August 2000

Back row - Paul Sturgess, Matt Clarke, Chris Lane, Ian Wright, Scott Cooksey, James Wall, Paul Parry, Tony James, Matt Gardiner.
Middle row - John Shirley, Matt Beale, John Snape, Michael McIndoe, Gavin Williams, Steve Piearce, Craig Hanson.
Front row - Tony Ford (fitness trainer), Ian Rodgerson (player/physiotherapist), Steve Bull (player/coach), Graham Turner (director of football/chairman), Phil Robinson (player/coach), Simon Thompson (physiotherapist).

August 1st:

HEREFORD UNITED 1 - 1 OXFORD UNITED (report by Terry Goodwin)

Oxford United must be commended with the strength of the side that they fielded against Hereford United tonight, but manager Denis Smith must be slightly disappointed with what was a fair result. With former West Ham midfielder Joey Beauchamp, Leeds player Derek Lilley and former Wales Under 21 star Lee Jarman all participating, Oxford were always going to be a formidable side to break down.

Hereford, however, fielded a strong team but Turner left out both Piearce and Elmes to try out a new Craig Hanson - Dai Thomas partnership, the latter on-trial from Cardiff City.

The game itself was a fairly even affair with both Hereford and Oxford creating a fair number of openings, and, it has to be said, a few chances that went begging in front of goal. It was the away side from Division Two who gained the first corner, barely half a minute into the action, but Hereford came back and started pressurising inside the Oxford half.

Craig Hanson again lacked physical presence in his forward role, but showed off his skill on several occasions, firstly with good footwook in the fifth minute before providing a good cross. Perhaps, Hanson should have been in the area getting onto the end of the crosses, not providing them. All in all, the night was one of fairly good football from Hereford. The hoof-and-hope approach against Aston Villa was disposed for good, precise passing. Although this created mistakes, it is much more entertaining to watch for the 864 people inside the ground, and worked well when Snape, Rodgerson and Hanson linked, but Hanson was unable to get to the ball before the advancing goalkeeper. Hanson again showed off is skill after around twenty minutes when good footwork created a cross for Thomas to head just wide of the near post. Despite good play, Hanson's lack of physical presence was underlined around halfway through the first half, when he was bundled off the ball (legally!), something which wouldn't happen to Robin Elmes, for example.

Scott Cooksey had a sturdy game in goal but made one huge mistake with ten minutes of the first half remaining. With Emmanuel Omoyinmi, the former West Ham youngster, advancing upon him , Cooksey grabbed the ball but fumbled it under him. Luckily, the ball went out for a corner which he caught with his usual authority in the box.

Hereford continued to create efforts, with Dai Thomas heading just over and Ian Rodgerson heading just wide. Thomas, a Cardiff striker, had a good game but didn't get the right kind of chances to prove what he is capable of.

With around twenty minutes left, Richie Bernard, an on-trial 'keeper (yes, another!) was brought on for Cooksey and he was truly awful. Firstly, his mistake let the goal in, and soon after he let a header through which had to be cleared off the line by Matt Gardiner. A Joey Beauchamp corner was met by the head on Ian McGuckin for the goal, leaving Bernard stranded.

However, Hereford hit back with eight minutes left. McIndoe took the freekick short and passed to Ian Rodgerson. Dodge then took the ball out wide on the right and from twenty yards hit a screaming shot past Jimmy Glass, the Carlisle 'keeper who sent Scarborough into the Conference, in the Oxford United goal.

This was by far the most impressive home friendly that we have seen so far in the pre-season, but that's not saying much considering the performance against Aston Villa! Whilst the Bulls are still lacking up front, the rest of the team is progressing a treat!

Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Sturgess, Robinson, Wright, James, Rodgerson, Snape, Thomas, Hanson, Williams.
Substitutes who came on - Lane, McIndoe, Elmes, Gardiner, Shirley, Bernard.

August 2nd:

THE club announced the following in last night's match programme:

Perimeter boards are still available for advertising to all local and national companies.

Sponsorship of the players is still available for anyone (player subject to availability).

Anyone can sponsor the match, matchball or become match mascot for any of the home league games.

Season Tickets and Memberships can still be purchased from the club office. The sale of season tickets is going well, and the club is hoping that sales will exceed that of last year. A season ticket covers all home league games and the remaining pre-season friendlies. Details for memberships and Junior Bulls memberships can be obtained from the club office, both are priced at £8.

Children and OAP's will only be admitted at a concession rate if one can produce a valid membership card.

To contact the club regarding any of the above, call the office on 01432 276666.

Meanwhile Hereford United's Annual Open Day will be fun filled for everyone when it is hosted this Sunday, 6th August. Highlights on the day include the opening of the new club shop, the release of the new home kit at 11.20am, and the 24 hour Football Final - Hereford United vs Spirit of Rembrandt - kick off at 3pm. Prior to the game, everyone is invited to join the players with fitness coach Tony Ford for a 30 minute fitness routine. Admission to the event is just £1.

A full list of events is shown below:

Penalty Shoot-Outs against HUFC goalkeepers

Shoot the Ref

Test Your Skills

Chipping Game

Balloon Typhoon

Bottle Stall

News Club Shop to be opened

Sale of Player Kit

Programme Sale

Win-a-Football

Hereford & Worcester Fire Service

New home kit unveiled - 11.20am

Fitness Routine with Tony Ford and the players at 2.15pm

24 hour Football Final at 3pm - Hereford United vs Spirit Of Rembrandt

August 3rd:

DAI Thomas, the Welsh footballer currently on trial at Hereford United, has been suspended by Cardiff City after video evidence appeared on television last night suggesting that he was involved in Euro 2000 violence with England fans. Thomas, age 24, was supposedly filmed being lead away by Belgian Police in handcuffs. However, Thomas' agent has been quoted as saying that he was "caught up in a mass sweep" by Belgian Police. "I can confirm that I was not deported from Belgium but in fact made my own way home.", said Thomas. However, he will remain suspended by the FAW until their investigation is complete, and Dai Thomas will have to appear at an inquiry. Whether he is able to play for Hereford this weekend is unknown.

CHASETOWN 1 Hereford United 1 (report by Terry Goodwin)

A free entry to Chasetown for all the fans as they enjoyed a carnival atmosphere prior to the game which was the showpiece event - the local side against Hereford United.

Hereford managed their first win of the season against the Midland Football Alliance side with a stunning gola through Chris Lane. However, the performance was not of a satisfactory nature and afterwards Hereford Director of Football Graham Turner aired his views to the Evening News, which were less than complimentary.

"I've got to be disapointed with the way we've played. We've thrown one or two younger players in and I was excepting them to be scrapping for places. There weren't too many good performances out there." said Turner.

The goal, when it came, was one to be proud of for Chris Lane, United's right-back. From a freekick from thirty yards out, Lane hammered the ball into the net late in the second half. It'll be one to remember for Lane, well, the only one! The goal was Lane's only one for the club!

However, Chasetown were much more enthusiastic about the tie and produced some good play in the first half. Former Wolves striker Shaun Bradbury had two good opportunities. The first forced a good save from United's goalkeeper Matthew Baker, on-trial from Hull City, and the follow up effort went just over the crossbar.

On-trial striker Carl Tranter was disappointing and I suspect that he will not be playing for the Bulls again. Tranter, once of Bridgnorth, was hoped to solve the problems up-front for Turner, but is quite obviously not the answer. Overall, Hereford just deserved the win but performances will have to improve greatly before they can be proud of their efforts.

Hereford - Baker, Lane, McIndoe, Beale, Gardiner, Clarke, Hanson, Snape, Tranter, Piearce, Pitt
Substitutes who came on - Bernard (45), Wright (51), Williams (56)

August 4th:

TWO goalkeepers have joined Hereford United on trial as Graham Turner hopes to solve is reserve goalkeeper crisis. Matthew Baker, aged twenty and from Hull City, is training with the squad as is Richie Bernard, formerly of Millwall and aged 19. However, former triallists Johnson and Andrews have been released, as has striker trialist Michael Holt.

Meanwhile, A Chris Lane free-kick proved to be the winner in last night's friendly match as Hereford United overcame Chasetown by one goal to nil. The goal came in the second half but the performance was a good one by Hereford United. Youngster Matthew Beale also hit the woodwork whilst Chasetown didn't look to threaten. The match was free entry and there was a carnival atmosphere at the ground.

The first new Talking Bull of the season will be released at the Southport game, according to Peter Povall.

Dai Thomas can play for Hereford United in tomorrow's friendly match against Shrewsbury Town, it has been announced. Thomas, currently on-trial from Cardiff City, was suspended on Thursday by the Welsh club after he was alledged to have been videoed in violence with England fans during Euro 2000. Thomas played for the Bulls in last Tuesday's match against Oxford and Hereford United boss Graham Turner has maintained his interest in the striker.

August 5th:

STRIKER Dai Thomas suspended by Cardiff City Football Club following his arrest during Euro 2000 crowd disturbances has been cleared to play a friendly for Hereford United.

The player, who will remain suspended until an FAW inquiry into the matter of his arrest in Belguim is completed, will play the friendly for Hereford against Shrewsbury on Saturday.

On Wednesday, Belgian Police said a Cardiff City footballer had been arrested during crowd trouble in Brussels and claimed he had been deported.

August 5th:

HEREFORD United defenders Tony James and Paul Sturgess have recovered from injury and are expected to return to the starting line-up for today's pre-season game against Shrewsbury Town at Edgar Street.

Goalkeeper Scott Cooksey, player/coach Phil Robinson and veteran Ian Rodgerson, who all missed Hereford's 1-0 win over Chasetown on Thursday, have also been included in the squad.

Hereford could also include Cardiff City striker Dai Thomas, if the Third Division club agrees to the Welshman having another trial run-out with the Bulls. But striker Robin Elmes has been ruled out due to injury.

Hereford United have drawn 0-0 in this afternoons friendly match with Shrewsbury Town at Edgar Street. Despite coming close when Dai Thomas headed onto the post in the second half, the Bulls couldn't get past Shrews veteran goalkeeper Paul Edwards. The referee, Andy Williams, was stretched to the limit by the two teams especially when the players were involved in a mass brawl just before the end of the match, but instead of booking and sending off, he went over to Graham Turner and Kevin Radcliffe and asked for them to be substituted to prevent any additional disciplinary problems occuring from the players being carded in pre-season games.

HEREFORD UNITED 0 SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 (report by Terry Goodwin)

In a hard fought match, both Hereford United or Shrewsbury Town couldn't fail to get the goal to break the deadlock. A greatly improved performance by Hereford United in this local derby saw some good play by many players on both sides and several scoring opportunities.

As early as the fourth minute, Hereford showed that they were out to win with a good run by Matt Clarke down the right, one of many made by the former Kidderminster player early on. Williams was fouled and from the resulting free kick by McIndoe, no one could get a touch onto the ball and it went out at the far post. It has to be said that McIndoe is looking like a shrewd signing by Graham Turner, as his ball control and pace make him a great addition to the Hereford team.

From a corner in the ninth minute, Shrewsbury broke clear and showed their attacking potential on the break. However, former Shrews 'keeper Scott Cooksey cleared at what seemed to be the last second! Hereford continued to make the most of their possession when, in the fifteenth minute, Dai Thomas was released one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Thomas, on-trial from Cardiff City, took the ball around veteran Paul Edwards but was flagged offside before he had time to control and shoot.

Both sides made the most of their substitutes, with Chris Lane replacing the slightly injured Ian Wright on twenty six minutes, and then on the half hour, Shrewsbury youngster Jamie Tolley came on. Shrewsbury finished the first half brightly and with six minutes remaining, striker Ryan Lowe was one-on-one with Cooksey but Hereford's number one somehow came out on top to clear the ball.

Only 866 people attended the match, slighly disappointing with the game being a local friendly on a hot summer afternoon. The fans that did attend had little to shout about but from a Shrewsbury corner on the hour, Paul Sturgess was forced to head the ball off the line at the near post. Soon after, a United attack was cleared but only to John Snape who was twenty five yards out. He caught the ball on the volley and it went narrowly wide of Edwards' far post.

Shrewsbury continued to create attacks but couldn't make the most of their efforts when they reached the penalty area, as chance upon chance was missed. However, by no means was the action yet over.

The referee, Andy Williams, was stretched to the limit by the two teams. First, an incident occured ten minutes from the end when Shrewsbury's Brown hit McIndoe to the floor, a sending off offence. Instead of booking and sending off players, he went over to Kevin Ratcliffe and asked for Brown to be substituted to prevent any additional disciplinary problems occuring from the players being carded in pre-season games. He was replaced by former Hartlepool and Middlesbrough striker Chris Freestone. Whilst the incident was taking place, Matthew Gardiner managed to break his finger which he told me is very painful but won't keep him out of any of the upcoming games.

McIndoe was again a target with four minutes left when former Villa defender David Hughes fouled him. From the free kick, McIndoe picked out the head of Dai Thomas who hit the post.

There was another fracas soon after as fifteen of the twenty two players were involved in a mass brawl. Matt Clarke was substituted by the referee. With two minutes of injury time played, United coach Phil Robinson managed to clear a late header from Luke Rodgers off the line.

Hereford - Cooksey, Clarke, Strugess, Robinson, Wright, Gardiner, Rodgerson, Snape, Thomas, Williams, McIndoe
Substitutes who came on - Lane (26), Piearce (52), Hanson (74), Beale (88), Pitt (89)

August 7th:

PERSHORE TOWN 0 - 7 HEREFORD UNITED (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United's second win of the pre-season came as they emphatically beat local side Pershore Town, their highest win in a match since they beat Westfields 8-0 in December 1985. Graham Turner used the game to try out various players in unusual positions leaving two on-trial strikers to play in the front roles.

Some of the goals came from former Stourport Swifts striker Kerry Giddins, who helped himself to a first half hat-trick. Also, former Tranmere forward Andy Moran scored two whilst current United front man Steve Piearce notched another two to make the score an emphatic seven.

Six of the goals came in the first half, and five came in a fourteen minute spell. At half time the Bulls should have looked to increasing the score into double figures, but they sat back at Pershore started to create some of chances for themselves. However, Hereford's score was also kept at seven by Neil Turner and the referee! Turner, goalkeeper for Pershore, made several good saves, and the referee disallowed two other goals - Andy Moran and Matt Clarke having goals disallowed for handball and offside respectively.

A practice match for United, watched by just 126, in which they shone over their lowly opposition - if performances - and scorelines - go as well as this next season, they will most certainly by challengers for the league title.

Hereford - Baker, Williams, McIndoe, Piearce, Clarke, Lane, Hanson, Beale, Giddins, Moran, Pitt
Substitutes who came on - Snape, Elmes, Gardiner, Robinson

August 9th:

HEREFORD UNITED 1 - 0 LEICESTER CITY (report by Terry Goodwin)

If only the above was the final score last December. If only Paul Parry had scored that chance against Tim Flowers. If tonight had been an FA Cup match, tomorrow's papers would be covered with it!

However, it wasn't, but the above was the final score. Parry did score and Hereford can celebrate their revenge against Leicester. Graham Turner announced that the Premiership side would play a reserve team, but new boss Peter Taylor selected the former England goalie Tim Flowers, Northern Irish international Gerry Taggart, a Everton star Tony Cottee, million pound youngster Trevor Benjiman and potential star Stuart Wilson.

Those weren't the only stars at the game, former Liverpool defender Mark Wright was spotted in the directors area, obviously checking out the Bulls for when they take on his side Southport in the opening league game at Edgar Street a week on Satuday.

Originally, Leicester asked for 50% of the gate money and expenses after announcing they will bring a reserve side, they let it go. So, the gate money of the 1,253 at Edgar Street will come in handy and they will treat it to a very entertaining match.

Leicester started well and outplayed United for the early part, but United soon came back and were equal to their Premiership opposition from then on. Despite this, Stuart Taylor had several good chances for City, the first he badly sliced and the second went high over Scott Cooksey's crossbar. Trevor Benjamin was also ambitious with his shooting and on twenty eight minutes he tried a bicycle kick! However, the ball went high over the crossbar and from then on, there was very little in the way of Leicester attacking for the rest of the half and most of the second. This was down to some resolute defending by captain Ian Wright and Matt Gardiner, Wright stopping Cottee with Gardiner holding off Benjamin.

Hereford brought on Andy Moran after Steve Piearce suffered an early knock and he showed some potential, especially when linking with recent signing McIndoe, who was again inspirational. However, Moran missed a good chance with five minutes of the half remaining.

In the second half, John Snape forced a good save from Flowers just one minute in, and then Moran hit the post on fifty four minutes. However, Leicester showed their attacking potential when a corner from Dudfield was headed just over by Benjamin, and then Hanson, playing in a wide right position, gave Flowers a tough time but the former Blackburn 'keeper managed to clear the chance.

Parry came on to replace Hanson with twenty minutes left, and he showed he has fully recovered from his ankle injury. He got hold of the ball just over the halfway line, made a thirty five yard run going past two defenders before hitting a sweet, left-footed shot high into Tim Flowers' net. Hereford then sealed victory by clearing a late effort off their own line, thanks to Michael McIndoe.

Hereford - Cooksey, Lane, Clarke, Robinson, Wright, Gardiner, Hanson, Snape, Elmes, Piearce, McIndoe
Substitutes who came on - Moran (13), Parry (70), Beale (79), Pitt (82)

August 10th:

THE Bulls are to become one of the founder members of the new Conference Under 19 League next season. The initiative is for Conference clubs to link up with local colleges and to provide coaching and competitive action for youngsters of a high enough standard.

There will be three divisions, and Hereford United have been placed in Northern regional section with Cheshire's Northwich Victoria, Staffordshire's Hednesford Town, Telford United of Shropshire and Leigh RMI from Greater Manchester. Other clubs will also compete, and these include Ilkeston Town and Loughborough University, whose record of sporting excellence will probably make them favourites for the title.

Hereford United Chairman and Director of Football Graham Turner was upbeat about the move. "It is basically giving clubs a decent standard of football at this level.", said Turner. "It will give the boys opportunities to be coached but at the same time continue with a significant part of their education."

However, Hereford's home games will not be played in the city but at North Birmingham College, with whom they have the link up. However, Turner said this was only in the short term. "Hopefully given time, it will be expanded to involve colleges in Herefordshire." he announced. "It does take a lot of time to get it under way but it will be a pleasant if some of them come through to the first team."

Graham Turner has told of his hopes that star winger Paul Parry will be fit for the first league game of the season. Hereford United play Southport at Edgar Street on the 19th of August. Parry has been out of action since suffering an ankle injury against Oldbury United in a friendly last month.

"There's a good chance that he'll be fit for Southport on the opening day," said Turner, "He's doing a fair amount of running and I expect him to start training towards the end of next week."

Meanwhile Graham Turner has spoken about the extensions to two of the youngsters YTS contracts in view of a full-time contract at Edgar Street. Promising players Matthew Pitt and Matthew Beale are both the subject of improved roles at the club.

"Pitt had a long injury so we've extended his YTS contract for a few more weeks and Beale has been given a three month trial so we can have a good look at him", said Turner.

Hopefully both will show their full potential in the period and can persuade Turner to take them on as part of the first-team squad.

August 11th:

GRAHAM Turner is considering the loan of troubled Cardiff City striker Dai Thomas for a month. The twenty four year old has been suspended on full pay by Cardiff after allegedly being captured on television with Euro 2000 hooligans. Turner said : "It is a delicate situation with his off-the-field problems, but the ideal situation from my point of view will be for him to come to the club for a month. He could then work and train with us and we can find out what he is like as a lad as well as a player. The problems hanging over him are quite a serious matter, but he can't be condemned for the rest of his life for one short period of daftness. Somewhere in life people do get a second chance and maybe Dai would appreciate that."

August 12th:

Giddings moves to Hereford

 Kerry Giddings has completed a shock move from Stourport Swifts to Hereford after scoring a hat-trick in a trial game at Pershore Town this week.

According to the Birminham Post and Mail Bulls' chief scout Ron Jukes recommended the 24-year-old former Redditch United forward after the player caught his eye playing for Swifts against Bilston Town a fortnight ago.

Hereford, seeking a striker after the exits of Paul Fewings and Leroy May, have considered Cardiff City's Dai Thomas and ex-Tranmere Rovers man Andy Moran.

But the move for Giddings came out of the blue.

'Good luck to Kerry,' said Stourport coach Gary Hackett, who made a move into the pro ranks himself after being spotted by Jukes 20 years ago with Bromsgrove.

'He has got all the attributes to be a success with Hereford. He is strong, quick and a good finisher. You need that luck as well and sometimes an opportunity comes along when you least expect it.'

Jukes said: 'Kerry looks a useful striker that can play at a higher level. He has been given the opportunity and now it's down to the lad. I've very much indebted to Stourport, to Rod Brown and Gary Hackett. Stourport were only to happy to co-operate.'

GLOUCESTER City 1 Hereford United 1 (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United originally left the final weekend of the pre-season open for a Premiership side - preferably Leicester City - but it was not to be and instead they travelled south to Dr. Marten's League side Gloucester City. The game was never going to be a hard-fought affair, and really it was a game with little competition for the ball coming straight off the training field. Hereford played an understrength side due to injuries to coach Phil Robinson, Gavin Williams, Paul Sturgess, Matt Clarke, John Shirley and Steve Piearce. All have minor injuries but should be fit for next weekend.

Very little in the way of attacking play from Gloucester, who looked nothing like the other opposition faced from their league in this pre-season. Whilst the game was not a great spectacle, there were some important points to take into account throughout the game.

Firstly, Paul Parry got a knock on his ankle but was taken off almost immediately - a precautionary measure by Graham Turner but does that mean he is still in the recovery stage and will he be completely ready for Southport next Saturday. That was probably the most tense moment for United in the whole game as they looked very cool and played at an extremely cool pace on a hot afternoon.

Yet again Andy Moran looked comfortable up-front and linked well with McIndoe particularly. However, he couldn't manage to score and the lack of goals from the strikers in the past month must be starting to frustrate Mr. Turner. However, if they find their form in the opening league matches, we'll all wonder what the problem was!

In the first half, Moran, Rodgerson and Lane all had efforts which tested the Gloucester goalkeeper Ryan Gannaway, but Hereford couldn't manage to beat him. City hardly created a chance and didn't look at all like breaking the deadlock.

The only goal for Hereford was scored just three minutes after half time. A long throw was met by John Snape and again the midfielder hit a cracking twenty yard shot past Gannaway. The midfielder again showed his importance to the side and his ability for long range shooting. However, the lead was not going to be extended as the Gloucester defence broke down every Hereford could throw at them.

Gloucester eventually equalised with just nine minutes left. Substitute striker Neil Griffiths managed to scramble an equaliser over the line and gave City a goal which they really didn't deserve. On-trial goalkeeper Matt Baker looked very confident and a more than ample cover for Scott Cooksey, and wasn't really at fault for the goal. Craig Hanson, on as a substitute, worked well on the right and almost beat Gannaway for the winner at the end of the match.

Hereford - Baker, Lane, Gardiner, Wright, James, Snape, Rodgerson, McIndoe, Parry, Elmes
Substitutions - Hanson (59), Beale (66), Moran (81)

August 13th:

ANDY Moran, the on-trail striker from Tranmere Rovers, still doesn't know where his future lies despite some good performances at Hereford United. Against Leicester last Wednesday, he came on for Steve Piearce after just twenty minutes and Graham Turner said "He has not been totally fit but has done reasonably well. There is a possibility we might be able to offer him something.". He looked particularly well positioned when linking with new boy Michael McIndoe and could be the answer to Turner's goalscoring problems.

After a trial period at Hereford United and then competing for Merthyr Tydfil in a friendly, Cardiff have decided to keep Dai Thomas - for the time being. However, this will not mean the Caerphilly born striker will be in the Cardiff City first team this season, and will probably end up on loan at Pendarryn Park, Merthyr, in the Dr Martens League. Graham Turner has yet to confirm his decision, and may even try and take the player on-loan at Hereford. "I asked Cardiff if he could come out on loan, but it seems he would rather get whatever he wants sorted out down there.", said Turner. "I don't know what their line will be with their change of manager and change of chairman, but we won't rule anything out." Cardiff recently appointed former Wimbledon manager Sam Hamman as Chairman and former Hereford player-coach, and Wimbledon and Wales boss Bobby Gould in the managerial hotseat.

August 15th:

GRAHAM Turner has suggested that he might need to make more summer signings. Apparently he is interested in securing both triallists, Andy Moran and Matt Baker. Andy Moran has been released by Tranmere according to one of the unofficial sites. Last season he scored 30 goals for Tranmere reserves and went on loan to Irish side Derry to try and get regular first team football. Moran, who has played two games for Hereford up front, notched two goals in the Pershore game. He also made an appearance as a sub in the Leicester game. The same site also said he is blessed with pace and has lots of energy. Baker, a goalie, could also be brought in as back up for current number one Scott Cooksey.

THE Fans Forum was held in Legends on 15th August 2000 and was well attended reports Peter Povall. On the panel were Richard Tomkins (chairman of HUISA), Graham Turner, Ian Wright and Phil Robinson.

The evening started with the sad news that Cyril Wood had died very recently and a minutes silence was held in respect.

Questions from the floor were raised and answered. The following is a summary of what was discussed. Please accept my apologies for any fragmentation of the information as things are listed as they were discussed.

GT confirmed that the majority of the squad were match fit with the exception of Paul Parry who has suffered a minor ankle injury and Paul Sturgess who is still suffering with his knee injury. Paul Sturgess should have seen the specialist by now and we are likely to know more before the start of the season.

Robinson was asked about his previous matches were he played against Hereford. His favourite memory was playing against us in the AutoWindscreens where he scored a penalty to knock us out. This was met with boo's from the floor but all was meant and taken in jest.

Robinson was further questioned as to his role within the club. His primary concern was to get himself to peek fitness. He is assisting with the coaching on a daily basis alongside both Steve Bull and GT. He is very impressed with the quality of players that we have this season and is confident that we can give a good showing this season. What he admitted was knowing little about the other Conference clubs so the start of this season will be a sharp learning curve. He also feels that we do not score enough goals and training scenarios are being used to promote a more attacking style of football.

GT was quizzed strongly about the squad and where things were going. He is keen to bring in an additional striker as Piearce looks like he may be injury prone again this season and Elmes is not performing to last seasons levels. Gavin Williams may well be given a go up-front to see what can be generated that way.

It would seem that Dai (The Pie) Thomas has been retained by Cardiff for the coming season. However, GT has approached the club and Dai's agent with a view to bringing him to Edgar Street for a month at the start of the season. This would take some of the pressure off the rest of the team during the match-heavy start to the season.

With regard to additional signings, GT is meeting the agents for both Andy Moran and Kerrie Giddins over the next couple of days. Both have shown potential during the pre-season matches. Matt Baker was also trialed during the pre-seasons as cover for Scott Cooksey. GT's feels that Baker looked ok but he would like to take him on a 1-month trial to see how things progress. Baker would be played in the reserves whilst Cooksey would remain the first choice keeper.

There is also the possibility of a young keeper from Exeter. GT is looking into this one further and will let us know how things pan-out.

Phil Robinson will assist with team selection. The question was raised regarding control when both Robinson (coach) and Ian Wright (captain) were on the pitch at once. The concensus was that the senior players (including John Snape and Ian Rodgerson) would reach an agreement but the final say would lie with Robinson.

Penalty-takers are likely to be Gavin Williams and Paul Parry for the season. However, this can be changed before or during any match as a player on form may wish to take the strike.

The Belmont training ground is excellent and should prove its worth this season. They would like another set of goals at the ground so that some additional tactics can be tried and tested but the facilities they have seem to be suiting them well.

GT admitted that 10 pre-season matches may have been too many this season, especially with the last game at Gloucester being in high heat. The problem was that he was depending on the Leicester game and everything else was built around it.

On average, each of the squad members has played around 500 minutes of football during the pre-season games. This equates to around 5.5 full games.

Ian Wright was asked to predict our chances this season. He feels that we are strong contenders for the title. However, we need to improve mental preperation for the games against the "lesser" Conference clubs. These are where the points come from after all.

Robinson commented that it is easy for players to raise their own game when the big match comes along and doesn't see why it shouldn't be possible for every other match to be treated the same way.

GT confirmed that we have 3 scouts. Ron Jukes, plus one in Lancashire and one in the London area. This is how McIndoe was located and signed.

The players have not been told who has been selected for the opener against Southport, although he indicated that Ian Wright could be confident of his place.

Regarding our general playing style, GT was asked why we do not use the speed of our players to greater effect. He replied that players were instructed to "take-on" defenders when given the opportunity and were pretty much left to their own devices when deciding what to do with the ball once they entered the last third of the pitch.

Rule confusion is likely to apply this season. The 10-yard advancement rule does not apply to the Conference games, but will apply to the Cup games where League clubs are involved. The 6-second rule for the keepers will apply.

Ian Rodgerson has qualified as a FA standard physio. Simon Thompson will be the "man with the sponge" when Dodge and Robinson are playing.

GT's intention this season is to retain hsi players. However, under their contract terms his is obliged to discuss any serious offers from other clubs. The previous problems with sales to pay bills should not be an issue this season. The Bosman ruling continues to apply. Over 24's can move, once out of contract, without compensation being made to the club.

GT confirmed that Matt Clarke will be seen more this season. He is pleased with his progress during the close and pre-season and feels that he has a great deal to offer.

The FA Trophy final is likely to be played at a major Premiership ground now that Wembley is no-more.

Confirmation was given that no offers for any of the current squad were received during the close season.

Phil Robinson was asked to predict the result on Saturday and said that he expected the best possible which tells us nothing. He did however comment that during all of his previous promotion seasons, he has never won both of the first two matches. Who would you rather lose to, Southport or Kettering?

During the interval, Kevin Wargen (probable new HUISA Chairman) made an announcement regarding the Away Travel arrangements for the coming season.

Tickets will be available from the club or from Legends on match-days when HUISA will have a table set up. All tickets must be purchased before noon on the Friday before the match. Tickets will not be available on the day of travel and you will not be able to pay on the coach. This is due to last season when some members were carrying in excess of £500 during the games. Not really fair on the person responsible. Persons travelling should also be aware that if the coach takes them to the match and then the match is subsequently called off there will not be a refund. This is because the coach company will still need paying. Finally, whilst every effort will be made to provide transport to the games, HUISA cannot promise travel to every match.

Following the interval, GT faced the floor on his own as Phil Robinson and Ian Wright departed. He was again quizzed on the starting line-up for Saturday but refused to be pressured.

He did confirm that he likes the uncertainty that is now facing players as more competition for places is created.

When asked about our financial situation he said that we were on an even keel at the moment.

The club has a VAT bill of £11,000 now and should be able to make the payment without too many problems. He will only sell a player if the situation is desperate and the club need the money to survive.

The current playing staff consists of 18 including 3 part-timers. The completed squad should total out at 20 players including 4 part-timers. The developers are still due their £2.5 million in May 2003. The club need the re-development of the Edgar Street site to progress at a pace so that developers do not get cold feet and call in the debt.

GT's primary concern is to keep Hereford United alive and get them back into the League. The grants received should assist the club as the Conference pay a grant of £8,000 per season and the League pay in excess of £400,000.

GT is very impressed with Phil Robinson and believes he will be an asset to the club, both on and off the field. My personal experience with him is excellent and his is thoroughly enjoying his read of Talking Bull who are his sponsors this season.

The strength of the Conference was again highlighted during the close season as the Third Division spent a total of £152,000 on players. £100,000 of this was spent by Kidderminster Harriers in a single transfer. The Conference on the other hand have spent far more. Rushden & Diamonds and Boston have both spent in excess of that amount.

Graham Turner is confident that the second promotion place will be granted next season. However, the FA are opposed to this. They do not want another promotion place to be granted. One reason for this is that the clubs being relegated want their full £400,000+ grant to continue for the first year in the Conference. This would mean that the 3rd Division would need to find an extra £400,000+ per club being promoted, which in turn would mean the other 3rd Division clubs taking a reduction in grant. Seems unlikely to me.

Boston have said that they will take the FA to court if they finish second and therefore don't gain promotion. Their claim will relate to restraint of trade. It is estimated that a case would cost each Conference club the equivalent of £20,000 and should the FA win it is unlikely at further promotion places will ever be granted.

Steve Bull is still working with Wolves. He has a commitment to be at all of Wolves home matches but is free to travel on their away matches. Hereford are only paying his travelling expenses as the arrangement is mutually beneficial. Bully appears to be fitter now than when he was a player. There is an outside chance that he could play at the end of the season.

The reason for the release of Paul Fewings was primarily due to medical reasons. GT felt that it was not worth the risk of another seasons contract.

McIndoe was found via the scout for the Southern region. Then Ron Jukes took a look at him and GT got to see him playing on television. They acquired him on a two-year contract after the discovery that he was having problems at Luton.

Matthew Pitt has left the club as no contract was offered for the coming season. Matthew Beale is on a 3-month trial period which will allow GT time to reach a final decision.

Ian Wright and Chris Lane both having their contracts expiring at the end of this season. Parry, James and Williams all have a further 2 years to run.

Taylor was let go on the basis that medical issues were starting to show. Further, GT needed to make some savings in the wageroll to accommodate Phil Robinson.

Steve Piearce is still prone to injury. Typical.

Scouts are also looking at the local sides, especially Kington.

GT's favourites for the Conference title are Rushden & Diamonds, Doncaster and Southport. Behind Hereford of course.

The players are to receive a substantial bonus for finishing top this season. There will also be a bonus for finishing in the top three.

Chris Lane seems to lack the composure to deliver the final ball into the box. In training he hits the mark 90% of the time. His composure should improve as the season progresses. He has also been encouraged to have a go at goal from anywhere within 30-yards. He has an excellent strike of the ball and could net a few during the season.

While Paul Sturgess is out of action, Matt Clarke is likely to replace him.

Boston may be a threat this season. Dagenham & Redbridge and Leigh RMI are an unknown quantity.

Local schools will have 50 free tickets on a rotation basis. However, the schools who participate in the Football in the Community will have first choice of the matches they attend. This seasons like an excellent why of promoting the club with the younger generation.

The gate fee for the terrace this season is £7.50. There will be a £1 increase when United are in the top 3, while it is still possible to gain promotion.

August 17th:

GRAHAM Turner has signed Andy Moran on a free transfer from Tranmere. The 20 year old striker scored 30 goals in Tranmere's reserve team last season and also went on loan to Irish side Derry. He played on the right side of Midfield whilst he was on loan there, but is prefered as a striker. Moran is now likely to be selected in the first home game of the season if Piearce does not recover from injury.

Southport defender Scott Guyett may not appear in this weeks opening game of the season against Hereford after an alleged approach by third division Macclesfield. The defender may be sold before the opening game which will leave a big gap to be filled in the Southport defence. It is understood that he is valued at around £250,000 by the Southport Manager Mark Wright.

August 18th:

ANDY Moran is on a one-year contract and is just twenty years old. Formerly at Tranmere, he has failed to make an impact under John Aldridge so a move to Edgar Street will do him good. Bulls boss Turner said : "He has done all right. He will need a little bit of time to settle down and get into it, but he possibly could be involved tomorrow."

Birthplace - Wigan (7th October 1979)
Height - 5ft 11ins
Weight - 70kg
Position - Striker

Goalkeeper Matt Baker, who has been on-trial at Edgar Street for the past couple of weeks, has signed for Hereford United as back-up to Scott Cooksey. Baker was formerly at Hull City but was released at the end of the season.

August 19th:

HEREFORD United will continue their search for additional firepower, despite the eve of season capture of Andy Moran to their squad.

The 20-year-old from Tranmere Rovers has earned a year's contract with the Bulls after catching the eye in pre-season.

Moran's arrival follows last week's capture of Kerry Giddings from Stourport Swifts but manager Graham Turner confirmed he is still in the market for a experienced front-runner.

'We've brought in a few players but we won't stop looking,' said Turner. 'You are always looking to add extra quality players when they become available.

Both Moran and Giddings, who has joined on part-time terms, will face a learning curve in the Conference but their arrival effectively means two in, two out from last season's strike-force. Paul Fewings and Leroy May have both moved on.

Turner has high hopes Moran can follow the likes of Paul Parry and Gavin Williams to become ones to watch.

'He has looked the part for a young boy,' said the Edgar Street supremo.

'Though he might not make an immediate impact in the Conference, he has got enough potential to make a career in football.'

Hereford also sealed a second eve of season signing by recruiting goalkeeper Matt Baker. He joins from Hull City, initially on a one month contract with a chance to win a longer deal.

HEREFORD UNITED 0 - 0 SOUTHPORT (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United entered the 2000/01 season with a home match against title dark-horses Southport, managed by former Liverpool defender Mark Wright. Whilst the game wasn't the cleanest ever seen, it was full of action and Hereford must count themselves unlucky that they didn't score but the strikers were not in the right place at the right time.

Both Paul Parry and Paul Sturgess were unavailable through injury, and Steve Piearce started on the bench. The strikers, Robin Elmes and Gavin Williams, were unable to break the deadlock but had numerous chances to do so. Two United players, McIndoe and Robinson, made their league debuts, and Southport fielded three new signings - defender Shaun Teale formerly of Tranmere and Aston Villa, former Liverpool, West Ham and Kidderminster midfielder Mike Marsh, and striker Simon Parke.

The only booking of the match from Mr Penn of Kingswinford came in the third minute. Ian Rodgerson was fouled on the near side as United attacked the Meadow End. The culprit, Mark Stuart, was promptly cautioned and from the resulting free-kick, McIndoe's cross was met by the Southport goalkeeper Steve Dickinson.

Hereford had the majority of the possession early on and almost took the lead on fifteen minutes. However, Robin Elmes' overhead kick was saved by the goalkeeper.

To say that the game was completely one-way would be a misinterpretation. Southport also showed some impressive spells and displayed their strengths which show why they are tipped for a good season. Phil Bolland headed one of their corners from Mike Marsh just over Cooksey's bar, but United rallied back and Elmes headed goalwards but it was cleared off the line by Shaun Teale, and then he headed against the bar on twenty four minutes, but was ruled offside by the assistant referee. From then on, Elmes' contribution was minimal. He currently has a back injury and didn't look as committed as usual, but last season's superb record underlines how good he can be on his day.

Teale then attacked the Hereford goal and later in the half, he shot a thirty yard effort at Scott Cooksey, and the former Shrewsbury 'keeper was called into action just before half time when Lee Furlong again shot straight at him.

In the second half, the left sided couplet of McIndoe and Clarke for Hereford made some good runs down the left, with McIndoe having several crosses. The first was a cross-cum-shot blocked by Martin Clark, and soon after Chris lane crossed from the right but Elmes shot over. Matt Clarke had a superb game and made a surging run forward but was tripped in a clumsy challenge by Scott Guyett. The Southport defender was warned about his future conduct by the referee, but Southport came back late in the game. Furlong had two chances but clearances by Clarke and Cooksey saved the Bulls.

Furlong's first shot was cleared by Clarke just before he had time to shoot, and the second one was saved with a spectacular dive by Cooksey in the last minute. A change in the strike partnership for Hereford on seventy minutes couldn't produce a goal as Williams was replaced by Piearce. However, the former Halesowen Town striker made very little impact.

An attendance of 2,438 went home disappointed, and Hereford United still haven't won on the opening day of the season since they beat Barnet 4-1 in 1995, Graham Turner's first game as manager. The scorer of the fourth goal that day was goalkeeper Chris MacKenzie - if only today's strikers could have scored just one...

Hereford - Cooksey, Lane, Clarke, Wright, James, Snape, Rodgerson, McIndoe, Robinson, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Piearce (70)

Man of the Match - Matt Clarke

August 21st:

PROMISING youngster Matthew Pitt has been released by Hereford United. He was given an extended YTS contract be Graham Turner recently but failed to impress in the given time.

Support of the players in vital for any coach, and both Steve Bull and Phil Robinson gained the respect of the players at Hereford almost instantly. Scott Cooksey was particularly impressed and is delighted to be part of a team with such a high calibre of coach.

"The workload has shifted from the boss and just being around Steve Bull is a great experience. When someone of that background talks you stand up and listen.", he said. "Phil Robinson is a young coach and is starting to make his way into management. He is also a workman-like player too."

Cooksey also re-enforced his optimism for the new season - "I signed for Hereford to win things and a lot of the players in the dressing room feel the same way."

Meanwhile Graham Turner said that whilst there is no money in the kitty, Hereford can still challenge for the title due to their team spirit. "We haven't got the financial resources of the other teams but we have some promising new players. The team spirit is good and we have the stability in terms of players who have been with us from two to three years.", said Turner.

"Teams like Rushden & Diamonds and Doncaster have spent a lot of money but nobody has bought their way out of the Conference yet."

August 22nd:

THE club have confirmed the signing of Kerry Giddings, a striker on a part-time contract. The former Stourport Swifts, Pershore Town and Redditch United player has been thrown straight into tonights squad for the match against Kettering Town.

Graham Turner said: "He has not done a lot of work so far but there is a possibility he might be on the bench."

KETTERING TOWN 0 - 2 HEREFORD UNITED (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United gained their first win of the new season against Kettering, their first away win since a 1-0 success against Forest Green back in March. The game was one for both new and old for Hereford United - Chris Lane scored his first in almost eighty competitive games for the club, whilst Kerry Giddings scored on his debut!

Kettering were, on the whole, disappointing, and look as if they will have problems at the wrong end of the table come May. United were comfortable winners but had to weather an early Kettering storm; Hereford's good finishing eventually earning them three vital points at this early stage of the season. The game, played at a fast pace, was a testament to the players' fitness who managed to keep up throughout.

Ian Rodgerson started well with several good efforts and played well all night in midfield. Kettering's Carl Adams also had an early effort but knocked the ball just wide of Scott Cooksey's post. The opening goal, on thirty four minutes, came courtesy of right-back Chris Lane. His thirty five yard shot beat helpless 'keeper Steve Wilson in the home goal.

Kettering were disappointing and couldn't score their first goal of the season - even though Scott Cooksey was tested twice in the second half. However, the former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper stopped efforts from both Carl Shutt and Steve Wilkinson.

An attack on the Kettering Town goal was continued by the Bulls who created a good chance later in the half. Phil Robinson's first attempt was saved by Wilson, who then somehow managed to push away a Robin Elmes follow-up.

The referee, Mr Bratt, booked three players - Colin Vowden and Paul Cox for Kettering and John Snape for Hereford.

Whilst Hereford continued to attack, Kettering created very little and even the introduction of striker Jason Lee (no, not that one!) couldn't break the Poppies' duck. However, Hereford brought on new signing Kerry Giddings to partner Gavin Williams up-front. United made further attempts on goal - most notably through John Snape who had a shot from outside the box saved by Steve Wilson.

It was inevitable that United would get the second goal that they more than deserved, and it came just one minute from time. Gavin Williams' cross from the right was met by Giddings, advancing towards goal, and the ball went high into the net.

Whilst the majority of the 1,406 crowd went home disappointed, Hereford will be pleased that 1. they won! and 2. a striker managed to score. For Kettering, its a matter of third time lucky against Leigh RMI on Saturday whilst United travel to Middlesex to take on Hayes.

Hereford - Cooksey, Lane, Clarke, Robinson, Wright, James, Rodgerson, Snape, McIndoe, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Giddings (71)

Man of the Match - Michael McIndoe

August 24th:

GOALKEEPER Matthew Baker has just one month to prove that he is the man to cover for Scott Cooksey. Signed on a month contract from Hull City, he impressed Turner against both Pershore and Gloucester but has much to prove to Graham Turner before he will be signed on a longer contract by the Hereford United boss.

August 25th:

GRAHAM Turner is pleased with United's current form, but acknowledges that there is room for improvement.

He told the Evening News: "I am reasonably satisfied so far but there is plenty of room for individuals to improve and for us to improve collectively, so those signs are good. We have started reasonably solidly and there is an air of confidence around the players and optimism throughout the club. We were disappointed not to take three points against Southport but it has been a solid start."

August 26th:

HAYES 0 - 2 HEREFORD UNITED (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford were on top from the word go this afternoon and the score could so easily have been much higher than two nil. With the exception of a couple of saves on the half hour mark, Scott Cooksey was a virtual spectator for the game and even managed to assist a goal!

Steve Piearce missed the match through injury as did Paul Sturgess, and the side was unchanged from the one that beat Kettering Town as Paul Parry continued to warm the bench.

The first half saw Hereford possession nearly all the way with few chances being created in awful conditions. A torrential rainstorm made the pitch very wet and the floodlights were turned on before the kick-off. Hayes, however, created the early efforts - firstly when winger Preston broke and knocked the ball to Rocky Baptiste, but Cooksey was equal to the effort as he tipped away. From the follow up, Cooksey was again as bold as brass when he saved from close range. Rocky Baptiste is a promising youngster who could well go on to bigger things in the future. Soon after, Hayes striker Dave Stevens had a good twenty yard effort go wide of the post whilst Steve McKimm missed an effort which went over Scott Cooksey's crossbar.

John Snape tried an ambitious effort which he almost pulled off midway through the half. His dipping volley hit the crossbar from twenty five yards, and continued pressure was always going to result in a goal. The effort, however, was not at all a one-man affair. The to R's, Robinson and Rodgerson, linked well on the right before Williams knocked the ball back to the former Halesowen midfielder.

The goal inevitably came with two minutes of the half remaining, when a Chris Lane cross was met by both Williams and Wright. The headed goal was awarded to Gavin Williams, his first of the season. In added time at the end of the first half, Paul Gothard showed his resiliance by preventing a second goal from Williams. Gavin's low shot was stopped before it had time to reach the right hand corner. Michael McIndoe created a further chance which Williams saw saved by Gothard.

The second half was no different, with continued pressure from Hereford United. Hayes had to chase the Bulls for most of the half. The professional outfit showed their superiority of fitness as they wore Hayes down. On the hour, Elmes doubled the score. A Scott Cooksey free kick from inside the United half went high over the heads of the defenders and met up with the former Halesowen striker, one-on-one with goalkeeper Gothard. Robin Elmes hit a low drive past the goalkeeper from ten yards.

John Snape tried yet another long range effort, but this time from the halfway line! A long ball was dropping into the goal but 'keeper Paul Gothard managed to tip it obver for a corner. Soon after, Elmes messed up a good opportunity and Gavin Williams hit a good cross to Elmes, but his effort hit the outside of the post. However, Hayes weren't dead and buried as late in the game, efforts from Jason Tucker and Lee Flynn made sure Cooksey had something to do. The former Shrewsbury 'keeper dealt with both. Tucker's effort was a long shot from twenty five yards, but went just over Cooksey's upright.

There were four yellow cards dished out by referee Mr Conn from Royston, and they were all for fouls. Hereford's Snape on sixty six minutes, Williams on eighty one, Hayes' Sterling just a minute later, and Coppard right at the end. Of the 703 crowd, almost a third were behind Hereford and they saw United go home victorious and propelled to second in the league table.

Paul Gothard, the Hayes goalkeeper, couldn't keep Hereford out but was a superb player in a suspect-looking defence for the Middlesex side. Hereford's own Tony James also has a superb match, perhaps his best ever for the club, and deserves credit for his performance. Alongside Ian Wright, Matt Clarke and Chris Lane, the defence had very few problems and look much more comfortable than they did last season, underlined by their three consecutive clean sheets. They quartet left Scott Cooksey out of work and he was rarely required throughout the course of the afternoon Hereford are now the only side not to have conceded a goal in the Conference this season. The website man-of-the-match award was awarded to Gavin Williams for his superb off the ball play, and unique skill on it. However, Paul Gothard, Tony James, Robin Elmes and John Snape were all contenders.

The Hereford workrate was first class, not only from the defence but in midfield and attack too. Rodgerson, Snape and Robinson were simply a delight to watch, with McIndoe linking with the attacking two of Gavin Williams and Robin Elmes to complete a well-balanced line-up. However, criticism where its due - United must convert more of the chances that they create from the wings. Throughout the afternoon the service from both the left and the right was first class but the strikers couldn't convert as many as one would have liked. Nevertheless, an emphatic victory which sets the Bulls up nicely for Monday's home match against Northwich Victoria, kick off at three o'clock.

Hereford - Cooksey, Lane, Clarke, Robinson, Wright, James, Rodgerson, Snape, McIndoe, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Giddings (76)

Man of the Match - Gavin Williams

August 27th:

HEREFORD boss Graham Turner says that his early start to pre-season training and other changes in the regime at Edgar Street are paying dividends, and the introduction of some new players has worked wonders. Hereford have not been beaten in their opening three games and have yet to concede a goal.

He said: "We are working particularly hard at the moment and it is no lesser result than we deserved. We have substituted some quality for some speed this season and it appears to be paying dividends."

August 28th:

HEREFORD UNITED 0 - 0 NORTHWICH VICTORIA (report by Terry Goodwin)

After a good run propelling the side to second in the table, Hereford United looked good to win their third game in a row against Northwich. In the corresponding fixture last year, United were 3-0 victors and with the confidence at the moment, there was no reason why the result couldn't be repeated.

However, that wasn't to be the case. Missed chances meant Hereford couldn't grab the goal they required, and almost lost the match at the end if it wasn't for some resolute defending. Hereford fielded an unchanged side but striker Adie Mike was unable to play for Northwich through injury, and was replaced by Ged Kimmins.

The first half saw Hereford matched by Northwich and the Cheshire side could count themselves unlucky that they didn't go in at the break with the lead. Several efforts came from the away side, the first a long range shot from Mark Devlin. It wasn't one way traffic, however, with United's opening chance coming from an Ian Rodgerson cross. The effort came to nothing, however, as Michael McIndoe headed over the crossbar. Soon after, Northwich were back in the United half as Devlin missed a good opportunity, letting the ball run behind when one-on-one with Scott Cooksey.

On fifteen minutes, Cooksey had to make his first save when he pushed a shot from Colin Rose over the crossbar from the edge of the penalty area. Michael McIndoe should have opened the scoring when he found himself one-on-one with the Northwich goalkeeper, Lance Key. However, somehow, he hit the ball straight at Key when he should have scored! Key had a good game and stopped everything Hereford could throw at him. Another way that Northwich defended was by playing the offside rule to perfection, with United falling into the trap on several occasions.

Northwich had several other openings as the half progressed. On the first occasion, Cooksey fumbled a Vicary cross but luckily Tony James was on hand to clear the ball away. On thirty five minutes, Cooksey made a spectacular full-length dive to keep out Steve Davis, as his shot deflected goalwards. Ged Kimmins then had a good shot which was saved by the Hereford 'keeper. Just before halftime, Chris Lane had a free kick from thirty yards, which hit the inside corner of the near post and crossbar before being frantically cleared by Northwich.

In the second half, Hereford came out looking more vibrant but they were soon worn down by a Northwich team who continued to attack. Their first effort came when Richard Norris hit the ball just wide of the target after good setup play between Fletcher. United attacked back as Gavin Williams headed a McIndoe cross just wide, and then Williams' second header went just wide, this time from an Ian Rodgerson cross.

Kerry Giddings, playing his first league match at home, missed an effort just minutes after coming on for Robin Elmes and the Ian Wright missed a sitter. The Hereford captain was one-on-one with Key but, like McIndoe before him, managed to hit the ball at Key before it was cleared by a backtracking Northwich defender.

With seven minutes left, Northwich should have grabbed all three points when a cross from Mark Devlin was headed over the bar by Gary Fletcher. Further efforts came from both sides but Northwich will go home the happier side with a share of the points.

Referee Mr S Tanner from Bristol booked two players for fouls. Hereford's Matt Clarke was cautioned on thirty three minutes, and then Northwich's Robinson eleven minutes from time.

Scott Cooksey had a good game in goal, doing the business when called upon. Tony James, Ian Wright, Chris Lane and Matt Clarke again were solid, particularly Wright in the air. Phil Robinson and John Snape didn't look as good as usual, but were still challenging for every ball even if their concentration wasn't at 100%. Ian Rodgerson had a good half and a bit, and I was surprised when he was taken off by Graham Turner. His replacement, Paul Parry, was not as effective but it was good to see him make a comeback in a competitive match. Michael McIndoe was his usual vibrant self and Gavin Williams looked good again, even if his striking wasn't first class. Robin Elmes looks unfit and not ready for first-team action, and his replacement Kerry Giddings looked average.

Overall, United were good but need to improve up-front if they are to challenge for the Conference title this term. The majority of the 2,461 crowd will feel disappointed and feel Hereford should have won.

Hereford - Cooksey, Lane, Clarke, Robinson, Wright, James, Rodgerson, Snape, McIndoe, Elmes, Williams
Substitutions - Giddings (55), Parry (55)

Man of the Match - Ian Wright

August 29th:

PRIOR to the Southport game, the new HUISA board was elected by members. Richard Tomkins stepped down as chairman after a two year stint, and the following were appointed:

Charman - Keith Wargen

Secretary - Penny Bayliss

Treasurer - Nicky White

Executive committee members - Steve Bayliss, Richard Burkin, Keith Dodd, Richard Hemmings, Peter Povall, Gerald Powell, Lynn Wargen, Dave White.

See their website at http://www.hufc.com/huisa/ for further information.

There are several injuries in the Hereford camp at the moment. Firstly, Steve Piearce is suffering from a thigh strain and John Shirley has patella tendonitis but is on his way to recovery. Meanwhile, Paul Sturgess has had an operation on his knee cartilage and all should be back to normal soon. He is expected to return by the end of September.

August 30th:

STEVE Piearce, currently recovering from a thigh strain, feared that the injury would wreck his season as an injury did last term. Last season, he played just nine matches as his back problem prevented him from even training for long periods.

Last season was the most frustating ever for Piearce as he missed Hereford's great FA Cup run and their run in third place. "It was the worst I can remember", said Piearce, "I was at a new club and just wanted to do well, but being out for six months was just like hitting your head against a brick wall."

The original back problem has cleared up though, as Piearce commented: "It doesn't hamper me any more although I still get a few aches from it". As soon as he possibly can, Piearce wants to repay Graham Turner and the Hereford faithful who have supported him throughout his tough time on the sidelines. "I owe the gaffer some goals, and hopefully I can repay his faith in signing me", he said. "We have a good little squad together, and all the lads are very positive about the new season. It is very important to get a good start and take it from there. We always raise our game when we play the top sides. It is the lower sides we need to improve against."

Steve Piearce has made one aim for his side this season - to reach back to the Football League. "It would be superb to get Hereford back into the League. It is where they belong, where they want to be and we are all determined to try and achieve that goal.", said Piearce.