Guinan tops the poll

Steve Guinan has topped the FA poll.

The FA.com site reports Guinan as saying: "I am delighted to win the award. I have been following the poll all week and it's really exciting to watch, you never know what can happen. It's great that I can now put something back into football at a local level and would just like to say thank you to everyone who voted for me."

Steve will be presented with an UMBRO kit player package including XAI boots and training kit, and an engraved FA salver. FA partner UMBRO will also donate £1000 worth of football kit and equipment to the school, club or organisation of Steve's choice.

FA Director of Marketing and Communications Paul Barber said:

"Steve's hat-trick will live long in the memory of Hereford United fans. We want to thank the many thousands of fans who voted on-line for Steve, guaranteeing that grass roots football in the Hereford area will benefit from the £1000 kit and equipment donation from FA partner UMBRO."

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Leigh are a miracle

Graham Turner has praised the way Leigh RMI stay in business.

Speaking on BBC Hereford & Worcester, he said:"I think it's a miraculous job they do keeping them in the Conference with gates of four or five hundred, shared ground with the rugby club, and I don't think they get all the revenue from the gates they do get.

"It must be an absolute nightmare for them, but they do well to stay in there. But sentiment does not come into it and if we can give them a right good thrashing that's what we have to do."

At least Leigh RMI are still in business. The Conference Television company may not be early next week.

It is understood that the bank behind TTFC, the company that has been filming and broadcasting Conference games this season, has recently decided that they want the facility paid back earlier than thought. This has had an affect on the companies cash position and TTFC have spent this week trying to restructure the company with new funding.

It seems that it is the company's main priority is to settle outstanding invoices and they are hoping to give an indication as to if and/or when these will be paid early next week.

An annoucement on the future of the channel is expected after this weekend.

Should the company fold, Hereford United are likely to miss out on any pay-out originally promised by the company.

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Festive fixture moved forward

Hereford United have annouced that the match against Forest Green Rovers has been moved forward a day.

Graham Turner's men will now play their local derby at the Lawn on Friday 19th December, instead of Saturday 20th.

The reason for the change of day is explained on the Official Forest Green Rovers website, which reads: "This is because a low crowd was expected for the last Saturday before Christmas, due to people shopping etc., also the fixture move will relieve parking problems on the Saturday in the Nailsworth Town region. The club are hoping that the College car park will be available for the Hereford match."

Now, you can watch the football and do all your last-minute Christmas shopping!

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Rain at Hereford

The Hereford area has received more rain in the last twenty-four hours than at any other time in the last two months. Although, as at early afternoon today, the rain has eased, the pitch at Edgar Street will have softened greatly.

For the Hereford United squad, this could be the first time this season they have played on what could be a greasy pitch. The conditions will depend on how soon the predicted drier weather arrives.

Whatever the conditions Graham Turner has said that the game against Leigh RMI is a must win match for the team.

"If we don't win these sort of games then we are not going to win the championship, we are not going to make the play-offs. So that has got to be the message to the players," Turner told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

Meanwhile Steve Guinan, the Bulls top scorer who scored a hat-trick at Harrow last Saturday, is still polling well in the vote on the FA Website to pick the player of the round from the FA Cup games last weekend. Polling ends at 5pm (Friday). Guinan will lead the attack once again tomorrow, and the Evening News reports that Rob Purdie is back in contention after an ankle injury.

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Television Channel in trouble

TFFC, the television company that has started to record Conference games and broadcast them on broadband, looks to be in trouble.

It appears that they are still having problems with the poor security of the Nationwide Conference broadband site and the problems with the Paypal payment system. It is being suggested that too many supporters are not paying for the service.

In a posting on Confguide.com, spokeman John Warrington admits there are cashflow problems. Therefore the channel feels it would be wrong to ask contributors to carry on working without guarantees until this situation has been rectified. This means that they will not be able to make available any of the games played this coming weekend.

Warrington said that although they are urgently trying to restructure the company, no deal has been completed in time for this weekend. Until this has been achieved, they would ask that supporters do not susbcribe to the channel. They will be contacting existing subcribers by the middle of next week to clarify the situation.

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Seventeen from seven is Turner's aim

Graham Turner is hoping that the Bulls can pick-up seventeen points from the third group of seven games. It will be a tough challenge but the manager believes it is possible. The Bulls first two sections of seven games produced nineteen and fourteen points.

"If we do manage to get those seventeen points, then we should be well clear in the league as Chester, in particular, have a very tough programme over their next six games," Turner told the Hereford Times.

The seven games in this section of the season started with the away draw at Chester and include two more tough away games at Accrington and Shrewsbury.

"But we also have four home games, against Leigh RMI, Margate, Halifax, and Farnborough, so while it's a demanding target we don't feel it's anything we can't achieve, " he added.

The manager also revealed that the club was having to pay out bonuses to the players because of being in the top three in the Conference.

"We don't begrudge that at all. The players have deserved every penny."

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United aim to stay top

Hereford United expect to beat Leigh RMI at Edgar Street on Saturday, but they will not underestimate the task, kick off 3pm.

The Railwaymen languish in the Nationwide Conference relegation zone and have a new management team in place, albeit temporarily, after Mark Patterson left last week. Phil Starbuck, who played on-loan for Hereford from Nottingham Forest in the Ian Bowyer era, will take charge of Leigh, and is hoping to get the job on a full-time basis.

On the other hand, Graham Turner has been United manager since 1995 and his side currently sit at the top of the Conference, but will be dented for the game. Paul Parry will miss out with an ankle injury as he will not be risked ahead of next weekend's FA Cup clash with Peterborough United. Rob Purdie and Andy Tretton are also set to miss out again, but Tamika Mkandawire is likely to return at the heart of defence alongside Tony James. Ryan Green should be fit enough to play at right-back, allowing Jamie Pitman to slot back into the midfield alongside Ben Smith.

In Leigh's seven away matches so far, they have picked up just four points. Hereford, on the other hand, have dropped just four out of a possible twenty-one at Edgar Street.

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No FA Cup game for Tam

Graham Turner has confirmed that Tamika Mkandawire can not play in Saturday week's FA Cup match against Peterborough. Speaking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, the United boss said that Mkandawire would stay on-loan at Edgar Street for another month.

"We have agreed with West Brom that he can stay for another month. His loan was originally due to finish on Saturday," he commented.

"I would have liked to have persuaded them to allow him to play in the FA Cup but so far they have not budged on that."

Turner also said that he was unlikely to risk Paul Parry on Saturday as he is hoping his injury, picked up at Harrow last Saturday, will have cleared up enough to allow him to play at Peterborough in the Cup game.

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Tam deal boosts Bulls

Tamika Mkandawire's loan-stay at Hereford United has been extended for a further month.

Faced with injuries to several members of his squad, Graham Turner has moved to bolster his numbers by securing the services of the West Bromwich player who has impressed during his time at Edgar Street so far.

It is thought that he will remain unable to take part in the FA Cup game against Peterborough as West Brom did not want him cup-tied, but this has not been confirmed as yet.

Turner still has injury problems to various players. The Hereford Times reports this morning that Rob Purdie's fitness is still in the balance and Andy Tretton is some way from returning to the team with his thigh injury.

Paul Parry, whose ankle knock was reported on Tuesday not to be as bad as first thought by Turner, is unlikely to play on Saturday against Leigh RMI but it is hoped that Ryan Green will be back.

Meanwhile, the Bill enabling the Hereford livestock market to be moved away from its present site is expected to receive the Royal Assent today.

Herefordshire Council are still to annouce where the market will be moved to but at least the granting of permission means that a move is now likely.

This will free up the site for redevelopment as part of the Edgar Street area plans.

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Admission prices for LDV

Supporters can watch next Tuesday's LDV Vans Trophy at slightly reduced addmission prices when compared to league games.

The charges for the game, when Hereford United take on Northampton, will be £9 and £5 (concessions) in the stand and £7 and £3 (concessions) in the terraces.

Meanwhile, Peterborough have announced that Ipswich goalkeeper James Pullen is set to sign on an initial one month loan deal with a view to making a permanent move to London Road.

Posh manager Barry Fry wants to complete the deal before the weekend so Pullen will be available for next week's FA Cup first round tie at home to Hereford.

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Too dark at Posh

The flood lights at Peterborough United are not good enough, Sky TV has told the Cambridgeshire-based club.

A news item on the Peterborough website reports that Sky television chiefs have told Posh that their first round tie with Nationwide Conference leaders Hereford United will not be broadcast live because of the poor quality of the London Road floodlights.

Posh (and Hereford United) would have picked up a handy £50,000 if they had been chosen for live coverage. Now they are hoping for the windfall which comes with selection as a feature on a highlights programme.

Posh boss Barry Fry said: "I contacted Sky and they told me we were not under consideration for a live broadcast because of our poor floodlights."

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Wrong says Turner

Articles put on this and other websites about Leon Jeanne coming to Hereford are wrong says Graham Turner.

The Bulls manager has told BBC Hereford and Worcester that there is no truth at all in rumours linking the club with the former Cardiff City player Leon Jeanne.

"He's a player I know nothing about. We've got no interest in him. I understand it is on websites and different things like that, but we've got no interest in the player at all." said Turner.

Graham Turner had better news about Paul Parry. It seems that his injury may not be as bad as first thought.

"It will be another day or so before it settles down and we can really tell if he's going to be out for any length of time. Certainly the early reports say it is not as bad as first feared and he might not miss too much," said Turner.

Meanwhile former Hereford defender, Rob Sawyers, has signed for Dr Martens League Western Division title-chasers Redditch United.

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Mixed emotions at Posh

There were mixed emotions from Peterborough after they were handed a first round FA Cup draw at home to Nationwide Conference leaders Hereford United, according to the Peterborough Evening Telegraph.

Posh manager Barry Fry realises his side have been set up for possible embarrassment at the hands of the country's top non-league side, but he is also rubbing his hands at a financial killing from television coverage of the tie.

Clubs receive £50,000 for live coverage of a match and £20,000 if they are a featured game on a highlights programme.

Fry said: "I've had a word with Sky TV already and it's fair to say if we'd been drawn away we would have definitely been one of the two games to be shown live.

"But then they might look at our home form and think we are ripe for a shock and put us on anyway. If we're not live, I'm sure we'll be a featured game at night so we could make a nice bit of money out of it.

"There's also prize money for winning, but that won't be easy against a side who are on the top of their game. Hereford have scored 37 goals already this season and regularly put four, five and six goals past their opposition.

"It's a worrying tie in a way because we are on a hiding to nothing."

Posh defender Gareth Jelleyman, a Welsh under-21 international, commented on the Hereford tie: "I am pleased with the home draw and Hereford is not far from Wales so it is quite a good one for me!"

Midfielder Steven Thomson told their official website: "It is good, but only if we get the win to take us through to the second round of the competition."

Player coach Andy Legg added: ‘It is a home draw, but it is a game that the lads will have to be on their guard for. It will be tough though because Hereford are a decent outfit, but a it is a match to look forward too."

Hereford have been out of the Football League since 1997, but currently stand in pole position for a return after suffering just one defeat in their opening 15 Conference matches.

They qualified for the first round proper of the cup with a 6-1 win at Harrow Borough.

Meanwhile, Sky have not announced what games they are to show from the FA Cup First round, but a slot has been pencilled in for a replay on November 18th. The BBC are to show the game at Accrington Stanley.

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Vote for Guinan

Steve Guinan has been short listed on the FA website for player of the round, after his performance for the Bulls in Saturdays FA Cup tie with Harrow Borough.

The FA website had the following to say about the Bulls star striker: "Fans of Hereford United, Shildon and East Thurrock United are being urged to voice their support for Steve Guinan, Gary Barnes and Mark Hardingham to decide TheFA.com's FA Cup Player of the Round Award, run in partnership with UMBRO, after Saturday's Fourth Qualifying Round of the world's most famous competition...

"Former Nottingham Forest trainee Steve Guinan has been in scintillating form for Conference table-toppers Hereford United this season, and added to his burgeoning reputation on Saturday with a hat-trick to help the 'Bulls' to a 6-1 away win at Harrow Borough.

"Hereford's reward is a First Round away tie to Second Division Peterborough United managed by Barry Fry, and with Guinan and Ben Smith in hot goalscoring form, Graham Turner's side will fancy their chances.

"These three players were nominated from over 700 players from 64 clubs throughout the country eligible for the FA Cup Player of the Round award, and will be aiming to join previous round winners James Curley of Oldham Town, Paddy James of Lymington & New Milton and Jeff Minton of Canvey Island."

FA Director of Marketing and Communications Paul Barber said. "The FA Cup always produces heroes and last weekend was no exception."

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Leon Jeanne linked with Hereford

Hereford United are to give a trial to former Cardiff City player Leon Jeanne.

HTV Wales report that the former Welsh under-21 international will join the Bulls for training next week.

Jeanne, twenty-two year old midfielder or attacker, has told reporters that he wants to get back into football after a five week trial at Cardiff Crown Court, where he was acquitted of conspiracy to supply cocaine.

The court heard how Jeanne, a youngster with Arsenal and QPR before joining the Bluebirds, "blew all his wages" on drink and drugs. He was earning £1,000 a week before being sacked from his role at Ninian Park.

He was arrested in September 2002, and case Prosecutor Stephen Hopkins QC told the jury: "In many ways you might have some sympathy for him. He found fame and fortune at a young age."

Outside court, Jeanne added: "I've finished with drugs and I will never go back. I have already had talks with the managers at Wycombe and Hereford and I'm looking forward to getting my life back on track. I've been innocent from the start and you will never see me back in court again."

He described the months since his arrest as "hell". Cardiff City paid for him to go to a drug rehablitiation center before he moved on to other teams.

On BBC Wales, he added: "I'm going back to football on Monday to get my life back on track. I'm going to start from the bottom and work my way back up again.There are 90, no 100, clubs in the league."

"One manager is going to take a chance."

The situation with Jeanne is not unlike that of Michael McIndoe, when he came to Edgar Street a couple of years ago. If Graham Turner and his team can restart his career, he could be a useful signing.

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Blackfriars End to re-open

The Official Hereford United Website reports that the Blackfriars End at Edgar Street is to re-open at least for the home game against Leigh RMI next Saturday.

Elsewhere, former Hereford United captain Ian Wright faces a month out through injury after limping out of Burton Albion's match against Accrington Stanley.

"We had hoped that rest might solve Ian's problem, but that does not appear to be the case," said Burton manager Nigel Clough as reported by the Burton Mail. "He'll see a specialist and I'm expecting he'll have an operation to sort out a bit of bone growth and debris.

"It won't be a major operation, but we expect Ian to be out for another month at least."

Burton will also be deducted a point next week if they don't appeal to the charge of fielding of an ineligible player in a Conference match.

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King ready to take his chance

Jordan King has been told by Bulls boss Graham Turner that he must be ready to take his chance in the first team when it comes.

"I've managed to stay fit and clear of injury and I'm ready to take my chance when I get it," King told the Evening News. "Graham Turner has told me I will get an opportunity. I've been working hard in training and put in some decent performances in some reserve games and he's told me to keep doing what I'm doing and when somebody gets injured I'll get my chance."

King has no complaints about being on the bench and realises that he has a difficult task of removing Jamie Pitman or Ben Smith from the midfield. King added: "I've no qualms about being on the bench because the midfield has been playing brilliantly all season."

King got his first start of the season against Exeter City last Tuesday in the LDV Vans Trophy and retained his place in the starting eleven for the FA Cup tie away at Harrow Borough. Of the Exeter game, he said:"It was just nice to get a game but it took a while to get used to the pace of the game. Exeter were not a bad team though I'm not sure if it was their complete first team."

King, a summer signing from Telford United, is happy to have returned to full time football with Hereford United and feels he is much fitter that before.

"I feel a lot sharper from training every day, I feel quicker and my fitness is a lot better."

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Fans revolt at Stevenage

A small section of Stevenage fans, who starting signing anti-Stevenage songs at the FA Cup game at Eastbourne yesterday, have brought a quick response from chairman Phil Wallace.

"I cringed when our players led by Steve Watson ran out applauding the travelling supporters in expectation at the start, to be greeted by a lukewarm reception, mixed with taunts at our manager. I cringed when they sang songs about other players that were guaranteed to make the players selected feel uncomfortable and I cringed when they sang songs to undermine the manager," said Wallace. "I am now taking time to digest what I saw and heard today before I make any further decisions."

It appears that Graham Westley, the Stevenage manager, is trying take the club full-time and one of his players, Simon Travis, is likely to leave. Travis, a fans favourite, has suggested that he will find it difficult to adjust to a new training schedule.

Westley, who managed Farnborough last season before jumping ship to Stevenage, promised success this season but as yet this have not happened. Stevenage are currently ninth in the Conference.

Many Boro fans thought the partnership between Wallace and Westley was a dream ticket to Division Three. The current rumblings suggest otherwise.

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Was the photographer watching the game?

A picture of Hereford celebrating their first goal is published on the front page of the Non-League Paper this morning.

However it is not the first goal as Danny Carey-Bertram is on the pitch and Jamie Pitman and Ben Smith look to be congratulating him. Carey-Bertram came on as a substitute and scored the sixth goal.

Steve Guinan, the scorer of the first goal is not even in the picture.

However the caption read: 'Six Hitters: Hereford celebrate the first of Steve Guinan's hat-trick goals'.

Elsewhere in the paper Betting Specialist, Gary Boswell, is suggesting that Leigh RMI's battling form will create the shock of the day at Hereford next Saturday. United should ruin his prediction!

Meanwhile, Graham Turner has been quoted on the Nationwide website talking about yesterday's result.

Turner admitted: "We took our chances well in the first half as we didn't get many and Harrow caused us problems.

"They defended very well and we got away with a few things, took charge of the second half and played very well."

Of the first round draw away to Peterborough United, he added: "We're top of the Conference and our priority is getting back into the league, but we'll go to Peterborough full of confidence."

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Turner withdraws Baker and Rose

Graham Turner has withdrawn both Matt Baker and Michael Rose from English squad to play Belgium next month. The action by the Hereford United manager should mean that his small squad will not be unduly depleted for the LDV Vans Trophy match against Northampton.

Turner told the Non-League Paper: "Their first duty is to their club. It's an important game for us. The boys have England caps already and they will get more, but on this occasion I need them for Hereford."

Paul Fairclough, the England manager, is hoping the remainder of his squad can stay of injuries and withdrawals. "It's not for me to tell an experienced manager like Graham Turner how to run his club, but I have to say I am disappointed," he said.

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Tough times in November

With several players injured at present, Graham Turner must be relieved that there is no midweek game this week. Also, hopefully a win against Leigh RMI next Saturday should not prove too much of a problem. But then there is a difficult couple of weeks to get through with a total of eight games in November.

With Cup wins against Exeter and Harrow giving the Bulls matches in the next rounds of the Trophy and the FA Cup respectively, the Bulls will need as many of their small squad in action as possible.

The revised programme for November is as follows:

Sat Nov 1st      Leigh RMI           Home  League

Tues Nov  4th   Northampton     Home  Trophy 2nd Round

Sat   Nov  8th   Peterborough    Away  FA Cup 1st Round

Tues Nov 11th  Accrington St     Away  League   or Possible Cup Replay

Sat   Nov 15th  Margate             Home  League

Sat   Nov 22nd  Shrewsbury      Away  League

Tues Nov 25th  Halifax               Home  League

Sat   Nov 29th  Farnborough     Home  League

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Guinan delighted with hat-trick

Steve Guinan eventually received the match ball this afternoon but not before a few problemsm he told BBC Hereford and Worcester after the match at Harrow.

"I had a few difficulties, they wouldn't really let me take it at first but it's in my bag at the moment. I've never scored a hat-trick in the FA Cup before so I'm delighted."

Of the game Guinan said: "Overall when you look at the scoreline it was comfortable. But in the first half I'd probably say they had the better of the play.

"The pitch was all churned up. Big lumps and holes. It brought us down to a level. We had some good chances and put most of them away. Getting as many goals as you can brings confidence to the team.

Looking towards to the next round, United's top scorer added: "Ideally we would have liked a team like Harrow or a Conference team if we had drawn them at home but I don't think any of the lads are phased by going to Peterborough. They are not setting the world alight so we will see what we can do."

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Bulls play Posh in first round

Hereford United will play Peterborough United away in the first round of the FA Cup.

They beat Harrow Borough 6-1 in today's qualifying round; the report is here.

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Difficulties buying tickets for Shrewsbury game

The annoucement this afternoon by Hereford United giving details of how to purchase tickets for the Shrewsbury game leaves various questions unanswered.

There have already been several postings on the HU-FC.co.uk Forum from supporters asking whether a visit to the Edgar Street office to purchase tickets should really be required.

Obviously the club needs to make sure that those supporters who are either season ticket holders or have membership cards are given first refusal to buy tickets. But, as one supporter points out, in this day of credit cards and other electronic ways of transferring monies there must be other ways the club can sell tickets.

Is it not possible to send an application for tickets with a photocopy of a season ticket holders address or a membership card? As the club must hold records of these supporters, it would be easy to cross-check these applications.

There is an arguement for a credit card surcharge to be levied on ticket sales of perhaps 2% and that no applications could be accepted without a stamped addressed envelope. It would be quite simple to process these applications.

The club has not said how many tickets are available to Hereford United. Neither has it told supporters when the office will be open.

As there is some extra work in selling these tickets does the club receive any commission from Shrewsbury?

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Cup win is worth 10k

Graham Turner has been talking to BBC Hereford & Worcester about tomorrow's game and other matters. A win at Harrow would be worth ten thousand pounds to Hereford United.

He commenced by concentrating on Harrow: "Their recent results have not been too impressive. They are in the bottom three of the Ryman League so we know their confidence will not be too high, but they will put all their problems of league form behind them for Saturday. They will have nothing to lose. They can go out and enjoy the occasion.

"I think their average gate is around 200 and I imagine we will take around 500 down there. It should be the biggest gate and the best atmosphere their players will have seen this season and so their game will be lifted.

"They have experienced people in charge in Edward Stein and David Howells, both who have been around the Football League scene for a long time.

"We have had them watched in the replay against Newport and again last Saturday when they lost 2-0. The impression is that they have got one or two useful players but the side is so lacking in confidence but it's the FA Cup and all the pressure is off them. So they can come out and have a go."

On the injury front, Turner said that Ben Smith should be back in the side. "He was feeling his foot and failed a fitness test before Tuesday's game but some of it was being cautious. He trained yesterday without any ill effects and he's fit to take his place in the side," he added.

Reviewing the performances last Tuesday against Exeter, Turner thought Jordan King and Dean Craven had done well.

"It was Jordan King's first taste of first team action for us. I thought he did the sensible thing and played things simple. I think there is a lot more to come from him but on his debut he just played things nice and easy, kept the ball, kept it flowing.

"I think the crowd have taken to Dean Craven's whole-hearted attitude. He does get stuck in and shows a bit of pace at times. Both did okay.

"The result (beating Exeter in the LDV) means that we have quite an attractive fixture against Northampton. Big spending Northampton, because they have invested a lot of money in their team through the summer. So that is one to look forward to. We are under no pressure for that game. It's a win, win situation for that one.

"But what we need to do is be in the hat for the FA Cup first round proper and have something to look forward to in that respect."

Hereford United are No 72, assuming they are still in the cup, when the draw for the first-round proper is due to be made at 5.05 pm tomorrow.

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Shrewsbury tickets information

The Official Hereford United Website is reporting that tickets for the Shrewsbury game at the Gay Meadow to be played on Saturday November 22nd will be available for season ticket holders and membership card holders from next Monday 27th October until 31st October. After that date they will be available to other supporters.

PLEASE NOTE THEY WILL NOT ACCEPT CARDS AS A FORM OF PAYMENT. CASH OR CHEQUE ONLY.

Prices are adults £12, with concessions at £7, while stand prices are £14 and £9 respectively.

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Smith fit for FA Cup battle

Hereford United have been boosted ahead of tomorrow's FA Cup game against Harrow Borough with the news that Ben Smith is fit to play.

The midfielder has overcome an ankle injury which kept him out of Tuesday's LDV Trophy win over Exeter City and will feature in the fourth qualifying round game at Earlsmead, kick off 3pm.

However, the Bulls will be weakened in defence without on-loan centre-back Tamika Mkandawire, as West Bromwich Albion don't want him cup-tied, while right-back Ryan Green has a thigh injury and faces a late fitness test. Richard Teesdale will come in for Mkandawire.

Tony James, who was rested for the Exeter game but will return tomorrow, is cautious ahead of the tie.

"When the draw was made and we were paired with either Harrow or Newport, Isle of Wight I was reminded only too well that we can't afford the slightest complacency in games against lower-graded teams," he told the Shropshire Star.

Graham Turner added in the Evening News: "We're synonymous with giantkilling but the tables are turned at Harrow Borough. Of course, to get to the point where we can be giant-killers we have to get through to the stage where the league clubs are involved and to do that we have to win at places such as Harrow which will not be easy."

If a replay is required, it will be contested on Tuesday night at Edgar Street, kick off 7.45pm.

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5000-1 for the FA Cup

Hereford United are priced at 5000-1 to win the FA Cup by one leading bookmaker and another one has the Bulls at 50-1 to win the LDV Van Trophy.

But there is little change in the prices offered for the Bulls to win the Conference.

Chester are still favourites at prices from 7-4 to 2-1. Hereford are anywhere from 9-4 to 5-1 and Shrewsbury from 10-3 to 6-1. Last weekend's draw at Chester seems to made little difference to the prices offered.

As regards Saturday's FA Cup match at Harrow, Skybet are offering: Harrow Win 9/2, Draw 12/5, Hereford Win 1/2

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Burton may lose a point

Burton Albion may be set to lose a Conference point for fielding an eligible player against Forest Green Rovers two weeks ago. Nigel Clough's side, the only team to beat Hereford United this season so far, apparantly forgot to register the name of Sean Gummer.

Today's Burton Mail reports that the Albion are counting the cost of a five-minute appearance by midfielder Sean Gummer after being docked a point by the Nationwide Conference.

Gummer, who had been recalled from a spell on loan at Belper because of an Albion injury crisis, was a late substitute in the 1-1 draw at Forest Green two weeks ago and only spent five minutes on the pitch.

But the player was ineligible because the Brewers had not renewed his registration as a non-contract player.

The loss of a point, if confirmed, means that Burton would drop one place to 12th position in the League.

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Turner cautious over Harrow tie

Hereford United make the trip to Earlsmead on Saturday as they face lower-ranked Harrow Borough in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round, kick off 3pm.

The hosts have held a meeting with the Football Intelligence Unit regarding Hereford United's following, and possible outbreaks of crowd trouble, report the Harrow Times newspaper.

However, all eyes should be on the pitch. This is the first game between the two clubs, and Harrow manager Edwin Stein told the Hereford Times: "It's a real David and Goliath job. I do think Hereford have a lot to live up to and you never know. Every now and then you get an upset and I wouldn't necessarily think that we haven't got any chance at all.

"It's great for Harrow Borough as Hereford come with a fine tradition and Graham Turner is an excellent manager whom I know from old, during my time at Birmingham City.

"He is a hugely respected character in the game."

Graham Turner added: "With our club being synonymous with `giantkilling', our match at Harrow Borough is of considerable significance.

"Of course, to get to the point where we can be giantkillers we have to get through to the stage where the league clubs are involved and to do that we have to win at places such as Harrow which will not be easy."

Harrow miss goalkeeper Keita Karamoko, who is suspended, while Hereford do not have permission to field on-loan defender Tamika Mkandawire. As a result, Richard Teesdale stands by, with Jordan King also looking to retain his first-team spot if Ben Smith fails to recover from an injured foot.

Admission prices are £10 for adults and £5 for concessions, and the matchday programme will cost £1.50.

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Great experience for us

Next Saturday's Cup tie will be a great experience for us says Peter Rogers, football director of Harrow Borough, as reported in the Hereford Journal.

"We are certainly looking forward to the match. It's the first time in our history that we have played Hereford. We just want to give a good account of ourselves and come away with respect from both the home supporters who watch us and the away fans from Hereford.

"Obviously the FA Cup is a different sort of animal to League games (Harrow are second from the bottom of the Ryman League) and something we all look forward to. A run in the FA Cup is always appreciated"

"To play hosts to the Conference leaders is a great experience for us and something we are certainly looking forward to." said Rogers.

Harrow are expecting a crowd of between 1000 and 1500 on Saturday. Usually they have about 250 through the turnstiles."

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Exeter take positives after defeat

Eamonn Dolan, boss of Exeter City, took positives out of last night's 2-0 defeat at Hereford United in the LDV Vans Trophy.

"We are delighted as we had a 17-year-old 'keeper Martin Rice, and left-back Dean Moxey - who was making his debut," he told BBC Radio Devon.

"Apart from winning the game, we achieved our objectives tonight."

Moxey, just seventeen, added in the Express & Echo: "We had some really good spells in the game but unfortunately just couldn't take our chances. I think we should have won the game. Their keeper has kept them in it with some great saves."

Exeter's first-choice stopper James Bittner has been named in the England National Game XI squad to face Belgium on November 4th, as have Hereford United's Matt Baker and Michael Rose. However, the game, to be held at Darlington's new ground and with free admission, clashes with United's LDV Vans Trophy second-round game against Northampton Town at Edgar Street.

The full squad, as reported by thefa.com, is:
Matt Baker (Hereford United)
James Bittner (Exeter City)
Greg Oates (Margate)
Ismail Yakubu (Barnet)
Jon Boardman (Woking)
Danny Collins (Chester City)
Michael Rose (Hereford United)
Gary Thompson (Morecambe)
Sam Ricketts (Telford United)
Jon Challinor (Aldershot Town)
Chris Piper (Dagenham & Redbridge)
Anthony Elding (Stevenage Borough)
Luke Rodgers (Shrewsbury Town)
Roscoe D'Sane (Aldershot Town)
Aaron McLean (Aldershot Town)
David Perkins (Morecambe)

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After Exeter comes Northampton

Hereford United will be looking forward to Round Two of the LDV Vans Trophy with a visit from Northampton who currently lie nineteenth in Division Three. But the tie will bring back memories of an October night last year when the Bulls went out to Northampton in the first round of the LDV after the game was decided with a controversial penalty.

United were playing well and holding Northampton 3-3, until Andy Tretton was penalised in the box. Northampton scored from the spot and the game was over.

Midfielder Mick Galloway, said of the penalty decision: "The player had clearly over-run the ball and it was in Baker's hands when the referee gave the penalty. It was a shocking decision."

Graham Turner later commented: "The winner for them came via the penalty spot to give them the Golden Goal but I have to say that it would rank amongst the worst refereeing decisions I have seen in my time in football in awarding the penalty in the first place. It was a bizarre decision against Andy Tretton who was the last defender, he (the referee) failed to take any further action, no yellow or red card.

"If I was a cynical old sod I'd suggest that he didn't fancy another twenty four minutes of extra time and the time taken up by penalties, he just wanted to get back on the road to his north-west home, so he took the first possible opportunity to bring the game to a conclusion."

At that time Northampton were in the Second Division. Last night they were beaten at home by Kidderminster Harriers, who are among the favourites for relegation.

Hereford United will go into the game on November 5th hoping that this time round they can defeat Northampton. Assuming the Bulls can put out a strong side it should be a good game and hopefully last year's gate of only 1,087 can at least be doubled.

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Several reserves on show

With Andy Tretton and Rob Purdie out with injuries, Tony James on the bench and Ben Smith also off, Graham Turner decided to give several reserves a run this evening against Exeter.

And by giving the captaincy to Paul Parry, this was a different side to that which played at Chester last Saturday. Jordan King was given his first start of the season and Richard Teesdale partnered Tamika Mkandawire.

However Ben Smith's absence was noted. There seemed to be less creativity in midfield. King did little wrong but it was easy to see why Smith is first choice. Pitman seemed to miss Smith. His booking was justified as he appeared to kick out at an Exeter player after being fouled.

Both Danny Williams and David Brown received knocks during the game. Williams, who was said to have had a minor injury at Chester, looked in some pain after a nasty challenge. Brown received a cut on the side of the head when on the receiving end of an Exeter elbow. He had a bandage put around his head and carried on but was eventually replaced by Danny Carey-Bertram.

Dean Craven came on for Williams and looked more lively than several of the regulars. To allow him to play on the left, Parry moved to the right. Should the need arise through injuries or suspensions, Craven looks a useful replacement, not afraid to tackle and quite fast with the ball.

The 1513 crowd witnessed a scrappy game against an Exeter side suffering from injuries. The Bulls will need to up their game if they are to overcome Northampton in the next round.

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United set-up second round tie

Two second-half goals put Hereford United into the second round of the LDV Vans Trophy southern section handed them victory over Exeter City.

David Brown and Steve Guinan struck to hand United a game against Northampton Town in the second round, to be played on Tuesday 4th November.

The report from tonight's match, written by Brian, is here.

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Don't underestimate Exeter says Turner

Graham Turner has told the Evening News that he will certainly not be underestimating the Grecians. "It's a competition we want to progress in and that increases with prestige the further you can go," he said.

"We've got an attractive home tie with Northampton Town if we can get through so there's plenty of incentive.

"Exeter are in good form at the moment and I think have won four on the trot so we'll need to be on our game."

Meanwhile, there is no news on whether Michael Rose or Matt Baker have been picked for the Non-League squad, or National Game XI as it is sometimes called, which is due to play Belgium at Darlington on November 4th. However Luke Rogers, the Shrewsbury striker, is a new-comer to the squad.

And Hereford United have announced that the away game at Shrewsbury on November 22nd will be all ticket. Full details are on the Official Site.

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Cup campaign kicks-off tomorrow

Hereford United play their first cup match on the season tomorrow evening as they host Exeter City at Edgar Street in the LDV Vans Trophy, kick off 7.45pm.

The southern section first round match was moved back a week after United played Dagenham & Redbridge last Monday night, and so the second round draw was made on Saturday.

The winners of this game will go on to play Northampton Town at their home ground.

United will not have a fully fit squad. Defender Andy Tretton will still be missing and there are doubts about Rob Purdie, Danny Williams and Ryan Green, but manager Graham Turner has the option of featuring some of the squad who have not featured regularly. Goalkeeper Ben Scott and midfielders Dean Craven and Jordan King are among those who could start their first match for the Bulls.

Exeter, who will be without top goalscorer Sean Devine, suspended for this game, have signed three new players on non-contract forms in time for the game. Former Manchester United starlet Andy Taylor, ex-QPR and England under-20 defender Lyndon Duncan and Yeading keeper Matt Hodgson have all been recruited to ease the club's injury crisis. The Grecians already have Martin Thomas, James Coppinger, Les Afful and James Bittner sidelined through injury, and Chris Todd picked up a knock at the weekend too.

The game is `all pay' with terrace prices at £7 (£3 concessions) and £9 (£5 concessions) in the stands.

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Penalty misses anger Wright

This report appears in this morning's Times newspaper, written by Mark Venables:

BE WARY of mentioning penalty kicks within earshot of Mark Wright, the Chester City manager, as his team’s inability to convert from 12 yards has been their Achilles’ heel in recent months.

Earlier this year, their attempt to secure promotion to the Football League ended when they lost to Doncaster Rovers in a penalty shoot-out and on Saturday, Ian Foster, a substitute, missed a penalty three minutes from time that would have secured victory.

Had Chester won this tense and often dour confrontation between the top two sides in the Nationwide Conference, the three points would have moved them above Hereford to the top of the table.

“When you get a penalty late on it should win you the game,” Wright said. “Penalties are our downfall at present. There’s a long way to go and we are still unbeaten for a long time, but we can’t be happy with a point when you get a penalty that late on.”

To add insult to injury, Chester were reduced to ten men moments later when Jamie Heard was shown a second yellow card for an impulsive lunge at Michael Rose. “It was a little bit rash from Heard,” Wright said. “When it’s late in the game you don’t need to go flying in; he should have stayed on his feet.”

Wright proclaimed himself content with the performance but must have been troubled by the lack of creativity on show from his team. No one would question Chester’s defensive fortitude; just seven goals conceded in 15 matches this season is ample evidence of their strengths. But when Daryl Clare is not at his best — on Saturday, in just his second game back from injury, he was well off the pace — they lack the guile and penetration to trouble defences. It was 79 minutes before they achieved a shot on target and until the penalty, Matt Baker, the Hereford goalkeeper, did not have a shot to save.

For Hereford, the league leaders, defeat would have been unmerited. In a game of few chances they created the best — two in each period — but for the first time this season they failed to get their name on the score sheet. “We would have settled for a point before the game,” Graham Turner, their manager, said. “That just proves how difficult it is to break Chester down. They have got some very good defenders, but we still had four chances to score.”

The first fell to Paul Parry, who headed a cross from Tamika Mkandawire tantalisingly wide of a post early on. Later in the half, Ian McCaldon smartly blocked a goalbound effort from Ben Smith and the goalkeeper needed to be just as alert early in the second half to scramble across his goalline to push a quickly taken free kick from Danny Williams round a post.

But the best chance of the afternoon fell to the usually clinical Steve Guinan, who failed to add to his tally of 11 league goals after shooting straight at McCaldon when sent clear.

With more than a third of the season played, Hereford have proved themselves to be the team that the rest of the championship aspirants need to catch. The central midfield pair of Smith and Jamie Pitman provide a complementary blend of guile and aggression and the wide play of Williams and Parry is a constant threat.

When they keep the ball on the grass and weave the neat, intricate patterns that have become their trademark, feeding the fleet-footed Guinan and Dave Brown, his strike partner,they can be irresistible.

In recent campaigns the depth of talent has been their downfall, but this time Turner has reinforced his squad astutely to give the supporters hope that they can reclaim the Football League place they lost six years ago. “We think we can play better than that,” Turner said. “We’ve not passed the ball as well as we have been doing."

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1300 supporters at Chester

1300 Hereford fans went through the turnstiles at the Deva Stadium on Saturday according to Chester City Football Club this morning.

This is probably the highest number of Bulls fans going to an away Conference fixture since Hereford joined that league.

The number could be higher when the Bulls travel to Shrewsbury on November 22nd.

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Report suggests more trouble

More anti-Hereford pieces in the Non-League Paper this morning centre around allegations that Dagenham fans were abused after last Monday's game.

The article by an un-named reporter quoted two Daggers fans who said that the Dagenham coach was stoned as it left Hereford. It also says that a group of "fans" started swearing at one of their disabled fans.

Interestingly, Len Critcher, the Daggers supporters club chairman, was quoted: "There were four youths on this hill as you leave the ground who started throwing stones at our coach."

Whilst if there is any truth in this story, those responsible should be ashamed of themselves, three points arise.

Firstly, why did the Daggers bus not pick-up supporters outside the ground, not at the bottom of the Merton Meadow car park?

Secondly, where is the hill "as you leave the ground"? Depending on which way the bus went there is no hill for some way in any direction. It has to be asked whether this, so called, incident had anything to do with Hereford United.

Thirdly, for whatever reason there were few if any police to be seen last Monday. But were these incidents reported to local police?

In the editorial column of the NLP it says " following the stoning of the coach". That compares with the above quote which said "four youths started throwing stones" implying it was quickly over.

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Goalkeeper shocked by penalty decision

Matt Baker said after today's game that he couldn't understand how referee Rob Lewis of Shrewsbury had handed the Blues an eighty-eighth minute penalty decision that went in Chester City's favour.

Baker, who had an excellent game, somehow managed to stop the Ian Foster shot with his legs and keep the score at 0-0.

"With the way we've been playing recently, I haven't really been needed," Baker told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "Today, though, it proved crucial."

"We couldn't believe it when the referee gave the penalty. At first, I thought he'd given a back-pass as Ben Smith got his toe to the ball and I picked it up."

On the outcome of the game Baker said:"We were not expected to win today, I think that may be a draw was fair."

United boss Graham Turner felt that the Cestrians did well, and added: "If we finish higher than Chester in the table at the end of the season I will be a very happy man."

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Baker saves United point

Hereford United drew 0-0 with Chester City at the Deva Stadium this afternoon.

The report is here.

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Northampton again if Bulls beat Grecians

If Hereford United overcome Exeter in the LDV Trophy on Tuesday, they will meet Northampton in the next round at Edgar Street probably on November 4th.

Last season the Bulls met Northampton in the first round but lost 4-3. A penalty in golden goal extra time was the deciding factor between the two teams in the LDV Vans Trophy first round encounter at Edgar Street, in front of 1,087. But Hereford showed up the Second Division side a lot during the match and can be proud of the performance they gave.

Whether the Bulls progress to have another chance at Northampton could depend on if it is thought the trophy is deemed important enough to put out a strong side against Exeter.

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Just one more game

Both Graham Turner, manager of Hereford United and Tony James, captain, have made more comments to the press about the Chester game today.

In the Evening News, Turner reminds his players that todays game is just one more in a long season.

"It's still very early in the season and it's just three points at stake - the same as on offer when we play Leigh RMI in two weeks time," he said.

Captain Tony James commented: "At the end of the day we've had such a great start to the season that Graham Turner has got to be happy with the way things have gone.

"But he's not putting us under any pressure other than for us to do our best, respect each other and play as well as we can for each other.

"He wants us to forget the fact that we are top and just play each game to the best of our ability."

James has also praised on-loan Tam Mkandawire.

"He's settled in really well, is comfortable on the ball and a good defender," he said.

"At the end of the day he's got to have a lot about him if he's at West Brom and he has the ability to match," added James.

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It's one to relish

"There's no bigger game in the Conference so far this season than this one," said Graham Turner in an interview on BBC Hereford & Worcester earlier today.

"A third of the season is now gone. We're two points clear at the top of the table. We're delighted with that. We would have taken that at the start of the season despite the recent slight hic-cups. And I suppose in many ways a draw would be a good result at Chester but we will go there with the confidence that we can go and take the game to them and maybe, just maybe we come away with all three points.

"Chester don't take any chances at the back. They have got three big strong lads there and always launching forward balls and the quality of their front play could cause upsetts for us. So we know what we have got to do to try and break them down. And the players have just got to be patient when we have got the ball. We have got enough ability to do it. The test now is have we got the nerve to do it.

"I think Chester have adjusted well since the present chairman went in and has been prepared to back the manager with fairly substancial funds. Maybe not so much in the transfer market, although they have bought one or two players. Their wage bill must be quite a high one and he's backed Mark Wright all the way down the line and I think they have assembled a squad of players that if they put a second team out, it would probably be good enough to beat a lot of Conference sides. So that is their strength in depth. But it does not matter what numbers 17 to 25/26 are, its the 11 that have to be good enough and I think we have 11 players more than capable of taking three points from Chester."

Asked if he was still looking to strengthen the squad, Turner continued: "I think we have got to make sure we are ready for anything that is thrown at us during the course of the season. There might be some injuries. There are a few players getting to three or four bookings. I think Tony James and Michael Rose are both on four bookings. That's one yellow card away from a suspension. Tam (Mkandawire) can't play in the FA Cup, West Brom have made that clear so we have got to make a change there. I think it's trying to cover all the eventualities if we do get any injuries.But obviously there is some restriction in the size of the squad. We haven't got the resources of a Chester or Telford or Shrewsbury in terms of the money available but the gates have certainly helped to get us into the line of thought that we don't need to sell players any more. We'll keep what we have got and see whether we can add to those."

On the injury front, Turner added: "Andy Tretton is back at Lilleshall. He had a day with us earlier in the week and he was still feeling his thigh muscle so we sent him back. It could be two to three weeks before he's fully fit again. Rob Purdie has made good progress."

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Purdie may be on bench

Rob Purdie may be fit enough to be on the bench tomorrow at Chester. Graham Turner thinks he has done enough to be added to the squad after playing for one hour for Hereford United's reserves on Tuesday when they beat Stafford Rangers.

The return to fitness of Purdie will be welcomed as on occasions recently the Bulls have looked short of players prepared to run with the ball at the opposition.

As for tomorrow, Turner thinks that much will depend on the Bulls ability to dictate how the game is played. "We have got to have the courage to get the ball down and pass it," he told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "If we do that we can cause them problems"

"I think there will be a good crowd there and a good atmosphere. We have got to keep our nerve."

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Section three starts tomorrow

Hereford United's manager, Graham Turner, has spilt this seasons fixtures into sections usually containing seven matches. Section three starts tomorrow at Chester.

The first two sections have gone well. The Bulls obtained nineteen points from the first seven games and fourteen from the second section which includes the defeat at Burton.

Speaking to BBC Hereford and Worcester, Turner said: "Certainly some of the games we have got coming up over the next seven, on paper, we should be taking good points out of these next seven. That's what we have to do if we've got any chance of being top.

Meanwhile, Hereford captain Tony James is relishing the clash at Chester but not expecting to see many goals.

"Over the last few weeks we haven't given it too much thought but now it's upon us the match is even bigger and it should be a really good game," he told the Evening News.

"I think away from home the emphasis in terms of attacking is on the home side and that might work to our advantage because it opens up more space for us," he added.

"In some ways we prefer playing away because we can catch sides on the break.

"We've been scoring lots of goals and taking our chances but sometimes you have grind results out and especially with their defence Saturday might be one of those type of games and end up a 1-0."

James has put out a request for as many fans as possible to travel to Chester and get behind the team.

Quoted in the Western Daily Press he said:"We're looking forward to seeing many of you there and the louder you make your voices heard the better we will like it."

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Bulls do their bit to stamp out racism

Europe’s biggest ever series of anti- racism activities in football kicked–off yesterday, and fans, professional clubs, community groups and players from across the UK will take part in the national anti- racism week of action.

The extended week is being launched today to take place between the 16 and 28 October. Over 500 activities will take place over the 12 days across the country.

Every professional club in England and Wales will hold anti-racism activities at home games over the next two weekends, and community groups will be celebrating the history of black, Asian and other ethnic minorities in the game through events in local communities. Over 35 groups will be drawing on ‘Community Chest’ grants awarded by Kick It Out and the Football Foundation to deliver larger projects.

Fans groups will be involved in leading many activities, including distribution of a new fanzine United Colours of Football 4.

Secondary schools will be involved in a competition in which pupils will be asked to write an interview with one of six selected black or Asian players, from the past or those still in the game.

Lord Herman Ouseley, chairman of Kick It Out today welcomed the activities, saying: “The range and breadth of both community and club based activities taking place during the week are a testament to the good work going on in football with communities traditionally excluded from the game.

“The message from this year’s week of action is that we need to fend off complacency and keep up the ongoing battle against racism through education, positive engagement and by working in partnership. This way will be the way in which we can bring equality to life.”

Hereford United are doing their bit, as Cyrille Regis attended Monday's game with Dagenham & Redbridge, and have launched their own campaign to rid the Edgar Street terraces of racists. Graham Turner vowed in the matchday programme that offenders will be identified, removed and arrested.

There is also an exhibition running at the All Saints Church in Broad Street to celebrate the week. 'The History of Black Footballers' is open until the end of October.

For more details, please visit www.kickitout.org.

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Grecians enter creditors agreement

Exeter City have entered a CVA agreement, but could face a points deduction in the process.

The Devon-based club, relegated to the Conference in May, have agreed to pay creditors 10% of the money they are owed, and 75% of creditors agreed to the plan.

As a result, the club's debts have been reportedly slashed from £4.8 million to £480,000 and the threat of a winding-up order has been lost.

"This gives us a real chance now to take this club forward," Exeter chairman Ian Huxham told the Express & Echo.

However, Exeter could be handed a points deduction by the Conference in the process, although no information on this has yet been made public.

Hereford take on Exeter on Tuesday night in the LDV Vans Trophy at Edgar Street. The game is `all pay' with terrace prices at £7 (£3 concessions) and £9 (£5 concessions) in the stands.

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United up for Saturday's promotion battle

Hereford United look ahead to Saturday and hope to extend their advantage at the top of the Nationwide Conference with a victory at the Deva Stadium against second-placed Chester City, kick off 3pm.

This is undoubtedly the game of the day, with Hereford riding high and Chester unbeaten in their last ten. In fact, the Cestrians could overtake United if they emerge victorious from the tie.

Despite drawing 1-1 with Dagenham & Redbridge on Monday, Graham Turner's men will be eager to bounce back and grasp top spot with both hands. So far this season, when United have failed to win a game, they have collected all three points in the next fixture.

Chester will be without defender Wayne Hatswell, who joined Kidderminster Harriers on Wednesday for a five-figure fee, and midfielder Jimmy Kelly, who has signed for Scarborough.

However, Mark Wright has recalled Steve Brodie from his loan spell at Forest Green Rovers and Mark Beesley from Southport to bolster the squad. Michael Twiss has a head injury and so is a doubt for the match, while Ian Foster could line-up against one of his old clubs.

Fellow attacker Kevin Rapley told the Chester Evening Leader: “It will be a tough game on Saturday. It’s such a big occasion, but I think we’ll turn them over here. I think we’ll have too many big lads for them.

“Hereford will probably come here, sit really deep, and try and hit us on the break, but I think we’ll soak it all up, and I think we’ll get three points quite comfortably.

“It was good to see Dagenham and Redbridge get a 1-1 result at Hereford the other night, but Dagenham aren’t out of it, and neither are Shrewsbury who haven’t really kicked into gear yet.

“We talk about Hereford and us, but we’ve just got to keep doing what we’re doing and I think, like the gaffer, that Hereford will blow up.

“I think Dagenham, Morecambe, Shrewsbury and Barnet will all be there, but come Christmas we want to be top of the league.”

From the Hereford camp, both Michael Rose and David Brown have had spells at the Deva, and will be eager to get one over on their old clubs. Bulls director of football Graham Turner was also an accomplished defender for the Cestrians in his playing career.

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No fears going away

Graham Turner has told the Hereford Times that the Bulls will not be intimidated by Chester City, saying that Saturday's clash at the Deva Stadium "holds no fears for us".

"Chester are physically a big side and operate with three central defenders and two central midfielders who keep their shape and clear their lines when necessary," he said.

"But we're expecting a big following and there should be a good atmosphere."

Ben Smith has also spoken about the match to BBC Hereford & Worcester. The midfielder proclaimed: "It's going to be a tight game. It's going to be a clash of styles. They are really strong defensively and we are scoring a lot of goals. So it should be an interesting game.

"I think if we can get the first goal, we will have every chance of beating them. But if they score first, it will be very hard for us to get anything out of the game.

"We will be delighted if we draw, but we are going there to win, like we go to every game."

As HU-FC.co.uk reported on Tuesday, Chester have kept 2400 spaces for Bulls supporters.

Although Andy Tretton is still not fit, Rob Purdie is said to be on the road to recovery and should be available shortly.

It is not only Hereford United who are doing well at present. The Carillion company, which has a large stake in Formsole to whom United owe well over £1m, has seen its shares rise from a low point of 107p to a current high of 186p. Carillion are expected to be involved with the Edgar Street project.

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Police issue photos

Staffordshire Police have issued three photographs of people they would like to identify from the crowd at the recent Burton game. The photos have been published on the BBC Hereford & Worcester news site.

Detective Sergeant Darren Harding, from Burton CID, said: "We are keen to talk to these men, who we believe are from the Hereford area, in relation to the events of that Friday.

"We would urge anyone who knows these men to contact us.

"People can ring anonymously if they wish and all information will be treated in the strictest confidence."

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Squad have league experience

Harrow Borough, who will entertain Hereford United in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup, are currently close to the bottom of the Ryman League. But their large squad contains several players with higher league experience.

Edwin Stein is manager at Harrow. Edwin had a long and successful playing career with Boro', Luton Town, Dagenham and Barnet before gaining valuable managerial experience whilst serving under Barry Fry at Barnet, Southend United and Birmingham City. He also occupied the Caretaker Manager position at both Barnet and Southend United following the departure of his mentor. More latterly he has served both Boro(2 spells) and St Albans City in the role of Club Coach/Assistant Manager.

In the report of their replay last night, the official website said: "An attractive clash at home to Conference leaders Hereford United on October 25th is Borough's reward for finally seeing off the challenge of Dr Martens League Eastern Division outfit Newport in this FA Cup third qualifying round replay last night. Victory put a £5,000 FA bonus into the Borough coffers, to go with the £3,750 they earned from the second qualifying round win over Flackwell Heath. There's another £10,000 up for grabs when they meet Hereford, but The Bulls will offer a decidedly sterner test, and Borough will need to cut out the profligacy displayed against Newport if they are to get their hands on more cash - along with a place in the first round proper."

Earlsmead, which has been the home of Harrow Borough since 1934, is located in South Harrow, Middlesex. Harrow is a Borough to the North West of London. Harrow's most famous landmark is the Hill with the spire of St Marys.The public school is also to be found on the hill.

To get to Earlsmead by road, leave the M25 at junction 16, taking the M40 East towards Uxbridge and London. Continue onto A40, passing Northolt Aerodrome on the left hand side. At the Target Roundabout junction (A312) turn left towards Northolt.

Just after passing Northolt Underground Station on the left hand side, turn left at the next set of traffic lights, onto Eastcote Lane, becoming Field End Road.

At next roundabout, turn right onto Eastcote Lane. At a small parade of shops, take the turning on the right into Carlyon Avenue. Earlsmead is the second turning on the right.

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Hereford head for Harrow

Hereford United will travel to Harrow for the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup on October 25th.

Harrow Borough defeated Newport IOW 2-0 this evening in a replay.

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Turner's view on the Daggers game

After last night's game Graham Turner, the Hereford manager, gave his views on the proceedings to BBC Hereford & Worcester. Below is an edited version.

"We've not really played tonight. I think we've had flowing football for the first thirteen games of the season. I think this is the first time we really have not played," said Turner.

"Part of it is down to Dagenham who I thought we a well-organised, strong, powerful outfit. Part of it our own sloppyness and a little bit stuck on our heals a time or two.

"We began to pump long straight balls and it doesn't work that way against two strong defenders. It was playing right into their hands.

"Just on the odd occasion we got it down and passed it we looked a lot better. We created one or two opportunities. Having said that we might have won it in the last five minutes. We had one or two good chances for Paul Parry. And from where I was, I thought it might have been a foul on Carey-Bertram in the box when the tackle took him before he got the ball.

"We ground out a draw in the end because we've been very good at the back. The two central defenders have been strong. Although they (Dagenham) had a lot of the ball there haven't been too many clear-cut chances for them. It you are going to be successful, you have to grind out results and that's been the case tonight.We've not played well. We could easily have finished with nothing. We got a point out of it.

"If you look at Dagenham, they will finish in the top six."

Discussing the season so far Turner said: "There's a third of the season gone and we are top of the table and apart from Shrewsbury, the sides in contention have all played 14 games. It's a position we would have been well pleased with at the start of the season and it's a position we're pleased with now.

Turner was disappointed with the four bookings. "It's not like us because you look at our record, we have got the best disciplinary record in the Conference. I think that was indicative of the way we played where if we pass it well we are on top of the game. We just got a bit niggly.

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Plenty of room for Bulls fans

Chester City Football Club have told HU-FC.co.uk this morning that there will be plenty of room for travelling supporters of Hereford United next Saturday at Chester. But the advice is to get there in plenty of time as some delay at the turnstiles is possible.

2,400 places for Bulls fans have been allocated. 1,200 are behind the goal in the South Terrace and another 1,200, all seated, in the West Stand. There should be plenty of stewards around to help guide fans.

One change from usual is that away supporters will be directed to the Cattle Market car park which is being "borrowed" for the day. This park is next to the usual park at the Deva Stadium. There will be a charge for parking of £3 per car.

Addmission prices will £12 for adults, £9 for concessions and £6 for children under 16 in the West Stand and £10, £7, and £5 respectively in the South Terrace.

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We did not play well

The Hereford United manager, Graham Turner, admitted after last night's home draw with Dagenham that his team did not play well.

"We ground out a draw in the end because I think we had been very good at the back. The two central defenders have been strong and although they had a lot of the ball, there haven't been too many clear cut chances for them," he commented on BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"If you are going to be successful, sometimes you have to grind out results and that's been the case tonight.

"We've not played well. We could easily have finished with nothing but we got a point out of it."

Garry Hill, the Dagenham boss told the Nationwide site: "I thought we showed a lot of character. I thought that it was only in the last ten minutes that Hereford showed why they are top of the table."

Turner added: "Dagenham were a well-organised, strong, powerful outfit and we played right into their hands at times."

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Draw doubles Hereford advantage

Hereford United drew 1-1 with Dagenham & Redbridge at Edgar Street tonight.

Brian's report is here.

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When will Bertram start?

Daniel Carey-Bertram is challenging for a starting place in the Hereford United team. He may only be on the bench tonight but Graham Turner is pleased with the striker's progress.

"I wonder how long we can keep putting him on the bench and not in the starting line-up. But that is up to Steve Guinan and David Brown. They have got the shirts at the moment and they have got to make sure they keep their place in the side and keep Carey-Bertram on the bench," Turner told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"Certainly the way he is going in training, in reserve matches, and the times he gets on the pitch, he's really pushing for a starting place."

Meanwhile, Sky had pictures from Edgar Street and an interview with Graham Turner this morning.

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Turner ready for another tough test

Graham Turner is not underestimating Dagenham & Redbridge ahead of tonight's game at Edgar Street, kick off 7.45pm.

Hereford lie top of the Conference and could extend their lead to four points over Chester if they win the televised match.

Turner, though, is full of praise for the Daggers, and he told the Evening News: "Garry (Hill) has made some big changes to his playing staff over the summer, adding some decent Conference players to what he already had and the result is a squad that will be in contention at the end of the season.

"They could do something similar to last year when they strung a run of eleven victories together to get into a play-off position and they have the personnel in there to do just that.

"We have got to make sure that we still keep them in the bottom half of the table and that is by taking the three points."

All the live televised action starts at 7.30pm on Sky Sports 1 tonight, and there is live internet radio commentary at www.bbc.co.uk/hereford.

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Draw sees Hereford travel

In the FA Cup fourth qualifying round draw made today, Hereford United will be on the road to lower-graded opposition.

The Bulls, currently top of the Conference, will play the winners of the Newport Isle of Wight or Harrow Borough third qualifying round tie on Saturday, 25th October.

Harrow play in the Ryman League Premier Division while Newport, who knocked Hereford out of the FA Cup in 1998 at Edgar Street with a shock 3-2 win, ply their trade in the Dr Martens Southern League Eastern Division.

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One hundred today

Hereford United have won 99 corners in league games this season so far but have only scored once from the resultant kick.

It was on August 25th when David Brown came off the substitutes bench late in the game against Aldershot.

HU-FC.co.uk reported that the goal came when a Michael Rose corner from the right was flicked onto substitute, David Brown, at the far post. Brown made sure from six yards with an impressive shot after initially facing away from the goal.

Last Tuesday at Northwich several supporters were counting down the corners towards the century believing that another corner would surely result in a goal but it was not to be. So the first corner for Hereford tonight against Dagenham will be number one hundred this season.

The Bulls have won more corners than any other Conference club but for only one goal to be scored as a result must be a part of their game than could be improved.

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Defender poised for comeback?

Hereford United's Andy Tretton could be fit enough to feature in tomorrow's game with Dagenham & Redbridge, kick off 7.45pm.

The former Shrewsbury Town defender has missed several matches with a thigh injury, but is not expected to make the starting eleven because of the good form of on-loan West Bromwich Albion centre-back Tamika Mkandawire.

Hereford are currently top of the Conference, a point ahead of Chester City but with this game in hand. Dagenham are in the bottom half after a disappointing start to the season which has seen them collect fifteen points from thirteen games, and just four out of a possible eighteen on their travels.

Dagenham boss Garry Hill will also have a player eligible again as ex-Wimbledon defender Alan Kimble has completed a suspension. Tim Cole is missing again though, as he continues with his three match ban. Jimmy Jackson is likely to be missing again with an ankle injury while Lee Matthews (calf) is not expected to feature.

The Essex men hit form last Tuesday as they beat Margate 4-0 at Victoria Road, although that was their first win in five matches.

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Bentley wants Daggers to score first

Mark Bentley is hoping that the Daggers can score first at Edgar Street tomorrow evening. Bentley signed by Dagenham at the start of the season has already scored five goals from midfield. The two sides scored nine goals between them in midweek and so he thinks that the game could become a shooting gallery.

He told the Non-League Paper: "All of the boys are in great spirtis, although it seems as though when we don't score first we find it hard to go on and win the game.

"We seem to like it when the cameras are on us. I think it's due to knowing that the extra bit of pressure is on us as there are people at home watching and that gives us a bit of an extra buzz."

Dagenham have two games in three days as they face Leyton Orient on Wednesday in the LDV Vans trophy.

Meanwhile, it has been announced that the Farnborough manager Tommy Taylor has quit.

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Green wants to impress

Ryan Green, Hereford United's replacement for Matt Clarke, is hoping that Welsh manager, Mark Hughes, will be watching his performance on Sky tomorrow evening.

Green, who has fitted in at Edgar Street so well, moved to Hereford on a free from Sheffield Wednesday last summer. He was the youngest ever player to win a full cap for Wales at seventeen but after Dave Jones released him from Wolves his career went downhill.

In today's Non-League Paper, Green says: "I played against Malta and Tunisia when I was seventeen and although I don't think the pressure got to me, I had a few injuries which seemed to set me back.

"Now Graham Turner has taken a chance on me so I am very grateful for the opportunity to show what I can do.

"This is definitely last chance saloon for me. I was nearly out of a job in the summer and it has made me appreciate football a lot more. Maybe when I was younger I used to go out a bit too much, but now I am back with my family in Cardiff and fully focused.

" I think I will have to get back into Division One to get picked for Wales again, but I am only 23 and haven't ruled it out. Hopefully we can win promotion this season and take it from there."

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Baker likes being on TV

Matt Baker, the Hereford United first choice stopper, has been telling the Non-League Paper of his love of being on television in advance of tommorrow's clash with Dagenham and Redbridge. In a long article written by Colin Mafham, Baker gives an insight into why Hereford start firm favourites for this game.

"It won't be a case of performing for the cameras on Monday, but I always seem to do well on TV, it's something of a lucky omen. And as we seem to have to have got in plenty of shots even in our dullest games this season, we are hoping to put on a good show," said Baker.

"People keep asking me what the difference is (this season) and I can tell them only one thing, it's because we've bonded as a group. While other sides signed new players in the summer the only real change in our team is Ryan Green at full-back.

"They're very young as well, I'm a veteran at 23 and one of the longest servants, and there is a confidence about them. We're not arrogant or over-confident, but at the moment we feel that whatever happens, even if we're playing the referee as well, we will come through. That is a massive strength to have."

Baker has been with the Bulls for four years and in that time the Bulls have only lost one game, against Wigan, in six televised matches.

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Chester close gap

Chester City have closed the gap with Hereford United to one point after their victory against Woking by two goals to one at the Deva Stadium this afternoon. However the attendance was only 2085.

Aldershot move up to third after beating Halifax 3-1.

The table now reads:
HEREFORD 13-32
Chester 14-31
Aldershot 14-29
Barnet 14-27
Exeter 14-25

Upset of the day was the defeat of Barnet by Tamworth 2-0.

Meanwhile the draw for the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup takes place on Monday. The Bulls enter the competition at this stage.

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Defeat on the cards for Chester

Hereford United will be hoping for Woking to do them a favour this afternoon, as the Cardinals take on Chester City at the Deva Stadium.

Chester could be without striker Daryl Clare, and first choice 'keeper Wayne Brown who is only rated 50-50. Chester have only scored one goal in their previous three games and have drawn those last three games.

Whatever the result, the Bulls will remain on top of the table at the end of the day, but if Woking were to draw or defeat Chester City, it would leave Hereford at least three points clear of Mark Wrights team with a game in hand.

If Chester were to suffer defeat today, Barnet and Aldershot could take over them in the league. Aldershot play hosts to Halifax, currently lieing eleventh, at the Recreation Ground and Barnet travel to the Lamb to face Tamworth, who are nineteenth and one place out of the relegation zone.

If results go Herefords way today, the Bulls could open up a large gap of seven points on Monday night when they play Dagenham & Redbridge, live on Sky Sports.

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Turner talks about the Daggers

Graham Turner, the Bulls manager, has been looking forward to Monday's game with Dagenham. Speaking on BBC Hereford and Worcester, he told Trevor Owens that he was fully aware of the threat posed by the Essex club.

"When you look through their side, they were a club that missed out (on promotion) very narrowly on two occasions and I felt they would not do it a third time. But what the manager did in the summer was made big chances to his playing staff. And he has added some decent Conference players to what he already had and the result is a squad that will be in contention at the end of the season." said Turner.

"They could do something similar to last year when they strung a run of eleven victories together to get into a play-off position and they have the personal in there to do just that.

" We have got to make sure on Monday that we still keep them in the bottom of the table and that is by taking the three points.

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Daggers game on the Web

BBC Hereford & Worcester have announced that they are to broadcast Hereford United's Monday evening's game against Dagenham & Redbridge on the Web.

After problems stopped last Tuesday's game with Northwich being heard, Trevor Owens, head of sport at the station, has decided to make amends to Bulls supporters by covering this game.

There will be extra checks made to ensure that the lines are working before the game starts.

The web site needed is www.bbc.co.uk/hereford

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Turner aims to strengthen ranks

With just seventeen players in the Hereford United first-team squad, Graham Turner is actively attempting to strengthen the roll-call, but this is not likely to occur before Monday's match with Dagenham & Redbridge.

The Bulls have seventeen players on a full-time basis, and also West Bromwich Albion defender Tamika Mkandawire on-loan to cover for the injured Andy Tretton.

Turner told the Shropshire Star: "We've been fairly fortunate with injuries so far but we are looking to add to the squad."

"Having let Rob Sawyers go we have a space to fill. However we will only fill that space when the right type player becomes available.

"You only recruit someone you really feel has something to offer and that has always been our aim."

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Ladbrokes make Bulls favourites

One leading bookmaker has today made Hereford United favourites to win the Conference this season, but all the others are still keeping Chester on top.

Ladbrokes now have the Bulls at 7-4, with Chester at 2-1, and Shrewsbury at 7-1.

In general, Chester are available at about 2-1, and the average price for Hereford is just over 3-1. Shrewsbury's price varies from 10-3 to 7-1 and averages 9-2.

It is probably the first time since Hereford dropped to the Conference that they have been so fancied for a return to higher level football.

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Sky at Edgar Street

Sky are to televise two games from Edgar Street in the next three months.

The first game is against Dagenham next Monday and the second against Exeter on Boxing Day evening.

In today's Hereford Times, United manager Graham Turner says of the Daggers game: "Dagenham have got some very good players and will finish in a much higher position than they are at present. The television coverage will give the game some added spice and, hopefully, we will have a high attendance and a good atmosphere on the terraces.

"Our Boxing Day match has a 7.45pm kick-off, which causes something of a headache for the clubs involved and the supporters. A mid-day or afternoon kick-off would have been warmly welcomed.

"But people don't realise the problems associated in putting on a game at that time, in terms of stewards and gatemen. I am not sure how many people will tune into a match on Boxing Day night at 7.45pm."

Meanwhile, the Hereford Times has announced that Ian Morgan, who has covered the Bulls for them for the last 27 months, is moving to news reporting. Ian was presented with a bottle of bubbly by Graham Turner before leaving Hereford to report on the Northwich match. He certainly chose a good game for his last report.

HU-FC.co.uk wish him well in his new position. Richard Prime will cover United from today.

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Burton help the Bulls

An injury time penalty from Burton Albion's Aaron Webster denied Chester City all three points at Eton Park this evening.

Hereford are now four points clear of Chester at the top of the table. Both teams have played thirteen games this season.

Chester face Woking next Saturday at the Deva Stadium in a vital game that could see Mark Wright's team move within one point of the Bulls.

Hereford face Dagenham & Redbridge on Monday night, before the top of the table clash between the two clubs at Chester on Saturday, 18th of October.

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Court case report

The following report is from tonight's Burton Mail:

Nine Herefordshire men have appeared before magistrates accused of violent disorder at a Burton Albion football match.

Wayne Milner, 35, of Cherrybrook Close, Leominster; David Ellis, 40, of Alexandra Avenue, Hereford; Stacey Jennings, 22, of Honeysuckle Close, Hereford; Robert Morris, 34, of Prior Street, Hereford; David Watkins, 41, of Millard Close, Hereford; Benjamin Lewis, 18, of Hinton Crescent, Hereford; Stephen West, 43, of Laburnum Grove, Hereford; Robert Scott, 39, of Gorsty Lane, Hereford; and Anthony Calandra, 26, of Ledbury Road, Hereford, appeared at Burton Magistrates Court yesterday charged with committing violent disorder during the Albion's game against Hereford United on Friday, September 19.

Eight were released on bail with the conditions they should not attend any fixture at Hereford United's Edgar Street stadium or any Hereford United away game. They must also not go within 10 miles of where Hereford United are playing for a period spanning four hours before and four hours after the designated kick-off time.

No pleas were entered and the cases were adjourned until Tuesday, November 11, to be heard at Burton Magistrates Court.

Presiding magistrate Pat Court told the defendants they would not have to attend the next court hearing due to the distance they would have to travel, unless video footage of their alleged crimes was supplied.

The ninth Hereford man, Anthony Vitto Calandra, was remanded in custody until Wednesday, October 29, when he will next appear by video link before Tamworth magistrates.

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