abbey Matt Baker
Simon Travis Ryan Green
Lee Flynn Michael Rose
Nathan Bunce (captain, off, 74 minutes) Jamie Pitman
Barry Laker Andy Tretton
Jamie Cook (off, 68 minutes) Tony James (captain)
Peter Costello (off, 68 minutes) Danny Williams
Rocky Baptiste Ben Smith
Anthony Elding Rob Purdie (off, 74 minutes)
Gary Holloway Steve Guinan
Geoff Pitcher Paul Parry
Subs Subs
Justin Richards (off, 74 minutes) Ben Scott
Matthew Langston Richard Teesdale
Lionel Perez Jordan King
Dean Carroll (on, 68 minutes) Dean Craven
Clint Marcelle (on, 68 minutes) David Brown (on, 74 minutes)
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Peter Costello (foul, 25 minutes) -
Simon Travis (foul, 81 minutes) -
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
- Ben Smith (26 minutes)
- Steve Guinan (65 minutes)
Man of the Match Matt Baker
Attendance 2,705
Referee Mr. G. Sutton (Lincolnshire)


Friday, August 29, 2003

Yellow cards cause concern for Turner

Hereford United boss Graham Turner has warned his players about the number of bookings that they are receiving ahead of tomorrow's match against Stevenage Borough.

Michael Rose picked up his third yellow card of the season against Aldershot Town on Monday, and Turner said: "With a small squad of players, we can't afford too many injuries and the one concern for me at the moment is the prospect of suspensions. We have had too many bookings for my liking. After five bookings they get automatically suspended so we are hoping that it won't happen that by the middle of September we start to get players suspended.

"We know from experience that referees do tend to be a lot stricter early in the season after directives from the FA. They punish almost every foul even with a yellow card, we realise that, but there is still far too many cards issued to our players than I would have liked."

Looking ahead to tomorrow's battle at Broadhall Way, Turner is quietly upbeat about his side's chances.

"Stevenage are a well fancied side," he told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "They are amongst the favourites to win the Conference this season simply because of the amount of money they have invested. They have got a big strong squad of players but we can look forward to the game with a lot of confidence and I think we will be really ready for it. We are quite capable of going to Stevenage and getting another three points."

"I don't think there is any real reason to change a winning side. I think we have started the season well. I think some of the performances have been excellent and there is no reason to chop and change the side. David Brown was unfortunate not to start the season off because of injury. He has proved to be on several occasions a good substitute. He will be wanting to start as soon as possible but Steve Guinan and Rob Purdie have played exceptionally well together and I don't think at this stage there is any need to change that partnership."

The time lapse before the next home fixture has annoyed Turner, although recent gates have been very impressive. "The level of attendance has been very encouraging. To get two games around the three thousand mark and then one nearly five thousand that's an incredible turnout and it just shows that there is floating support there that will come along if the team are doing well enough. However the most important thing is the spirit within the team. When you get a few results go right for you, that spirit is lifted and that is what we are experiencing at the moment.

After the biggest ever Conference gate at Edgar Street, TUrner added that nearly three weeks is too long to wait for the next home game.

"I think the fixtures has panned out diabolically really. When you look at the first five Saturdays of the season, we have had one at home. I can't figure out how the Conference can come up with that fixture list.

"We will now have almost three weeks without a home fixture just when you want one. The spectical of Monday's game with the big attendance means we want to be at home again.

"Nearly three weeks without a home game is ludicrous."


Turner looking for win

Hereford United manager Graham Turner is confident of collecting all three points from Stevenage Borough tomorrow, kick off 3pm.

"We have to go there looking for a win. It is not beyond us," said Turner in tonight's Evening News "Stevenage caused a stir last year in terms of their trading of managers and players from Farnborough but they are a big, strong squad who are going well but equally we're going there in good heart."

United will aim to continue with their confident run which saw them beat Aldershot 4-3 on Monday and remain at the top of the Conference. David Brown's injury-time winner handed United the points, and Turner added: "It was a confidence booster for Brown who has had limited involvement so far and is just what he needed."

The only player missing for United is midfielder Rob Sawyers, while Daniel Carey-Bertram is fit again after a hamstring injury.

Stevenage have a host of players sidelined but their sizeable match squad has been boosted by the return of attacker Justin Richards from injury, while midfield duo Steve Watson and Danny Carroll are also back in contention.


Thursday, August 28, 2003

Another major test for Bulls

After last week's win over Aldershot Town, Hereford United face another top-of-the-table against Stevenage Borough at Broadhall Way on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

The Bulls hope to have Daniel Carey-Bertram back for the game after he missed the Aldershot with a hamstring injury, but an unchanged line-up is probable.

Speaking to the Hereford Times, United director of football Graham Turner said: "There are no easy matches in the Conference and we are expecting another tough game at Stevenage. They have got a very large squad, some very experienced players, and are coming off the back of a 4-1 win at Margate."

Boro' have seven players missing for the game, but given the size of their squad, they can more than cover for the absences. Goalkeeper Mark Westhead has a knee injury, and defender Jason Goodliffe is missing with a bruised shin. Graham Westley must also do without midfielders James Gould, Simon Wormull and Sam McMahon, while strikers Howard Forinton and Peter Costello also miss out.

A big crowd is expected for the game at Broadhall Way, and Stevenage chairman Phil Wallace told
'Webnews': "We expect a big crowd so I'd recommend supporters get here earlier than usual but I suspect we'll have to get used to this. Graham Westley is working non stop and will not stop until we're the best so I expect this to be the norm for the rest of the season"

After Boro's win over Margate, boss Westley said on BBC Three Counties Radio: "I expect us to get stronger throughout the week and we have a cracking game next weekend when Hereford visit us."


Wednesday, August 27, 2003

Twelve Conference sides in LDV action

Hereford United's entry to the LDV Vans Trophy for this season has been confirmed, report confguide.com.

Hereford are likely to be in the southern area of the competition, alongside sides from Divisions Two and Three and fellow Conference sides Barnet, Dagenham & Redbridge, Exeter City, Forest Green Rovers and Stevenage Borough. Chester City, Halifax Town, Morecambe, Scarborough, Shrewsbury Town and Telford United will play in the northern section. Kidderminster Harriers are likely to be in the northern section, but Cheltenham Town, Swansea City and Yeovil Town will be south of the divide.

The draw will take place on Saturday 13th September on Sky Sports' Soccer AM, and the prize fund for the competition remains unchanged from last season, and payments will be made to clubs at the conclusion of the tournament. The competition winners will receive £50,000, the runners-up £25,000, and the area final losers £20,000 each. The area semi-final losers will pocket £15,000 each, the area quarter-final losers £8,000 each while round two and round one losers will net £4,000 and £2,000 respectively each.

The competition final will be held at the Millennium Stadium on Sunday, 28th March 2004.


Tuesday, August 26, 2003

Bulls stay top

Tonight's only Conference game between the bookies current title favourites Chester City and Shrewsbury Town ended in a 2-1 win for Chester with an attendance of 4665.

This result means Hereford United stay top of the league with thirteen points from five games and Aldershot in second place with twelve points. Stevenage stay third but Chester are now joint fourth with Shrewsbury.

Meanwhile, the average attendance at Edgar Street for the first three home games this season is showing a 76% increase on last year.


Last chance to score


After yesterday's game David Brown, who came on as a sub, told the Western Daily Press how he produced the superb overhead kick that won the match for the Bulls.

"It was an instinctive thing to do," said Brown."I knew it was the last chance to score in a fantastic game."

Reflecting on the game Brown pointed out Hereford produced a great fightback after going two down in the first nine minutes and deserved victory. "At two down many other teams would have crumbled, but we have a good team spirit and that carried us through," said Brown.

Hereford director of football Graham Turner was up-beat about the fightback by his young players. "The game had everything and I am delighted. Tony James kept his nerve when he took the penalty for the second time.

"Aldershot are no mugs and have some useful players but the manner in which we won was excellent."


Where were you?

Fifteen more supporters through the gate would have given a 5,000 attendance figure yesterday at Edgar Street, which was double the next highest crowd of the day, that at Woking. It was also the highest in the Conference so far this season.

It was also United's highest crowd for a league match since 1997, and any match since 1999, when Leicester City were the opponents in the FA Cup.

And there can't have been a supporter for either team that could have complained at the excitement of the game, which was surely one of the best, if not the best, at the ground since Hereford joined the Conference.

The match had everything, goals, a re-taken penalty, a bust up in the Shots dressing room at half-time, yellow cards galore, and a red one near the end. Yet it wasn't a dirty match and a number of cards given were for enthusiatic challenges more than real fouls.

Those fans who set off for the ground at their normal time were faced with queue of ten to fifteen minutes to gain entrance!

The game attracted a few extra reporters and so there should be articles in both the Telegraph and the Times this morning.

As a result of the win, Hereford odds to top the Conference this season have been reduced again to 6-1 by Skybet.

Hereford United will remain top of the Conference even if Shrewsbury Town, currently three points behind the Bulls, beat Chester City this evening unless the margin is by at least six goals. A draw might suit the Bulls.


Monday, August 25, 2003

Late goal in the name of entertainment!

Scorer of Hereford United's second goal, Michael Rose, was exhilerated after beating Aldershot Town 4-3.

"We've got to keep everyone entertained," he joked of the injury-time goal. "We've done really well and it was disappointing to concede three goals but we battled really well to come out on top.

"They caused us a few problems but it's nothing we haven't dealt with before. They looked a decent side but we were the better team on the day."

Talking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, he said of his own goal: "I got the ball and just hit it. I didn't think it was going in but as I looked up, it was!

"We put a lot of pressure on them in the second half. They had one chance and they scored from it, but we kept going."

Aldershot boss Terry Brown was annoyed to have lost the match in injury time and in the process surrender top-spot in the league. "We're just disappointed to have lost a very close encounter," he said. "I thought they were brilliant at times and played good football."

"This game sums up just why we're delighted to be in the Conference," he said. "It was a fantastic football match and I thought it had everything.

However, the switching of goalkeepers at half-time came after a bust-up with Nikki Bull. "There's only room for one gaffer in the dressing room - and that's me," proclaimed Brown, who was also angry at his side's red card. "I thought the Roscoe D'Sane sending-off was diabolical. He didn't make contact with the man or the ball."

United manager Graham Turner was delighted with the outcome. "That was one of the most exciting matches in the eight years I've been at Edgar Street," he said. "Everything we did wrong was exposed in the first ten minutes, but we stuck at it."


Seven goal thriller
Hereford United came off the field with a four-three win over Aldershot this afternoon, in one of the most exciting game at Edgar Street for some years. The Shots went 2-0 up but Hereford improved their game with goals from James, Williams , Rose and the winner from sub David Brown. The attendance was 4985.
Bulls leave bumper crowd elated
Hereford United 4 - 3 Aldershot Town

When Hereford went 2-0 down on nine minutes, it looked as if Aldershot Town had this game wrapped up but a series of twists meant Hereford United emerged 4-3 victors with a late, late goal.

Billed as the first six-pointer of the Nationwide Conference campaign, the game didn't fail to satisfy the bumper crowd of 4,985 at Edgar Street, which is the biggest league attendance since Hereford's relegation to the non-league game in 1997. They also leap-frog today's opponents back to the summit of the league.

It could have gone the other way, though, as Tony James scored the first goal on five minutes - in his own net. A deep cross from the right channel from Nick Roddis fell to James, and his attempted clearance cruely crept past Matt Baker to put the Shots ahead. Four minutes later, Aldershot broke from a United attack and Tim Sills drew Baker out of his area before rounding him and slotting the ball into an empty net.

At that point, the Bulls could have few complaints but they slowly came back into the game and had levelled by the break. First, Ben Smith was brought down just outside the penalty area and Nikki Bull stood no chance in their goal as Danny Williams' fierce free-kick hit the back of the net.

Ben Smith threaded a good ball through the Shots defence to Rob Purdie on thirty-six, but Bull got to it first as United searched for the equaliser, and four minutes later a Paul Parry cross from the Hereford left was nodded inches over by Danny Williams who was just four yards from goal.

However, Purdie fed Michael Rose in injury time, and on the turn his long-range effort levelled proceedings.

Aldershot withdrew goalkeeper Bull at the break for Richard Barnard after an argument in the dressing room, and the replacement brought down Ben Smith three minutes into the second half. Tony James, ready to redeem himself from his earlier own-goal, stepped up but Barnard pushed the ball away to his right. However, he had moved off his line and the referee, Mr. R. Lewis, had no option but to order a retake. This time, James made no mistake as he fired into the roof of the net.

Both Danny Williams and Steve Guinan went close as the game wore on, but Aldershot scored again with twenty-two minutes to gol. Released by a long ball from the left channel, Aaron McLean fired a low shot across Baker's goal and in off the post. The 440 away fans were delighted, and almost saw Roscoe D'Sane put their side ahead when his curling effort from outside the box went wide. Tim Sills also nodded a ball wide from ten yards out after a later cross from the left.

Then, another twist, as D'Sane was dismissed for a second bookable offence for a challenge, which was slammed by irate Shots manager Terry Brown. Nevertheless, they must have felt they had done enough for a point, but it wasn't to be. In the third minute of injury time, a Michael Rose corner from the right was flicked on to find substitute David Brown at the far post. He fired the ball into the net from inside the six yard box to send Hereford top.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 25th August 2003.
Hereford United Aldershot Town
Matt Baker Nikki Bull (off, half time)
Ryan Green Nick Roddis
Michael Rose Jason Chewins
Jamie Pitman Ray Warburton
Andy Tretton Dominic Sterling
Tony James (captain) Fiston Manuella
Danny Williams Jon Challinor
Ben Smith Lee Charles (off, 84 minutes)
Steve Guinan (off, 73 minutes) Tim Sills
Rob Purdie Roscoe D'Sane
Paul Parry Aaron McLean (off, 90 minutes)
Subs Subs
David Brown (on, 73 minutes) Michael Harper (on, 90 minutes)
Ben Scott Richard Barnard (on, half time)
Richard Teesdale Luke Gedling
Jordan King John Nutter (on, 84 minutes)
Dean Craven Stuart Tanfield
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Andy Tretton (foul, 11 minutes) Nick Roddis (foul, 2 minutes)
Tony James (foul, 23 minutes) Ray Warburton (foul, 45 minutes)
Jamie Pitman (dissent, 31 minutes) Richard Barnard (foul, 48 minutes)
Michael Rose (foul, 43 minutes) Roscoe D'Sane (dissent, 49 minutes)
Steve Guinan (dissent, 45 minutes) Tim Sills (foul, 75 minutes)
- Roscoe D'Sane (foul, 83 minutes)
Red cards Red cards
- Roscoe D'Sane (two bookings, 83 minutes)
Scorers Scorers
Danny Williams (29 minutes) Tony James (own goal, 5 minutes)
Michael Rose (45 minutes) Tim Sills (9 minutes)
Tony James (penalty, 51 minutes) Aaron McLean (68 minutes)
David Brown (90 minutes) -
- -
Man of the Match The Team
Attendance 4985
Referee Mr. R. Lewis


Sunday, August 24, 2003

First meeting for twelve years

Tomorrow sees a top of the table clash with the leaders travelling to the 2nd placed club in the Conference, kick off 3pm.

Hereford United host Aldershot at Edgar Street in the first game between the two clubs since October 1991, when a single goal at Edgar Street handed the Bulls the Fourth Division points.

This result, though, was expunged from the records when the old Aldershot club went bust in March 1992, resigning from the Football League. Tomorrow's opponents are the reformed club, and it is the first time the two have met.

In the eleven years since reformation, Aldershot have risen from the Isthmian Division Three to the Conference, where they lie today after last season's Ryman League Premier Division win.

Terry Brown, now manager at the Recreation Ground, has something of an injury problem at the back with Jim Rodwell, Ray Warburton and Dean Hooper all likely to miss out on the game, although Dean Sterling is likely to feature again. Anthony Charles is a long-term injury victim after undergoing a hernia operation.

Hereford United have a doubt over the fitness of striker Daniel Carey-Bertram, who came off with a hamstring strain in yesterday's 1-1 draw at Barnet.


Disappointment over dropped points

Hereford United midfielder Danny Williams was slightly disappointed with the outcome of yesterday's 1-1 draw at Barnet.

Talking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, the ex-Chesterfield man said: "It was a decent point and a decent game. At the moment the lads are a bit disappointed after going one-up and then missing out.

"We came here and lost last season, but this season after they scored we stayed strong."

The Bulls' goal came on seventy-six minutes as Tony James tucked away a penalty awarded for a foul on Ben Smith. "It was a definite penalty, Although a few of their players didn't seem to think so." proclaimed Williams. "Tony James stuck it away well."

Barnet boss Martin Allen wasn't so sure about the decision. "I am not sure it was a penalty, but the referee gave it and we have to respect his decision," he said.

Barnet equalised eight minutes later after a free-kick was laid-off to Barnet's Ian Hendon to storm home from thirty yards. "The free-kick took a bit of a deflection and we all thought it was going wide but it got them back into the game," continued Williams.

Despite dropping two points, Martin Allen was pleased with the outcome. "Hereford are the best team at the moment so it was good to get a point," he added. "If we had played like that last year, we might have ended up being beaten."

"We did not play well, but we have got the draw against the best team in the league."

"I'm not too disappointed," said United director of football Graham Turner after the match. "This is a tough place to get a point. We're second, we have ten points and crucially, we are unbeaten."

The Bulls now play Aldershot on Monday at Edgar Street in a top-of-the-table clash. "We're really looking forward to the match. It should be a good test, and should have a good few fans there," said Williams, who was concerned that striker Daniel Carey-Bertram may have to miss the match with a tweaked hamstring picked up in the game at Underhill.


Saturday, August 23, 2003

Winning streak ends
Barnet today became the first team of the new season to take any points off Hereford. United only managed a draw against a physical Barnet side. The Bulls took the lead in front of their 300 followers with a Tony James penalty (78), but where unable to hold out for the three points after Hendon free-kick was deflected past Matt Baker six minutes later.
Bees hold Bulls with late goal
Barnet 1 - 1 Hereford United

Before the match, Graham Turner said that Barnet would provide the toughest opposition for his Hereford United team so far this season, and he was proved correct as they surrender their 100% record that has kept them at the summit of the Nationwide Conference.
 

The Bees held the Bulls to secure a deserved point at Underhill in front of 301 United fans in a crowd of 1,475, and Barnet boss Martin Allen will probably feel that this was the right outcome.
 

Tony James' penalty on seventy-six minutes put the Bulls ahead after Ben Smith was fouled in the Barnet box, and the United skipper sent goalkeeper Danny Naisbitt the wrong way, but just eight minutes later, the scores were level again. Ian Hendon's strike from all of thirty yards sailed past Matt Baker, giving the United stopper no chance, although it took a slight deflection on the way through after the initial free-kick was laid-off.
 

The first half was a relatively subdued affair, with neither side able to stamp their authority on proceedings. Ben Strevens nodded a Hendon cross wide at the far post on thirteen minutes, and as the half came to a close, Matt Baker had to make an agile save low to his left to push a Giuliano Grazioli effort from twenty yards around his post.
 

At the other end, Ben Smith forced a save out of Naisbitt with a header from ten yards while Jamie Pitman and Smith again scraped long-range efforts wide of the target. However, the Barnet defence was more than able to cope with United's attacking threat.
 

The main talking point came when Rob Purdie was challenged by Barnet skipper Ian Hendon, as he appeared to attack him with a lunging challenge which brought the United striker down. A yellow card was his punishment, although he was lucky to stay on the field of play.
 

In the second period, Smith's dipping shot from thirty yards sailed inches over the crossbar, while Baker had to save from a Grazioli header after Joe Gamble had provided the ammunition. The Bulls then had a long-range Michael Rose effort pushed wide by Naisbitt, and then found the net on sixty-two when Steve Guinan fired home, but it was disallowed for an offside.
 

Then came the goals, James first and Hendon soon afterwards, but it looked as if a winner could be found, particularly when six minutes of added time was played. However, the best effort came from Barnet's Hendon again, but his low free-kick from thirty yards found its way through the Hereford defence, only for Baker to push it behind.
 

The game as a whole was relatively scrappy, but both sides should be relatively happy with the outcome, which leaves Hereford in second after Aldershot took over top spot.


Written by Terry Goodwin - 23rd August 2003.
Barnet Hereford United
Danny Naisbitt Matt Baker
Mark Rooney Ryan Green
Simon King Michael Rose
Ian Hendon (captain) Jamie Pitman
Chris Plummer Andy Tretton
Danny Maddix Tony James (captain)
Guy Lopez (off, 85 minutes) Danny Williams
Tony Taggart (off, 78 minutes) Ben Smith
Ben Strevens (off, 56 minutes) Rob Purdie (off, 62 minutes)
Giuliano Grazioli Steve Guinan (off, 90 minutes)
Joe Gamble Paul Parry
Subs Subs
Ricky Millard Ben Scott
Lewis Hogg (on, 85 minutes) Richard Teesdale
Mark Williams (on, 56 minutes) Daniel Carey-Bertram (on, 62 minutes, off 79 minutes)
Norman Sylla (off, 78 minutes) Dean Craven (on, 90 minutes)
Neil Saunders David Brown (on, 79 minutes)
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Ian Hendon (foul, 6 minutes) Michael Rose (foul, 31 minutes)
Joe Gamble (dissent, 90 minutes) Ben Smith (foul, 82 minutes)
Danny Williams (foul, 88 minutes)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Ian Hendon (84 minutes) Tony James (penalty, 76 minutes)
Man of the Match Tony James
Attendance 1,475
Referee Mr. M. McCoy (Herne Bay)


Friday, August 22, 2003

Turner looks ahead to weekend games

In an interview with Trevor Owens of BBC Hereford and Worcester, Graham Turner, the Hereford United director of football, has been looking forwrd to this weekend's games and looking back at the season so far.

He said "It's been a great start in terms of the points, goals scored and the goals against column looks very good and I think everybody is enjoying it at the moment. The important thing is not to get carried away. I think there is still room for improvement.

"It's concerned me a couple of times against Morecambe that we conceded chances, good chances to Morecambe at crucial stages of the game. Having said that we had a lot of oppurtunities ourselves from good play, from good passing movements. 3-0 I don't think it flattered us as certainly we could have popped one or two more in but it just concerns me that we have to keep our feet on the floor.

"It will be a tough task at Barnet, to go there and get something and basically the message to the players is that it's been hard work in these three matches and if we continue to work as hard in the next half dozen matches or so we will get a good return from those games as well.

"The two front players that have started off, Steve Guinan and Rob Purdie, have done very well for us not only with goals, Steve's very good return at the moment, but the amount of work they have done, the movement off the ball, the supporting play from the two of them and the combination between the two of them, the understanding, has been first class.

"Obviously we have got David Brown to come in. He has had his first reserve match this week since his collar-bone problem and came through it okay and Daniel Carey-Bertram is doing exceptionally well. He scored a hat-trick for the reserves at Hednesford this week. He got on against Forest Green and scored. He should have scored against Morecambe, probably the easiest chance of the match, but he's looking very lively and has a good attitude towards work and wants to be in that side.

"There is a bit of competition for those front places and we will need that during the course of the season. We have got Steve Guinan at the moment carrying a slight thigh problem. He is getting through the matches but missing the occasional training day and that not the ideal scenario. We are hoping with the rest that he has had this week it might have cleared it up but if at any time he does struggle then we have got adequate replacements to come in.

"We will probably need them over this weekend with two games in three days, Barnet tomorrow and Aldershot on Monday. You need that cover and I think this season although we have not got a great deal of numbers, we have got adequate cover in terms of playing strength.

"I watched the Aldershot game on television when they beat Accrington Stanley and I think they are a decent side. At the back they have got two very experienced players in Warburton and Rodwell. Upfront I thought they were a handfull so we know that it's going to be a tough task. They have not taken their nine points by accident. It was a tremendous win for them at Telford 5-2 and Telford were one of the fancied sides this season so I think we will respect them.

"But first of all we have to get through Barnet which is never an easy place to go to. Tony James and Andy Tretton will need all their experience and know-how to cope with the Barnet front two. If we can contain them we have a good chance of taking the points."


United boss impressed with opposite number

Graham Turner is expecting a tough match tomorrow when the Bulls travel to Barnet tomorrow, kick off 3pm.

Steve Guinan is available after overcoming a thigh injury leaving just Rob Sawyers sidelined, but Turner is aware of the threat that Barnet pose after they beat highly-fancied Telford United 2-0 on the opening day.

Turner said he admires Barnet boss Martin Allen's management style. "I was quite impressed with Martin last season, he was a constant source of encouragement from the dugout and they've got a decent team particularly up front with Grazioli and Strevens," he told the Evening News.

"They will be fired up, organised and prepared to work hard, so we will need to impose our character and style on the game but in the mood we are in we can do that."

Fitness is also a major aspect of the game as the Bulls play Aldershot on Monday. "We need to be lucky at Barnet in terms of staying clear of injuries because there's no time to strengthen or replace players," Turner added.

Aldershot won the Ryman League last season and have won their first three matches in the Conference. "The momentum which Aldershot gained from promotion has kept them going," he said. "Aldershot are a solid side, their front two look very strong and they have got some experienced players so perhaps their start to the season is not such a big surprise."


Youth side slump to defeat

Hereford United's debut in the Midland Floodit Youth League Premier Division didn't go quite according to plan last night.

They hosted Sutton Coldfield Town, but went down 3-1 in the match in their second defeat of the week.

On Monday night, the Bulls lost 7-0 at Port Vale in the first round of the Midland Youth Cup.


Thursday, August 21, 2003

Star striker fit for Barnet test

Hereford United's joint top scorer, Steve Guinan, is fit to face Barnet on Saturday.

The attacker, who along with Ben Smith has scored four times in three matches, had a thigh problem but has been passed fit to play at Underhill, leaving midfielder Rob Sawyers as the only doubt with a back injury.

Barnet boss Martin Allen hopes his side can bounce back from a crushing 5-2 defeat against Deganham & Redbridge, and said: "The players will want to put in a good performance after the disappointment of last week."

Top scorer Guiliano Grazioli, with three goals, is expected to the lead the attack against a United side yet to drop a point and having scored eleven goals.


Reserves beat off Hednesford

In last night's Central Conference reserve match, the Bulls won 4-0 against Hednesford Town. Daniel Carey-Bertram scored a hatrick in the game, and United line-up was: Adam Ding, Paul Collins, Dean Craven, Steve O'Kelly, Richard Teesdale, Jordan King, Chris Mortlock, Daniel Carey-Bertram, David Brown, Alex Loban.

Graham Turner will run the reserve side with Richard O'Kelly this season, and Turner said: "The league will be much better run this season and, although Grantham are in it, the agreement is to play them twice at neutral grounds."

The youth side won 5-0 against Lye Town in the pre-season friendly, and the scorers were Chris Mortlock (2), Lewis Jones, Dean Jordan and Ben Jordan.

However, they crashed 7-0 on Tuesday night to Port Vale to exit the Midland Youth Cup at the opening stage.

The Hereford United Disabled Team kick-off the pre-season matches on Sunday, when they play Chelsea at the Leisure Centre, kick off 2pm.

Elsewhere, former United attacker Stewart Phillips has raised over £2,000 from his London Marathon run. The money will go to three-year-old William Gregory, who has cerebral palsy, and will be used to buy a specialist computer and pay for treatment in London.


Bulls' hopes for cash injection dampened

The sale of a proportion of Mark Blandford's shares in Sportingbet could see him inject some of the fortune into Hereford United.

He reportedly raised just under £2.5 million from the sale, previously reported on HU-FC.co.uk, and is known to be an avid supporter of the club.

However, he has other priorities before the football club. "I know there have been expectations from some fans that I may put money into the football club, but my main priority is my family," he told the Hereford Times.

Meanwhile, the trouble at Tamworth has sparked the board of directors to make a statement on the 'hooligan element' attached to the club. The club are worried about a potential points deduction, and fine, the could be levied if the trouble continues from the twenty or so fans involved, report the Hereford Times.

At the liaison meeting, West Mercia Police will be in attendance to enter into discussions about the problem.

"The incidents, when they happen, occur at away matches," said chairman Graham Turner. "However, it must be pointed out that there were no arrests at the match in Tamworth and the problems do not occur at Edgar Street."

Turner added that court exclusion orders are required against culprits, and that four United followers are currently banned from Edgar Street.


Turner's toughest test

Hereford United face their biggest challenge of the new season, according to Graham Turner, as the Bulls go to Barnet on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

Talking to the Hereford Times, Turner said: "In Martin Allen, Barnet have a very lively and enthusiastic manager. Barnet will be fired up, organised and prepared to work hard, so we will need to impose our character and style on the game."

The Bulls could have Rob Sawyers back from injury for the match, and if that happens could name a fit bill of health for the trip.

Barnet, who lost 5-2 to Dagenham & Redbridge last Saturday, will miss Liam Hatch through injury, and could drop goalkeeper Danny Naisbitt after his disappointing showing in the aforementioned match. Nineteen-year-old Ricky Millard is set to deputise.


Wednesday, August 20, 2003

Morecambe pictures online

HU-FC.co.uk has images of the Morecambe game now online.

These can be accessed by clicking here.

Many thanks to Peter Povall for providing these images.

United's next match is at Barnet on Saturday, and those eligible to concessionary rates can collect vouchers from Edgar Street. Those without tickets must pay full price at Underhill.


Tuesday, August 19, 2003

Odds slashed on Guinan golden boot

The chances of Steve Guinan finishing as top scorer in this season's Nationwide Conference have been severely shortened.

A couple of weeks back, the ex-Nottingham Forest striker was 50/1 but Skybet now quote him at 10/1, alongside Giuliano Grazioli from Barnet, Lee Mills of Telford United and Chester City's Daryl Clare. Mark Stein and Luke Rodgers are favourites at 8/1.

Other United players in the leading odds are Ben Smith at 25/1 with David Brown and Rob Purdie at 50/1. On the title odds front, United are 8/1, joint fourth favourites with Dagenham & Redbridge.


Monday, August 18, 2003

Turner delighted with victory

Graham Turner has told the Footballers Channel that in the three games so far this season Hereford United have played extremely well.

"We have scored a lot of goals and we have played extremely well and that's the pleasing thing," he said. "It's never easy at the start of the season. Everybody is fired up, everybody thinks they are going to have a good season.

"Morecambe are a well fancied team, second best team in the League last season. To have got a win in the style that we have done is a terrific acheivement for us.

"I think there was some terrific passing movements. It was quite creative at times and that speaks volumes for the standard of the Conference. There are a lot of full-time teams in there who work very hard at the game and we are no exception. What we have done on the training ground we are now seeing in matches and we have got some talented players. Not the biggest, not the strongest but some talented players and that's in evidence at the moment."

Picking out players, Turner added: "Ben Smith is a forward running mid-field player, eye for a goal and he has started the season off in fine style. But there were so many good performances it is difficult to pick out individuals. It was a magnificent team performance."

Turning to Rob Purdie, he continued: "He's got terrific technique, great endurance, wants to work. He's got good pace and I think he's got the confidence. He's had a man of the match award. All those sorts of things do the world of good for a young player.

"We expected a tough game and I felt they might come at us second-half but the way we defended did not allow them too many clear-cut chances. The game in the end was not easy for us but fairly comfortable the longer the game went on."


Banning orders in the Conference

Home Office figures released today show that seven Conference clubs have so-called supporters with Football Banning Orders.

The clubs involved are Aldershot, Chester, Exeter, Halifax, Hereford, Shrewsbury and Tamworth. Only thirty-four banning orders are currently in force. Shrewsbury head the list with 22 orders.

Cardiff head the national list with 169 bans.


Rose and Baker to collect awards

The confguide.com has reported that Michael Rose and Matt Baker are to collect plaques for being in the England National Game XI (formerly the England Semi-pro XI) which won the Four Nations Tournament in Wales last May.

At half-time in the full international friendly between England and Croatia at Portman Road, the players from the National Game XI will be awarded their Four Nations winning plaques by Newcastle United boss Sir Bobby Robson, who is The FA's Guest of Honour at the Suffolk club where he made his name almost twenty five years ago.

The game is to be played on Wednesday 20th August.


Sunday, August 17, 2003

Turnover rules unclear

In an article published in today's Non-League Paper, the chairman of Chester City, ex-boxer Stephen Vaughan, estimates that his club has swallowed £1.8 million of his own money and goes on to say that if his manager Mark Wright needs more money to strengthen the side, it will be found.

He also says that he wants to develop a multi-purpose clubroom, capable of catering for up to 400, which without any brewery support will cost another £1 million.

Vaughan is full of praise for the Conference. "It is run on a very professional basis," he said. "The expansion plans are the right way ahead.

"We did vote against the wage-capping, but with our turnover hopefully set to top the £1 million mark, we can live with it."

The 65% rule that was introduced by the Conference for this season means that Chester should be able to pay their players about £650,000 in wages. Although their squad is larger than that at Hereford, some of their players are probably earning more per week as well.

Comparing turnover is difficult. Last season the average gate at the Deva Stadium was 2406 which was 368 more than at Edgar Street. Admission charges were similar so the question has to be where does the rest of Chester's turnover come from?

Graham Turner has suggested that he will have about £400,000 for wages, including National Insurance payments this season. This figure may increase should gate receipts stay close to the current higher level. For the first two home games this season the gate at Chester has averaged 2074 and at Hereford 3068.

Turner recently told Talking Bull that he could not see how certain Conference club managers seem to be spending considerable sums despite the new rule. "I hear that some players are said to be earning £2,000 per week. We don't see how they can be sticking to the rules especially when you consider that some of these clubs have average gates of 800 to 1000."

It is understood that the Conference are likely to look at how clubs are managing the 65% rule during the season, but unless an audit is carried out it is difficult to ascertain how any checks can be accurate. In any case the Conference have refused to tell the press more than a very basic summary of how the rule is to be policed.

Meanwhile Sportingbet has told HU-FC.co.uk that it has withdrawn its 16-1 offer on the Bulls winning the Conference. Its latest price will be available tomorrow.


Reserve team relaunched

Hereford United have announced that the reserve team will play competitive matches this season, after featuring in only friendly matches in 2002/03.

The Bulls will play in the Sygnus Central Conference Reserve League alongside Grantham Town, Hednesford Town, Nuneaton Borough and Stafford Rangers. Two other teams are likely to be added to the line-up, according to the Bullseye magazine.

Hednesford Town is the destination for United in the first match on Wednesday, 20th August.

The 2001/02 Central Conference was not completed, and as a result, only Hednesford and Hereford have entered the new set-up after the competition was not competed last term.

Of the 2001/02 season, Graham Turner said: "It was very foolish to include Boston from so far away in the league last season and, sadly, the league was a complete and utter shambles."


Saturday, August 16, 2003

Performance impresses Pitman

Bulls midfielder Jamie Pitman was delighted with the outcome of today's match against Morecambe.

Talking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, he said: "We're delighted with the start we've had. Today was always going to be a tough game but it turned out that we dominated most of it.

"Our workrate on the pitch is what gets us our results," he continued. "We've worked hard over the summer and it's starting to show in the games."

Of Morecambe, he added: "They had a lot of possession but could not break us down and that's due to an excellent back four, and the midfield lads, who work exceptionally hard."

Graham Turner was obviously very pleased. "It was a magnificent team performance," said the Hereford director of football. "Morecambe have a number of very useful players but in the second half when we expected them to come back at us our covering and tracking back were excellent.

On the quality of the game Turner commented "It speaks volumes for the strength of the Conference"

Meanwhile, once again HU-FC.co.uk reports that the odds on the Bulls winning the Conference are dropping.

Only Sportingbet are still quoting good odds of 16-1. Bet 365 has shortened its price to 7-1 and Skybet is giving 8-1.


Bulls stay top

Hereford United stay top of the Conference tonight with nine points but still only on goal average from newcomers Aldershot. The two clubs meet at Edgar Street on Monday week. Aldershot beat Telford 5-2 at the Bucks Head this afternoon where ex-Bulls striker John Grant scored late on for the home team.

Hereford have scored eleven goals against two and Aldershot nine with four against them. After these two teams come Halifax, Shrewsbury and Chester all on seven points.

Before the Hereford game Ian Wright the former Bulls captain presented Michael Rose with a plaque for reaching last season's Conference team of the year. Wright has moved to Burton but was injured last Tuesday so was able to do the presentation.


Three wins in a row
Hereford United made it three league wins in a row with a 3-0 defeat of Morecambe at Edgar Street. Goals by Ben Smith, Steve Guinan and Ben Smith again proved too much for the Shrimps.

The only disappointment was that the attendance just failed to reach 3000.
Smith double keeps United top
Hereford United 3 - 0 Morecambe
This was meant to be the tough one, the match which decided whether United could hold their own with the best in the league. They can, as they won 3-0 at Edgar Street against Morecambe.

The Bulls, unchanged once again, took the lead after eighteen minutes through Ben Smith. A superb move saw Tony James feed Ryan Green, who took a dazzling run to within thirty yards of goal. Then he whipped the ball to Paul Parry on the left flank, who beat Chris Lane before finding Smith, who turned home to open the scoring.

Before that, Steve Guinan and Danny Williams had tested Morecambe stopper Craig Mawson while at the other end, Matt Baker was forced into two early saves from Gary Thompson.

Stewart Drummond's downward header three minutes after the goal bounced over the crossbar from close range as Morecambe looked for an equaliser, and Adriano Rigoglioso went one-on-one with Baker on another occasion, but the United 'keeper saved with his feet.

Two minutes before the half hour mark, Hereford doubled their advantage. A break upfield saw Jamie Pitman knock over a long ball for Steve Guinan, who controlled well to knock into the bottom corner from an acute angle.

Guinan should have made it three just before the break, but his chip following a poor punch from Mawson went just wide of the far post. At the other end, Thompson had a golden opportunity but his angled drive went across goal and out of play.

Just even minutes after the restart, a good move on the right culminated in Hereford's third. Ryan Green found Rob Purdie, who knocked it back to Guinan. The ex-Shrewsbury Town attacker found Smith at the far post, and he fired the ball into the roof of the net to put the result beyond reasonable doubt.

From then on, the ninety five away fans didn't have much to cheer in a crowd of 2,941. Danny Williams struck a ball inches over the crossbar, while substitutes Daniel Carey-Bertram and David Brown both made impacts after coming on in attack for United. The best effort came from Carey-Bertram, whose chip went inches wide after he robbed the ball from defender Dave Perkins.

In added time, Wayne Curtis found the net but was flagged offside by the assistant referee as Hereford romped home to another victory. They lead the Conference with a maximum points haul from their opening three games.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 16th August 2003.
Hereford United Morecambe
Matt Baker Craig Mawson
Ryan Green David Perkins
Michael Rose Iain Swan (off, half time)
Jamie Pitman Jim Bentley
Andy Tretton Chris Lane
Tony James (captain) Dean Howell
Danny Williams Stewart Drummond
Ben Smith Michael Stringfellow
Steve Guinan (off, 65 minutes) Gary Thompson (off, 79 minutes)
Rob Purdie (off, 78 minutes) Lee Collins (off, half time)
Paul Parry Adriano Rigoglioso
Subs Subs
Dean Craven Dave McKearney
Daniel Carey-Bertram (off, 65 minutes) Wayne Curtis
David Brown (on, 78 minutes) Danny Carlton
Ben Scott Ryan Zico Black
Richard Teesdale Kieron Walmsley
Yellow cards Yellow cards
- -
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Steve Guinan (28 minutes) -
Ben Smith (18, 52 minutes)  
   
Man of the Match Ben Smith
Attendance 2941
Referee Mr. G. Chapman (Stroud)


General news round-up

  • Going to Barnet, Stevenage or Farnborough? The trips to Barnet and Stevenage depart at 9.30am and cost £16 and £17 respectively, while Farnborough is a 10am departure on the match day costing £15. Bookings for the supporters coach will be taken through the club office and also in Legends before today's match.
  • The HUISA AGM is today, Saturday, at midday in the Richmond Club.
  • Today also sees the first Talking Bull of the new season on sale. The new design has given the publication a fresh feeling, and it will be available for just £1.
  • The club have organised two sports dinners. They will both be held at the Three Counties Hotel, with the first on Thursday 13th November and the next on Thursday 19th February 2004. The November date includes after-dinner speaker Steve Kindon and comedian Ian Lees, and costs £30, while John Conteh and comedian Bob Webb will be the guests in February. Tickets are available now for the November date from the club.
  • In the last few days, HU-FC.co.uk's worldwide appeal has been proven, with users all over the globe. In addition to those in the UK and Ireland, visitors have been recorded in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Greece, the USA, Australia, Cyprus, Belgium, South Africa, Singapore, Italy, Romania, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Japan and Russia. Thanks to all our visitors.

Friday, August 15, 2003

Bulls aim to maintain lead

Graham Turner hopes that Hereford United can maintain their good start to the season, which sees them lying top of the Nationwide Conference.

The Bulls have had to overcome blistering heat in their opening two matches, and Turner acknowledges that the performances have been great to watch.

He told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "I think we all agree that the opening two matches have been outstanding in both our performances and results. It was a hard fought game at Tamworth. We had to wear them down, and against Forest Green it was,I thought, for a period quite a hard match. It wasn't until we went 2-1 up just before half time, that the mood of the players changed and we could go on and play.

"When you look at this time last year, it was Woking that started off at a sprint and went from almost top to almost bottom in a matter of weeks. We know the pitfalls and this game against Morecambe will be a real test. They were the second best team in the league last year, so it will be a fair test for our ability to see if we can get three points out of this game."

Despite lacking the physical presence of some sides in the Conference, Turner is adamant that the fitness and ability of the squad will shine through.

"The early indications are favourable about our level of fitness, but it's also the desire to work hard," he said. "When we've had the ball, the movement and the supporting ability for the man on the ball has been excellent.

"In Andy Tretton and Tony James, we have excellent headers of the ball. We compare to Yeovil last year in terms of personnel in the side. They weren't the tallest side in the league, but had two centre halves who could head well."

Hereford have fielded the same starting eleven for the first two matches of the season, so several players have not yet seen any action. "We have a reserve match next week for those who haven't played so far to get some football, to gain some match practice ahead of next weekend's games," added the United boss.

At tomorrow's match, the first edition of Talking Bull 2003/04 will be available. It has a new format, and all sales support the club.


Two doubts for Conference battle

Rob Sawyers is likely to miss Hereford United's third match of the season, when they host Morecambe at Edgar Street tomorrow, kick off 3pm.

The former Barnet midfielder has a back injury, and Steve Guinan could also miss out on the match if he is not fit enough to take his place in the line-up.

Turner told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "Steve Guinan is struggling with a quad injury. He's got through the last two matches, but it will be a calculated decision as to whether he starts against Morecambe. If not, David Brown is ready to come in."

"You have to keep your feet on the floor," he added. "What has got us two results will get us the next few results and that was based on hard work and the ability of the players.

"That hard work is definitely in evidence and it's got to continue."

The Shrimps are also injury-free for the match against a Bulls side currently top of the Nationwide Conference.


Thursday, August 14, 2003

James is confident

Tony James, the Hereford United captain, is confident the Bulls can make a serious challenge for the Nationwide Conference title after comprehensive victories in their first two matches.

Speaking to the Western Daily Press, James said: "We couldn't have wished for a better start after beating Tamworth (3-1) and Forest Green Rovers (5-1).

"It was a big disappointment to just miss making the play-offs last April but we are confident we can do better than that this time.

"Although we are still a young side most of us know what Conference football is all about now.

"Last season we picked up only five points from our first five games at Edgar Street and we will be aiming to do much better."

Meanwhile, Hereford are now being quoted at 9-1 to win the Conference by Stanleybet, down one point in just 24 hours.


Shrimps to provide tough test

Hereford United aim to remain in top spot in the Nationwide Conference by collecting the points from Morecambe at Edgar Street on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

Jimmy Harvey's men have won one and lost one of their opening games, as they slumped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Halifax Town on Tuesday night while Hereford were crushing Forest Green Rovers 5-1.

The Shrimps are could field former Bull Chris Lane at right-back, who switched from Southport in the summer and Graham Turner, the United boss, is expecting a tough encounter.

"Morecambe are a very good side, who, like us, try to play some good football, so it should be an interesting encounter," he told the Hereford Times.

The Bulls should have a full squad to choose from, although striker David Brown is still recovering from a broken collarbone.

For the latest match updates throughout the game, including post-match reaction, call Hereford United ClubCall on 09068 121 645. The organisation are trialling the viability of reports in the early stages of the season, so please support their efforts as funds generated go to support the club.


Police use website to monitor trouble-makers

Following the isolated incidents of trouble at Tamworth last Saturday, the police have revealed that they will monitor a website to anticipate the hooligan's moves.

PC Steve Thomas, the football liaison officer in Hereford, said that the internet is 'a key instrument' for the hooligans, report the Hereford Times.

Hereford United boss Graham Turner, who calmed down the trouble during the first half at Tamworth, said: "They are not interested in football but they are sadly associated with this football club and should not be."

The police were effective in stifling any trouble in Hereford on the last day of last season, when Doncaster Rovers were the visitors.


Wednesday, August 13, 2003

Odds cut again

The odds on Hereford United winning the Conference this season have been cut by all but one of the leading bookmakers as the Bulls currently top the league.

Prices have dropped as low as 10-1 at some on-line bookies and the average price appears to be 11-1. Chester are still favourites at prices between 7-2 and 9-2.

United are still quoted at 16/1 with Sportingbet, whose founder and deputy chairman Mark Blandford yesterday sold £2.48 million worth of shares in the online betting group.

Blandford, a Hereford United supporter, has reduced his share by almost third to just 8% in the Channel Island-based organisation. He formed Sportingbet six years ago, as the dot com boom began.


Addison plays up United's promotion credentials

It was certainly en emphatic display from Hereford United last night, who beat local rivals Forest Green Rovers 5-1.

Bulls director of football Graham Turner praised his side's performance highly, after three second-half goals wrapped up the points.

"We were full of running, ideas and creativity," he said. "We never allowed them to upset our rhythm."

In the other dug-out battered Rovers manager Colin Addison had no reply to Hereford's attacking prowess. Summing up after the game, he felt Hereford were among the promotion favourites.

"Hereford are certainly a team to be reckoned with this season. They played some excellent football and scored some great goals," said the former Hereford boss. "They are a team to be reckoned with this season and I congratulate them and Graham Turner on a great performance.

"They've absolutely whipped up tonight and I haven't got any complaint about it. The score was right."