Feb 1st:
JANE Griffiths, manager of the club shop has released the following statement via the official website (www.herefordunited.co.uk)
"Since the re-launch of the club shop, now www.bulls-shop.com, sales have rocketed and I'm pleased to report that our retail outlet now brings in a substantial revenue for Hereford United. With the current financial situation being the way it is, it is important for us to continue to build in this area. Therefore, we aim to continue to stock as many different items as possible with new lines being introduced regularly throughout the season, giving the supprter choice and variety at resonable prices. We appreciate the support that you, the fans, have given us and we are aware that many of you shop on a regular basis with us, either on-line or directly from the shop, purely to put money back into the club. Every purchase is important, whether it be a 99p car sticker or a full replica kit, so please keep visiting us - we might just have something you haven't yet purchased!
"Our aim when we re-opened was to keep lines well stocked but with sales well exceeding our expectations in the early days there were times that we were out of some items or sizes of Leisure Wear. We also had a few hiccups with some suppliers not delivering when promised but on the whole we, and I think most of our customers, have been pleasantly surprised with how well things have gone.
"Due to the present financial situation we have had to hold an order back until the last possible moment which may mean that scarves and mugs might sell out before the new stock arrives. Hopefully we will have sufficient scarves in stock to see us through this Saturday."
New offers include: New 'fundraiser' t-shirts at £9.99 each. 50% to club, 'Club motto' t-shirts, 'Follow Hereford' t-shirts and 'Swede' t-shirts.
Feb 3rd:
DETAILS were printed in today's Bullseye regarding the England vs Wales Semi-Professional Football Match featuring Hereford's Scott Cooksey and Gavin Williams. The game will be played on Tuesday, 13th February and carries a 7.30pm kick-off at Rushden & Diamonds' Nene Park ground. Addmission prices are as follows:
SEATING: Adults £8.50, Concessions £5, Under 12's £2.
STANDING: Adults £7.50, COncessions £5, Under 12's £2.
HEREFORD UNITED 0 - 0 LEIGH RMI
FA Umbro Trophy Fourth Round.
An attendance of just 1,491 turned out to watch an eventful but goalless draw between Conference league sides Leigh RMI and Hereford United at Edgar Street. It was only the second ever time that the sides had met in any kind of match, the last just six months ago in the league. On that occasion at Edgar Street, Hereford were on-top but Leigh went home happy having secured a 1-1 draw.
This match was vital for both sides, as Hereford had warned of spiralling attendances and a desperate financial state, whilst Leigh are struggling to survive on their lowly attendances. The 1,491 that turned out today was an increase of ovre a hundred on the Hayes match at Edgar Street a couple of weeks ago, but it will have been of little help to either side as the money is shared. Perhaps the attendance was affected by poor performances of later, but more likely fans stayed at home to watch the Six Nations rugby match between England and Wales (which England won 44-15 at the Millennium Stadium).
Going into the match, Hereford announced that they could name just four substitutes due to an ongoing injury crisis. Paul Parry, John Shirley, Steve Piearce (who is out on loan) and Steve Bull (hamstring) were all out, but winger Michael McIndoe made a return on the left wing having served his suspension. Tony James and Ian Wright also missed out through injury but are expected to return soon, so James Wall and Matt Gardiner played at centre-back. Jimmy Quiggin and Kerry Giddings dropped down to the bench as Robinson moved back into his more familiar midfield role. Two appearance milestones for players today - Scott Cooksey made his fiftieth start for the club, whilst Ian Rodgerson made his 255th appearance, matching his dad, Alan's record, who played for the club during the days in the Southern League. On the bench, Graham Turner named Matt Baker and a youth player called Melvin Gourlay, and Andrew Moran also was selected but was apparently injured - so just there to make up the numbers. Craig Hanson and John Shirley were nursing knocks.
Visitors Leigh RMI had no such injury problems. Central defender Jamie Udall is ruled out for the season, but otherwise the rest of the squad was fit. Top scorer Tony Black was selected in attack, and veteran Dave Felgate continued in goal ahead of Craig Dootson, who has just returned from injury.
The game kicked off at 3pm precisely, and it was clear that the away side had come for the draw, defending deeply but stubbing out any Hereford attacks as soon as they had started! Michael McIndoe, Gavin Williams, Robin Elmes and John Snape all came close early on, but to no avail as Dave Felgate in the Leigh goal was equal to anything the home side could throw at him. Paul Sturgess had a fair half, but the two stars at the back for Hereford were Matt Clarke and James Wall. Clarke went on some darting runs on the right side and looks to have fitted into the role superbly following the departure of Chris Lane, and James Wall has been improving rapidly in the last few weeks. He has grabbed his chance in the team with both hands and has repayed Graham Turner for keeping faith in him. It looked as if he would have left last summer, but he is now holding down his place and it is hard to see him being dropped should Wright and Tony James be ready for first team action in the near future. Wall headed over midway through the half following a corner.
As the half progressed, Leigh came out and, although cautiously, attempted to attack but it was still Hereford who looked the more inventive side. They gained several corners, but couldn't find the killer touch to give them the lead. Gavin Williams had a good shot late in the half, a direct run with an acute effort which anxiously rolled across goal and wide at the far post. Robin Elmes couldn't reach the area fast enough, as a tiny touch would have resulted in a 1-0 lead to the Bulls.
Half-time came and the chance to evaluate performances on the field, and it was clear that Ian Rodgerson wasn't looking up to the job. Perhaps if Jimmy Quiggin had been brought on to the right-sided role, it would have sparked some life into proceedings but Graham Turner stuck with Rodgerson.
Attempts continued and it was clear that Hereford needed a change. Gavin Williams and Robin Elmes were not firing up-front, or linking well, and John Snape, whilst giving 100%, had a problem with some of his passing. Scott Cooksey rallied the team from the back in the absence of Ian Wright, although the captain's armband had been given to Snape.
Paul Sturgess showed that he could match his fellow full-back Matt Clarke with a superb run midway through the half, from his own penalty area to the other. By the time he had reached Felgate's box, several RMI defenders had crowded him out and bundled him off the ball, therefore extinguishing any effort on goal.
Leigh came into the game and forced Cooksey to save on a couple of occasions, but it was still the Bulls who led from the front. The introduction of Kerry Giddings pushed Gavin Williams into the right wing role, as Giddings replaced Rodgerson. However, Elmes and Giddings failed to link well enough to create a real chance.
The sickening incident of the match came at the end of the ninety minutes, as Leigh defensive midfielder Iain Swan clashed heads with Elmes in a 50-50 challenge. Both went down, and the referee called on the two physiotherapists. Whilst Elmes got off lightly, getting up after a minute and being able to continue, Swan was down for several minutes and several medical staff surrounded him. In the end, a stretcher was called and he was carried off, appearing to be wearing an oxygen mask. An ambulance was called and arrived at the ground seconds after the full time whistle, around eight minutes after the incident.
The five minutes of added time made no change in the scores, and it will be Leigh who will be pleased with the replay at their Hilton Park next Tuesday, 6th February, at 7.45pm.
Referee. Mr. K. Pike, had a sound match and whilst some of his decisions were slightly mind-boggling, he was consistent and once of the better officials seen at Edgar Street this term. He cautioned two players from Leigh RMI, as defenders Neil Durkin (17 minutes) and Dave German (44 minutes) were both yellow carded for fouls in the first half.
RMI boss Steve Waywell used his full compliment of substitutes, as Ricky Harries, Morell and Ged Murphy were all required throughout the match. However, Murphy was used in the last minute as a replacement for the injured Iain Swan. Whilst Hereford United will feel that they should have gone through, it is a compliment to Leigh's defence that they held a lively United side to a draw.
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, Gardiner, Wall, Rodgerson, Snape, McIndoe, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Giddings (64).
Man of the Match - Matt Clarke
Feb 4th:
THE Leigh RMI defender Iain Swan, who clashed with Rob Elmes yesterday before being strechered off, was not badly injured in the challenge despite being taken to Hereford hospital. It has been confirmed that he swallowed his tongue, something which has happened before during his time at RMI, and after a number of x-rays, he was allowed to travel home with the team at around 7pm. As it is a head injury, the club have confirmed that he will be unable to play for a couple of weeks, so will be out of Tuesday night's FA Trophy 4th round replay against the Bulls at Hilton Park.
Feb 5th:
TOMORROW's FA Trophy Fourth Round replay at Leigh RMI has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. The game has now been rescheduled for Monday, 19th February at Hilton Park. Therefore, the Quiz Night due to be held in Legends has been postponed to the 20th February (Tuesday).
It has been suggested in several places that the Southport (away) match will be held on Tuesday 27th February at Haig Avenue, but there has been no confirmation yet.
Hereford United or Leigh RMI have been drawn away to the winners of the Evesham United (Dr. Marten's League Western Division) vs Morecambe tie. In the event that both United's go through, a good local derby could be on the cards. The tie will be held on 24th February, the day of the Stevenage vs Hereford league game, so that game has been postponed as Boro' are now away at Canvey Island. No new date has yuet been arranged.
The draw in full is:
Burton Albion vs Yeovil Town
Weymouth vs Southport
Evesham United or Morecambe vs Hereford United or Leigh RMI
Canvey Island vs Stevenage Borough
Histon or Billericay Town vs Telford United
Tiverton Town vs Worksop Town
Chester City vs Blyth Spartans
Matlock Town or Forest Green Rovers vs Rushden & Diamonds
Feb 6th:
HEREFORD United Director of Football Graham Turner has said that if the Bulls overcome Leigh RMI in the fourth round replay, he would be pleased with the away draw at Worcestershire side Evesham. However, Evesham, of the Dr. Martens Western Division, must first beat Morecambe, two leagues above them, whom they play tonight at Christie Park.
Turner said: "It would be nice to think we could get through and play at Evesham which is a short journey for our fans."
Evesham boss Phil Mullen said: "It is a nice incentive. It would be tremendous to think we could be looking at a 2,000-3,000 crowd down here."
Feb 7th:
LAST week it was announced in the Hereford Times that lifelong Hereford United fan Pauline Williams had launched a campaign to help save Hereford United, and she has announced that £1,026 has been raised so far.
However, the amount of people donating to the 'Save Our Club' fund is limited, and more people need to contribute, if they are able, as small donations soon mount up into a large sum. If everyone gave £5 whenever they could, the fund would soon make a substantial amount that could make a real difference to the club. Money can be sent to Pauline to keep in an independent bank account until the club requires the funds. There is currently a quiz-sheet competition, which is particularly challenging, available to raise money priced at £1 each, and a `Chinese' auction is to be held in their village of Clyro, near Hay-on-Wye.
If you can contribute to the fund, please do so. Pauline can be contacted on 01497 820268 or 07769 896268 or money can be sent via the club office in Blackfriars Street or the Vice Presidents' Club marked for Pauline Williams. Also, you can hand money to Pauline or Garry Hughes directly, or send cheques to Pauline Williams at 'Save Our Club', Pauline Williams, Ashbrook Lodge, Clyro, Hereford, HR3 5RZ. Please make all cheques payable to 'P Williams re. Walkfund'.
The winner of the Hereford United vs Leigh RMI FA Trophy match faces a long trip to Morecambe in the next round, as the Conference side overcame Worcestershire minnows Evesham 4-1 in last night's replay. Evesham United were 1-0 ahead at the break, but Morecambe made home advantage count with four goals in the second period.
Meanwhile, Telford continued to make ground on the Bulls with a 1-0 win over Doncaster Rovers at the New Bucks Head.
Paul Parry, who has missed most of the season with an ankle injury, may return earlier than expected and could be back in time to face Leigh RMI in the Trophy replay. With the current injury situation, the club need as many fit players as possible so Parry's return may be a timely one.
In the next round of the Trophy, United could face an away trip to Morecambe. Graham Turner said of the game: "It's a tough draw. I've got a lot of respect for the way they've gone about things there. But we went there earlier in the season and got a point."
Steve Piearce has opted to stay out on loan at Halesowen for a second month after scoring his first goal last Saturday. In the event that the injury crisis worsens, Hereford have to option to recall him instantly.
On the transfer front, Graham Turner has said there have been no enquiries for Gavin Williams lately, but other players have been subject to interest. He has revealed no further details.
Feb 9th:
GRAHAM Turner is ready for a scrap against Hednesford tomorrow. He said: "It is going to be a difficult game because they are scrapping for their lives."
On Tony James' and Ian Wright's fitness, Turner said: "I don't think Tony is quite going to make it. He played 45 minutes for the reserves at Kidderminster the other night and could make it for the FA Trophy replay at Leigh. Ian has just started training but is also unlikely to be fit."
Paul Parry has been welcomed back to training, though. "We have not had the results from the specialist yet, but he is stepping up his training and he could be figuring in first-team contention within the next three weeks," said Turner.
On Hednesford, he added: "They are fighting for their lives, so we know it is going to be a tough one. We have been very close in some of our recent away matches - we felt we should have got something out of the games at Northwich and Telford, only to concede late goals. Realistically we are out of title contention but we still want to finish as high as we possibly can."
Hednesford boss Neil Pointon said: "We've been strong going forward all season but individual lapses in defence have cost us. We must improve in this area of the game if we are to start picking-up results. Hereford are a good side but they are all tough games now - we're fighting for our lives at the moment."
Promising Hereford United winger Micheal McIndoe has been subject to a £20,000 from Boston United, according to the BBC. No further details are yet known.
Feb 10th:
IAN Swan, the Leigh RMI who swallowed his tongue in last Saturday's FA Trophy match, will return to face the Bulls once again in the replay on 19th February. Swan swallowed his tongue in a collision with Rob Elmes, and the twenty one year old was lucky to survive. The physio, Dave Power, effectively saved his life.
"It's all part and parcel of a game but the physio did a great job," Swan said: "I owe him a lot of thanks. I remember going up for a header. The next thing I remember was going off on a stretcher. I've had a broken nose before but nothing to compare with this."
Swan will miss today's match, and Leigh boss Steve Waywell said: "It's just a precaution, Iain seems to be all right now but it could have been a lot worse."
Feb 10th:
ACCORDING to the official Conference website, Hereford have signed two new players this week but there has been no confirmation from the club. The first is Melvin Gourlay, who is a sixteen year old and sat on the bench last Saturday, and is part of the North Birmingham College youth setup. Graham Turner has appeared to have signed him on a contract. The second is something of an unknown quantity! Nicholas Plutivek has apparently signed on non-contract forms.
HEDNESFORD TOWN 0 - 3 HEREFORD UNITED
Hereford United travelled to South Staffordshire this afternoon and have claimed three points in the Nationwide Conference match, but it was more due to a poor performance from the home side than an amazing one from Hereford!
Prior to the match, United hadn't scored in their last two matches, but had won two of their last four league encounters. Hednesford, languishing in the relegation zone, secured a 1-1 draw at Edgar Street earlier in the season as Scott Cooksey conceded his first goal this term, but hadn't won at home since September.
Hereford welcomed Paul Parry, Ian Wright and Tony James back to training, but none could make the side for today's match. Steve Bull was on the touchline as a coach, and Ian Rodgerson recovered from a rib injury. Craig Hanson missed out after chipping his elbow in training, and Andrew Moran had a groin strain. Defender Paul Sturgess also missed out through a one-match suspension, so Rodgerson came into defence to replace him. Today's right winger was Jimmy Quiggin.
The home side had an almost full squad to pick from, but midfielder Scott Goodwin was suspended. Striker Mickey Norbury and defender Lee Colkin both missed out, but former Hereford goalkeeper Mark Gayle played between the sticks.
Fans were still coming through the turnstiles when Phil Robinson opened the scoring on just twenty nine seconds! Michael McIndoe hit a superb long cross into the box, and following a deflection from long ginger haired defender Stuart Lake, Robinson fired home from ten yards out. Neil Pointon's side were 1-0 within a minute.
Chances continued, particularly for the Bulls, with Matthew Gardiner having a header saved by Mark Gayle and Robin Elmes missing two superb efforts. Then Gavin Williams set up a cracking chance for Jimmy Quiggin, but somehow he missed from six yards out in a virtually open goal.
Half time came with Hereford on top, much to the delight of the travelling fans. A 'battle' between the rival supporters came as they chanted, but a handful of Hednesford fans obviously became a bit too emotionally involved as tempers boiled over. Stewards went to restrain the troublesome crowd and on the pitch, United continued to have the most possession. The second goal was inevitable, and came when Williams tackled Jake Sedgemore and then hit a superb cross into the centre which Robin Elmes couldn't fail to miss. He didn't - and United went 2-0 up.
Hednesford attempted to come back into the game, but even the introduction of Stewart Airdrie couldn't help the home side to a goal. The home side fought with all their hearts, but Hereford's skill and fitness was superior to their part-time opponents.
Hednesford finally made Scott Cooksey make a save with seven minutes left when Val Owen hit a poor effort towards the former Hednesford 'keeper, who had no problems in saving. Two minutes later, Elmes did well to beat the offside trap, and then hit a strong pass to Quiggin, who hit a sweet goal to extend his side's lead.
Cooksey made the save of the match with two minutes to go, when Neil Davis' header seemed destined for the back of the net, but somehow Cooksey managed to maintain his clean sheet. Davis then had an open goal to score, but still managed to miss!
The referee, Mr G. Salisbury of Preston, made three bookings in the match; Hednesford player-boss Neil Pointon on eleven minutes for a foul, and then Haran on the stroke of half time. Phil Robinson was cautioned on seventy two minutes, somewhat strangely for unsporting behaviour.
The Bulls will be happy with their first away win since beating Scarborough 4-2 in early November, but Hednesford were atrocious. Their defence was non-existant for the opening half hour, and the midfield was poor. Neil Davis looked impressive, but the rest of the side was poor.
Around three hundred Hereford fans made the trip to Keys' Park, but a total attendance of just 1,024 shows that the waining Hednesford support cannot stomach the tribulations which lie ahead as the Pitmen attempt to avoid the drop to the Dr. Martens' Premier League.
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Rodgerson, Robinson, Gardiner, Wall, Quiggin, Snape, McIndoe, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Giddings (75)
Man of the Match - Gavin Williams
Feb 11th:
SPORTINGBet.com has placed Yeovil Town and Rushden & Diamonds as joint favourites to win this season's FA Trophy at 3/1, with Hereford out at 25/1. The Bulls are joint eighth favourites with Leigh RMI, whom they face in a replay a week on Monday (19th February), at Hilton Park. Rank outsiders are Billericay (125/1), and little Matlock Town, at 150/1.
The odds:
Yeovil Town 3/1
Rushden & Diamonds 3/1
Southport 5/1
Stevenage Borough 7/1
Chester City 7/1
Morecambe 16/1
Telford United 18/1
Hereford United 25/1
Leigh RMI 25/1
Feb 12th:
GRAHAM Turner has praised his players who continue to play to the best of their ability, despite all the problems at the club. "The players attitude has been first class sometimes in adverse circumstances," said Turner. "Their strength of character and determination has never faltered."
He has also asked for the supporters who have deserted the club to come back, or face not having a club to come back to. "We know that not many are going to come through the turnstiles out of benevolence," admitted Turner. "That's why it is important that we continue our run in the FA Umbro Trophy. We have been third or fourth in the Conference for most of the season and don't want our season to peter out."
Hereford United's midfielder Michael McIndoe has been bid for by two Conference teams, Yeovil Town and Boston United.
Director of Football Graham Turner told the Evening News: "I have had enquiries from Boston and have spoken to their manager Steve Evans, but they seem to do their business publicly, while Yeovil have attended a number of our games. It is no secret that because of the financial situation at the club, players from time to time will have to be sold, and other clubs are aware of this."
Steve Evans, Boston boss, said: "I am not going to get involved in an auction. Hereford know what our bid is. So it's just a matter of awaiting their verdict."
Yeovil manager Colin Addison, formerly of Hereford, told the official Yeovil website: "I hope we will have a new signing soon, and I'd like to think it will happen on Monday. A fee has been agreed regarding a player. It would have been nice to have got it done before the weekend, but the other club wanted to sort out a few matters over the weekend."
Gavin Williams is also thought to be wanted by Boston.
Feb 14th:
GRAHAM Turner is hoping that this Saturday's match against Nuneaton Borough will bring the crowds back to Edgar Street after last week's demolition of Hednesford Town.
Turner said: "I am hoping for a bumper turnout on Saturday after our good performance at Hednesford and that our supporters get behind the team to put them in good heart for the crunch match at Leigh."
Wales' Gavin Williams and England's Scott Cooksey played in last night's semi-professional international at Nene Park, Rushden. Williams played in a defensive Welsh team, and Cooksey featured for the final two minutes as a substitute.
Graham Turner, United boss, was at the match and said: "Williams played the full match on his international debut but had little chance to show his attacking potential. England dominated the match but could not break down Wales' stubborn defence. Cooksey, who had played for England before joining us, only came on for the last two minutes."
For the record, the game finished 0-0 but England were on top for the duration. Tony Pennock was superb in the Welsh goal, but Terry Skiverton had a goal ruled out for the English after a push.
Hereford United's midfielder Michael McIndoe has been bought by league leaders Yeovil Town for £25,000, plus another £5,000 should Yeovil be promoted and a 25% sell-on clause.
"Without income from transfers we would go out of business, it's as simple as that," said Graham Turner. "Obviously we are sorry to lose McIndoe, but we have made it clear it would be unavoidable that we transfer players because of our financial situation. It's part and parcel of football trading. We have had to do it to keep the club alive for the last five years."
"Michael has done very well for us and always gives of his best with great enthusiasm," Turner continued. "However, finances dictate that I have to sell, and in this case I have a ready-made replacement in Paul Parry who is back in full training after a troublesome ankle injury."
Feb 16th:
HEREFORD boss Graham Turner is eager to continue the current run with two victories in three days as Hereford face Nuneaton in the league on Saturday, followed by a trip to Leigh RMI next Monday in the FA Trophy. However, he still says finances run the roost and are more important to the club than results.
He said: "I am sure they understand the position. Nobody wants to come in and invest in the club. We have taken about £500,000 in transfer fees and I have accepted this situation for the last five years. It is a question of keeping the club in business."
"It is a testing weekend for us. A Trophy run is vital for us and we want to keep our league position going," he said. "They (Nuneaton) have had an indifferent season but they did very well in the FA Cup and have got two particularly good front men in Marc McGregor and Lee Charles. Those two will be a threat to any side."
Meanwhile, Nuneaton manager Steve Burr is pleased with his side's recent efforts and said: "We are playing some good stuff and I think we have shown that in last couple of home games. But we want to keep our run going at Hereford."
Feb 17th:
HEREFORD UNITED 1 - 1 NUNEATON BOROUGH
Substitute Steve Bull scored in the last minute with a close range header to gain United a deserved point at home to Nuneaton Borough. John Snape provided the cross for Bull to head the ball through Chris MacKenzie's legs to level the scores.
Prior to today's game, both sides would have been up for victory. Hereford had won 3-0 at Hednesford last Saturday, but would the sale of Michael McIndoe leave a gapping hole on the left of the midfield? Ian Rodgerson filled the role, and did so with relative ease. Meanwhile, Nuneaton remain unbeaten in their last four league matches, having beaten Dagenham and Doncaster so far this month, in addition to today's point.
Graham Turner named Tony James on the bench for the game, as well as strikers Steve Bull and Andrew Moran, showing that the injury problems were easing. Paul Parry was spotted jogging prior to the match, but Ian Wright chose to watch the match from the stand. Jimmy Quiggin continued in the team on the right wing.
Nuneaton missed former Hereford midfielder Mark Taylor, but Ian King recovered from his groin injury to start, as did Michael Love, who was suffering with an achilles strain. Barry Williams passed a fitness test to start today.
Chris MacKenzie, Hereford's 'keeper when the Bulls reached the third division play-offs in 1996, was selected for Nuneaton this afternoon and had a good match, commanding well in his area.
The opening ten minutes saw the home side on top, with Robin Elmes almost grabbing the lead with a good effort which was cleared by Love. From then on, Nuneaton took the game by the scrap of the neck and looked more like the home side for long periods in the opening half. In fact, Scott Cooksey had to be on top form to keep out efforts from Marc McGregor, the former Forest Green striker, Lee Charles, of Hayes FA Cup fame, and Peake, who wasted a good effort. Barry Williams had a couple of chances, but made up for his misses when he handed the away side the lead with seven minutes of the half remaining.
United were truly awful at this point. The Nuneaton goal was inevitable and it was clear something had to be done. Ian King hit a good ball from the right wing, Barry Williams slotted home a close range effort to give Nuneaton the lead. Borough should have extended their lead as they retained possession until half time, but the break was needed by United.
Graham Turner must have been pretty agitated at the stoppage, and the half time talk sparked his players into action. This match was certainly 'a game of two halves'.
Tony James replaced centre back Matthew Gardiner and, as the second half got underway, United were on top. Phil Robinson went close from a corner, as did Robin Elmes two minutes previous, and Elmes was unlucky not to have gained two penalties as he appeared to have been fouled twice.
Gavin Williams went on some dazzling runs but was not as good as he can be, whilst Jimmy Quiggin played well before tiring and being replaced by Steve Bull on seventy six minutes. Bull went into attack alongside Elmes, as Williams pulled back into midfield. Matt Clarke had a good game, overall the second half performances of the players were a huge improvement of that in the first.
Steve Bull warmed up for a good fifteen minutes before entering the fray, and looked much fitter and alert than he ever did against Northwich a month ago. He went close on several occasions, but the commanding figure of MacKenzie in the Nuneaton box prevented any Hereford goals. His purple-shirted defenders got desperate on a couple of occasions, but try as they might, Hereford couldn't prise a hole in the defence. Even an effort from Tony James went horribly wrong, as from the edge of the box he managed to hit the top of the Meadow End roof.
Had Hereford not gained a point from the match, it would have been an injustice. The equaliser was deserved, but it was a huge shock when John Snape got onto the end of a piece of play from United and provided a sublime cross. Steve Bull closed his eyes as he outjumped the Nuneaton defender, before heading the ball between the legs for MacKenzie and over the line in the third minute of injury time.
Referee Mr E. Evans of Manchester was truly dreadful. He spoilt an exciting encounter with his inconsistent decisions and his failure to spot vital descrepancies. Phil Robinson was cautioned on eight minutes for a harmless foul, and Lee Charles seven minutes later, again for a foul. Marc McGregor was booked for dissent, and Paul Sturgess was then cautioned for kicking the ball away, and was lucky not to have been sent off later as he challenged another awful decision. In the final fifteen minutes, Simon Weaver was booked for dissent, and then Wayne Simpson and John Snape for fouls. Overall, he was the worst referee seen at Edgar Street this season.
Both sides will be pleased with the point gained today. Nuneaton were by far the better side in the first half, almost trapping Hereford in their own half, but the Bulls fought back and thanks to Steve Bull, gain a deserved draw. Now attention turns to Leigh RMI in the FA Trophy on Monday night.
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, Gardiner, Wall, Rodgerson, Snape, Quiggin, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - James (45), Bull (76).
Man of the Match - Phil Robinson.
Sources close to the club have exclusively revealed to hu-fc.co.uk that a new director has been appointed to the club's board. Mr. Aidan McGivern, a solicitor in Hereford and Leominster, has apparently joined the board, taking the number of members to seven. The others are Graham Turner, Joan Fennessy, George Hyde, Ron Jukes, Hugh Brooks and Grenville Smith. More details are expected to emerge soon.
Feb 18th:
STEVE Bull told of his delight at scoring his first goal for Hereford United yesterday, almost two years after his last of an illustrious career at Wolverhampton Wanderers. At Molineux, Bull netted 306 times and a small fraction of that number would put him back into the spotlight at Hereford.
On his home debut for Hereford, Bull headed past former United 'keeper Chris MacKenzie to gain Hereford a point three minutes into injury time, and Bull said: "You never lose the knack of scoring. It felt like I had rolled back 10 years when it went in."
Bull's boss at Hereford and also at Wolves, Graham Turner, said: "It is no accident that Steve was their at the far post for the equaliser. He had worked hard to get there."
Nuneaton were obviously devestated at losing the lead so late in the game which they had dominated for long periods. Jason Peake told of his anger: "We are absolutely devastated. It feels like we have lost the game to concede a goal with the last kick. We played the better football and were the better team."
Various reports have told of Nuneaton Borough defender Terry Angus punching a Hereford teenager following the match yesterday. Apparently, Angus was warming down on the pitch when a group of fans came out and taunted the Nuneaton players with a Steve Bull chant, before Angus punched the sixteen year old boy. Reports suggest that it has happened before, at Hayes and Yeovil Town, and it could result in a ban for the player.
Feb 20th:
STAR striker Gavin Williams is becoming one of the hottest properties in non-league football, attracting scouts from at least two Premiership clubs to Edgar Street on Saturday. Representatives from West Ham United, Middlesbrough, Burnley and Portsmouth all saw Williams in action, but Graham Turner is intent on keeping fans informed of any developments.
"I am sure that they understand the position", said Turner. "We have taken about £500,000 in transfer fees and I have expected this situation for the last five years. It is a question of keeping the club in business."
Graham Turner has revealed how he thinks veteran striker Steve Bull will help to enhance the team on the field, after scroing in Saturday's 1-1 home draw with Nuneaton. Whilst he won't be able to start, Turner said: "What he has to do is build up his fitness. I think he can comfortably do 20 minutes and then as his fitness improves he can possibly do a bit more."
On Saturday's goal, Turner praised Bull's perseverance: "People don't always realise the knack of a goalscorer in finding himself space. We had a stack of crosses going in and he got in two headers and scored one of them."
Turner was also pleased that Leigh RMI were beaten in the Trophy last night, and told the Evening News just that. "We dominated the game for long periods and there were several good individual performances," he said. "But what pleased me most of all was that we played as a team. There were harsh words after the way we defended at Nuneaton but the players responded to the challenge thrown at them and came away with a victory in a very awkward game.
"The pitch was heavy and not the best surface to play on. It was a cold misty night and a test of character. We took the battle to Leigh and came away with a tremendous amount of credit."
Meanwhile, Leigh boss Steve Waywell was less than satisfied with his side. "It is not going out that is so disappointing but the way we went out. We didn't put up much of a fight," he admitted. "We took the game to them for the first 15 minutes and had good chances which we didn't take. They got a grip in midfield where we didn't compete. Dave Ridings was on his own. Ged Kielty had a poor game and at the end of the day we can't afford to have players produce lacklustre performances like that. We lost because not all the players wanted it enough."
LEIGH RMI 1 - 2 HEREFORD UNITED
FA Umbro Trophy Fourth Round Replay.
Hereford's first visit to Hilton Park, Leigh was a successful one as they comfortably progressed through to the fifth round of the FA Trophy in cold, foggy conditions. In fact, towards the end of the match, the fog became so thick that it was hard to identify players at either end of the pitch, and the frozen ground made the game harder for both sides.
The Bulls made one change to the side which drew with Nuneaton Borough at Edgar Street on Saturday. Matt Gardiner, who was replaced on Saturday for Tony James, did not return to the side as James kept his place, and the rest of the team was unchanged. Steve Bull started on the bench, making an appearance late on but it was two of Hereford's longer serving strikers, Gavin Williams and Robin Elmes, who sealed victory for the away side.
Hilton Park is shared between the RMI football team and the Leigh Rugby League team, so the pitch was a bit worse for wear. It had been rolled, but did little to help the spectacle. However, it made little difference as Hereford dominated the match for long periods, only allowing Leigh to grab a late consolation goal which wasn't really deserved. Few of the 200 travelling Herefordians will be disappointed, and at times made it seem like a game at Edgar Street, as the noise was much louder than that coming from the home support.
The added support must have helped the Bulls greatly and they dominated for the whole of the first half. On twenty five minutes, Gavin Williams hit a good shot at veteran Welsh international Dave Felgate, and five minutes later it was John Snape who hit a long shot over the crossbar.
Steve Waywell's side showed their attacking qualities when counter-breaking Hereford pressure, but goalkeeper Scott Cooksey had little to worry about when it came to serious saves. Hereford continued to ambush the Leigh goal, with Jimmy Quiggin hitting just over the crossbar before Williams was unlucky to score.
But Williams made up for his failure to score on fourty one minutes when he latched onto the end of a good ball from Elmes after superb work from the midfield, before smashing a ball from ten yards past Felgate. The ball was almost unseen by Felgate before hitting the net, and Hereford had the lead that they so vitally required.
Robin Elmes had a shot saved a couple of minutes later, but Hereford were pleased to be leading at half time; something which they deserved. The second half was a matter of the same again with the Bulls dominating and RMI playing catch-up. Gavin Williams was playing well, but the star man with quick thinking and crisp passing was young winger Jimmy Quiggin, who has been in good form for the last few weeks.
With the fog thickening, the action was becoming harder to see for supporters standing behind the goals, but it was perfectly clear for all to see of the excitement on Robin Elmes face just seventeen minutes from time. Gavin Williams turned provider to knock a precise ball to Elmes, who headed in off the far post to double United's lead to two goals.
Leigh knew something needed to be done, and when Steve Bull entered to fray for Ian Rodgerson, it looked increasingly unlikely that they could do anything to stop Hereford. Bull had some good touches, but it was Tony Black who gave Leigh hope with a few minutes left. Black latched onto a ball which he hit high into Cooksey's net, leaving the former Shrewsbury 'keeper helpless. Leigh almost grabbed an equaliser at the death, but a spectacular dive from Cooksey kept RMI at bay.
Tony James, James Wall, Matt Clarke and Paul Sturgess dealt with all they had to at the back, James looking particularly sturdy after his period out through injury. Rodgerson looked to tire towards the end, but still offered good service to the side. Robinson and Snape played well, as did Elmes in his attacking role.
Hereford now face Morecambe in the fifth round which is due to be played on Saturday. Christie Park is never an easy place to go and get points, but the past 135 minutes of football played by the Bulls give everyone hope that a result in possible in their second trip to Lancashire in six days.
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, James, Wall, Rodgerson, Snape, Elmes, Williams, Quiggin.
Substitutes - Bull (83)
Man of the Match - Jimmy Quiggin.
Feb 21st:
THE Hereford United club shop, www.bulls-shop.com, will be in the Maylord Orchard shopping centre, Hereford, on Friday 13th April. Former giantkilling str Ricky George will be attending, signing copies of him new book 'One Goal, One Horse' which is retailing at £9.99. Meanwhile, Saturday's hero Steve Bull will sign his limited edition jigsaw puzzle to raise money for the club. Other sporting guests will be attending, including members of the Hereford United squad.
The club shop is open on Monday and Friday from 10am until 2pm, and on Wednesday from 10am to 4pm. On Saturday before a game, the shop is open from 12.15pm until kick off, and from 6pm on evening matchdays. Make sure you visit to view the large range of new stock now in-store, or log onto the website at www.bulls-shop.com. Telephone ordering is also available by calling Jane Griffiths on 01432 276666.
The club have announced a new fundraising scheme which was originally spawned from an idea of a fan on the official website. The scheme, called Save Our Bulls fund, allows supporters to donate money to help the club, and www.netsounds.com have decided to kick off the fund with a £500 donation.
For each pound donated, one entry given to the monthly prize draw which collects 20% of the monthly fund, and anyone wishing to participate should contact the club on 01432 276666 or visit the club shop or office.
Payments will start from March and the first draw will be at United's first home game in April, which is against league leaders Rushden & Diamonds on Saturday, 14th April.
Club secretary Joan Fennessy said: "It's a little bit different and I think it's first class."
Meanwhile Hereford boss Graham Turner is confident that the Bulls can overcome Morecambe in Saturday's Trophy tie. He told the Hereford Times: "It's going to be a tough one but we've got the confidence of having gone up there and getting a draw in the league. We couldn't ask for two tougher away matches than Leigh and then Morecambe."
On the financial side, he said: "The situation has been eased by the McIndoe departure. We'll have to see how we go at Morecambe."
Feb 22nd:
FORMER Hereford United hero Jim Harvey, now manager of Conference rivals Morecambe, is looking forward to his sides FA Trophy home tie against the Bulls. Morecambe haven't reached the quarter finals since 1994, and Harvey knows Hereford United will be a tough test for his side.
Having scraped past Worcestershire side Evesham United in the last round, Harvey said: "Hereford may be having financial problems at the moment but they are still enjoying an excellent season. They are a strong, full-time outfit who are very well organised so we know we will have to give our all.
"We have had a good run in the cups this year and all enjoyed the experiences of the FA Cup ties and we are hoping we can follow that up with success in the Trophy as well."
Feb 23rd:
THE Nationwide Conference's Youth League (PASE scheme) is discussing plans to change for next season after its superbly successful first season. Already, Hereford have used two of the players as substitutes for the first team after success at the North Birmingham College.
Conference Secretary Kellie Discipline commented: "Everyone involved in PASE can be justifiably proud of its first year's achievements, but this is only the beginning. We have already received ten applications wishing to join our competition next year and are looking to kick off next season with three regional divisions, a new cup competition and a championship play-off."
These are odds for various competitions involving the Bulls:
FA Trophy (Ladbrokes):
7/2 Yeovil Town
4/1 Rushden & D
5/1 Chester City
6/1 Southport
6/1 Stevenage Borough
12/1 Morecambe
12/1 Telford United
16/1 Forest Green Rovers
20/1 Hereford United
Conference Title (William Hill):
Yeovil Town 19/10
Rushden & D 19/10
Southport 13/1
Hereford U 150/1
Graham Turner has asked for good support from his players and fans against Morecambe in the Trophy tomorrow.
He told the Evening News: "I thought we played very well at Leigh. It was a horrible night and the pitch was in poor condition, but we adapted very well and gave a disciplined and determined performance. If we put on a disciplined performance similar to the one at Leigh we will be OK. It is a very big game for us - we need to win to keep our season alive.
"Morecambe are a good side, especially at home, and have some decent players, especially going forward. Their position in the league is slightly misleading because they have played fewer games than most of the other teams."
"I am sure we will have a good following. They have been tremendous away from home all season and we must have had half the attendance the other night."
Morecambe manager Jimmy Harvey is not under-estimating the Bulls: "Hereford are having a good season, they are very strong and are a full-time side so they will be tough opposition. We will be confident, as we are going into any match, but we do respect Hereford and how they have performed. We have had a good run in the cups this year and all enjoyed the experiences of the FA Cup ties and we are hoping we can follow that up with success in the Trophy as well."
Any replay will be next Tuesday at Edgar Street.
The following is taken from the Official Website (www.herefordunited.co.uk):
The Standing Order Scheme is now up and running, the scheme was suggested by supporter Grayham Johnson on our fans forum. The webmasters put the idea to the club and The Save The Bulls Fund was born.
Donations to the fund can be made by filling in a Standing Order Form for the amount you would like to donate to the fund and presenting it to your bank. Once a month a draw will take place and the winner will receive 20% of the total amount taken the previous month. For every Pound donated the fund member will receive 1 entry into the draw that will take place at the first home game each month and at the start of each month during the 'close season'.
The Standing Order Mandates and Details of Entry are available at the club shop, the main office and are also downloadable on the Save The Bulls Fund section of the official website. The club would like to to thank all fans taking part in this scheme for their help and support.
Feb 24th:
HEREFORD United's goalkeeper Scott Cooksey has pledged his future to the club, and will only leave if Graham Turner needs him to.
"I've still got 18 months on my contract and I'm happy to stay", he said. "There are players in the news who have left the club, but until Graham makes that decision, I'm a Hereford United player. It's not good that the club are selling players. It raises a big question over whether we want to achieve promotion or are happy just being in the top six. We've got to be aiming for a top three finish to be ready to progress next season."
On the future of the club, Cooksey has said that the attendances need to rise. "Fourteen hundred isn't good enough. We've been in the top four all season, our highest position for a long, long while. We started off with crowds of 2,500. People must think the league's over but if Yeovil and Rushden slip up, it's up to us to catch up."
On his first full season at the club, he told the Evening News: "It's great, the fans have been fantastic. I had a good start and you just keep it going."
Losing Wright and James in front of him was a huge blow, but Cooksey explains that their back-up have been superb: "I think everybody realises that we miss them but James Wall and Matt Gardiner have come in and done exceptionally well, they're on their toes and doing their jobs."
Feb 24th:
MORECAMBE 0 - 0 HEREFORD UNITED
FA Umbro Trophy Fifth Round.
Hereford United failed to progress to the next round of the FA Trophy despite a superb display at Christie Park, Morecambe, this afternoon. Only the woodwork kept the Bulls at bay as they dominated the game, but will have to replay the tie at Edgar Street next Tuesday. The away side were optimistic before kick off, but a frustrating afternoon has only added to their strong feelings as Morecambe were by far the lesser side for the ninety minutes.
The Bulls named the same side that beat Leigh RMI last Monday in the fourth round replay of the competition. Ian Wright still hadn't recovered from his injury, and Paul Parry was tempted to return. It was probably that Graham Turner would like Parry to return to full fitness before re-entering first team matches, and with the team playing as they are, there is no reason for him to rush back. Paul Sturgess hurt his thigh last week, but overcame the injury to start at left-back.
Morecambe were without new signing Robbie Talbot, who was cup-tied having played for Burscough in a previous round. Garry Thompson failed to overcome his injury, but Ryan-Zico Black made a return to the Lancastrian's side.
The crowd were set for an exciting encounter, and they got exactly that! End to end action saw David Lee hit wide of Cooksey's post on just two minutes, but Matt Clarke played well down the right and his thoughtful runs made the Morecambe defence wary of him. No sooner had the game started then so did the snow! It started to flurry by the end of the game, but didn't stop the encounter unfolding to be a superb spectacle.
Mark Smith in the Morecambe goal had to be in good form to keep United at bay, and the front two of Mark Quayle and John Norman had sound matches but were not able to prise open the Hereford defence. Hereford had their first chance on seventeen minutes when John Snape fired wide from seven yards, a seemingly easy shot to get on target.
Robin Elmes came into the game on twenty minutes and headed just wide of the post, but Morecambe showed their attacking potential ten minutes later when he missed Scott Cooksey's goal by a matter of inches. Ian Rodgerson had a good chance at the end of the half, and then Robin Elmes stumbled when in possession. David Lee had another good effort but failed to hit the target yet again.
A good first half performance from the Bulls meant Phil Robinson and Tony James must get special mention for their committed nature to the play, and James Wall also looked strong and reliable at the back. Paul Sturgess picked up a knock on his ankle during the half, as well as a booking for a foul, and was replaced by Graham Turner at half time. Sturgess was a doubt before the match and it was probably a precautionary measure hat he came off, and replaced by Matt Gardiner. Hereford were dominant for much of the first half.
This continuted in the second period as Elmes knocked the ball just over Mark Smith's crossbar one minute into the game, but David Lee was the star of the Morecambe side with enlightening play throughout the second period, in fact it was a bit of a surprise when Jimmy Harvey replaced him late in the game. John Norman was kept quiet by the Hereford defence, therefore limiting Morecambe's attacking capabilities.
On fifty three minutes, Norman pulled away from the defence and had a free header from just eight yards out. How he missed is anyone's guess, but he somehow hit wide. At this point, both sides looked to be playing well and the game could have swung either way, but Hereford's fitness counted and they looked to tire Morecambe as the game progressed.
After sixty four minutes, a Rodgerson corner was knocked on to player-coach Phil Robinson and his right footed shot from the edge of the area was headed goalwards before full-back Andy Fensome headed it away off the line. Later, Gavin Williams broke free for the Bulls and defender Hardiker made a poor pass-back to Smith. Williams intercepted before striking a shot onto the outside of the post, much to the despair of the two hundred or so that travelled from Herefordshire.
Mark Smith showed off his goalkeeping skills to the full with eight minutes left, first denying Robin Elmes from close range and then recovering to prevent Gardiner giving Hereford the lead in the game. The Bulls needed an extra spark, something that was experienced and had the skill to pull a goal out of the bag. No guesses to what happened next...!
Ian Rodgerson, who had started to tire, was taken off by Turner and replaced by Steve Bull, but the former Wolves striker only had six minutes and a few touches and never really had time to settle into the action. Hereford, despite not being able to grab a goal, were on top and made Morecambe look second best. The Lancastrians almost got an undeserved winner in the last minute, but substitute Phil Eastwood's thirty yard effort was fluffed and caused Cooksey few problems.
The booing at full time by some sections of the home support wasn't justified as Morecambe played well, but looked second best against a resiliant Hereford side. The snow didn't help matters, but overall the result was probably lucky for Morecambe who defended well to stop United. An attendance of 1,109 turned out for the game, including around 200 travelling from the Welsh borders.
Referee Mr. A. Penn made two bookings, the aforementioned Paul Sturgess caution, and also yellow carded Morecambe's Steve Walters on fifty six minutes, again for a foul. The referee was of typical Conference standard, turning down a possible penalty for Morecambe late in the match.
The draw means a replay at Edgar Street this coming Tuesday where one of these two will progress to the next round, the quarter-final stage. With Rushden and Yeovil both losing, who would bet against either Morecambe or Hereford going all the way to Wemb... I mean Villa Park!
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, James, Wall, Rodgerson, Snape, Elmes, Williams, Quiggin.
Substitutes - Gardiner (45), Bull (85)
Man of the Match - Gavin Williams.
Feb 25th:
HEREFORD defender Paul Sturgess, who came off injured during yesterday's FA Trophy match at Morecambe, has reacted to the result.
"With the two big guns Yeovil and Rushden knocked out of the competition it is now set up for us," said Sturgess. "We came here to win. Nevertheless the draw is a good result for us. Morecambe are a difficult side but in the last 15 minutes we could have won it.
"We did the hard work at Leigh on Monday and maintained that today. Hopefully we can carry on and not throw it away."
The quarter-final draw will be held at the FA headquarters in Soho Square, London, this Monday at 3.45pm. TalkSport (1053 and 1089 kHz AM) will cover the draw, and it will also be available on the FA's Competitions Newsline (09066 555888).
Feb 26th:
THE sixth round of the FA Trophy has been drawn at FA Headquarters in Soho Square, London, and relayed live around the country on leading commercial sports station TalkSport (1053 and 1089 kHz AM).
The draw was held half an hour later, at 4.15pm, and lines up:
Morecambe or HEREFORD UNITED vs Burton Albion
Canvey Island or Stevenage Borough vs Telford United
Forest Green Rovers vs Worksop Town
Chester City vs Southport
Burton Albion knocked out Yeovil Town in the last round, but if Hereford want to play them, they will have to beat Morecambe at Edgar Street tomorrow night, kick off 7.45pm. All quarter final ties will be held on Saturday, 10th March, the original date for the Yeovil Town vs Hereford United league game. The Umbro Trophy final will be held on Saturday, 13th May, with the game being broadcast live on Sky Sports.
On the draw, Burton Albion boss Nigel Clough said: "I am disappointed not to be at home because on Saturday we proved we are capable of beating anyone at home. Of the two sides, I know more about Hereford and I saw them beat Leigh RMI in their Trophy replay last week. They are a very steady side and a good all-round unit. Graham Turner has done a very good job there despite having to sell a couple of players because of financial restraints. We will enter game full of optimism."
The odds for the Trophy are as follows:
Chester City 9/2
Southport 9/2
Hereford United 7/1
Stevenage Borough 7/1
Telford United 7/1
Burton Albion 9-1
Forest Green 9-1
Worksop Town 11-1
Morecambe 25-1
Canvey Island 50-1
Feb 27th:
THE Stevenage Borough vs Hereford United match, originally scheduled for last Saturday, has been rearranged for Monday 12th March, with a 7.45pm kick off.
HEREFORD UNITED 1 - 1 MORECAMBE
Hereford United win 3 - 1 on penalties, after extra time.
FA Umbro Trophy Fifth Round Replay.
Hereford United earned a home match against Burton Albion in the quarter final of the FA Trophy after a lucky win on penalties against Morecambe tonight. After a 0-0 draw on Saturday at Christie Park, the Bulls were favourites for the replay but Morecambe dominated for long periods and will count themselves very unlucky not having progressed themselves.
Paul Sturgess recovered from an injury to start the match, so Hereford named the same side that drew with Morecambe on Saturday. Ian Wright missed out with a hamstring injury, and Paul Parry was also still out. Craig Hanson chipping his elbow in training, and Andrew Moran didn't fully recovered from a groin strain. The Lancastrians were without the cup-tied Robbie Talbot, but otherwise manager Jimmy Harvey had a full squad to choose from.
The majority of the half was dominated by the Shrimps, who brought fourty hardy followers down who made themselves heard on the night. In the opening fifteen minutes, the Bulls were atrocious and Morecambe looked like they would bury the home side in the first half.
The only Hereford efforts came from Jimmy Quiggin, Tony James and John Snape, but their long range efforts failed to hit the target as the attacks of the home side were severely restricted. Rob Elmes hit a corner just wide. Morecambe will feel that they should have gained a penalty just a minute before the break, as Matt Clarke appeared to foul a Morecambe attacker, but the referee waved the protests away.
An unexpected goal came on the stroke of half time as Ian Rodgerson came crashing down in the penalty area, an outstretched leg from John Hardiker stopping his run. Striker Gavin Williams stepped up to take the penalty, and beat goalkeeper Mark Smith to give Hereford United a one goal half time lead.
Usually coming out after the break means a fresh, lively Hereford United side! Not tonight, as the Bulls retreated to a defensive situation, allowing a neat Morecambe side, managed by former Hereford favourite Jimmy Harvey, to pressurise the Hereford goal and they made the Bulls' backline work to keep the score down. Scott Cooksey was in good form to keep Morecambe at bay, but attack after attack showed the perseverance of the away side. Drummond headed just wide from close range on the hour, showing how close the Lancastrians were to gaining an equaliser, something which they deserved.
And they got one with nineteen minutes left through Stewart Drummond. A cleared effort fell to to Drummond who hit a rasping shot from twenty yards past Cooksey and into the corner. The defence was left shell-shocked and Cooksey was helpless to rescue the ball. The away side continued to dominate, and even the introduction of Steve Bull made little effect. Gavin Williams moved into Rodgerson's position, who came off, and he was of less use out wide.
Extra time was inevitable, and Elmes looked tired. He was not replaced by Graham Turner as Hereford continued to be second best to the part-timers. It was a huge shock when they almost scored with a twenty five yard shot. It was straight at Scott Cooksey, but the Hereford 'keeper turned it onto the crossbar before it dropped on the goal line into his arms. Morecambe then must have realised that it wasn't going to be their night, especially after several missed chances!
The penalty shoot out was always going to be a tense moment when taking into account Hereford's record from the spot this season! However, Williams, James and Quiggin scored, whilst Wall has a penalty saved to put Hereford through by three goals to one at the Blackfriars End of the stadium. Morecambe's penalties had just a 25% success rate. Substitute Phil Eastwood hit the first spot kick wide, and then Cooksey saved Andy Fensome's effort. Mark Quayle then missed, and Drummond's effort was not enough as Jimmy Quiggin beat Smith to put the Bulls through.
An attendance of 1,373 turned out, perhaps not a high as expected due to the cold weather and more importantly, the foot and mouth crisis which has hit the area. A farm in Llancloudy, near Ross-on-Wye, had been hit by the disease and with the cattle market a stone throw away from the Edgar Street ground, it would be not surprise if many farming families decided not to make the trip.
Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, James, Wall, Rodgerson, Snape, Elmes, Williams, Quiggin.
Substitutes - Bull (74).
Man of the Match - James Quiggin.
Feb 28th:
SKY Sports One is due to cover the Hereford United vs Burton Albion FA Trophy quarter final game on March 10th, with a new kick off time of 12pm. The match, due to be held at Edgar Street, is a huge tie for both sides as they make their quest for Conference glory. Burton are currently managed by Nigel Clough, and lie top of the Dr. Martens Premier League, and have already eliminated Yeovil Town and Scarborough. Burton are hoping that 1000 fans will travel with their side.
On the Burton tie, Graham Turner told the Evening News: "That is the message to the players -- we can't afford any complacency. I think that any side getting to this stage will start to believe they can get to the final. It is a home draw against a side from a lower league, albeit a very good one with some decent players. They have beaten two Conference sides and that indicates the depth of their squad."
