Text at top (next game etc)

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

Sunday, March 31, 2002

March 2002

Mar 1st:

THE newly appointed committee would like to announce the formation of BOLSA – Bulls On-Line Supporters Association.

BOLSA is an independent non-political organisation which intends to serve the needs of both exiled Hereford United FC supporters, and local based supporters who wish to support the Club by fund-raising and heightening the local and national awareness of the current situation of Hereford United FC.

Following recent elections based at the Official Hereford United FC forum, the following appointments have been made:

Chairman: Jon Wells
Vice Chairman: Graham Johnson
Treasurer: Darren Coates
Secretary: John Perkins
Press and PR: Martin Watson

One of the first aims of BOLSA is to compile a database of the practical skills of the supporters that the Club can call upon from time to time to help reduce the operating costs associated with the day to day running of the Club. Longer term, BOLSA will be co-ordinating a number of fund raising initiatives based on ideas from Hereford United fans.

Although BOLSA was formed on the internet, membership of BOLSA is not exclusively for those with internet access. For those without internet access, BOLSA intends to publish monthly summaries of events and discussions through ‘Billy News’ – the fanzine from Hereford United’s mascot Billy The Bull. In addition, BOLSA has a Hereford City Centre location for mail and ideas, and our Committee members are always available at matches both Home and Away to discuss ideas.

Membership of BOLSA if free, however we suggest a small donation of £5 towards BOLSA funds upon joining. Membership forms are available through E-mail at bolsa_2002@hotmail.com, from MWPC at 72 Commercial Road, Hereford, or by contacting any of the committee members. Membership forms will be distributed at the home match with Telford on 5th March.

The election administrator would like to thank everyone that voted in the formation of the new forum association. The results of the two remaining positions on the committee will be announced soon.

HEREFORD United face a tough task to overcome Yeovil Town in tomorrow's Nationwide Conference encounter at Huish Park, kick off 3pm.

The Bulls have recently moved into the top half of the table but have since lost against Chester City and Leigh RMI. Yeovil, on the other hand, are third and beat Hereford 2-0 at Edgar Street last September.

Glovers boss Gary Johnson is hoping to welcome back two players from injury ahead of the match. He said: "I have got Kim Grant, Colin Pluck, Lee Johnson and Darren Way out at the moment. But I am keeping my fingers crossed that two of the four might make it."

Kim Grant (achilles) and Lee Johnson (calf) have been out for two weeks and midfielder Darren Way has a hamstring strain.

"Kim Grant trained on Thursday, so he is looking hopeful," said Johnson. "We'll see how all four of them are nearer the time. I'm hopeful that at least two or three of them will come through."

Yeovil are unbeaten in their last twelve games and their last home defeat came back in November, but Hereford coach Phil Robinson said: "We effectively finished their chances of winning the title last year and it is nice to be in a position to affect what happens this year. We put a dent in Boston's chances and we owe it to them to put up an-other good performance at Yeovil."

United's Matt Clarke (hamstring), Scott Goodwin (abdomen), Steve Piearce (ankle), Phil Robinson (calf) and Jon Hill (groin) are doubts for the game.

Mar 2nd:

YEOVIL Town 2 - 1 Hereford United

Hereford United let themselves down to lose 2-1 at Yeovil Town today, with the winner coming again in injury time.

The game is the second in a week that Hereford have lost in the last minute after Chester City won 2-1 at the Deva Stadium against the Bulls in the FA Trophy last Saturday.

Hereford named Rob Elmes in the starting eleven after his goal last week, and Jimmy Quiggin dropped to the bench. Coach Phil Robinson was out through injury, but Matt Clarke, Scott Goodwin and Steve Piearce overcame knocks to make the squad. Yeovil boss Gary Johnson named ex-Bull Michael McIndoe in midfield, and Tom White in defence.

The pitch was in very poor condition, with muddy areas covered by sand; it cut up badly as the match progressed. This prevented any slick passing moves, but the two teams provided plenty of action, helped on by the match officials.

Paul Parry forced Hereford's first chance on goal after two minutes with a thirty five yard free kick which was blocked, and Welshman fired the rebound at Yeovil stopper Chris Weale. Adam Stansfield, at the other end, cut inside before having his cross blocked knocked out by Tony James. McIndoe made Yeovil's first good opening on five minutes but fired just wide as Olivier Brassart failed to connect. Rob Elmes tested the home goalkeeper on eleven minutes before Yeovil's Nick Crittenden hit a free kick at Matt Baker.

With nineteen minutes on the clock, a challenge from Scott Goodwin brought down attacker Chris Giles and referee Martin Postles, of Coneyhurst Common, pointed to the penalty spot. Giles stepped up, but his low shot was palmed away by Baker who dived to his left. Yeovil were dominating possession and any Hereford breaks were thwarted by the home defence who made successful use of the offside trap.

Hereford took the lead on twenty eight minutes, but it wasn't to be! Parry smashed a superb shot goalwards from the edge of the box which appeared to hit the top of the inside of the net, bounce down and then rebound out. The referee and linesman, both behind the play, disallowed the effort much to the bewilderment of the vast majority of people in the ground, including the Hereford team and supporters.

Yeovil continued to pressurise and Hereford were saved through some desperate defending at times, but Hereford's John Snape hit a low drive just wide with ten minutes of the half remaining. Gavin Williams had an effort blocked by the goalkeeper's legs a couple of minutes later, but it was Yeovil who went in ahead at the break. A cross from Anthony Tonkin on the left picked out Nick Crittenden, and he fired a low shot from fifteen yards past Baker.

A long cross from John Snape two minutes after the start of the second half saw Hereford level the scores. The ball reached Paul Parry, who rolled the ball under the goalkeeper and into the net. Four minutes later, Adam Stansfield had a shot cleared off the Hereford line by Scott Goodwin. Stansfield was yet again thwarted by Baker on the hour mark, and Ian Rodgerson struck the Yeovil crossbar at the other end minutes later.

Paul Parry went close for Hereford as the half progressed, but greasy conditions made life difficult and bookings mounted up as the half progressed. In fact, with seventeen minutes left, Michael McIndoe was sent off for a foul on Snape which seemed a little harsh based on the challenge alone.

Gavin Williams fired a free kick over the crossbar as the half came to a close, before Crittenden hit the side netting at the other end. Parry continued to torment the Yeovil defence with two quick crosses which threatened to beat Glovers 'keeper Weale, but it was the home side who decided the game. Good work from Crittenden saw the ball passed to substitute Carl Alford, and he flicked it onto another sub, Andy Lindegaard. He slotted the ball home from close range to ensure all three points went to Yeovil.

Hereford's lack on concentration cost them dearly in the six minutes of added time. Scott Goodwin, who was down injured at the time of the winning goal, was checked out at hospital after the match. The performance of the officials left much to be desired, but United cannot entirely blame them for their defeat.

Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, John Shirley, Ian Rodgerson, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Scott Goodwin (off, 90 minutes), John Snape, Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Jimmy Quiggin (on, 90 minutes), Lee Evans, Danny Davidson, Jon Hill, Steve Piearce
Yellow cards: Tony James (foul, 51 minutes) Matt Clarke (foul, 64 minutes)
Red card: Ex-Bull Michael McIndoe (73 minutes, violent conduct)
Scorer: Paul Parry (47 minutes)
Man of the Match: Paul Parry
Attendance: 3,022
Referee: Mr. M. Postles (Coneyhurst Common)

HEREFORD United coach Phil Robinson felt that some of the referee's decisions today were incorrect.

He said after today's 2-1 defeat at Yeovil Town: "Things didn't really go for us. We thought the penalty was harsh and we are convinced Paul Parry's shot in the first half was well over the line before it span back into play."

The Bulls host Telford United on Tuesday, who have gone into freefall after their Boxing Day 1-0 defeat against Hereford. "They will be desperately seeking points to halt their slide down the table," said Robinson in today's Evening News. "Since that game they've not had the best of runs and when you look at them it just shows how soon you can move up or down in this league with either a good or a bad run."

The season so far has been one of little luck, according to Robinson. "We had a good FA Cup run but were unlucky to lose to Swindon and we were unfortunate with the last minute goal in the FA Trophy," he said. "Even if you look back to the Leigh RMI game with the way we have been playing we were confident of picking up three points which would have taken us up to fifth and suddenly it looks like you are having a decent season.

"But having said that other teams can point to bad luck so really you just have to try and be consistent."

Mar 3rd:

HEREFORD coach Phil Robinson saw nothing of the incident that saw Yeovil's Michael McIndoe sending off at Huish Park yesterday.

"I know it sounds like Arsene Wenger, but I didn't see it," he told the Non-League Paper. "However, John Snape is an honest professional and I don't think he would go down unless something happened."

Yeovil won 2-1 with a last minute goal, and their boss Gary Johnson commented: "I knew it wasn't going to be pretty. I like to play good passing football but we had to settle for a more direct approach."

Scouts from Southampton were at Huish Park yesterday. It is thought that they were watching Yeovil winger McIndoe, who joined the club from Hereford in February 2001. The transfer, worth £25,000, also included a clause that Hereford receive 25% of any subsequent transfer fee if McIndoe was to leave Huish Park.

Hereford winger Paul Parry has also been rumoured to have attracted interest from top-class sides including Leicester City and Glasgow Celtic in recent weeks, so it is possible that Gordon Strachan's scouts were also tracking him.

March 4th:

A RELIABLE source has informed www.fair-play.org.uk that the Conference chairmen have voted in favour of limiting relegation from the Conference and promotion from the feeder leagues to match the number being promoted from the Conference to the Football League. This would come into effect for the 2002-3 season.

The source writes: "They voted to repeat their policy of 'mirroring what goes up, goes down'. They want 3 promoted, 3 relegated - if the FA don't act THIS SEASON ready for implementation next season, they'll relegate the same number as they have promoted = ONE. Hence at the end of this season, they'll accept the 3 champions (because they have a contract to) but will only relegate one making it a 24 club competition. The following year they'll only relegate one club throwing the whole pyramid into chaos."

The Fair Play campaign are against the move, but confirmation from the relevant authorities is expected soon. Only last week, ex-Liverpool defender and current BBC TV football pundit Mark Lawrenson came out in favour of increasing the promotion places from the Conference to Division Three.

HEREFORD United could be down to twelve available players for tomorrow night's encounter at Edgar Street against Telford United, kick off 7.45pm.

The Nationwide Conference side have Matt Clarke, John Snape, Danny Davidson, Scott Goodwin and Phil Robinson are all struggling to be fit in time for the match. Attacker Scott Voice is still unavailable with a long-term injury.

Player-coach Robinson said: "If those players all miss out we'll be down to about 11 fit players."

Hereford's currently fit players are Matt Baker, Ian Wright, Tony James, John Shirley, Ian Rodgerson, Jimmy Quiggin, Paul Parry, Gavin Williams, Steve Piearce, Rob Elmes, Lee Evans and Jon Hill.

Telford boss Jake King will wait on Steve Palmer and Gary Fitzpatrick, who are doubts for tomorrow night's derby.

Please note that BOLSA membership forms will be given out around the ground, and the recording of a new Danny Lee single will take place at the Meadow End at 7.15pm.

March 5th:

HEREFORD United have got a host of injury doubts for tonight's clash against Telford United at Edgar Street in the Nationwide Conference, kick off 7.45pm.

After two last minute defeats, the Bulls have got to focus on proceedings but could be without several first team regulars for the match. After the 2-1 defeat at Yeovil, in which a Paul Parry 'goal' was disallowed, coach Phil Robinson told the Evening News: "We were unfortunate against Yeovil because it was a clear goal and it would have been 1-1 at half time and given us a big lift.

"Also when they scored their final goal Scott (Goodwin) was down on the floor with a bad head injury and the game should have been stopped. Things certainly didn't go for us and though they had pressure in the first half we created the better chances and probably should have gone in at half time in front.

"Despite the defeat we are still playing well and the standard of performance was good we just need a slice of luck here and there. Obviously there are things we can improve on but on the whole the spirit and performance level have been good.

"Telford had a good result and it was not that long ago that they were up in fourth and the nature of this league means a few good wins can shoot you up the table as they have done."

Robinson (calf) is unlikely to start tonight, and there will be late fitness tests for defender Matt Clarke (hamstring) and midfielder John Snape (knee). Scott Goodwin is almost certainly out with a head injury.

"They are some key players and we've got no players to replace them," said Robinson. "It could be a situation that unless people are fit we will have just a goalkeeper and one player on the bench and that includes local lad Jon Hill. It is difficult at the moment squad wise but the players we have got are giving their all."

Telford manager Jake King is certain to be without two key players. Midfielder Gary Fitzpatrick has sustained a foot injury and will not feature, whilst defender Lee Fowler is suffering from a flu bug. Striker Steve Palmer will also undergo a late fitness test.

The manager's son Jordan King is in line for his full debut in tonight's game. "You try and keep the younger players back for games which you believe will be that little bit easier, but sometimes injuries force your hand," said Jake King in the Shropshire Star.

"It isn't as if we have 23 players to pick from like we had last year, we have 15 or 16 and, although a lot of my squad have been forced to play through knocks, there comes a time when they can't do that any more. Last season we could rest a few players if they were injured, but we don't have that luxury now.

"Jordan has worked hard to earn his chance and who knows, if he wasn't my son, he might have had it a little earlier. We have lost just four of our last 21 Conference games and I believe our achievements this season are far in advance of last year when we had more players."

HEREFORD United 0 - 1 Telford United

Another silly goal resulted in another defeat for Hereford United, this time 1-0 to Telford United at Edgar Street.

Peter Smith's goal eight minutes after half time handed the Shropshire side all three points in a game spoilt by the referee and his assistants.

The Bulls went into the game overcoming suspected injury problems to Matt Clarke, Scott Goodwin, John Snape and Phil Robinson. The only notable absentee from the squad was young midfielder Jimmy Quiggin.

The game started fairly quietly for what was effectively a local derby, with Hereford's first opening coming on nine minutes. Matt Clarke linked onto a through-ball after good play from Ian Rodgerson and Gavin Williams, but fired his right-footed shot well over the crossbar. A minute later, Telford's ex-Morecambe striker Mark Quayle also missed the target after being allowed through by Ian Wright, who slipped.

Half chances were evident at both ends of the pitch, but there was little in the way of substantial attacking play from either side. Mark Quayle fired over on the half hour as Telford looked to open the scoring, before Bulls' stopper Matt Baker was forced to tip a shot around his post following a corner. Jordan King also tested Baker with a shot from the edge of the box before Gavin Williams fell in the Telford are with six minutes of the half left. There were no protests from the players and no penalty was awarded by the referee.

Hereford's best opening of the half came when Paul Parry and Gavin Williams linked well on the left wing, before the latter crossed to Rob Elmes. However, the former Halesowen attacker couldn't connect sufficiently to prevent the ball from going out of play. Matt Baker saved the Bulls as the half came to a close when he tipped a Peter Smith shot away after the striker had skinned Matt Clarke on the right.

Steve Piearce came on for the struggling Parry at half time as Hereford's Gavin Williams dropped back into midfield, but it made little difference. Bulls midfielder John Snape fired well over from twenty five yards just five minutes into the second half, and a minute later Gavin Williams and Kevin Jobling required treatment when they clashed heads.

With eight minutes of the half gone, Telford took the lead. A pass back from Gavin Williams found goalkeeper Matt Baker who held onto the ball too long, and he allowed Mark Quayle to step in. Quayle passed to Peter Smith who fired into an unguarded net.

John Snape's foul seven minutes later resulted in a red card, but not for his challenge! A selection of choice words aimed at the assistant referee gave the official Steve Castle little choice but to send him off after a complaint from the linesman. Hereford were now a goal, and a man, down!

Danny Davidson entered the field for Rob Elmes as the half progressed but made little impact. With eighteen minutes left, Scott Goodwin tested the goalkeeper with an adventurous cross-cum-shot, and the referee turned down a Hereford penalty appeal just five minutes from time. Steve Piearce cut inside from the left before a defender appeared to handle the ball. Instead of pointing to the spot, the referee signalled a free kick to Telford, much to the anger of the home supporters.

There was no last minute goal this week, but Hereford lost nevertheless! A disastrous mistake from Matt Baker combined with ineffective attacking, particularly from substitute Danny Davidson, was a recipe for failure. In fact, one of the few players who came out of the game with credit is left-back John Shirley who is greatly improved since taking over the position a couple of months ago.

Hereford's performance will have to improve if their are to beat league leaders Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday, and pull away from the relegation zone.

Hereford United: Matt Baker Matt Clarke John Shirley Ian Rodgerson Ian Wright (captain) Tony James Scott Goodwin John Snape Rob Elmes (off, 66 minutes) Gavin Williams Paul Parry (off, half time)
Subs: Danny Davidson (on, 66 minutes), Lee Evans, Steve Piearce (on, half time), Jon Hill, Phil Robinson
Yellow cards: Ian Wright (68 minutes, foul), Gavin Williams (70 minutes, foul), Scott Goodwin (90 minutes, foul)
Red cards: John Snape (60 minutes, dissent) -
Man of the Match: John Shirley
Attendance: 1,260
Referee; Mr. S. Castle (Wolverhampton)

March 6th:

HEREFORD United coach Phil Robinson has vented his anger at John Snape's red card against Telford United last night, which Hereford lost 1-0.

"John was dismissed for the use of foul and abusive language," explained Hereford player-coach Phil Robinson in today's Evening News. "That infuriates me because every Saturday on the television I can see Premiership players swearing and being aggressive towards officials without any punishment."

Meanwhile, the reserves are in action tonight, and host Tamworth. Kick off at Edgar Street is at 7.30pm.

March 7th:

THE Hereford United reserve team beat Tamworth 2-1 last night in the Central Conference.

Meanwhile, you could play for the HUISA team in a pre-season match against the first team in the summer. You can make bids to play for the team directly to HUISA chairman Kevin Wargen, or at the player of the year award in April.

Finally, the Nationwide Conference have decided to restrict Conference relegation to just one team next year. As a result, the Conference in 2003/4 will be a twenty four team league, with one promotion and relegation place (as it is now).

ON-LINE supporters of Hereford United Football Club have formed a new internet-based committee to help boost the profile and finances of the cash-strapped club, as reported in today's Hereford Times.

The committee are active users of the forum on the official Hereford United website which has about 500 registered members.

Life-long Hereford United fan Jon Wells has been elected chairman of Bulls On-Line Supporters Association (BOLSA) which plans to focus on fund-raising and increasing the profile of United, both locally and nationally.

"There were so many good ideas being mooted on the forum that we thought of forming a more structured body to investigate whether they are viable," said Wells.

"We had an election on the internet and a poll in which people could vote for the name of the new organisation. Our secretary, John Perkins, actually lives in New York and not being restricted by geography is one of the benefits which using the internet can have."

Wells pointed out the growing strength of the official Hereford United website was evident in that it had helped to raise more than £5,000 - in shirt auctions and sponsorship - for the club over the past 12 months.

The popular Save the Bulls Fund - in which fans donate a sum of money once a month by standing order and are then entered into a monthly draw - also derived from a suggestion on the club's website.

BOLSA stress they are not a rival organisation to the existing Hereford United Independent Supporters' Association and plan to draw up a mission statement, set up a constitution, keep proper membership records and have their own bank account.

Although BOLSA was formed on the internet, membership is not restricted to those with internet access. A monthly magazine will also be published. Membership forms are available through E-mail at bolsa_2002@hotmail.com and from MWP at 72 Commercial Road, Here-ford.

The official Hereford United website can be found at www.herefordunited.co.uk.

Officers: chairman, Jon Wells; vice-chairman, Graham Johnson; treasurer, Darren Coates; secretary, John Perkins; press and PR: Martin Watson (01432 277186); ordinary members, Jamie Griffiths and Terry Goodwin.

Meanwhile, HUISA are holding an open meeting at the Richmond Club, Edgar Street on Saturday, kick off at 12pm.

HEREFORD United face Nationwide Conference leaders Dagenham & Redbridge in a crucial match, kick off 3pm.

The Bulls go into the game on the back of three straight defeats against a Dagenham side who are unbeaten away from home in league encounters this season. Hereford went down to an unlucky 1-0 defeat at Dagenham earlier in the season at Victoria Road, and have yet to beat Dagenham since their promotion to the Conference two years ago.

Hereford have doubts over the fitness of Paul Parry and coach Phil Robinson, who told the Hereford Times: "We have not enjoyed the best of fortune in recent games with a couple of late goals costing us dearly. However we know we can compete with the best teams in the league and I am looking for a good performance on Saturday."

Meanwhile, it is thought that Hereford midfielder Jimmy Quiggin missed Tuesday night's defeat against Telford United because of a problem on the trains! His train from Birmingham to Hereford was cancelled after a bomb scare on Tuesday morning, when all trains were cancelled. A police investigation has been launched.

Mar 8th:

DAGENHAM & Redbridge defender Ashley Vickers is cautious about tomorrow's trip to Edgar Street to play Hereford United in the Nationwide Conference, kick off 3pm.

He said: "Hereford on Saturday will be a difficult game, they don't concede many goals. We beat them 1-0 at Victoria Road this season and once again, keeping a clean sheet will be important."

Dagenham manager Garry Hill has no fresh injury concerns as his side look to extend their six-point lead at the top of the Conference. Hill has released leg-break victim Tim Cole on a month’s loan to Billericay Town in an effort to get the player more match practice.

Hereford will be aiming to end Dagenham’s unbeaten away record, and player-coach Phil Robinson is fit again after a calf problem and played fourty five minutes for the reserves in midweek. However, Scott Goodwin (stomach muscle), Paul Parry and goalkeeper Matt Baker (both ankle) are doubts for the clash.

If Baker fails to make the starting line-up, youngster Lee Evans is ready to make his full debut between the sticks. "Lee hasn't had much experience and it would be a massive game for him," said Robinson.

"After two defeats we've gone from eighth to 16th and we are starting to look downwards again instead of upwards so tomorrow's game is very important for us," continued the player-coach.

"We need to get something from the game but it is going to be a tall order with the size of their squad and the type of players they have got."

Robinson was at Stoke with Daggers attacker Mark Stein, and the Hereford boss said: "Mark was a legend at Stoke and scored a lot of goals. I always look at the goalscoring charts and the teams with a couple of players in the top ten are always doing well. Dagenham have got first and second so it shows the benefit of having natural goalscorers."

Hereford are quoted at 15/8 to win the game; Dagenham are 6/5; a draw is 11/5. All odds are provided from Surrey Sports.

Mar 9th:

HEREFORD United's home game today against Dagenham & Redbridge was postponed due to structural damage at Edgar Street.

Part of the roof of the Meadow End terrace was ripped off by the strong winds late this morning, and this cut off the electricity supply to the ground. The game could not have been played even if the Meadow End had been closed as a lack of a public address system is not allowed by the Health & Safety Executive.

Police, fire officers and the HSE were called to the ground before a final decision was made at around 1pm, with several Dagenham fans and the Essex team having reached the ground.

Sky Sports were due to provide coverage of today's game on their Gillette Soccer Saturday programme, but instead showed pictures of the damaged roof.

The game is likely to be replayed in April.

PHIL Robinson, the Hereford United player/coach, has reacted to John Snape's sending off on Tuesday night by attacking referee's inconsistency.

Snape was red carded for swearing at the linesman in this week's 1-0 defeat to Telford United.

"Every week you see players like Roy Keane chasing after referee's jabbing their fingers at them swearing and abusing them and nothing is done," he told the Evening News. "It's the inconsistency that is annoying. John swore from about twenty yards away and the linesman called the referee over and had him sent off. I think it was a little bit out of order."

Despite goalkeeper Matt Baker making the mistake for the only goal of the game, Robinson didn't blame him. "If you are an outfield player and you have the chance to clear the ball from 25 yards out you might as well do that rather than pass the ball back," he said.

TODAY's HUISA meeting at the Richmond Club revealed that the Unitary Development Plan, which would keep Hereford United at Edgar Street, was passed in the first vote unanimously by the Herefordshire Council yesterday.

The plans mean that Hereford United are set to stay at Edgar Street and the first hurdles have been overcome. A full statement is expected from Council Leader Terry James within the next couple of weeks. All political parties are believed to be backing the project.

HUISA were not allowed to tell the audience about the details of the plan as negotiations were still ongoing, but outlined the UDP and its meaning for Hereford United Football Club.

Back in November, Chelverton Properties director Simon Morgan attended an open meeting with Hereford United supporters asking for a mandate to back his plan of relocation. HUISA urged the fans to ask him to come back with more figures, as they knew of the council's plans but were unable to say anything about them. Chairman Kevin Wargen told the meeting that the Chelverton plan didn't stack up in terms of finding a new ground for the club as well as giving amounts of money to the council and Chelverton. Since then, HUISA have seen Chelverton's figures and they include the sale of the cattle market in with the football ground. The whole site was valued at £4.1 million, which ensures that there aren't sufficient funds in the land value to build a new stadium for Hereford United.

The UDP, which sees the club stay at Edgar Street, passed its first stage yesterday, and Wargen said: "The chances of the club staying there are about 98%." Chelverton failed to stop the plan going through and they have few chances to prevent its progression, but are likely to appeal against the council's decision.

Football is likely to remain at Edgar Street, with a redevelopment of the ground neccessary. The main A49 road through the city will be widened so the Len Weston Stand will be pushed back, and all other stands will be rebuilt, according to HUISA's interpretation. Wargen said that he couldn't go into any detail, but sources of finance have been investigated by the council and the development is part of a much larger project. A new multiplex cinema, a leisure centre, council offices and a hotel are included in the project, as well as social facilities for Hereford United supporters which could provide the club with off-the-field income. The total development is expected to total £60 million. Whilst development is taking place, Hereford United will continue to play on the ground and the new stands are to reach Football League standard.

When Hereford United sold their leases to Chelverton Properties, it appears that they broke the law and, at the time, nothing was done about it. Herefordshire Council are now adamant that they want the leases to the Edgar Street ground back, and have the moral high-ground to negotiate a deal with Chelverton. If Chelverton decide to hold out and lock the club out of the ground in May 2003, Councillor James will force Chelverton to maintain the ground, so that it passes all health and safety regulations, which would mean rebuilding unsafe areas. The cost of upkeep for Chelverton could be as much as £2 million.

The HUISA committee has spent a great deal of time on negotiations regarding redevelopments as the club directors are unable to do so themselves, due to their contractual obligation to backing Chelverton Properties. When the loans were agreed, Hereford United were obliged to follow the Chelverton line. Wargen said that all HUISA efforts were aimed towards the long-term survival of the club, and apologised for the lack of fundraising events and newsletters over the past season. Some members have committed three nights a week to attend meetings on top of their own jobs, and the results will only be noticed as the plan progresses.

HUISA have been offered a part on the consortium in charge of the development, which will include non-football related business people financing the project.

As yet, HUISA have not backed either the Terry James plan or Chelverton's proposals, and are expected to release a statement on the subject soon.

March 10th:

HU-FC.co.uk - the independent Hereford United online resource, have teamed up with sponsors Chelgames.net to sponsor the match ball at Hereford United's upcoming fixture against Morecambe.

Chelgames are an independent Games Workshop stockist offering discounts on various gaming systems including Warhammer. You can contact them via their website, www.chelgames.net, or by telephone on 01242 269370.

HU-FC.co.uk is the biggest independent Hereford United website, and has provided the latest news and information on the club since its opening in 1999. It has dramatically grown since then, and now hosts comprehensive news and historical archives.

The game is due to be played at Edgar Street on March 23rd.

HEREFORD United coach Phil Robinson was understandably disappointed at yesterday's match postponement.

The Bulls were due to play Nationwide Conference leaders Dagenham & Redbridge, but strong winds ripped off part of the roof at the Meadow End, and also cut the electricity supply to the public address system.

"Quite a large section of the roof has blown down and another part looks as though it might follow," said Robinson in tolday's Non-League Paper. "It's very disappointing but the safety of the fans is paramount so our safety officials were left with no choice but to call the game off."

"We've been existing on a week-to-week basis and with no revenue coming in today it's going to be a long time until our next home game a fortnight today."

The game is expected to be replayed in April, and Hereford's next match is at Farnborough Town on Tuesday night, kick off 7.45pm.

March 11th:

HEREFORD United will have to pick up a £3,000 bill after Saturday's clash against Dagenham & Redbridge was called off.

Gale-force winds ripped off part of the Meadow End roof which cut an electricty cable. This, is turn, prevented the PA system from working and therefore the ground failed to meet safety requirement.

Hereford have to pay for match officials, Dagenham's travelling expenses, programmes plus lost revenue in sponsorship.

Chairman Graham Turner told the Evening News: "It could have been a serious problem in terms of injury so it was lucky it happened at 11.45 rather than 2.45. From a financial point of view it was a blow because we would have had a decent crowd for the league leaders and now we have to contemplate reduced numbers for a midweek game. The insurance company and loss adjustors are visiting the ground today to inspect it and it is urgent we repair it as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, the Conference officials have denied that a one down-three up relegation system will be introduced. The rumours first came around after a source revealed that Conference chairman had voted to accept the plan.

HEREFORD United hope to have two crucial players fit for tomorrow's Nationwide Conference clash at Farnborough Town, kick off 7.45pm.

The Bulls should welcome back Phil Robinson after a calf injury, but will wait on the ankle injuries of Paul Parry and Matt Baker.

Farnborough boss Graham Westley has no fresh injury concerns as his side prepare to face Hereford at the Aimita Stadium. Boro haven't won in their last four games and on Saturday slumped to a 3-1 defeat against Yeovil Town.

Dean Green, Gary Holloway and Joff Vansittart all made substitute appearances at the weekend and will hope for a place in the starting line-up.

Westley said: "It was a disappointing performance on Saturday and we've lost three on the bounce now and we need to respond in a positive manner."

March 12th:

FARNBOROUGH Town 4 - 2 Hereford United

Hereford United recorded their fourth consecutive defeat as they went down 4-2 at Farnborough Town in the Nationwide Conference, a reversal of the score at Edgar Street when Phil Robinson started his managerial career.

The Bulls were without goalkeeper Matt Baker for only the second time this season, as he had an ankle injury. Replacing the ex-Hull goalkeeper was Stuart Jones, a former professional with Torquay United who signed for the club at the weekend.

Phil Robinson returned to the starting line-up, as did Scott Goodwin so Paul Parry pushed up-front to partner Gavin Williams. Rob Elmes dropped to the bench for the game against a Farnborough side which included ex-Dover Athletic striker Joff Vansittart and goalkeeper Tony Pennock, on-loan at the Aimita Stadium from Rushden & Diamonds. Pennock had spells with Hereford and, perhaps more notably, Yeovil Town, before making the summer switch to Nene Park.

A Gavin Williams free kick provided Hereford's first attack after nine minute when his thirty yard strike bobbled around the area before being cleared. A Farnborough counter attack resulted, and Jones was forced to rush out of his goal to clear the danger. Three minutes later, Williams again swung un a free kick, this time from the right flank, for captain Ian Wright to turn a right footed volley goalwards. The ball sailed into the bottom left hand corner as Hereford took an early lead.

Six minutes later, a Dean Green effort on goal caused no problems for Hereford's Jones but Farnborough's pressure was showing. A minute later, another Green cross was slipped under the goalkeeper by Lenny Piper, and the scores were level.

It took just two minutes for Hereford to regain the lead, though! Ian Wright turned provider as he headed across the ball to Ian Rodgerson, who calmly turned the ball home from close range. United should arguably have scored a third on the half hour mark, but a Paul Parry free kick was turned onto the post by the agile Pennock.

Farnborough, though, appeared to take control as the half closed. Joff Vansittart was brought down just outside the box, and Lenny Piper sent over a high free kick that Jones coped with. In the dying minutes, Chris Piper's cross-cum-shot swirled just wide as Hereford appeared devoid of any attacking impotus. They went in ahead at the break, though, but Boro' boss Graham Westley made a substitution, bringing off defender Mark Harper for winger Tony Taggart. Westley is also the chairman at the Aimita Stadium, and has a similar role to Graham Turner who was in charge of team affairs from the touchline on this occasion.

Matt Clarke turned saviour at the start of the second half when he was on hand to head away a Farnborough cross as the last man on the Hereford line, and the away side had little to offer in a one-sided fourty five minutes. Robinson's low shot from just outside the box tested Pennock three minutes before Farnborough equalised again. Dean Green swung in a cross from the right which substitute Taggart turned home from close range.

Taggart went close three minutes later when he fired wide after a shot by Ian Wright, and a minute later Barry Laker headed inches over the crossbar from a Taggart cross from the left. Hereford, at 2-2, had to make changes. John Shirley, who had failed to impress, was removed for striker Rob Elmes as the game swung from end to end, but there were few real chances to liven up a dull atmosphere. The crowd of 479 was the lowest at Farnborough for a league game this season, and even that was boosted by a travelling support of a hundred or so.

With ten minutes left, Farnborough substitute Christian Lee was left unmarked on the far post as a ball came over from Taggart. He headed home from close range to give the home side the lead, which they deserved on the run of play. Hereford, though, came close to equalising with four minutes left when Tony James headed the ball onto the post from six yards out but it rebounded away. Ian Wright also shot over from long range as he attempted to find a way through, but it was all in vain.

In fact, the nail in the coffin came in the last minute when Dean Green had a close range shot blocked by Hereford's Phil Robinson, but Lenny Piper was on hand to tap in to give Farnborough all three points.

Hereford United: Stuart Jones, Matt Clarke, John Shirley (off, 66 minutes), Phil Robinson, Ian Wright (captain,) Tony James, Ian Rodgerson, John Snape, Paul Parry, Gavin Williams, Scott Goodwin
Subs: Rob Elmes (on, 66 minutes), Lee Evans, Steve Piearce, Jimmy Quiggin, Jon Hill
Yellow cards:John Shirley (dissent, 34 minutes) Matt Clarke (foul, 61 minutes)
Scorers: Ian Wright (12 minutes) Ian Rodgerson (22 minutes)
Man of the Match: Phil Robinson
Attendance: 479
Referee: Mr. D. Bryan (Stamford)

Mar 13th:

DOVER Athletic go into Saturday's Nationwide Conference clash against Hereford United without manager Neville Southall.

The ex-Wales and Everton goalkeeper has been sacked after less than three months as manager of the Crabble-based club, who host Hereford this Saturday, kick off 3pm.

The new board at Dover made the decision as the Whites are bottom of the league, two points adrift of Hayes, and Clive Walker takes over as caretaker until the end of the season.

A Supporters' Trust spokesman said: "I don't believe this is a good time of the season to sack a manager."

Hereford are sixteenth in the league at the moment, but are just six points off the relegation zone.

Mar 14th:

HEREFORD United go to Dover Athletic hoping to end a four match losing streak on Saturday, kick off 3pm.

Dover manager Neville Southall was sacked yesterday as the Kent side languish at the bottom of the Nationwide Conference, and Clive Walker has taken over as caretaker at the Crabble ground.

The Bulls are now only six points off the relegation zone, and they go into Saturday's game without Matt Clarke, who is banned. Matt Baker will face a race against time to recover from his ankle injury, and is also on standby for the England National Game XI when they play the USA in a couple of weeks.

The supporters coach from Hereford to Dover has been cancelled due to lack of interest.

THE damage caused last Saturday will be a big job, according to Hereford United.

The club's game against league leaders Dagenham & Redbridge was called off after the roof caved in at the Meadow End due to high winds, and this cut an electric cable. A wooden beam and toilet area also need to be mended, with the toilets requiring a complete rebuild.

Meanwhile, twenty people are needed for a "fun" penalty shoot out at Edgar Street. The first round is on April 13th (Northwich home match), and the final a week later (Hayes home game). The shootouts will be held before kick off and during half time in front of the Meadow End. Try your skill against Hereford United's reserve keeper and see how your nerve holds!

The winner will receive a trophy and a free season ticket for 2002/2003 season (terrace), and the competition is open to the first twenty people to get £75 of sponsorship, (all monies to be paid by 10th April).

This is a HUISA fundraising event.

HEREFORD United's ground redevelopment has further been outlined by Herefordshire Council leader Terry James in today's Hereford Times.

"What we need is a super sports and leisure centre in Hereford. I am very positive about my plans, but we are not yet in a detailed stage," he said. "It would mean a much-improved facility for Hereford and it is one of my number one priorities. The football ground would certainly be part of a large and busy complex to be used by the community which would help the club raise money off the pitch."

The existing leisure centre, on Holmer Road, would be sold for commercial use and the money used to fund the multi-million pound proposed redevelopment, according to the council leader. He said that he had a wide, although not total, support for him plan. His plans for the cattle market and Merton Meadow area were also earmarked in a new report from Hereford Arts Academy.

It said: "The site may well include new council offices, a large hotel, a cinema, a redeveloped football ground with the existing leisure centre relocated with it and other facilities."

United chairman Graham Turner commented: "Terry James has indicated at a liaison meeting with supporters that he will be making a statement on the future of the club on March 18 or 19. We have therefore called a board meeting for March 20 to discuss the council leader's proposals for the ground and the make up of the consortium."

Mar 15th:

HEREFORD United chairman Graham Turner has publicly slammed his players after they slipped towards the Nationwide Conference relegation zone.

Turner, who now plays a part in the team management, said: "If the players don’t recognise the dangers, they shouldn’t be playing football. We’ve got to sort it out quickly."

The Bulls have lost their last four matches and this Saturday go to bottom of the table Dover Athletic knowing a win is vital to keep them up.

Dover Athletic, under the new management of Clive Walker, will be without attacker Matt Carruthers on-loan Leon Kelly, who are both banned, for the match. Dover are also in poor form, having lost seven of their last eight matches.

Hereford United coach Phil Robinson told the Evening News: "We need to start picking up points and the sooner the better. On paper Dover should be one of our easier matches but everybody is scrapping for points and if they've just got rid of their manager it could be quite a tricky game for us."

"We performed quite well at times against Farnborough, hit the woodwork twice and scored two goals which you think would be enough away from home. But our defending was not quite up to scratch and it is something we have to get back to."

Ian Rodgerson is a doubt with a foot injury and Matt Baker is out, so Stuart Jones will continue in goal.

Mar 16th:

HEREFORD United almost brought the house down literally last Saturday after high winds ripped off part of the Meadow End roof reports the Sports Argus.

The damage hit the Bulls in more than one sense when it caused the postponement of their match against Conference league leaders Dagenham and Redbridge.

The club fear the late cancellation will cost them a total of £3,000 in lost revenue.

It's the latest blow for cash-strapped Bulls, who now face the task of repairing the roof, electrics, wooden beam and toilet area - all of which were damaged during the incident, which took place shortly before noon last Saturday.

By that stage Hereford were already obliged to pay out for the match officials, Dagenham's travelling expenses and for the programmes that had been pre-printed.

And the mood was hardly improved this week when the Bulls were beaten 4-1 by Farnborough.

It leaves them hovering just six points above the drop zone.

The Bulls were looking to bounce back today when they travelled to bottom-of-thetable Dover - who this week sacked their manager Neville Southall.

In the meantime, Bulls' Edgar Street headquarters could form part of a major leisure centre development - if Herefordshire Council leader Terry James has his way.

An announcement is expected next week over the situation involving the cashstrapped Conference club.

Plans would make the ground part of a complex to be used by the community, which would help the Bulls make money off the pitch.

Hereford's exisiting leisure centre in Holmer Road would be sold for commercial use.


DOVER Athletic 0 - 1 Hereford United (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United ended a run of four consecutive defeats when they beat bottom of the league Dover Athletic at the Crabble today.

The Bulls needed a late goal from substitute Steve Piearce to win the points after an impressive performance from United goalkeeper Stuart Jones, who kept the home side out on several occasions.

Matt Clarke was suspended for the game, and Ian Rodgerson not fully recovered from a foot injury, so the two were absent from the starting eleven. Hereford coach Phil Robinson drafted in Jimmy Quiggin and Rob Elmes as his line-up underwent a re-shuffle. Dover, who sacked Neville Southall as manager this week, named ex-Hereford man Kristian James on the bench.

The opening half was a tense affair with few real goalscoring chances. Openings were created but few were converted into serious efforts on goal. Gavin Williams should have put Hereford ahead after eleven minutes when he hit a curling twenty five yard free kick over the crossbar. Two minutes later, Williams wasted another chance before Robinson hit the side netting.

In the Hereford goal, Jones was forced to punch clear a cross-cum-shot from Dover wing back Steve Norman, and then proceeded to turn a Scott Ramsay shot around the post with a superb diving save.

As the half came to a close, Rob Elmes hit his header over the bar and then Tony James allowed Kevin Seabury through at the other end, only for Jones to make another impressive save to keep the scores level. In added time at the end of the first half, both Paul Parry and Gavin Williams missed good headers to put the Bulls ahead, and so the crowd of 952 were left without a goal at the break.

A transformation occurred at the break, with Dover reformed and ready to attack. In fact, they dominated for spells of the second period and were unlucky to eventually lose the game.

Jamie Day struck from twenty yards just five minutes into the half, but the midfielder hit his left-footed angled shot just wide of the target. That came after Rob Elmes had headed over a Gavin Williams corner at the other end. Dover, at that time, were making the most of their possession and substitute Chris Allen ran rugged John Shirley on the Dover left wing.

Hereford, though, came back and Jimmy Quiggin failed to beat goalkeeper Hyde after a Paul Parry corner from the left. On the hour mark, Scott Goodwin placed a cross to Rob Elmes from deep on the left wing, but the ex-Halesowen striker flashed his header wide.

With twenty five minutes remaining, Jones was called into action again as Seabury fired a low shot into the corner. Hereford's stand-in 'keeper made a low dive to turn the ball around the post after Seabury was fed through by Ramsay.

Graham Turner, the Hereford chairman, then made the crucial substitution. Quiggin was removed and replaced by Steve Piearce, and at first made little impact. Ramsay continued to pressure the Hereford goal as he headed the ball at Jones, and then Chris Allen crossed the ball across goal but nobody was there to connect.

Then Piearce made an impact. With ten minutes left, he picked up a loose ball and proceeded to lob it over Dover stopper Hyde from twenty-five yards. The ball dipped into the net, and Hereford had the goal they required.

The closing minutes were tense with Dover pushing for an equaliser, but the Bulls held on. Jimmy Strouts created Dover's best levelling chance, but he smashed his drive at the goalkeeper.

The result means Hereford move up one place in the league, and hit fourty two points for the season. Their next match is at home against Morecambe next Saturday, kick off 3pm.

Hereford United: Stuart Jones, John Shirley, Scott Goodwin, Phil Robinson, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Jimmy Quiggin (off, 66 minutes), John Snape, Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry
Subs: Ian Rodgerson, Lee Evans, Daniel Davidson, Jon Hill, Steve Piearce (on, 66 minutes)
Yellow cards: Ian Wright (foul, 67 minutes) Gavin Williams (unsporting behaviour, 84 minutes)
Scorer: Steve Piearce (80 minutes)
Man of the Match: Stuart Jones
Attendance: 952
Referee: Mr. P. Crossley (Bromley)

Mar 17th:

HEREFORD United emerged victorious from yesterday's Nationwide Conference six pointer, with a 1-0 victory over relegation-bound Dover Athletic.

Bulls goalscorer Steve Piearce said on BBC Hereford & Worcester: "I scored a similar one away at Morecambe last year. We started to get dragged into the relegation fight and the main thing is two wins could shot you up the table. If we can put a good run together we should be able to finish in the top eight."

Before the victory, Hereford had lost their last four matches and Piearce commented: "Out of the four games, Farnborough was the worst but we could have had something from the other three so it was important to put that right today. We'll go into the Morecambe game full of confidence."

Losing boss Clive Walker told the Non-League Paper: "We've lost a lot of games here in the same manner this season. It's all about scoring - which they did and we didn't.

In response to the protests for the re-instatement of Neville Southall as boss, and the removal of commercial director Bill Williams, Walker quipped: "At least there was some noise that created a bit of an atmosphere which the lads responded to."

Mar 20th:

NOTTS County’s young defender Richard Holmes has joined Hereford United on a month’s loan according to BBC Sport.

He made a big impact in the right-back berth in season 1999/2000. Holmes has played in just three games for the Magpies this season and will be looking to impress while at the Bulls in a hope to regain his first team place at County. Richard Holmes will return to Meadow Lane on April 21st.

A JUNIOR Bulls Family Quiz Night will be held on Thursday April 4 2002 in Legends at Hereford United football ground. The Quiz is open to all ages with teams comprising of up to 5 individuals with a £5 entry fee per team. Spaces are limited so be sure to enter your Team early. Trevor Owens of BBC Hereford and Worcester will be the Quizmaster, special guests are also expected, as well as an appearance from Billy The Bull. Tickets can be obtained from Hereford United Club Shop and office (01432) 276666 and MWPC, 72 Commercial Road, Hereford. www.herefordunited.co.uk has been the centre for organising the quiz, and prizes have come from contacting companies on the internet and from users of United's official forum. Funds will go directly to HUFC and a collection will be made for the Save The Bulls Fund.

Also,the home game with Dagenham and Redbridge has been rescheduled for Tues 16th April.

HEREFORD United supporters are still awaiting an announcement from the leader of Herefordshire Council, Terry James, regarding his proposals for the redevelopment of the Edgar Street area of the city. The United board says the plans are instrumental to the long term future of the Club. An announcement had been expected yesterday, but a Council Spokesman told BBC Hereford and Worcester no such statement was imminent.

Mar 22nd:

HEREFORD United welcome a former favourite back to Edgar Street tomorrow as Jimmy Harvey brings his Morecambe side south in the Nationwide Conference, kick off 3pm.

Harvey was a Hereford midfield favourite in the 1980s and is now manager at Christie Park of a Morecambe side destined to turn full-time soon.

When the two teams met in September, the result was a 2-2 draw with Rob Elmes and Paul Parry scoring for the Bulls. Since then, Hereford have slumped but eased relegation fears with a 1-0 win at Dover last Saturday.

Coach Phil Robinson told the Evening News: "We wanted to get back to keeping a clean sheet and we worked hard to do that against Dover. Morecambe are quite handily placed to finish quite high if they can win their games in hand. They are one of the better footballing teams in the Conference with some good players including Stewart Drummond who plays for the England non-league international side. They've also got Robbie Talbot who is one of the leading scorers in the league so they will be difficult opposition."

The signing of Richard Holmes from Notts County on loan came through Bulls chairman Graham Turner. "It emerged he was available and we've been looking for a bit of cover because Matt Clarke has been struggling with injury," said Robinson. "Matt is still suspended so there is a good chance Richard will feature."

With the Meadow End roof now mended, Hereford hope to win their second game in succession and will continue to field Stuart Jones in goal. The non-contract stopper is filling in as Matt Baker has an ankle injury. Richard Holmes, on loan from Notts County, could make his Hereford debut, but Matt Clarke and John Snape are suspended. The Bulls also have injury worries over Ian Rodgerson and Scott Goodwin with a troublesome abdominal problem, and Steve Piearce is a doubt despite his winner last week.

"It was a quality goal and he scored a similar one last year against Morecambe," said Robinson. "We've known all along that he has the ability to score goals like that and if he can keep himself fit and stay free of injury he could have a major part to play."

Morecambe have new injury or suspension concerns, and coach Harvey said: "There are no easy games in this division and Hereford are a good side at home - but we are looking forward to it." The Shrimps could give a debut to attacker Peter Thomson, who signed from Luton Town today.

Mar 23rd:

HEREFORD United coach Phil Robinson is still hoping for a Nationwide Conference top six finish,

Two wins could put United within one point of sixth place and Robinson told the Evening News: "The league is that tight that if we win these two matches we could even start thinking about a top five or six place. As it stands if we can get two wins from anywhere before the end of the season then we will be relatively safe."

Defending, normally Hereford's strongest point, has become an issue in recent weeks. "What was disappointing about the Farnborough game was that we actually scored two goals away from home but lost because we didn't defend properly," he said.

HEREFORD United 0 - 2 Morecambe

Morecambe recorded their first ever win at Edgar Street as Hereford United slumped to yet another disappointing defeat.

The 2-0 reversal on home soil is Hereford's fourteenth league loss this season, although they remain nine points clear of the drop zone.

Bulls coach Phil Robinson named Stuart Jones in goal as he made his home debut, with Matt Baker returning on the substitutes bench. Richard Holmes, a defender on-loan from Notts County, made his debut at full back whilst Steve Piearce started his first game of the season in attack. John Snape and Matt Clarke were both suspended. Morecambe, managed by ex-Hereford midfielder Jimmy Harvey, named striker Peter Thomson on the bench following a move from Luton Town.

The game started with Morecambe having the best of the play, a trend that continued for most of the match. However, Gavin Williams tested away 'keeper Craig Mawson with a dipping cross on two minutes, before Scott Goodwin headed wide. Then the Shrimps surged forward. After eleven minutes, Phil Robinson was forced to clear a Ryan Zico-Black cross at the far post before an Adriano Rigoglioso squad hit the Hereford post. Zico-Black tapped in the rebound, but the referee deemed it to be offside.

Hereford 'keeper Jones saved well from Gary Thompson twice in five minutes as Morecambe pushed to open the scoring, and there were few chances at the other end as Hereford removed the injury Ian Rodgerson for Jimmy Quiggin. With thirty five minutes on the clock, John Shirley, who hadn't been impressive thus far, cleared the ball off the line. A Zico-Black long shot caused the problem, and Hereford broke with a Phil Robinson shot spilled by the goalkeeper. He recaught the effort but appeared to clash with Steve Piearce in the process, and required treatment.

Ian Wright and Gavin Williams went close as Hereford pushed, but John Norman should have given Morecambe the lead at the other end - his header was thwarted by Jones.

Morecambe were even more dominant in the second period that they were in the first. Their defence was solid, with Rob Elmes and Scott Goodwin missing the target as Hereford lost Steve Piearce through injury. Morecambe's front-pairing of Norman and Thompson was causing problems for Jones but he was equal to all they could throw at him, albeit with a bit of good luck!

However, good fortune can only last so long and it ran out for the Bulls with twenty one minutes left. A cross from the left by Rigoglioso was turned goalwards by Zico-Black, but it took a wicked deflection off United defender Richard Holmes before sailing past the stranded Jones.

United never looked like coming back into the game with a lack of pace in attack, and the lead was doubled ten minutes later. A cross from defender Paul McGuire was controlled well by Norman, who took it around Jones before slipping the ball into an unguarded net.

In added time, Gavin Williams tested Mawson at the other end, but Hereford were already demoralised and defeated. There is much work to do if anything is to be gained from Tuesday's encounter against Chester City.

Hereford United: Stuart Jones Richard Holmes John Shirley Phil Robinson Ian Wright (captain, off 89 minutes) Tony James Scott Goodwin Steve Piearce (off, 59 minutes) Rob Elmes Gavin Williams Ian Rodgerson (off, 19 minutes)
Subs: Jon Hill (on, 89 minutes) Matt Baker Jimmy Quiggin (on, 19 minutes) Danny Davidson (on, 59 minutes)
Yellow cards: Scott Goodwin (26 minutes, foul) -
Man of the Match: Tony James
Attendance: 1,408
Referee: Mr. G. Chapman

Mar 24th:

HEREFORD United skipper Ian Wright was naturally downbeat after yesterday's 2-0 defeat against Morecambe at Edgar Street.

Speaking to BBC Hereford & Worcester after the game, he said: "We're disappointed to lose at home. The first goal was a bit of a scramble.

"We looked to get something from the game so hopefully they (the teams below) haven't caught us up. We've just got to win on Tuesday to take the pressure off."

Of Steve Piearce's injury, he said: "It's unfortunate as he did quite well in the game. His ankle has ballooned right up so he's struggling for Tuesday (when Hereford play Chester). There's a few of us carrying knocks but we've got a small squad so we'll have to get on with it."

Ex-Hereford midfielder Jimmy Harvey, now the Morecambe boss, was surprised that his team didn't score more.

"It's nice to come and win here," he told the Non-League Paper. "If anything, we were guilty of not finishing it off earlier as we could have scored four or five."

Hereford will welcome back Matt Clarke for Tuesday visit of Chester City, but John Snape remains sidelined through suspension.

THE United States semi-professional team coach Leigh Cowlishaw is looking to recruit British Conference players to play in the USA.

The coach told the Non-League Paper after England beat his side 2-1 that many of the players int he Conference could play at a much higher level in the USA and said: "Come and play in America."

Their attendances average 10,000 and players such as ex-Hereford man James Wall, now at Burton Albion, spent last summer in the States playing for Nashville Metros. He will return at the end of the season to play for Atlanta Silverbacks.

Cowlishaw recommended the move he made several years ago and said "A-League rules state the seven players in the 26-man roster can be from outside the US and many clubs don't fill the quota.

"If players want to play in front of big crowds, earn decent money and exposed to greater media coverage in America I'm sure it would be an offer they'd consider."

One former player returned to Edgar Street yesterday, though. Goalkeeper Scott Cooksey, who had to quit the game last month through injury, was spotted in the press box reporting on the match.

Mar 25th:

HEREFORD United have Matt Clarke back from suspension for tomorrow night's Nationwide Conference clash at Edgar Street, kick off 7.45pm.

And they'll need him if they are to gain revenge against a Chester City side who have beaten the Bulls twice already this season. Hereford lost 2-0 at the Deva Stadium in October, and then crashed out of the FA Trophy at the fifth round stage to a last minute Jimmy Haarhoff goal in the north Wales border city.

Following that painful exit for Phil Robinson's side, the Bulls have won just one game. Their 1-0 victory at Dover Athletic eased their relegation fears, but Chester, managed by Mark Wright, have pulled themselves out of the relegation zone as they close in on Hereford.

United are without the suspended battling midfielder John Snape for the clash, but Matt Clarke return in defence. Paul Parry is hoped to make the team after an illness kept him out of Saturday's 2-0 defeat against Morecambe, but Steve Piearce is a doubt after sustaining an ankle injury in the game. Goalkeeper Matt Baker could be set to return after injury, but faces opposition for his place from stand-in stopper Stuart Jones.

Chester could include former Hereford players Mark Williams and Brian McGorry in their squad for the match.

Meanwhile, anyone wishing to travel to Scarborough on the away travel should book with the club on 01432 276666. Tickets cost £30, but could be reduced if numbers are high enough. The bus will leave Edgar Street on Saturday morning at 8.45am.

Mar 26th:

Hereford United have made another loan signing in time for tonight's match against Chester City, with Doncaster Rovers defender Dean Barrick joining the Bulls until the end of the season.

Barrick is an ex-Sheffield Wednesday trainee who had spells with Rotherham United, Cambridge United, Bury and Preston North End. He spent a spell in Scotland on loan at Ayr United and sustained a bad groin injury, and joined Doncaster in February 2001. He has since signed a two year contract, keeping the 32 year old at Belle Vue until summer 2003. During his Football League spell, Barrick was a favourite at left back who likes to get forward.

Chester City are expected to name an unchanged side for the match, and club secretary Michael Beech told the BBC: "Every game is another challenge. We're on a good run and have been undefeated since the beginning of January so our confidence is reasonably high."

THE committee of BOLSA – Bulls On-Line Supporters Association - would like to announce that they have established the official organisation website.

The site puts the club's financial problems in historical context together with what it means to be a Hereford United fan. Additional sections focus on the fund raising efforts of BOLSA providing a diary of forthcoming events and the opportunity to buy BOLSA merchandise. Taking advantage of BOLSA’s role as an independent, internet-based organisation the site was compiled by Supporters in Corfu and Sweden.

As an organisation that was established to serve the Supporters of Hereford United, BOLSA wants the website to be the mouthpiece of the memories, good and bad, that come with being a Hereford United Supporter. It is a fans’ site that is there to address fans’ ideas particularly pertaining to fund raising schemes for the club. We would like to hear from members of the Hereford public what it means to them to be a Hereford United Supporter. The fans’ memories section of the website is there to include everyone’s stories. Please submit your recollections to contact@bolsa-hufc.com or BOLSA, c/o MWPC, 72 Commercial Road, Hereford, HR1 2BP.

You can visit the website at http://www.bolsa-hufc.com.

HEREFORD United 1 - 0 Chester City

A single goal from Ian Wright was enough to secure Hereford all three points and pull them further away from the dreaded drop zone at Edgar Street tonight, as they beat fellow Conference strugglers Chester City.

The away side, though, will feel that they should have gained at least a point against a Bulls team who were much improved from Saturday, when they lost 2-0 against Morecambe.

Hereford lined up with Dean Barrick filling in at left back following his loan move from Doncaster Rovers. There was no room in the squad for Rob Elmes, John Shirley or Steve Piearce, who had an ankle injury. Matt Clarke moved into midfield following his return from suspension, with Gavin Williams and Paul Parry forming the attack. Stuart Jones started in goal, with Matt Baker again confined to the bench.

Mark Wright's Chester City team included ex-Bull Brian McGorry in the starting eleven, but there was no room for Mark Williams, who was on the bench. Also absent from the starting line-up was Jimmy Haarhoff, who had scored twice against the Bulls already this season, including the last minute goal which sent them out of the FA Trophy at the Deva Stadium last month.

United started well with Gavin Williams and Paul Parry firing narrowly off-target in the opening period before skipper Ian Wright opened the scoring. His twenty five yard drive following poor Chester defending sailed low past 'keeper Wayne Brown to give Hereford the lead.

Six minutes later, Hereford stopper Stuart Jones and Chris Tate, the Chester attacker, collided whilst battling for a cross ball and both were taken off. Jones looked particularly bad and a stretcher was called for, although not used. Matt Baker took over in the home goal, whilst ex-Manchester United youngster David Brown came on for the away side.

Paul Parry continued to pressurise as he smashed the ball into the side netting following a good move in which he beat the offside trap to connect onto a long ball from Richard Holmes. Then Chester took control, with Hereford restricted to counter attacks. McElhatton smashed a glacing header over the crossbar and Richard Peacock tested player coach Phil Robinson before Matt Baker tipped a McElhatton shot around the post. David Brown then tried his luck with a close range effort, that was blocked, and further chances rained in as Hereford held on.

The second half brought more of the same for the crowd of 1,295 onlookers. Richard Peacock shot an angled effort over before Beesley was thwarted by Dean Barrick. On sixty five minutes, Chester argued for a penalty when Baker appeared to have brought down Brown in the box but referee Melin, who had a good game, cautioned the striker for diving. Mark Wright was clearly not happy on the touchline, and proceeded to make a couple of changes, bringing on striker Jimmy Haarhoff and midfielder Chris Blackburn.

Parry tested the 'keeper with fifteen minutes remaining when he linked onto a Gavin Williams upfield ball, but his shot was saved low by Brown. Matt Clarke headed onto the crossbar with ten minutes left after Phil Bolland had tested Baker at the other end, and Hereford had to hold on for four minutes of added time until their victory was confirmed.

The result is Chester's first defeat in the league since January 8th, but eases Hereford's relegation fears. The away side probably deserved a point, but it was sweet revenge for the Trophy defeat earlier in the year.

Hereford United: Stuart Jones (off, 12 minutes), Richard Holmes, Dean Barrick, Phil Robinson, Ian Wright (captain), Tony James, Scott Goodwin, Matt Clarke, Paul Parry, Gavin Williams, Ian Rodgerson (off, 62 minutes),
Subs: Jimmy Quiggin (on, 62 minutes), Matt Baker (on, 12 minutes), Danny Davidson, Ross Diamond, Jon Hill
Yellow cards: Ian Wright (foul, 20 minutes)
Scorer: Ian Wright (6 minutes)
Man of the Match: Matt Baker
Attendance: 1,295
Referee: Mr. P. Melin (Milton Keynes)

Mar 27th:

HEREFORD United midfielder Scott Goodwin was pleased that his side overcame Chester City 1-0 in last night's Nationwide Conference encounter.

The Bulls had already lost to City twice this season and Goodwin said: "Everyone in the dressing room knew about that and it was a tough game. They were unlucky but we deserved it at the end of the day. It was backs to the walls, and I was pleased to get to half time. The second half was exactly the same."

Goalkeeper Stuart Jones was taken off injured after twelve minutes, and this concerned Goodwin. "It looked a bit nasty," he commented. "But we've got Matt Baker on the bench and we know what he can do. He came in and did a good job. For me, hes been the player of the season and it's nice to see him back."

In their next two fixtures, Hereford play Scarborough and Woking over the Easter weekend. "Scarborough will be a really tough game," said Goodwin. "With two games in three days, we'll be looking for the six points."

Hereford player-coach Phil Robinson was delighted that his side held on for victory, telling the Evening News: "We defended well at times and got bodies behind the ball. We are now three points nearer to safety."

March 28th:

HEREFORDSHIRE Council leader Terry James has told the Hereford Times that he has not yet started talks about purchasing the leases to Edgar Street from property developers Chelverton.

The move is part of James' plan to redevelop the whole of the Edgar Street area, as reported on HU-FC.co.uk earlier this month, and is crucial to its success.

Edgar Street is set to become a multi-sports and leisure centre, with the grandstand of the football ground developed into incorporating a separate exhibition and arts area, and another stand left for the development of the hospitality club and a social side, according to today's Hereford Times.

He said: "Because the development would be divided into four elements - two managed by the public sector and a third by the commercial sector - it will only require 25% of the building to be maintained by the club itself."

Yesterday, James buried the the concept of "a major food retail development" on the site in the Hereford Journal, saying that it should be "put firmly behind us".

A phased redevelopment of the stadium itself would see a new leisure centre - financed by the sale for commercial use of the existing Holmer Road site - a multiplex cinema, an exhibition, arts and conference facility linked to the Courtyard complex, an arts academy and a Hereford United hospitality and social club.

"The development will then only require 25 per cent of the building to be maintained by the club itself, with the whole ground then being avaliable for other uses like festivals, rallies and large-scale events", said James. "The council would build its own headquarters on the adjoining area, thereby allowing it to dispose of the 20 office buildings it now operates and using the savings from such a move as well as the capital from their disposal to finance the development. We have already received expressions of interest from twenty two different development companies interested in working with the council to develop the area to give the best deal for Herefordshire."

HEREFORD United have a tough task on Saturday if they want to overcome a Scarborough side at the McCain Stadium, kick off 3pm.

Boro' are struggling just outside of the relegation zone whilst victory for Hereford could propel them into eleventh position in the Nationwide Conference.

Of the games against Scarborough and Woking, United coach Phil Robinson told the Hereford Times: "Both sides may sit below us in the table, but we must be on top of our game. We did beat Scarborough 6-0 in October, but it promises to be a different game on Saturday."

John Snape makes a welcome return to the squad after missing the last two games through suspension, but Boro have been boosted by the news that former Fortuna Sittard player Andy Wright has signed for Russell Slade's side. "He comes with a good pedigree and is the sort of player I would like in my squad as we go into the last nine games of the season," said Slade. "Andy is a good addition to the side and will certainly be in the squad of 16 for Saturday." Also, the Seadogs will be without Darryn Stamp, who is suspended, and Neil Mann, who is injured, but Mark Patterson returns.

Surrey Sports quote Scarborough as evens to take the points in the game. Both a draw and a Hereford victory are quoted at 9/4.

The Herefordshire Football Assocation Senior Cup Final will be played at Edgar Street tomorrow between city side Westfields and borderland holders Kington Town. Both sides have beaten fellow West Midland League Premier Division opponents on the way to the final. Kick off is at 11am, with a close game in store.

SCOTT Cooksey is eyeing up a football management job, but not in the immediate future.

The ex-Hereford 'keeper, who quit the game through injury last month, returned to Edgar Street to report for the Press Association at last Saturday's game against Morecambe. He told the Hereford Times: "I was more nervous doing this job than I ever was playing in goal."

After an operation to put a metal plate in his wrist, which is due soon, Cooksey hopes to become a PE teacher and has been offered a placement at a school in Walsall. However, he plans to take coaching courses and eventually go into management, something which he "really wants to do."

March 29th:

THE Football Association has reportedly brokered a deal between the Football League and Conference to increase the promotion places to two from next season.

A Conference item reads: "The Nationwide Conference welcomes the recent action by the Football Association in arranging for the long awaited increase in promotion places to the Football League. The granting of the extra promotion place is scheduled for the start of the 2002/03 season and will create an opportunity to introduce the added value of play-offs."

However, it is thought that there is an unresolved point over 'parachute payments' for the second relegated team from Division Three. Once that is resolved, the proposal should go to the Football League AGM in June for ratification.

VICTORY for Hereford United at Scarborough tomorrow will help cement their Nationwide Conference status, kick off 3pm.

The Bulls face crucial matches against relegation threatened Scarborough and Woking over the Easter weekend, and player-coach Phil Robinson told the Evening News: "At the beginning of the week we faced three teams that were below us in the table, and we needed to make sure by the end of the week that was still the case.

"It was a great start beating Chester and that win went a long way towards keeping us safe, but all the teams in the relegation zone also won so even though we picked up three points, we didn't open up a gap."

Hereford will be without goalkeeper Stuart Jones, who is suffering from a hip injury picked up in Tuesday 1-0 win over Chester City.

Scarborough midfielder Mark Patterson is available after suspension, and told the BBC: "We are optimistic and our aim is to get another three wins, we think that might be enough. We are not looking at the other results. Hereford is going to be a tough game, they can turn it on on their day and have players who can produce on the day. It's going to be a good game and hopefully we can get the win."

March 30th:

SCARBOROUGH 3 - 2 Hereford United (report by Terry Goodwin)

Hereford United went down to their sixth defeat in eight games as Scarborough emerged victors at the McCain Stadium.

The 3-2 scoreline by which the Seadogs won does not show the difference in quality between the two. Hereford, for the most part, were lacklustre, particularly at the back where they are normal solid.

Tbe Bulls welcomed back the impressive Matt Baker to that starting eleven in place of the injured Stuart Jones, and John Snape replaced the notably-absent Matt Clarke in midfield. Also absent from the Hereford squad were John Shirley, Danny Davidson and Steve Piearce. Scarborough boss Russell Slade named ex-Hereford midfielder Gareth Stoker in midfield.

Eager to get revenge for their 6-0 defeat at Edgar Street last October, Scarborough started brightly with Stoker firing wide from a free kick twenty five yards out. Scott Goodwin went close at the other end before United took a shock lead which few in the stadium could believe had actually gone in. Gavin Williams fired a volley from thirty five yards following a Paul Parry lay off which sailed over the head of back-pedalling goalkeeper Andy Woods before dipping into the unguarded net.

Scarborough then took control, but lost debutant Andy Wright after sixteen minutes. Two minutes later, though, Hereford captain Ian Wright was taken off injured and replaced by Jon Hill. Then the problems started. Wright's captaincy was taken over by defensive partner Tony James, but the back line was visibly waeker. Scarborough found it easier to break the Bulls down, and had it not been for Baker, Hereford couls have been several goals down at the break. Karl Rose was thwarted by a last ditch save, and then Gareth Stoker wasted a couple of long range chances as the Seadogs responded.

Just past the half hour mark, midfielder Jason Blunt levelled the scores. Karl Rose beat off a challenge from James before passing to Blunt, who fired an angled drive from twelve yards past the helpless Baker. Three minutes later, United defender Dean Barrick appeared to bring down Blunt, but the referee waved away appeals for a penalty as Scarborough turned up the pressure.

Would Hereford survive to the break? No. Tony James was supposedly seen pulling the shirt of a Scarborough attacker and the referee pointed to the spot. The players, who were walking away from the penalty area, were as surprised as the fans that the spot kick was awareded. The home side took full advantage of this dubious decision, however, as Steve Baker fired a low ball which Matt Baker got a hand to before it shot into the net.

The Bulls lost Ian Rodgerson with a hamstring injury in added time, as Ross Diamond came on to make his first team debut, and Scarborough substitute David Pounder went close with a shot that missed the target by inches.

The second half started as the first had ended, with Scarborough on top. With fifty five seconds on the clock, Ryan Sugden was sent through after beating Jon Hill before firing past Baker when one-on-one with the ex-Hull City stopper.

The home side continued to have the lion's share of possession as the Bulls appeared frail at the back, but Barrick hit the bar with a cross from the left wing after fifty five minutes. Scott Jordan headed just wide as Scarborough searched for a fourth, but Paul Parry and Gavin Williams kept Woods on his toes at the other end with some promising openings. Sugden tested Baker just before the hour, but Hereford's reliable goalkeeper tipped the ball away before saving a quick rebound shot from Gareth Stoker.

Then the crucial move came that improved Hereford's chances. Coach Phil Robinson was removed for attacker Rob Elmes, and the change was immediately evident in the away side's play; they attacked more and seemed to create more openings. Ross Diamond made some impressive moves in midfield, and the Hereford attacks seemed more creative and effective. Richard Holmes headed narrowly over in a spell that saw end-to-end action, and then Tony James gave Hereford hope with a minute left. A Gavin Williams free kick on the left was headed onto the crossbar by John Snape, and after a poor clearance, defender Tony James popped up from five yards to reduce the deficit.

However, it was matter of too little, too late, much to the disappointment of the eighty or so travelling fans.

Hereford United: Matt Baker, Richard Holmes, Dean Barrick, Phil Robinson (off, 68 minutes), Ian Wright (captain, off 18 minutes,) Tony James, Scott Goodwin, John Snape, Paul Parry, Gavin Williams, Ian Rodgerson (off, 45 minutes)
Subs: Rob Elmes (on, 68 minutes), Lee Evans, Jimmy Quiggin, Ross Diamond (on, 45 minutes), Jon Hill (on, 18 minutes)
Yellow cards: John Snape (foul, 52 minutes)
Scorers: Gavin Williams (8 minutes) Tony James (89 minutes)
Man of the Match Matt Baker
Attendance 1,478
Referee Mr. W. McIntosh (Lincoln)

March 31st:

HEREFORD United crashed to a 3-2 defeat at the McCain Stadium against a lowly Scarborough team yesterday.

After the match, winning boss Russell Slade told BBC Radio York's Ivan Ash: "I didn't think we knew what to do at 3-1. The answer was quite simply keep on doing the same thing. I don't think had our shooting boots on at times, we didn't take six or seven good chances. We lifted the tempo after the early setback which was an absolute wondergoal, and I thought we got on very much on top. Hereford were at sixs and sevens, especially when they lost Wright, and we got right on top; perhaps we deserved a little more than the 2-1 at half time."

Of the penalty appeal that was turned down, Slade commented: "I thought it was a definite penalty, and I wasn't certain whether the second one was. This is the consistency that we need to be concentrating on in the game and fortunately, it fell our way."

"3-2 in injury time and you think is something else going to happen? To be fair, it would have been very, very hard on us if they had got an equaliser."

Hereford player-coach Phil Robinson was baffled by the awarded penalty, labelling it as a "bizarre" decision. "All their players were lining up as they thought he had given a goal kick, and nobody could believe it when we found out he had given a penalty. The penalty really did change the game, but we didn't press them until it was too late."

WOKING are tomorrow's opponents for Hereford United at Edgar Street as they hope to push away from the Nationwide Conference relegation trapdoor, kick off 3pm.

The Bulls lost 3-2 to Scarborough yesterday whilst Woking, four points behind the Bulls, drew 1-1 with Leigh RMI.

Hereford are expected to be without goalkeeper Stuart Jones, who has a hip injury, and Ian Rodgerson, Phil Robinson and Ian Wright are all doubts after coming off at Scarborough. Matt Clarke, Danny Davidson, Steve Piearce and John Shirley all didn't feature in yesterday's squad, so it will be interesting to see whether they make comebacks tomorrow.

Bulls player-coach Phil Robinson said: "They (Woking) will be fired up for the game, but we have to match them for fight and desire and hopefully if we can do that, we will have enough ability to take the points."

Former Bulls defensive midfielder Jamie Pitman could figure in the Woking line-up.

Hereford have only beaten Woking in their last five meetings, with a 3-0 win at the Kingfield back in September 2000. Since then, Woking have won 1-0 (FA Cup), 1-0 (at Edgar Street) and 1-0 (at the Kingfield this season), and prior to the 3-0 victory, the Surrey-based outfit won 4-2 at Edgar Street in spring 2000.

All football matches are set to go ahead despite the death of HRH The Queen Mother, but a minute's silence will be held as a mark of respect and players will wear black armbands. "We would join the rest of the sporting world and the country in mourning the loss of the Queen Mother," said FA head of communications Paul Newman. "Like everyone else, our thoughts are with the other members of the Royal Family at this time."

Saturday, March 30, 2002

Bulls thrown back into relegation battle

Scarborough 3 - 2 Hereford United

Hereford United went down to their sixth defeat in eight games as Scarborough emerged victors at the McCain Stadium.
The 3-2 scoreline by which the Seadogs won does not show the difference in quality between the two. Hereford, for the most part, were lacklustre, particularly at the back where they are normal solid.

Tbe Bulls welcomed back the impressive Matt Baker to that starting eleven in place of the injured Stuart Jones, and John Snape replaced the notably-absent Matt Clarke in midfield. Also absent from the Hereford squad were John Shirley, Danny Davidson and Steve Piearce. Scarborough boss Russell Slade named ex-Hereford midfielder Gareth Stoker in midfield.

Eager to get revenge for their 6-0 defeat at Edgar Street last October, Scarborough started brightly with Stoker firing wide from a free kick twenty five yards out. Scott Goodwin went close at the other end before United took a shock lead which few in the stadium could believe had actually gone in. Gavin Williams fired a volley from thirty five yards following a Paul Parry lay off which sailed over the head of back-pedalling goalkeeper Andy Woods before dipping into the unguarded net.

Scarborough then took control, but lost debutant Andy Wright after sixteen minutes. Two minutes later, though, Hereford captain Ian Wright was taken off injured and replaced by Jon Hill. Then the problems started. Wright's captaincy was taken over by defensive partner Tony James, but the back line was visibly waeker. Scarborough found it easier to break the Bulls down, and had it not been for Baker, Hereford couls have been several goals down at the break. Karl Rose was thwarted by a last ditch save, and then Gareth Stoker wasted a couple of long range chances as the Seadogs responded.

Just past the half hour mark, midfielder Jason Blunt levelled the scores. Karl Rose beat off a challenge from James before passing to Blunt, who fired an angled drive from twelve yards past the helpless Baker. Three minutes later, United defender Dean Barrick appeared to bring down Blunt, but the referee waved away appeals for a penalty as Scarborough turned up the pressure.

Would Hereford survive to the break? No. Tony James was supposedly seen pulling the shirt of a Scarborough attacker and the referee pointed to the spot. The players, who were walking away from the penalty area, were as surprised as the fans that the spot kick was awareded. The home side took full advantage of this dubious decision, however, as Steve Baker fired a low ball which Matt Baker got a hand to before it shot into the net.

The Bulls lost Ian Rodgerson with a hamstring injury in added time, as Ross Diamond came on to make his first team debut, and Scarborough substitute David Pounder went close with a shot that missed the target by inches.

The second half started as the first had ended, with Scarborough on top. With fifty five seconds on the clock, Ryan Sugden was sent through after beating Jon Hill before firing past Baker when one-on-one with the ex-Hull City stopper.
The home side continued to have the lion's share of possession as the Bulls appeared frail at the back, but Barrick hit the bar with a cross from the left wing after fifty five minutes. Scott Jordan headed just wide as Scarborough searched for a fourth, but Paul Parry and Gavin Williams kept Woods on his toes at the other end with some promising openings. Sugden tested Baker just before the hour, but Hereford's reliable goalkeeper tipped the ball away before saving a quick rebound shot from Gareth Stoker.

Then the crucial move came that improved Hereford's chances. Coach Phil Robinson was removed for attacker Rob Elmes, and the change was immediately evident in the away side's play; they attacked more and seemed to create more openings. Ross Diamond made some impressive moves in midfield, and the Hereford attacks seemed more creative and effective. Richard Holmes headed narrowly over in a spell that saw end-to-end action, and then Tony James gave Hereford hope with a minute left. A Gavin Williams free kick on the left was headed onto the crossbar by John Snape, and after a poor clearance, defender Tony James popped up from five yards to reduce the deficit.

However, it was matter of too little, too late, much to the disappointment of the eighty or so travelling fans.


Written by Terry Goodwin - 30th March 2002.

Scarborough Hereford United
Andy Woods Matt Baker
Scott Jordan Richard Holmes
Mark Hotte Dean Barrick
Gareth Stoker Phil Robinson (off, 68 minutes)
Shaun Rennison Ian Wright (captain, off 18 minutes)
Steve Baker Tony James
Jason Blunt (off, 86 minutes) Scott Goodwin
Phil Salt (off, 75 minutes) John Snape
Ryan Sugden Paul Parry
Karl Rose Gavin Williams
Andy Wright (off, 16 minutes) Ian Rodgerson (off, 45 minutes)
Subs Subs
Mark Patterson (on, 75 minutes) Rob Elmes (on, 68 minutes)
Romain Faure Lee Evans
David Pounder (on, 16 minutes) Jimmy Quiggin
David Henderson (on, 86 minutes) Ross Diamond (on, 45 minutes)
Greg Shannon Jon Hill (on, 18 minutes)
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Karl Rose (foul, 47 minutes) John Snape (foul, 52 minutes)
Mark Hotte (foul, 89 minutes)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Jason Blunt (31 minutes) Gavin Williams (8 minutes)
Steve Baker (40 minutes, penalty) Tony James (89 minutes)
Ryan Sugden (46 minutes)
Man of the Match Matt Baker
Attendance 1,478
Referee Mr. W. McIntosh (Lincoln)

www.HU-FC.co.uk - The Independent Hereford United Online Resourc