Sept 1st:
NEIL Barnes, the loan signing from Birmingham City's academy, has been told by Graham Turner to grasp the chance to play first team football.
Barnes will play against Forest Green Rovers on Tuesday night as Matt Baker is suspended after his sending off at Nuneaton Borough. Baker got away with a one match ban and Graham Turner said: "It's good news for him because he's been doing very well."
On Barnes, Turner commented: "We've had him watched in the youth team and he comes highly recommended by the Birmingham academy staff. He's had a number of reserve team games and we felt he had a bit more experience than Lee Evans who is our other keeper."
Scott Cooksey, the regular 'keeper, is out injured but is on the mend. "He's coming on but he might have to go to Lilleshall for one more week and get it sorted out," said Turner.
Meanwhile, loan signing Paul Webb has also earned the praise of Turner. "He's had Conference experience and I think he will get better because there's a chance he could play nine games because they're coming thick and fast," he said. "He knows all the Conference teams and brings a physical presence to the team.
"The loan move will benefit all concerned. From his point of view he's getting some serious match fitness, he gives us a lift and he'll return to Kidderminster ready to fight for a place."
MARGATE 2 - 2 Hereford United
Nationwide Conference new boys Margate launched a strong second-half comeback against ten-men Hereford United to earn a deserved point according to sports.com
Hereford led 2-0 at one stage, but were undone first by the dismissal of youngster Danny Davidson, sent off for violent conduct moments before half time, and conceding an early goal just a minute after the break.
Davidson making his first start for the visitors had an unhappy afternoon. The former Leek striker missed a sitter just before Hereford scored their first goal and was then shown the red card after punching Margate captain Graham Porter.
Gavin Williams was a constant source of all that was good about Hereford. He ran the midfield in the first half, netted the opener and supplied the free-kick that gave Paul Parry the chance to make it 2-0 just past the half-hour.
Margate were unchanged from the team that won at Scarborough on Monday, and they had their best spell midway through the first half.
They won three corners in quick sucession without really hurting the Hereford defence although keeper Matt Baker was forced to punch clear off his line following Jay Saunders' goalbound header.
Williams put Hereford in front in the 20th minute, reacting quickest as the ball came back off the post.
Then Hereford won a free-kick just outside the area, which Williams touched to Parry and his low drive beat Charlie Mitten's desparing dive.
John Snape then fired into the sidenetting before Margate's Leon Braithwaite missed badly at the other end a minute before the break.
Then came Davidson's red card and despite driving home to his players the importance of a good start to the second half, Graham Turner could only watch in frustration as Margate pulled one back within 60 seconds of the restart.
The ball broke to John Keister in the area and he volleyed right-footed inside Baker's left-hand post.
Margate, yet to win at home in front of their own fans, had changed things tactically at the break with Braithwaite given more support.
He set up the equaliser with good work on the right and, although his cross eluded one team-mate, Simon Beard made no mistake lashing home a left-footed effort to put the Kent side level.
Margate had better chances to snatch a result. Beard hit the top of the bar, Lee Williams fired over and Braithwaite was denied when his shot bounced off Baker as the keeper advanced to the edge of his area.
Hereford endured a seven-hour coach journey on one of their longest trips of the season and now Turner wants them to improve their home form with back-to-back visits from Forest Green Rovers and Dover to come in the space of the next week.
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, Mark Williams (off, 46 minutes), Paul Webb, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Gavin Williams, John Snape, Rob Elmes, Danny Davidson (off 45 minutes), Paul Parry
Subs: Scott Goodwin (on, 46 minutes) Lee Evans Steve Piearce Christian James Paul Marshall
Yellow: Paul Webb (36 minutes, foul) Williams (77, foul)
Red: Danny Davidson (45 minutes, violent conduct)
Scorers:Gavin Williams (20 minutes) Paul Parry (31 minutes)
Attendance 1,010
Man of the Match Gavin Williams
Referee Steve Rubery (Ilford)
Sept 3rd:
HEREFORD United face Forest Green Rovers at Edgar Street tomorrow night, 7.45pm, and will name Neil Barnes in goal to make his debut.
The Birmingham City academy player will start on-loan, whilst Lee Evans is on the bench. Matt Baker serves his one game suspension following a sending off at Nuneaton Borough. Otherwise, Scott Cooksey, Phil Robinson, John Shirley and Jimmy Quiggin are out.
Forest Green, now managed solely by Nigel Spink, will have Martin Foster back for selection after injury. The midfielder missed Saturday's 4-2 defeat at home against Dagenham & Redbridge. Lee Howey, a defender, will remain in the side after recovering from a knee injury whilst Ian Hedges has recovered from his injury.
Following Saturday's 2-2 draw at Margate, United boss Graham Turner said: "We conceded a goal immediately after half time, which I thought was the critical incident in the game. But what disturbed me was the number of free kicks awarded after two players jumped to head the ball. Those decisions ruined what could have been a good match."
Sept 4th:
GRAHAM Turner has told tonight's Worcester Evening News that Hereford United need three points from tonight's match against Forest Green Rovers and that must be paramount - above gaining revenge for last season's 4-1 FA Trophy humiliation.
"The FA Umbro Trophy semi-final was some time ago and we're still smarting from it but it is three points that is required," said Turner.
Neil Barnes is likely to be the only change in the side which drew 2-2 at Margate on Saturday as goalkeeper Matt Baker is suspended. "Neil's up for the game and it is a big occasion for him but he's looking forward to it," said Turner. "These were the sort of games we failed to win last year and was one of the reasons we didn't mount a serious challenge. We need to win our home games to be considered serious contenders and there is a lot of room for improvement."
Of the Margate performance, Turner was pleased with the performance despite giving away a two goal lead. "The first 45 minutes is as well as we've played this season and we created a lot of chances," he said. "But it was unfortunate about the sending off and the fact we gave away a two-goal lead. I've got plenty of complaints about the referee but not about the sending off," he said.
HEREFORD United 0 - 0 Forest Green Rovers (report by Terry Goodwin)
Hereford United's hopes of a second victory in three home games were floundered tonight as Forest Green Rovers held the Bulls to a 0-0 draw, the second in sucession at Edgar Street.
The Bulls side was unchanged from the one that drew at Margate with one exception - seventeen year old goalkeeper Neil Barnes, on loan from Birmingham City, made his debut in goal as Matt Baker served his one match suspension.
Nigel Spink decided that changes were in order for his side which lost 4-2 at the Lawn to Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday. Rovers saw the return of Martin Foster and Simon Travis to the side.
The first half was a pretty dire affair and left many of the home fans calling for a better performance from the team. The first attempt on goal from the Bulls broke down after a Matt Clarke run and cross to Rob Elmes, but defender Jamie Impey cleared the effort.
Forest Green started to pressurise at the other end soon after and a Simon Futcher corner was headed away by the impressive Tony James at the near post. However, United regained some momentum and after twenty one minutes, Gavin Williams' corner was headed away by Impey after Rob Elmes had jumped, but was beaten, for the ball.
Eight minutes later, Paul Webb managed to cross the ball to Danny Davidson across goal, but the former Leek Town striker somehow managed to head the ball over from point blank range.
Mark Shaw also went close for Rovers, hitting over the crossbar, and then an effort from Mark Cooper was saved after a deflection by Barnes. Forest Green's Alex Meecham had probably the best effort of the first half when a lob from the edge of the box failed to beat Barnes with five minutes remaining. Seconds later, Carl Heggs had a perfect chance which was foiled by Barnes, as the goalkeeper dived onto the ball six yards out.
In the second period, things livened up for a spell but after a while the game became a boring nil-nil draw with spectators itching to leave the stadium. One of those who wouldn't leave before full time was United fan Penny Bayliss who, despite being hit in the face with a ball during the practice session gaining a broken cheekbone and concussion in the process, insisted on staying to watch her side in action until the final whistle.
Rovers almost took the lead with a minute into the half when lively Alex Meecham lobbed Hereford's young goalkeeper, only to see the ball bounce over the crossbar. With six minutes of the second half gone, Paul Webb did well with a long range header that Steve Perrin saved and that was in fact Hereford's first attempt on target.
Two changes after twenty minutes of the second half saw little difference in the Hereford emphasis to attack, in fact Rovers had the best of the play. Alex Meecham went close with a good shot which Ian Wright did well to block. With a few minutes left, a Paul Parry free kick caused few problems for Perrin and that really outlined Hereford's night - a lack of invention and a lack of an eye for goal.
A special mention must go to the referee, Mr. Desmond of Swindon. Please add that name to your list of incompetent Conference officials to add to the likes of Mr. T. Kettle and Mr. S. Hapgood. The assistants weren't much better as, between them, they missed several fouls and infringements that really should have been spotted.
An attendance of 1,803 turned out and there will be little to make them rush back to Edgar Street in the coming weeks. Hereford were dreadful and Forest Green not much better. The only highlights of a dire night for United were the performances of Tony James, Paul Webb and Neil Barnes, and they are the only ones to come out with credit. Otherwise, the side was disappointing. John Snape played his worst game in a Hereford shirt and much of what he did didn't go right, Rob Elmes and Danny Davidson failed to many any impact in attack whilst Paul Parry and Gavin Williams floated in and out of the game.
A simple note from the fans to the team - not good enough.
Hereford United: Neil Barnes, Mark Williams (off, 64 minutes), Paul Webb, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Gavin Williams, John Snape, Rob Elmes, Danny Davidson (off, 64 minutes), Paul Parry
Subs: Steve Piearce (on, 64 minutes), Lee Evans, Christian James, Scott Goodwin (on, 64 minutes), Paul Marshall
Yellow cards: Ian Wright (15 minutes, foul), Matt Clarke (62 minutes, dissent)
Man of the Match Tony James
Attendance 1,803
Referee Mr. R. Desmond (Swindon)
WRITING in today's Bullseye, the Hereford United match programme, Graham Turner has taken Herefordshire Council to task.
He mentions that Stalybridge have just received some financial support from their local council.
"Contrast that with our own Council and the differance is remarkable. Whilst not asking for a financial imput into the Club, it would be reassuring to know that we have a future in the City's plans.
"My own experience would suggest that whilst the elected people make all the right noises, it is the Officers, the paid employees of the Council who actually run the show and they care little about the existence of the club.
"The reason for my doubting has been the treatment we have received over the past seven months in relationship to the refurbishment of part of the old burnt out Sportsmans Club.
"When obtaining the leases of the ground, Chelverton and Bristol Stadiums were required to lodge £100,000 to refurbish the Sportsmans Club, that now is only about 20% of what is required, but nevertheless we requested £20,000 in order to refurbish part of the Club for use by Sponsors on matchdays and Children throughout the week.
"The whole thing was financially feasible, we let the Council have the estimates and the business plan, which was acceptable to them. Seven months have now elapsed since we first applied for the money. This money is not the Developers and not the Council's and will subsequently become a debt to the club. What we needed was the Council's approval that the money was being used for the right purpose.
"They have withheld that approval, without coming up with any reason for delaying it. In that seven months we appear no further forward, in fact the latest embarrassment was that three weeks ago the 'Officer' dealing with it had 'misplaced' the paperwork and asked us to provide copies.
"Not even the intervention of Terry James the leader of the Council has achieved anything. His Officers are proving to be too stubborn, even for him."
Later in his notes Turner explains that long delays in deciding what is to be done with the area around Edgar Street isn't helping the club.
"We are in desperate need of financial investment and a more certain future if we are to compete in an ever strenghtening Conference.
"We are in existence because a small group work tirelessly to raise funds and three employees are prepared to delay taking salaries if there is insufficient funds at the end of the month. Already many months in arrears those employees cannot go on working without pay.
"The message is loud and clear. Help is required now."
Sept 5th:
FOREST Green Rovers' manager Nigel Spink was satisfied with his side's 0-0 draw at Edgar Street yesterday against Hereford United, but thought that his side could have gone on to win the game.
Talking to the Nationwide website, he said: "I was just happy to keep a clean sheet although we had enough chances to have won the game. After two heavy defeats it was nice to see the team come away with something.
"We have a young side and they were excellent at Hereford. It must be remembered that they are still learning the game. They have to learn to be not only physically stronger but mentally tougher."
Graham Turner outlined the views of many of Hereford United's supporters last night and admitted as manager that it wasn't good enough.
He told the Evening News: "It was a frustrating night. I was pleased with the way we started but we seemed to lose our way. We did not play very well and played with hope rather than purpose.
"At least we kept a blank sheet, and our young goalkeeper Neil Barnes did well. We simply did not play well enough to create goal-scoring chances."
Spink also joined in the praising of Barnes, the seventeen year old debutant goalkeeper for Hereford. Spink was a goalkeeping coach at Birmingham City with Barnes, and said: "I work with Neil twice a week and he hasn't let himself down tonight. I am sure he will grow in stature following this performance. He has proved he can do it at this level."
Sept 6th:
HEREFORD United play their fourth home game of the season on Saturday as bottom of the league Dover Athletic visit Edgar Street, 3pm.
After disappointing recent results, Graham Turner and his side will be eager to see a turn in fortunes and pick up three points from the encounter. Hereford have no fresh injury worries but those who were injured for the Forest Green Rovers game are also out for this one too. Therefore, Matt Baker should return in goal for Neil Barnes but otherwise, an unchanged side is possible.
Having scored six goals this season, Hereford's total is the joint second worst in the league, with only Dover having scored less (five). However, after Doncaster and Boston have conceded three goals, Hereford have the next best defensive record with five.
HEREFORD United chairman Graham Turner has blasted the Herefordshire council officials over the delay in the redevelopment of the Edgar Street area which is crippling the future of the club.
Talking to the Hereford Times, he said that Herefordshire Council had not given United approval to use part of the £100,000 bond allocated for redeveloping the burnt out supporters club, despite a request seven months ago.
"My own experience would suggest that whilst the elected people make all the right noises, it is the officers, the paid employees of the council, who actually run the show and they care little about the existance of the club," he said.
A spokesman from Chelverton Properties PLC, Simon Morgan, said that he was awaiting formal confirmation from the council. However, council leader Terry James said that the developers were holding up the plans for redevelopment.
James said: "Chelverton can have the £20,000 but they do not want the club to have anything. They have been given a letter and we want to make sure the rest of the money is used for the refurbishment of the ground. More money than £20,000 is involved overall but we can't force Chelverton to use it. Bristol Stadiums are also involved, but they are now being bought and are not prepared to give up their share of the £100,000.
"Hereford United Football Club is a private business, and, by law, the council cannot put money into the club. We cannot also force the private sector to do something they do not want to do."
Graham Turner told of his greivances in the Hereford United matchday magazine - Bullseye. He said that three staff were willing to delay wages to keep the club in business.
"When obtaining the leases of the ground, Chelverton and Bristol Stadiums were required to lodge £100,000 to refurbish the Sportsmans Club. That now is only about 20% of what is required. Nonetheless, we requested £20,000 in order to refurbish part of the club for use by sponsors on matchdays and children during the week.
"What we needed was the council's approval that the money was being used for the right purpose. But there have been so many obstacles. Chelverton are quire adamant the only delay has been the council's approval of the money being freed.
Simon Morgan of Chelverton said: "There isn't an issue here. The club has asked for the partial release, the council is prepared to support the release and so are we. But we are waiting for formal confirmation from the council before we can go ahead."
Sept 7th:
HEREFORD United's director of football Graham Turner is not looking at an easy ride in tomorrow's home match against bottom side Dover Athletic, 3pm.
"Dover had their first win in midweek and will be confident and daft as it sounds because they are lying in bottom place, they are actually a good footballing side and try and play," he told the Evening News.
"But we have to put our own form in order and not worry about them. We didn't create anything against Forest Green and never looked bright enough to break down their defence. Having said that both Southport and Forest Green arrived at Edgar Street coming off heavy defeats and at this level they are going to regroup and come back better organised which made it harder for us."
"From set pieces we have Ian Wright and Tony James then out wide we have Gavin Williams and Paul Parry who are good enough to beat players and up front we have two strikers who need to do a little bit more," he said. "Looking at the team as a whole we need to keep a clean sheet and as well as defending as a team we need to attack as a team to create openings."
Neil Barnes will not play in goal as Matt Baker has returned from suspension, but Turner will keep an eye on him in the future.
"He did very well because for a 17-year-old it was quite an ordeal and we shall be keeping contact with him at the academy," he said.
The BBC have reported through their Ceefax service that John Shirley could make a return to action on Saturday as he is back in training. Although labelled as 'Paul Shirley', Hereford United could see him back on the bench tomorrow.
Dover Athletic have no injury worries and manager Gary Bellamy will be eager to gain the Kent side's second win of the season.
Attacker Neil Le Bihan, who scored twice at Edgar Street in a 4-2 defeat for Dover last season, has returned from the World Student Games in China and will be available for selection.
Hereford (from): Baker, Clarke, M. Williams, Goodwin, Webb, Wright, T. James, Davidson, Piearce, Snape, Elmes, G. Williams, Parry, Evans, C. James, Marshall, Shirley.
Sept 8th:
HEREFORD United's injured player-coach Phil Robinson has commented to today's Evening News about the side's lack of firepower which has resulted in three draws in the last three games, two at 0-0.
"We have been defensively solid but it was disappointing away at Margate where we were two up but lost a player just before half time," he said. "If we had got the three points it would have been a completely different picture and we'd have been up in joint third.
"We have played well in spells and against Margate in the first half we were excellent and have to build from that. I thought we had turned the corner but against Forest Green on Tuesday we just went backwards and didn't look like we were going to create anything."
The injury situation, which currently sees six of the first team squad unavailable, has not helped the cause, according to Robinson.
"With the injuries we've been shuffling the pack a little bit and one or two players have been played out of position which doesn't help them or the team so we might have to reshuffle and see what happens," he added.
Hereford are without Scott Voice, John Shirley, Scott Cooksey, Ian Rodgerson and Jimmy Quiggin, whilst Phil Robinson is also crocked.
"None of those will be fit for the next couple of games and even when they are back they will need a fair amount of training and a couple of reserve games," said Robinson.
A trialist from the summer, Jake Sedgemore, has returned from the World Student Games in China and can now extend his trial in the reserve side.
Hereford United 3 - 0 Dover Athletic
HEREFORD United's dreadful home form came to an abrupt end this afternoon as Graham Turner's side swept away bottom side Dover Athletic, and also those fans who doubted the teams' ability.
After two successive 0-0 draws at Edgar Street, United got back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory as Turner recalled Matt Baker after suspension, and also drafted in Christian James onto the left wing. Paul Parry moved to the right whilst Gavin Williams and Rob Elmes were fielded in attack.
Dover, managed by former Wolves player Gary Bellamy, had won just one game this season so far but got their first three points last week with a 3-2 defeat of Hayes. However, the Kent club made two changes to the side with Jimmy Strouts and John Elliott dropping to the bench for Robert Codner and Neil Le Bihan, who scored twice at Edgar Street last season.
The game kicked off at 3pm exactly for a change, and from the start Hereford were dominant. In the first minute, Paul Webb hit over Paul Hyde's crossbar and from then on, it was United all the way. Gavin Williams and Rob Elmes also went close in the opening period as Hereford made it known to Dover that they wanted all three points.
The inevitable goal came in the thirteenth minute at the Blackfriars End of Edgar Street. A Paul Parry cross from the far post was well executed by Rob Elmes as the striker headed home from close range.
Paul Webb then went close again from thirty yards as hit shot which looked destined for goal went just wide, and Gavin Williams hit into the arms of Hyde. Dover's limited attacks create one chance of note midway through the half when Robert Codner, the former Barnet midfielder, shot at Matt Baker.
Matt Baker was called into action with ten minutes of the first half left and did well to keep out a shot from Keith Scott, who had managed to go one-on-one with the former Hull 'keeper. Robert Codner also tried his luck from long range but to no avail, as Hereford dealt with everything Dover could throw at them.
At the end of a Hereford-dominated first period, the home side had a deserved lead and Dover looked like their league position suggested - rock bottom. The second half continued in a similar vein with Hereford on top. Christian James should have done better after two minutes of the half following a Paul Parry pass, but the youngster could only hit it over into the Meadow End. Rob Elmes then went close, but Dover held on.
Exactly fourty five minutes after the first goal, United were awarded a penalty. After a scramble in the box, Rob Elmes was tripped in the area when attacking the Dover goal by Jake Leberl and the referee pointed to the spot. Up stepped Mark Williams who was cool in sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to gain his first goal for the club.
Hereford continued to go close with Paul Parry's effort blocked by team mate Rob Elmes, and then Gavin Williams had a shot cleared by Lee Shearer, the midfielder heading the ball away. Dover's only real opening came when Tony Tyne went one on one with Matt Baker, but the goalkeeper came out ahead and saved the resulting shot.
Paul Parry should have made it three goals to United when his attack on the right side of midfield allowed him to cut inside and fire a superb shot goalwards. However, it bounced off the post to save Dover's blushes.
Rob Elmes got his fourth of the season with two minutes left and extended the Hereford lead to three goals when, from close range, he beat Dover stopper Hyde from close range. His shot came after a swift turn, and rebounded in off the post.
Several half chances followed but Hereford will be delighted to have gained their second home win in four games to push them to fourth place in the table. The Bulls also haven't conceded at home since the opening day which is another proud record, and looked much better than against Forest Green Rovers on Tuesday.
No one had a bad game for United. Paul Parry, Christian James and Paul Webb all shone in midfield, and even John Snape's passing was improved! The defence and goalkeeper was solid but tested little, and the attack capitalising on enough opportunities for the win to be convincing. All in all a good day at the office for Hereford United.
As for Dover, it's looking bleak for them at the bottom after just seven games. Something has to change quickly, especially at the back, or one of the trips to deepest Kent will be lost for next season, assuming, that is, Hereford don't leave the division!
Hereford starting XI: Matt Baker, Mark Williams, Matt Clarke, Paul Webb, Ian Wright(captain), Tony James, Christian James, John Snape, Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Scott Goodwin, Lee Evans, Steve Piearce, Danny Davidson, Jake Sedgemore
Yellow cards: Paul Parry (28 minutes, foul)
Scorers: Elmes (14, 88), M. Williams (60, pen)
Man of the Match: Paul Parry
Attendance: 1,544
Referee: Mr. M. Mullarkey (Exeter)
Sept 9th:
ANYONE wishing to travel to Dagenham & Redbridge next Tuesday night will be unable to through 'away travel' as no coach is running. However, there is a coach going to next Saturday's game at Morecambe. Anyone wanting to book should call into the club office or call 01432 276666. No seats will be sold on the day.
The coach to Morecambe leaves at 8.45am and is £15. All seats must be paid for by midday on Friday.
On the injury front, Scott Voice should be back in full training soon, John Shirley is waiting for results of a scan on his calf muscle but could play in Wednesday's reserve match at home against Telford United whilst Jimmy Quiggin has a knee injury but is awaiting the results of a scan. Ian Rodgerson's thigh injury is on the mend but he will be out for a few weeks, whilst Scott Cooksey and Phil Robinson are several weeks from training.
Richard Burkin has a signed Dwight Yorke Manchester United shirt for auction on behalf of away travel. To bid, please send your amounts to HUISA, PO BOX 1999, Hereford. There is already a bid of £180 so offers must top that! Also on sale from Richard Burkin are some Autumn Draw tickets with some great prizes, so buy some if you see him.
Sept 10th:
HEREFORD United boss Graham Turner said the 3-0 win on Saturday was an all-round team performance.
He told the Evening News: "There were some good moments, with Parry, Gavin Williams and Christian James all doing well. Baker also made some fine saves. We needed a win today and it was pleasing after a disappointing performance in our previous match."
Meanwhile, manager of Saturday's opponents Dover Athletic Gary Bellamy said: "The games come thick and fast when you're not doing well. We have got to start performing and putting teams under the pressure that they are putting on us. Just about the only good thing at the moment is that I have the whole squad to choose from."
Sept 11th:
HEREFORD United's trip to Dagenham & Redbridge this evening is a vital top of the table clash, kick off 7.45pm.
Dagenham lie second in the Nationwide Conference with the Bulls in fifth place following Dover's 3-2 win over leaders Boston last night.
United beat Dover on Saturday and Graham Turner is hoping for three points to add to the win picked up at the weekend. He told the Evening News: "It was a good result because we've struggled against lower sides in the past, but the performance was pleasing."
"We're now up to fourth in the league and we don't even think we have done as well as we can and still have a third of the squad missing."
An unchanged team is expected with Matt Clarke hoping to have passed a fitness test on his groin strain.
Dagenham boss Garry Hill is also looking for a victory. He said: "We are the only team in the league who are so far unbeaten and we will be looking for that to continue against Hereford. I will be hoping for a better performance than the one on Saturday although it is encouraging to see us play that badly and still come away with a result (3-2 at Stalybridge Celtic).
"There should be a full squad for the game, a couple of players picked up knocks at Stalybridge but they should be OK."
DAGENHAM & Redbridge 1 - 0 Hereford United
Dagenham & Redbridge sit top of the Nationwide Conference for the first time in their history and they certainly earned it against the battling Hereford United side.
The opening half was quite frankly as uninteresting as they come with both sides displaying the necessary grit, but no panache as they cancelled each other out for 45 minutes.
In the first minute Daggers had a free-kick which Mark Brennan curled over the bar and that was the only goalmouth action until the 11th minute when Paul Parry sped down the right but his low cross was scrambled away by keeper Tony Roberts.
Hereford worked hard from front to back and noticeably unsettled the new table-toppers. The final ball from both teams was always disappointing in the first period which the home side just shaded on territorial terms.
John Snape produced a couple of long-range efforts but they were the best opportunities that the Bulls had in the first period.
Similarly Daggers were also short of opportunities, Brennan fired over the bar once more and Mark Janney hit a left-foot effort which was always rising and that also cleared the crossbar. Janney was Daggers best outlet in the first period and his presence signalled a difficult evening for left-back Mark Williams.
It was level at half time and the whistle came as something of a relief as things could only improve.
And they did and with just three minutes gone in the second half, Paul Webb's half-volley was straight at Roberts as Hereford recorded their first shot on target, then Gavin Williams flicked the ball on following a Matt Clarke throw, but no-one was on hand to finish.
The crucial moment came in the 58th minute as Roberts' long clearance bounced and defender Tony James hesitated and the irrepressible Janney powered in front of him.
Janney shaped to take the ball around Matt Baker, but was blocked by the keeper's legs.
Lock delicately chipped the ball over both James and Baker from 25 yards to score a wonderfully executed goal.
Lock had been quiet until that point but his touch could always prove to be an asset in a game so short on flair.
Three minutes later he should have scored his second. Janney's cross to the far post was waiting to be headed in but somehow he headed wide from two yards out.
Hereford bombarded the Daggers and Roberts produced domineering display behind a resilient back-line.
Baker had to turn a Janney effort around the post 14 minutes from time as the winger ran himself into a tight corner and then Steve Heffer missed an open goal from 15 yards out as he half-volleyed over following Baker's wild flap at the ball.
Daggers still managed to produce the best move of the match when Mark Smith, Brennan, Paul Terry and Steve McGavin combined, but just as a second goal looked imminent Brennan slid the ball over the bar.
Hereford had few opportunities to equalise, from the best Rob Elmes rounded Roberts, but hesitated and the chance passed.
In the final minute Mark Rooney struggled to head clear and Snape cracked in a volley, which Roberts saved through superb reactions.
Ian Wright then fired wide following a goalmouth scramble and Daggers held on as they recorded arguably their most important win to date.
Sourced from Sports.com
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, Mark Williams, Paul Webb, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Christian James (off, 70 minutes), John Snape, Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Scott Goodwin, Lee Evans, Steve Piearce (on, 70 minutes), Danny Davidson, Jake Sedgemore
Yellow cards: Tony James (67 minutes, unsporting behaviour) Mark Williams (67 minutes, dissent)
Attendance: 1,338
Man of the Match: Paul Webb
Referee: Mr. M. McCoy (Hearne Bay)
Sept 12th:
DAGENHAM & Redbridge boss Garry Hill was delighted after his side beat Hereford United 1-0 at Victoria Road last night and went top of the Nationwide Conference.
Talking to the Nationwide website, he said: "It's a boost for everyone at the club but by the same token we must not get carried away. We have no divine right to win anything because if you think that way then you're in for a rude awakening. People know me well enough to know that there will be no bold statements from me."
Of the game itself, which ended 1-0, Hill commented: "It was a very close game and they put us under a lot of pressure. Tony Roberts had to make a couple of excellent late saves to prevent them scoring and they may feel a bit disappointed not to have got something out of the game.
"But I was pleased with the performance and although there is a very long way to go it is pleasing to have made a good start to the season.
Sept 13th:
HEREFORD United could soon have money released to them for the rebuilding of a sponsorship suite where the shell of the old Sportsman Club lies.
City councillor Terry James told the Hereford Times that they were not to blame for the time taken to release the funds, and Formsole Ltd, owned by Chelverton and BS Group, will allow funds to be deposited.
A letter of apology for the confusion as to who was responsible for the delay has been sent from Simon Morgan, a Chelverton spokesman, to Councillor James. Cllr. James had also written to Hereford United to outline the situation prior to the agreement of release. There is still an £87,000 balance in the bond which has been retained for the eventual redevelopment of Edgar Street.
Graham Turner thought it inappropriate to comment on the situation, whilst Simon Morgan was unavailable.
Also, the official Hereford United website (www.herefordunited.co.uk) has revealed that the proposals for future development of Hereford can be viewed at 8 St. Owens Street, Hereford. The major proposal regarding the football club is the possible relocation of the cattle market to adjoin the Beech Business Park on the Roman Road. The Edgar Street area would then be partially cleared for development, with the football club as part of it.
Meanwhile, former ITV commentator Brian Moore, who sadly passed away last week, named former Hereford United player/manager John Charles in his all-time 'dream' team at centre back.
In an article for Four Four Two magazine, Brian said: "If this brilliant team were ever in trouble, you could always switch the Gentle Giant up to centre-forward. He was a colossus, a huge man in every way. He was a great all-rounder and a tremendous presence."
MORECAMBE, Lancashire is the destination for Hereford United this Saturday as the Bulls aim for their second away win of the season, 3pm.
Last season at Christie Park, Hereford drew 1-1 with a goal from subtitute Steve Piearce, and in the FA Trophy, a 0-0 draw was the result before United won the replay at Edgar Street on penalties.
The Shrimps, managed by former United favourite Jimmy Harvey, are in fifth place and have fifteen points, three more than Hereford in tenth.
Graham Turner has no new injuries in his Hereford side for the game.
Meanwhile, the Hereford Times announced this week that Sun Valley, the club sponsors, have renewed their sponsorship deal with the club for a further year.
Sept 14th:
FORMER Hereford United boss Colin Addison has become the new manager of Swansea City.
Addison was Bulls supremo when Hereford were elected to the league and had a short spell at Edgar Street in the early nineties, and after leaving Yeovil Town at the end of last season, he has made a return to management at the Vetch Field.
Colin, who will continue to live in Hereford, has plenty of managerial experience with Derby County, Scarborough and various foreign clubs.
Meanwhile, former Hereford United and Worcester City defender Matt Gardiner has signed for Dr. Martens League Western Division side Evesham United.
HEREFORD United boss Graham Turner will be missing several players for tomorrow's match at Morecambe, 3pm.
Scott Cooksey and Phil Robinson remained sidelined after operations, and Danny Davidson is suspended after his sending off at Margate. Christian James has a hamstring strain and is unlikely to play, whilst John Shirley has a groin injury. Scott Voice and Jimmy Quiggin are also out.
Morecambe will be without their defensive trio of Chris Lightfoot, John Hardiker and Lee Colin, and also striker Ian Arnold.
Manager Jimmy Harvey told the BBC: "We started the season quite well at home but it's going to be a tough game. We've got quite a few players injured but nobody suspended and we're looking forward to it."
Hereford boss Graham Turner spoke to the Evening News about the Conference season so far: "There is such a fluctuation in places at the moment that you can't afford to lose two games on the trot so tomorrow's game is important for us."
"We haven't won there for a couple of years so we need to put that right. We didn't play badly at Dagenham and should have got something out of the game. We finished strongly but their keeper made a couple of good saves and if there was any consolation to the players it is that he was made man of the match.
"But the disappointment of defeat should be tempered by the level of performance we produced. The manner in which we played, although we did concede a few chances when we were chasing the game, should give the players confidence for the match at Morecambe."
Hereford (from): Baker, Clarke, M, Williams, Webb, Wright, T. James, C. James, Piearce, Snape, Elmes, G. Williams, Parry, Goodwin, Evans, Sedgemore.
Sept 15th:
MORECAMBE 2 - 2 Hereford United
After taking an early lead, Hereford had to come from behind to save a point in the chilly Lancashire seaside resort of Morecambe this afternoon.
Graham Turner's starting line-up was almost identical to the one that lost 1-0 at Dagenham last Tuesday with one change. Scott Goodwin replaced Christian James on the right side of midfield as James dropped to the bench. Jimmy Harvey, the Morecambe boss, named a strong line-up including England semi-professional international Stewart Drummond. After four successive home wins, Morecambe were unable to extend their record.
Shooting towards the Morecambe end in the opening period, Hereford failed to convert any of the numerous chances into threatening shots as Craig Mawson in the home goal had little to do. Paul Parry hit a weak shot after ten minutes at the goalkeeper after good work from the two frontmen, Gavin Williams and Rob Elmes, but it was not good enough.
Other than a Williams effort on the half hour and a Elmes effort late on, there was little to shout about in the opening period. At the other end, Matt Baker had to cope with a John Norman shot and a possible penalty from Robbie Talbot turned down after the striker claimed he was pulled down in the area. In the final minute, Baker cleared a McKearney effort from close range.
The main talking point for Hereford was the removal of captain Ian Wright who picked up a slight knock. He was replaced by Jake Sedgemore, who entered the action to make his debut with ten minutes of the half remaining.
The second period started with a bang when Hereford took the lead after just two minutes. A Gavin Williams cross picked out the well-placed Rob Elmes on the far post who headed down and in past Mawson to give United the lead.
Hereford took control for a spell, with Paul Parry looking even more lively than he did in the first period, and Rob Elmes headed against the post from a Parry cross. At the other end, though, Baker had work to do. Robbie Talbot and Gary Thompson had efforts kept out, and Baker even did well in the build up to the eventual Morecambe equaliser.
Defender Andy Fensome hit a thirty yard effort desitned for goal, but the agile Baker tipped it around the post. From the Ryan Zico-Black corner, John Norman headed on and Garry Thompson netted from close range in front of the home crowd.
Adriano Rigoglioso, the name a commentator has nightmares about, went close after seventy four minutes but Matt Baker saved, jumping to clutch the ball out of the air. However, the United defence was looking suspect to say the least. Paul Webb had to clear off the line two minutes later and on eighty minutes, Morecambe took the lead.
A free kick was swung in by Thompson and he found Black who hit a sweet shot at Baker., The young goalkeeper saved, but spilled the ball and John Norman was on hand, unmarked in the box, to hit home from close range. Three minutes later United hit back and equalised with a Paul Parry goal. A cross from substitute Jake Sedgemore was headed down by Rob Elmes and Paul Parry controlled well before firing home from eight yards out.
Rob Elmes went close a minute later as both sides looked for a winner, and Gavin Williams was replaced by Steve Piearce as Graham Turner searched for an added dimension in attack. In the six minutes of added time, Matt Baker saved from Robbie Talbot and at the other end, Rob Elmes had a header tipped over from closer range. In the last minute, Christian James missed from ten yards when he really should have hit the target.
An attendance of 1,462 turned up including about two hundred from the Welsh borders and in an even game an even result was the outcome. Therefore, Morecambe maintain their unbeaten home record but fail to make it five consecutive home wins, whilst Hereford will aim to build on today's performance with three points at Edgar Street against Yeovil Town on Tuesday.
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, Mark Williams, Paul Webb,Ian Wright (captain) (off, 35 minutes), Tony James, Scott Goodwin (off, 61 minutes,) John Snape, Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams (off, 87 minutes), Paul Parry
Subs: Christian James (on, 61 minutes), Lee Evans, Steve Piearce (on, 87 minutes), Jake Sedgemore (on, 35 minutes), Mark Wilkes
Yellow cards: Scott Goodwin (38 minutes, foul)
Scorers: Rob Elmes (47 minutes) Paul Parry (82 minutes)
Attendance 1,426
Man of the Match Paul Parry
Referee Mr. D. Sugmuta (Northampton)
Sept 16th:
HEREFORD United's odds to gain the Nationwide Conference title this season are being lengthened by the game at Surrey Racing.
Boston United are 6/4 favourites, with Doncaster Rovers, Dagenham & Redbridge and Stevenage Borough all with good odds. Farnborough Town are at 10/1, with Margate, Yeovil Town and Hereford at 16/1. The real outsiders are Dover Athletic at 25/1, Hayes at 150/1 and Stalybridge Celtic at 250/1.
At the other end, Hereford United are quoted at 150/1 for relegation. Favourites are Stalybridge Celtic at 8/13, with Dover Athletic and Hayes also odds on. Nuneaton Borough, Forest Green Rovers and Leigh RMI are the next few sides. Rank outsiders are Boston United, at 350/1.
Sept 17th:
HEREFORD United host Yeovil Town at Edgar Street tomorrow evening, their first meeting since last season's crucial encounter, 7.45pm.
Since then, the Somerset side have lost several key players and their manager, Colin Addison. He has been replaced by former Latvian coach Gary Johnson.
The Bulls will be without several players for tomorrow's match. After picking up a knock at Morecambe, club captain Ian Wright is likely to be missing, as will Ian Rodgerson, who has a thigh strain. Phil Robinson and Scott Cooksey are still absent, whilst Danny Davidson is suspended.
Yeovil Town will have a race against time to get midfielder Darren Way back to fitness; he has an ankle injury. Roy O'Brien is out with a broken leg, but Andy Lindegaard could be promoted from the bench. Chris Giles will start in attack to replace Barrington Belgrave who has moved to third division hopefuls Southend United.
Colin Pluck, a central defender, is out with a head injury and that leaves Gary Johnson with a small problem. He has only three fit defenders, Anthony Tonkin, Tom White and Terry Skiverton, to choose from.
Gary Johnson, speaking to the official Yeovil Town website (www.ytfc.net), said of Darren Way: "I'd rate him about 50-50 for the game. We'll leave it until the last minute. We'll have him out in training tomorrow morning and see how he is."
Yeovil came back from two goals down on Saturday to grab a 2-2 draw at Huish Park against Scarborough and Johnson said: "The last time we had to come back from two goals down was at Telford," explained Johnson. "After that game, we went on to win our next three, so we want to use Saturday's second half as something to build on."
Sept 18th:
WITH the unavailable list at seven players for Graham Turner going into tonight's game at Edgar Street against Yeovil Town, Hereford United will be using all of his resources to pull a win out of the bag.
However, performances recently have perked up and that pleased Turner as he talked to the Evening News.
"The performances have improved considerably in the last few matches but we need a win to give us a lift," he said. "You cannot go too long without winning games but we've had two tough away matches. Yeovil are a decent side and they will be a challenge for us. They have got some good players with a lot of experience and we are looking forward to it after three reasonable performances.
"We always have good games with them and now there is a challenge for players who are coming in to prove themselves."
With captain Ian Wright sidelined with a groin injury, Turner commented that he would be missed. "His physical presence will be missed but it is up to others coming in to respond to the challenge," he said.
Trialist Jake Sedgemore could well start in Wright's position at the heart of defence after he replaced the captain on Saturday. "He's played quite a few games but is still on trial," said Turner.
After picking up a knock on Saturday at Morecambe, goalkeeper Matt Baker should start with John Snape as captain.
HEREFORD United 0 - 2 Yeovil Town
Crys of 'Turner out' and 'what a load of rubbish' were heard from the Meadow End long before the final whistle as Hereford United crashed to an humiliating 2-0 defeat against Yeovil Town which so easily could have been more.
There were no excuses for the lacklustre performance from the home side who lost their first game at Edgar Street this season, and there will be no complaints from Graham Turner or his players about the result.
Hereford were missing Ian Wright, Scott Cooksey, Phil Robinson, Scott Voice, Ian Rodgerson, Danny Davidson and John Shirley from their squad, and manager Turner recalled Jimmy Quiggin to the side. Jake Sedgemore replaced injured captain Wright in the heart of defence, with John Snape named as captain.
Yeovil named three former Hereford United players in their starting eleven - goalkeeper Jon Sheffield, defender Tom White and Michael McIndoe, the left winger. Their boss, Gary Johnson, wasn't without his own injury problems however. Roy O'Brien missed out with a broken leg so Adam Lockwood came in, with Chris Giles and Darren Way also returning to the first eleven.
The first period was completely dominated by the Greens who, surprisingly took forty minutes to score. There were several early chances for Yeovil and numerous defensive blunders from United.
Rob Elmes had a half chance to open proceedings, but after that it was all Yeovil; wave after wave of Green attacks. Matt Baker punched away a corner before Lee Johnson wasted a good chance, hitting wide. In the seventh minute, Johnson went close again and Baker saved, but the ball fell to Carl Alford. Thankfully for United, Mark Williams was on hand to clear but the defensive frailties of the Hereford side were all to obvious without captain Ian Wright.
Nick Crittenden was next to test Baker, with the young goalkeeper saving superbly with a good dive, and soon after Chris Giles headed just wide after a mix-up between Mark Williams and Baker. Paul Webb cleared another effort for a corner and Hereford were simply dreadful.
With twenty eight minutes gone, Johnson again tested the alert Baker who had little in the way of a defence in front of him, whilst John Snape hit way over at the other end on a rare Hereford attack.
The inevitable goal came with five minutes of the first half remaining. Star striker Carl Alford did well five yards out as he headed home, unmarked, from a corner. Yeovil had the lead they richly deserved.
Five minutes later, Hereford created a glorious chance to equalise (their only real chance of the half), but couldn't manage to hit the target. A superb run and cross from Paul Parry met the young Jimmy Quiggin after being touched away by goalkeeper Sheffield, but Anthony Tonkin, the Yeovil defender, prevented Quiggin's shot from hitting the target. Unfortunately, Quiggin did not appear fully recouperated from his injury, and was withdrawn at half time for Steve Piearce.
Three minutes of the second half had gone when Yeovil doubled their lead. Lee Johnson did well to hit a strong effort from the edge of the box past Matt Baker who was helpless to prevent a second goal. He split the United defence before unleashing the shot.
Hereford's best move and best chance of the game came with eight minutes of the half on the clock. A good move resulted in a Paul Parry cross from the left and Rob Elmes headed the ball onto the crossbar.
Chris Giles went close for Yeovil, John Snape for Hereford but neither could get a goal. Yeovil probably deserved to win by a much bigger deficit, whilst Hereford were totally demolished on their own ground. This was simply one of the worst Hereford performances in recent years.
To cap it off, Yeovil move up to eleventh in the league, whilst Hereford drop to a place below them. Big changes are needed for Saturday if United will get anything out of a game against Stevenage Borough, and of the 1,709 crowd that turned up, how many will return? Not many.
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Mark Williams, Matt Clarke, Paul Webb, Jimmy Quiggin (off, half time), Tony James, Jake Sedgemore, John Snape (captain), Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Steve Piearce (on, half time), Lee Evans, Christian James, Scott Goodwin, Paul Marshall
Yellow cards: Paul Parry (13 minutes, foul) John Snape (18 minutes, foul) Mark Williams (36 minutes, foul)
Man of the Match: Not awarded
Attendance: 1,709
Referee: Mr. R. Lewis
Sept 19th:
HEREFORD United director of football Graham Turner told tonight's Evening News that he just hoped that the scores would have been level at half time in last night's disappointing 2-0 defeat against Yeovil Town at Edgar Street.
In the event, Yeovil netted five minutes before the break and four minutes after to pick up three deserved three points. The only questions left at the end of the game were how did Yeovil only score two goals and where to Hereford United go now?
Turner said: "Yeovil outclassed us in the first half and we were just hoping to get to half time with the scores level. We battled hard in the second half, but their goal just after the break was crucial."
Sept 20th:
CAPTAIN Ian Wright could return for this Saturday's Nationwide Conferece clash against Stevenage Borough, kick off 3pm.
A groin injury kept him out of Tuesday's defeat against Yeovil Town and Graham Turner told today's Hereford Times: "Scott Voice is due to play in a reserve game (which he did so last night) and, although Jimmy Quiggin played a part against Yeovil, he is not fully fit. Wright is our best bet."
Of Saturday's opponents, Turner commented: "Stevenage will be no easier than Yeovil and we can expect another very tough game. The disappointing thing is we have so many senior players injured and we are missing their presence."
The official Hereford United website (www.herefordunited.co.uk) has reported that Scott Voice could return to the first team on Saturday, as might John Shirley and Scott Goodwin, who have both recovered from injury.
Sept 21st:
THE Football Association has once again rejected Nationwide Conference plans for play-offs at the end of this season to decide the one promotion place to the Football League.
At a meeting in London on Thursday, following lengthy discussions, the motion was defeated with only five FA Council members voting for the proposal.
This ratifies a proposal made by the FA's Sanctioning committee before the season started.
Meanwhile, the former Port Vale and Wigan midfielder Andy Porter, who has just been transfer listed by Chester City, has siad that he rejected a move to Hereford United.
He told the Chester Evening Leader: "Hereford were interested in me a few weeks ago, but I'll wait until the right club comes in for me because I don't fancy a lot of travelling."
STEVENAGE Borough could be without Steve Walters and Darren Hay for tomorrow's game against Hereford United at Edgar Street, kick off 3pm.
Manager Paul Fairclough is hoping that both will pass late fitness tests but both are doubtful John Hampshire is out with an ankle injury.
Fairclough told the BBC of the game: "It will not be easy, especially with them losing at home on Tuesday. They won't want to follow that up by getting beaten again."
Hereford United's Graham Turner may well welcome some familiar faces back into the side, but Ian Wright looks to be losing his battle to make the game with an ankle injury.
Three points are vital according to Turner, as he told the Evening News: "Stevenage are a good side but we need to pick up some points and the players have the challenge of putting in an improved performance following a poor one."
The Yeovil defeat needs to be addressed, said Turner: "I thought it was a poor performance which was strange because it had followed a good one against Morecambe. The side has been disrupted by injury and we missed Ian Wright who has been solid in defence.
"Some of the players who have been performing reasonably well just weren't there against Yeovil plus a couple of them like Rob Elmes and John Snape were carrying knocks. There are no real signs of the long term injured being fit although the one bright spark is Voice who played for an hour in the reserves."
Hereford (from): Baker, Clarke, M. Williams, Webb, Wright, Quiggin, Piearce, T. James, Sedgemore, Snape, Elmes, G. Williams, Goodwin, Evans, C. James, Marshall, Shirley, Voice.
Sept 22nd:
ONCE the injury situation is resolved, Hereford United can challenge at the right end of the table, according to player/coach Phil Robinson.
After losing 2-0 on Tuesday night to Yeovil Town, Robinson told the Evening News of how he thought their investment had paid off. "They looked a good team and certainly reflected the type of money they have spent on wages," he said. "But I think with a full squad of fit players we are looking to beat teams like Yeovil and compete with the best teams.
"We had six or seven players missing on Tuesday who would probably have started the game so it shows how serious the situation is."
Jimmy Quiggin was rushed back to first team action after injury and had little chance to get fit. "He has probably played just one game pre-season and could have done with some reserve games but it shows the problems," said Robinson.
John Shirley and Scott Voice both played in the reserves this week and it improved their fitness, according to Robinson. "It puts them back into contention but to put them straight in would be taking risks on players without games behind them. But that is the situation at the moment and if we have to shuffle players round to fill holes that is what we have to do.
"Fortunately at the moment there is not a team running away with the league as Boston losing to Dagenham and Redbridge so when our injured players get back to fitness and we have a bigger squad to pick from then hopefully results and performances will improve."
Hereford aren't the only side with injury problems, though. For their trip to Edgar Street today, Stevenage Borough will be without Jason Goodliffe (calf) and John Dreyer (flu), but Sam Sodje and Rob Trott should play. Darran Hay, Matt Fisher and John Hamsher will also be missing, as will the suspended Chris Tate.
Manager Paul Fairclough told their official website: "We played the best we have done all season on Tuesday night, and I was really pleased with the display. It was disappointing to end up on the losing side though, but I can't wait for Hereford now and seeing how we can respond."
HEREFORD United 1 - 1 Stevenage Borough
Hereford went into today's match against Stevenage Borough without a win in their last three matches, but the match saw the return of Scott Voice to the starting line up and also Matt Gardiner, who has joined the club on non-contract basis for a short time. Hereford also added Tony Capaldi to the side; he has joined from the Birmingham youth team, and came in for Matt Clarke at left back.
The Stevenage side, managed by Paul Fairclough, saw Paul Sturgess make his first appearance against the Bulls since leaving last season.
The Bulls started like they were on fire, with John Snape firing a eighteen yard volley after a headed knock down by Voice. Then Parry hit the bar with a sixteen yard shot across the goal, and Voice was then involved in more action when good work by Elmes set up him up. He managed to control his shot only to see it well saved by the Stevenage goalkeeper, Paul Wilkerson, at his near post. Scott Voice then should have scored with a free header from seven yards after a good set piece from Gavin Williams on the right hand side.
Hereford's impressive start to the match was continued when a three man passing move, on the halfway line, allowed Gavin Williams to cut in from the right only to shoot straight at Wilkerson. Borough's first effort was smartly saved by Matt Baker, a cross from the right was volleyed towards his near post. Then Stevenage should have taken the lead, when Matt Gardiner and Tony James ran into each other chasing a ball. It ran loose to DJ Campbell who shot straight at Baker when he really should have scored, and then Paul Parry went close again for Hereford from just outside the box.
On thirty eight minutes, Hereford did finally get the ball in the net, but there was a handball by Gavin Williams who was then booked. Stevenage finished the half stronger with Matt Baker having to make another smart save.
There were two changes at half time, with Hereford's Rob Elmes, who received a knock on Tuesday, replaced for Jimmy Quiggin and Borough's DJ Campbell for Neil Illman.
Stevenage started the stronger in the second half with Sam McMahon forcing Baker into another save after he was clean through and Tony James stopped any rebound effort with an excellent tackle. Hereford got their first shot of the half with Gavin Williams shooting tamely towards goal. Soon after, Matt Baker was called into action with two fine saves, one from twenty yards which led to a corner. From it, Robin Trott had a free header from six yards which Baker pushed over the bar, and to top off Stevenage's fifteen minutes of dominance Neil Illman hit the bar from eight yards, with a thumping shot.
Paul Parry responded for Hereford with a thirty yard screamer, which appeared to be saved by Wilkerson but no corner was given. It would have been one of the best goals seen in recent years at Edgar Street had it gone in. Stevenage then got the ball in the net three minutes after the hour, but it was rightly ruled out for a push on a Hereford defender, and Sturgess was booked on his return.
United finally broke the deadlock when Jimmy Quiggin glanced home Parry's right wing cross. Parry used his pace to beat Sturgess before crossing with his right foot and Quiggin did the rest to give the lead on seventy three minutes. The Hereford fans' joy was shorted lived when Sam Sodje tapped home at the back post from six yards out, after great work and cross by Illman on the left wing.
Adrian Clarke shot over the bar from six yards from an acute angle with two Hereford players in his way as the away side searched for a winner. Only two minutes after the goals, Gavin Williams almost scored again, after yet again great work by Parry on the ring wing, but he failed to connect with the cross by an inch, if that!
With another right wing free kick by Gavin Williams, Scott Voice hit the bar with a free header, but it was ruled offside. The last real action of the match saw Steve Walters sent off for two bookable offences; the first for arguing with the referee and the second for tripping up Gavin Williams twice in a row.
This was a good response by the Hereford players after last Tuesday's disaster against Yeovil. The new players made all the difference with the side looking balanced, and even though Hereford had chances to win it, it would have been unfair on an impressive looking Stevenage side. 1-1 might not be what Graham Turner and Bulls fans wanted, but it was a reasonable result and a move in the right direction.
Tim's ratings
Matt Baker - 8 - Had a solid game, made two excellent saves. Had no chance with the goal.
Mark Williams - 6 - Looking solid for most of the game, looked good going forward on the flank. When Illman came on he gave Mark the run around.
Tony Capaldi - 6 - Making his debut, fitted in well. Gave the defence and team as a whole balance being left footed. Lack a little going forward, defensively sound.
Tony James - 8 - His usual, quietly, impressive self. Made some, good, important tackles and some important interceptions.
Matt Gardiner - 7 - Making his return debut, got a head injury but played on. He looked not bad for someone who is meant to have struggled in the Dr. Martens League.
Paul Webb - 7 - His usual performance, full of tackling and battling. Like James, his role is a quite one.
John Snape - 7 - Much Improved since Tuesday's nightmare, passing still was a little off. But his tackling and battling qualities came back to full force.
Gavin Williams - 7 - Good performance, full of running and some good set pieces. Also had a few shots as Paul Parry - 9 - Excellent runs, crosses and tackling back on either the right or left flanks. Set up the goal with an excellent pin point cross.
Rob Elmes - 6 - He is looking very tired and I believe he has the flu/cold. But he showed a few moments, and did spread the ball wide.
Scott Voice - 8 - Excellent second appearance in a HUFC shirt, flick ons, passing and getting into the right position. All was lacking was his finishing, but he should put this right soon.
Jimmy Quiggin - 7 - GT used a sub and it worked. He scored the goal, but like Tuesday he still doesn't look upto first team action quite yet. But his impact was something Elmo couldn't do.
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Mark Williams, Tony Capaldi, Paul Webb, Matt Gardiner, Tony James, Scott Voice, John Snape (captain), Rob Elmes (off, half time), Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Steve Piearce, Lee Evans, Christian James, Scott Goodwin, Jimmy Quiggin (on, half time)
Yellow cards: Gavin Williams (38 minutes, handball)
Scorer: Jimmy Quiggin (73 minutes)
Man of the Match Paul Parry
Attendance 1,515
Referee Mr. G. Chapman (Stroud)
TWO new signings featured in the Hereford United side that drew 1-1 with Stevenage Borough this afternoon.
Matt Gardiner, who played for the Bulls last season, has returned on non-contract form after short spells with Evesham United and Worcester City. The centre back's campaign last term was hampered with injury but after sustaining a gash on the head today, he came back on and played well.
Also joining the club on loan from the Birmingham City academy side is Tony Capaldi. From the same youth team as Neil Barnes who played in goal for a game a few weeks back, Capaldi played at left back and was conmpetent this afternoon.
However, the club are to lose club shop and Junior Bulls co-ordinator Jane Griffiths. Jane is to open a gift shop in Hay-on-Wye and will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the club.
Also, a rumour was heard today that star striker Gavin Williams could be on his was out of Edgar Street as well. The young Welshman has been linked with Cardiff City, the team he has supported since he was a boy. A lack of income through gate receipts could well mean that Williams has to be offloaded to the second division side.
Club Secretary Joan Fennessy is on the lookout for the owner of a Chrysler Voyager registration Y866 PCJ after the vehicle was illegally parked in the directors area at Morecambe last weekend. After refusing to move the vehicle, the occupants urinated against the club shop wall. Ms. Fennessy would like to contact the owner so if you know of them, please contact her at the club on 01432 276666.
Finally, the away travel is going to Hayes next Saturday. The coach departs at 9.30am, picks up in Ledbury at 10am and costs £14. The following Friday, a coach goes to Leigh RMI. The cost is £13, and leaves Edgar Street at 3.15pm. On Tuesday, 9th October, HUISA are running a coach to Chester departing at 5pm, costing £11. To book places on any of these, please contact the club on 01432 276666.
Sept 23rd:
JIMMY Quiggin was delighted with his goal yesterday which gained Hereford United a point in their 1-1 draw with Stevenage Borough.
"It was a rare header for me," he said to George Sawkins of today's Non League Paper. "But Paul (Parry) did very will to get the cross in."
Stevenage Borough boss Paul Fairclough said that the referee Gary Chapman had no choice but to send off midfielder Steve Walters with four minutes left. "It was disgraceful and he had to go," said Fairclough. "And that will be reflected in the club's disciplinary action. But we're really disappointed that we didn't win. Our 'keeper has hardly had a save to make and we weathered their early storm to go on to create chance after chance."
One of the new signings for yesterday's match, Tony Capaldi, is a Northern Ireland under eighteen international. The Birmingham City youth team player has joined Hereford United on a short loan deal.
Finally, Hereford United are now quoted at 28/1 by Surrey Racing to win the Conference title, the tenth favourites. Boston United are 7/4, with Hayes and Stalybridge Celtic rank outsiders at 250/1. United are also quoted at 100/1 for relegation, but bets will not be taken on Boston United, Doncaster Rovers and Dagenham & Redbridge.
Sept 24th:
GRAHAM Turner has outlined his reasons for signing Matt Gardiner and Tony Capaldi before Saturday's 1-1 draw with Morecambe.
"After the performance last week and the injury situation I needed to bring people into tighten things up," said the Bulls' Director of Football to the Evening News. "I've got a high regard for Matt and when he left in the summer I told him to keep in contact and he played in a reserve game at Nuneaton and did alright.
"Both played on Saturday and did okay and it was a better performance. We created about four good chances in the first ten minutes, and from one of those Parry should have found the net.
"We had a stroke of luck on a couple of occasions but we committed the cardinal sin of conceding a goal just after we scored."
Meanwhile, Hereford United's youth side play Mile Oak Rovers in the Midland Floodlit Youth League Cup tonight, with the game being played at Pelsall Villa's ground in Staffordshire. The reserves have a home game against Worcester City on Wednesday, with a 7.30pm kick off.
Sept 25th:
THE Hereford United youth side progressed to the second round of the Midland Floodlit Youth League Cup last night.
Following a 4-2 home win against Mile Oak Rovers, played at Pelsall Villa, Hereford United will be entered into the second round draw of the competition, to be made on Saturday.
Sept 26th:
MIDFIELDER Paul Webb, who has spent the last month on loan from Kidderminster Harriers, has decided to stay at Edgar Street for another month.
The thirty three year old said of his move to Hereford United: "It took me a few games to get back in to the swing of things and adjust to the pace of the game. I have to admit I’m just enjoying playing football again.
"It makes sense to stay there and play competitive games every week rather than play reserve football every other week. I have to make sure I’m fit and ready should an opportunity arise at Kidderminster."
Sept 27th:
HEREFORD United could well see the return of some first team players from injury as they travel to Hayes, this Saturday, 3pm.
Hayes are bottom of the league, whilst Hereford lie thirteenth in the Nationwide Conference having just won one of their last eight games.
Mananger Graham Turner is hoping is Hereford side can get back to winning ways. "It was a much improved display against Stevenage, we worked hard and played much better. The supporters who turned up appreciated it and got behind the players," said Turner
Hereford could see the return of captain Ian Wright from a groin injury, whilst Rob Elmes, who was suffering with a back injury, will face a struggle to make the starting eleven. Striker Danny Davidson is available having served a three-match suspension, while Matt Clarke might be included in the squad after recovering from a hamstring strain. Ian Rodgerson will be unavailable but resumed training this week after injury.
Graham Turner said that after the Yeovil defeat, he had seriously considered his position at the club but had now regained his enthusiasm. "There was plenty of room for improvement after the Yeovil game, which was probably the worst performance by any team I have managed in more than 20 years. But we made the first step last Saturday," he told the Hereford Times.
Meanwhile, the reserves were defeated 5-1 at Edgar Street last night in the Central Conference against Worcester City. Worcester's goals came from Dwain McFarlane, Jamie Hyde, Mark Shepherd, Lee Goodman and Matt Blankley.
Sept 28th:
HEREFORD United's trip to Hayes will be without a handful of first team player tomorrow, 3pm at Church Road.
Graham Turner could be without Gavin Williams (groin), and Rob Elmes (back), but Matt Clarke and Ian Wright should feature. Also doubtful are Scott Goodwin (groin), Ian Rodgerson (thigh) and Daniel Davidson (ankle) whilst Tony James hasn't trained this week. Matt Baker should continue in goal despite an injury to his groin.
Hayes boss Terry Brown has revealed that Mark Molesley expects to return to the side.
Hereford boss Graham Turner said: "I think there is a good chance Wright and Clarke will be fit but Gavin Williams and Rob Elmes are doubtful. It's vital we get three points but it will be tough because Hayes are fighting for their lives and I think have been looking to bring a few players in."
Paul Webb will continue after extending his loan period from Kidderminster Harriers. "He's done well and got better and better by each match and I'm pleased he has decided to stay with us," Turner added.
Phil Robinson, the United coach, was eager that Hereford would get back to winning ways.
"We have got to start picking up some points quickly and we will be looking for a win at Hayes," he said. "They are certainly a team we should beat and I would like to think that they're bottom because they are the worst team in the league.
"The problem we are having at the moment is injuries. We were hoping to have some bodies back after Wednesday's reserve game but lost Rodgerson, Goodwin and Davidson. Matt Baker is also struggling with a strain that he has been unable to shake off."
Scott Voice should continue in attack and Robinson said of his performance against Stevenage: "Scott played well but a goal would have just capped things for him."
Sept 29th:
HAYES 4- 1 Hereford United
Total humiliation was the result for the travelling Hereford United faithful as their side crashed 4-1 to bottom club Hayes in the Nationwide Conference.
The result leaves the future of the club in the balance with many fans finally fed up with poor performances and disappointing results. An announcement about the direction of Hereford United is expected early next week. The Bulls have dropped to fifteenth in the Nationwide Conference.
After telling of his pleasure at Matt Gardiner's performance at Stevenage Borough, boss Graham Turner inexplicably dropped him for captain Ian Wright to return to the side.
The game had a lively start with Rob Elmes going close for United, but Hayes took the lead on sixteen minutes. Ian Hodge was on hand to net after Kevin Warner's effort had bounced off the crossbar. Seven minutes later, Hereford had equalised. Paul Parry made a good cross for Scott Voice to header past Bertrand Bossu on the far post.
Hayes had a half time lead thanks to a goal ten minutes before the break. Ian Wright brought down Ian Hodge in the box and the referee awarded a penalty. Matt Baker saved Dean Clark's effort, but the youngster netted the rebound.
The second half saw United on top for a period, but two late goals gave Hayes a 4-1 victory. On seventy two minutes, Peter Holsgrove hit a low shot past Baker to make it 3-1, and then four minutes later Dean Clark beat Baker again.
The result meant a long trip home along the M4 for the travelling Hereford United faithful, who made over a quarter of the total attendance of 700.
All credit to Terry Brown's men, they managed to finish the chances they had and deserved their victory. The result lifts them out of the relegation zone.
Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, Tony Capaldi, Paul Webb (off, 76 minutes), Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Scott Voice, John Snape, Rob Elmes (off, 52 minutes), Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Jimmy Quiggin (on, 52 minutes), Lee Evans, Matt Gardiner, Mark Williams, Scott Goodwin (on, 76 minutes)
Yellow cards:
Ian Wright (35 minutes, foul) Rob Elmes (36 minutes, dissent)
Scorers: Scott Voice (23 minutes)
Attendance: 700
Man of the Match: Not awarded
Referee: Mr. N. Perkins (Gravesend)
Sept 30th:
HEREFORD United's manager Graham Turner is not having a good time with injuries, as he told Nat Sylvester of the Evening News yesterday.
"It's been a tougher time off the pitch than on it," he said.
Matt Gardiner and Tony Capaldi have come in to plug the defence and Turner said of Gardiner: "We knew what he could do and needed some defensive cover and he's done well."
Tony Capaldi will miss the games at Leigh RMI and Chester due to international commitments.
AN announcement is expected early next week regarding the future of the club.
No further information has been given yet, but it could signal the end of Graham Turner's tenure as manager and chairman of the club.
After yesterday's humiliating 4-1 defeat at Hayes, the club dropped to within six points of the relegation zone and, yet again, there were calls from areas of the Hereford crowd for Turner to step down.
HAYES manager Terry Brown told the Non-League Paper of his delight with three points over Hereford United yesterday.
The Missioners won 4-1 at Church Road against a hapless Hereford side and Brown said: "I am absolutely chuffed. I have a squad of boys who, when they pass it about, can out-play anybody. We have come out on top against one of the most powerful teams in the league."
The result meant Hereford dropped to fifteenth, whilst Hayes moved off the bottom and out of the relegation zone.
