Test

Wilson predicts difficult tie


Team news and reports, updated 11.41am.



Southport host Hereford United tomorrow in the Nationwide Conference, kick off 3pm, and Sandgrounders boss Phil Wilson has told the Nationwide website (www.football.nationwide.co.uk) that it will be a difficult tie.



"They are a big strong side that battle and make life difficult," he admitted. "Away from home earlier in the season, when we drew 0-0, we found it hard to cope and we expect the same thing on Saturday. But we will try and play football and play our normal game."



Wilson doesn't see the difference between the sides - sixth and thirteenth - as a major factor. "There is very little in terms of points between fourth and 14th position (six points) so we are not taking anything for granted," he added. "It's always difficult so we'll continue to do our best and see how it goes."



Southport welcome back experienced striker Steve Whitehall and utility player Neil Grayston from suspension after both players missed the defeat at Stevenage Borough because of one-match bans and will be joined in the squad by new signing Andy Scott from Stalybridge Celtic.



Hereford striker Danny Davidson has an ankle injury and is a doubt to make the team and Gavin Williams is suspended. Goalkeeper Matt Baker is back in training after recovering from an illness, but midfielder and club physio Ian Rodgerson has now been struck down by a bug. Paul Parry (calf) is expected to be part of the Bulls squad but Scott Voice, who went to see a consultant on Friday concerning his groin injury, will not play.



Surrey Sports quote Southport as 4/5 favourites to win, with Hereford at 3/1. A draw is priced at 11/5.