United look to resist backlash

Hereford United manager Graham Turner is hoping that his side can resist a backlash from Telford United at Edgar Street tomorrow, kick off 3pm.



Bucks boss Jake King was furious after his side were denied two late penalties, and the Bulls went home with a 1-0 win.



"I'm expecting some kind of a backlash from Telford and they are going to be looking for revenge so we have to guard against that," said Turner in the Evening News. "I thought for long periods of the game on Boxing Day we dominated which was borne out by the fact that we had 15 corners."



Michael Rose should return, as could Jamie Pitman after recovering from a knee injury. Matt Clarke will also continue, despite being rocked by the news that he will require knee surgery within the next few weeks.



"Matt's been struggling with a knee problem that is not going to get any better and we will lose him in the next few weeks for surgery," continued Turner, who is very pleased with his side's team spirit. "Even when we picked up just one point in 18 that confidence wasn't rocked. There is a self belief about the team that is paying dividends and shows that we can live with anybody in the Conference."



Telford are likely to start Paul Pettinger in goal, after he was loaned from Lincoln City to cover for Paul Edwards, whilst Martin Barlow, Gary Fitzpatrick and Steve Palmer all return after suspension. However, Palmer is a doubt with a hamstring problem whilst Jordan King has to overcome a facial injury. Attacker Grant Brown is definitely out.



Jake King told the Shropshire Star: "We have got doubts about Steve and Jordan so we will just have to have a look at them in the morning. Palmer felt his hamstring tighten during the first Hereford game while Jordan has still got a nasty scab on his lip after the clash at Chester.



"Grant's ankle is worse than we thought so he will be out for another two weeks so it will be important for us to have at least one of the midfielders fit tomorrow.



"I have seen Hereford a lot this season and they are a very well organised and disciplined. But there is not much between the two sides and that was shown when we met last week.



"We will be looking to get one over them tomorrow and hopefully we can start another run again. If we can stay relatively injury free I am still convinced we will finish in the top ten and maybe a little bit higher."

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Bulls favourites to notch points

Hereford United are odds on to beat Telford United on New Years Day, kick off 3pm.



The Bulls are quoted at 4/6 by skybet to beat the Bucks, who are 10/3, whilst a draw is 13/5.



Rob Purdie is a doubt after coming off with a knock in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Foest Green Rovers, and Jamie Pitman could also miss out as his leg injury takes time to recover. Michael Rose is expected to return at left-back after completing his one match ban, meaning Rob Sawyers will drop to the bench.



Telford hope to bring in Andy Pettinger on-loan from Lincoln City before Wednesday's game at Edgar Street. Paul Edwards, the regular stopper, has not suffered a broken leg but still faces a month on the sidelines after clashing with Daryl Clare on Saturday, as the Bucks lost 4-1 to Chester City.



Manager Jake King told the Shropshire Star: "It is brilliant news about Paul because we have had it confirmed that there is no break in his left leg. There is a lot of bruising all the way down his leg, from his thigh right down to his ankle, but it could have been a lot worse.



"We will have to see how it heals but hopefully he should only be out for about three weeks which is a big boost for Paul and everyone at the club. But it still only leaves us with Craig Jones as a goalkeeping option so we have to try and bring somebody in on-loan to cover Eddy's absence.



"We have been on the phone since Saturday night trying to sort something out and we are working on a few things to try and get someone in for Hereford on Wednesday.



Jordan King, son of Jake, also required treatment to his lip on Saturdy and it was thought that he might require plastic surgery. However, this has not been neccessary and he could return for the match.



The Telford midfield trip of Gary Fitzpatrick, Steve Palmer and Martin Barlow will all return after suspension.

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CVA - the background

As the fifth anniversary of the implementation of the Hereford United CVA approaches, HU-FC.co.uk's Organic Bull outlines the background to the contract which bounds the football club to its creditors.



To read the article, click here.

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Riverswye wins December award

Well done to 'riverswye', who has won the December monthly competition of the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League. Could 'riverswye' please email predictions@hu-fc.co.uk, confirming the username and password? 'len westons last stand' is still leader of the overall league.

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Bucks' problems worsen ahead of Hereford clash

Telford United will be without their first choice goalkeeper for the New Years Day clash at Edgar Street against Hereford United, kick off 3pm.



Paul Edwards, who was between the sticks in Hereford's 1-0 at the Bucks Head on Boxing Day, has a suspected broken leg after clashing with Chester City attacker Daryl Clare in yesterday's 4-1 defeat at the Deva Stadium. Craig Jones should fill in for Telford.



Jordan King, son of manager Jake, will also miss out as he requires plastic surgury on a facial injury sustained in the match.



Just two substitutes were named on Telford's bench today as Jake King had to cope with numerous injuries and suspensions in a small squad.

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Grant happy with goal

John Grant was very happy with his first league goal for Hereford United this afternoon.



"It was all I needed," Grant told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "I have to thank the manager for showing faith in me. Every game that I have started we have not lost but I felt I had not been doing my bit because I had not been scoring goals, and that's what strikers rely on."



He admitted that he was still not fully fit. "My lungs just keep collapsing so I've got to keep working on my fitness and sharpness and hopefully I can show them I'm a good player.



Commenting on the game Grant continued: "I'd say a draw was a fair result but we are disappointed ourselves not to win games like Forest Green because we have asperations of finishing in the top five. We will have to take the three points against Telford on Wednesday.



"I think a draw was a just result," said Rovers boss Colin Addison. "We knew it would be difficult, particularly considering we were up against the Conference's form side.".

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Grayson costs Hereford points

Hereford United could only draw with Forest Green 1-1 this afternoon. John Grant scored in the 71st minute but a defensive error allowed the visitors to equalise one minute later.



The HU-FC.co.uk report, written by Terry, is here.

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Michael Husbands - a brief profile

Michael Husbands who has joined the Bulls on a month's loan is a product of the Aston Villa academy. His first appearance in a Bulls training tracksuit was on the pitch at Telford yesterday warming up with the team and subs.



At 5ft 9ins in height and under 10st weight, Husbands isn't the most physical player but the nineteen year old has played for the Aston Villa under-17, under-19 and, more recently, the reserve teams.



Husbands was in the Aston Villa squad that played in the FA Youth Cup final last May, featuring in both legs as a substitute.



He cites only music as a hobby, outside his favourite passion of playing football as a striker.

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Predictions League

Now updated after the Telford match, and can be viewed in the 'Interactive!' menu.



Get your guesses in for the Forest Green match before 2pm tomorrow.

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Three join ahead of derby

Hereford United have made three signings ahead of tomorrow's match against Forest Green Rovers, kick off 3pm.



Michael Husbands, an attacking player, has joined on a month's loan from Aston Villa as cover, and his is joined by Kevin Gwillam and Danny Moon, who have signed on non-contract terms after impressing in the youth team.



Husbands was signed on Christmas Eve but did not feature at Telford as Graham Turner felt he did not want to upset the winning squad. The attacker has already scored for the Villa reserve side this season - his goal in the 3-0 win against Bradford City was in a team alongside first-team regulars Mustapha Hadji and Steve Stone.



Turner has a selection headache for tomorrow's match. Firstly, left-back Michael Rose is suspended for the game, whilst Jamie Pitman and Paul Parry are both suffering with injuries and are doubts.



Forest Green Rovers, managed by former Hereford boss Colin Addison, should be unchanged for the game, after they beat Yeovil Town 2-1 yesterday.

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Bulls could jump to fourth place

A win for Hereford United tomorrow and other fixtures going in their favour could mean that the Bulls will be in fourth place by teatime.



The games to watch out for are between Southport vs Scarborough and Halifax vs Morecambe. Should both home sides win then, provided the Bulls do the business, Hereford will go fourth.



Hereford will be wary of Forest Green. Colin Addison's side beat Yeovil yesterday but the league leaders did give away an own goal. Recent form suggests Hereford should continue their winning run.



Harder to call is the Southport vs Scarborough match. Southport have lost their last four games and Scarborough were beaten at home by Doncaster yesterday. A draw looks possible which would keep Scarborough above Hereford.



Halifax have a good home record, only beaten twice so far this season and with Morecambe only winning twice away from home another draw is possible but should Halifax win Hereford will benefit.



So for the Bulls to go fourth Hereford and Southport must win and Morecambe either draw or lose.



Meanwhile, Telford United officially announced the away attendance as 803 from Hereford United yesterday.

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Top of the league

After today's fixtures Hereford United have the best discipline record in the Conference.



Although Jamie Pitman received a yellow card in today's game, Telford were given five. Hereford now have 29 points with Barnet just above them on 31 and Telford on 36.



However the Bulls still have both Danny Williams and Steve Guinan on four yellows and Michael Rose will miss next Saturday's game with Forest Green as he serves a one match suspension for five yellow cards.

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King unhappy with officials

Telford manager Jake King was not a happy man at the end of this afternoon's game with Hereford.



"Hereford have had a great run," he told BBC Radio Shropshire. "They are well organised but I thought it was a disgrace that we did not get two penalties"



Speaking about the second possible penalty, King thought Michael Rose should have been sent off for bringing Peter Smith down in the area.



"The second was definately in the box, just outside the six yard box. I've been in the game a long time and that is one of the worst (decisions) I've ever seem. Referees are arrogant, you can't talk to them. I wanted to talk to him after the match but he just brushed me away."



Steve Guinan told BBC Hereford and Worcester how he had prepared for today's game by keeping off the alcohol and going to bed by 9pm last night. "It's not a problem for me. There is no way I can have a drop as it affects my playing.



He praised Paul Parry for his great cross from which he scored and continued: "Today in the dressing room the lads were really bouyant. We just can't wait now for Forest Green. We should be full of confidence."



Guinan was also very happy with the tremendous Hereford support this afternoon which a Telford official suggested was close to 800.

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Fourth win in a row

Hereford United beat Telford United 1–0 today. Steve Guinan scored from a Paul Parry cross in the first half.



HU-FC.co.uk's report, written by Terry, is here.

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Christmas cracker or cold turkey?

Hereford United's clash at the Bucks Head tomorrow will be anything but easy.



Telford have gone seven matches unbeaten, and manager Jake King has billed the match as a "potential cracker", kick off 1pm.



He told the Shropshire Star: "It has got the potential to be a cracker. We are looking at two in-form teams in front of what hopefully be a decent crowd so hopefully we can rise to the occasion.



"Hereford had a great win at Chester on Friday so we know they are going to be a threat but we are in good form.



"We are very confident and everyone is looking forward to it. From a personal point of view it will be great to see their manager Graham Turner again because he has been a bit of a mentor to me."



Last season, in front of 2,161 on Boxing Day, United won the Christmas encounter with a 1-0 victory, courtesy of a goal from Scott Goodwin.



Steve Palmer, the Telford captain, said: "It is certainly a situation like the one we are facing last year. We were on a great run when we came to facing Hereford last Boxing Day and had just beaten Dagenham 5-1 away.



"But we had a big crowd against Hereford and let ourselves down a little bit and we have to make sure the same does not happen this time round.



"We have had an excellent sequence of results and the important thing now is to have a good festive period and still be going well in the New Year. Then we can have a look and see if we have a chance of making the play-offs and reassess our targets."

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Merry Christmas!

Festive greetings to all visitors of HU-FC.co.uk - Hereford United Online. Hopefully, you've all got what you want under the tree this year, and that the team can do the business on the field and notch up another three points at Telford tomorrow.



Many thanks to everyone involved with the website - contributors, sponsors and visitors - for all of your support this year, particularly when I was considering its future in the summer after a demoralising end to 2001/02. It's good to see that 2002/03 has been much more productive so far, and it's been a pleasure continuing with the project.



A very Merry Christmas to you all.

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United set for Boxing Day battle

Hereford United meet another form team in the Conference - Telford United - in their Boxing Day Nationwide Conference encounter, kick off 1pm.



The Bulls travel to the New Bucks Head Stadium hoping to build upon a run which has seen them win their last three games, scoring ten goals and keeping three clean sheets.



"We've had a change in fortune of late and are up there challenging at Christmas which is where we wanted to be at the start of the season," said Graham Turner in the Evening News.



United have no injury worries, and will be hoping that tomorrow's festive celebrations will not hamper progress. United boss Turner told BBC Hereford & Worcester that the players have been given advice on the hazards of Christmas.



"We have a dietician coming into the club to advise them and I think it's crucial that the guidelines laid down by him are adhered to," he said. "That's not to say that they can't enjoy themselves on the odd occasion over Christmas and I know we're professional enough in our attitude that the Christmas festivities won't affect the way we prepare for games."



At least Turner hasn't gone as far as Chester boss Mark Wright, who has threatened to breathalise his squad over the Christmas period to ensure they remain in tip-top condition. Hereford won 1-0 at the Deva Stadium over the second-placed Cestrians on Friday night.



Telford United manager Jake King should see Grant Brown return to the squad. His slight knee strain has recovered sufficiently, enabling him to be included after a six week long lay-off.

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King calls for "professional" approach

There's no chance of Telford United over-indulging before the visit of Hereford United on Boxing Day, kick off 1pm.



Bucks manager Jake King has told his players to be "professional" in the game's build-up, and told the Shropshire Star: "Some clubs have three, four even five nights out over Christmas but we only had one."



Hereford shouldn't have any major fitness doubts for the game, whilst Telford's Grant Brown will receive treatment for a knee ligament strain ahead of the match. The defender is on-loan from Lincoln City, to where he has returned for the recovery period.

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Trophy back to normal placing

The FA Trophy final will kick off at 3pm this season, at the end of the non-league campaign.



The game will be played at Villa Park on May 18th, and will be covered by Sky TV. It will be held some four days after the Conference play-off final, and as there are no other games on that day, Sky have agreed to a later kick-off.



Also returning to its normal spot is the FA Cup final, which was played before the end of the Premiership campaign last season. The match has traditionally been the finale to the domestic season.



- The Non-League Paper also quote in one of their articles today: 'Yeovil, the greatest giant-killers the up has known' - aren't they forgetting someone?

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Regional leagues stunned by proposals

The Nationwide Conference is set for a great expansion next season.



According to an exclusive report in the Non-League Paper, Conference chief executive John Moules is quoted as saying: "The FA have failed football. Now we are doing what needs to be done for the good of the game."



The Conference board have passed a ruling allowing them to expand their competition to 66 teams for next season, and have written to all 69 clubs in the Dr Martens, Ryman and Unibond League as they attempt to find clubs to add to one national or two regional divisions.



The FA's plans for reorganisation appear to have faltered, but the clubs will have to breakaway from their traditionally strong regional leagues if they want to be part of the plan. This move will face opposition from the Isthmian, Northern and Southern Leagues, who will feel their competitions are being ravaged because of Conference expansion ambitions.



Either a 'Conference Two' or 'Conference North' and 'Conference South' would be formed, a move which was supported by 58% of those surveyed in the FA's own restructuring proposals. However, these hit problems when the FA's National Leagues' System rejected the blueprint.



Moves for an extended Conference were first discussed last month, and the changes could be confirmed by February if the FA's committees agree.



Under the proposals for a regionalised system, the top teams in each division will gain promotion to the Conference, with two play-off competitions in each division deciding the two other places.



Furthermore, a Conference chairmen meeting on January 29th will look into the play-off situation in the Conference, particularly if the Football League allows teams an extra year to ensure their grounds meet league standards after they are promoted.

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More comment after Friday's win

Both managers are quoted in the Non-League Paper this morning.



Graham Turner said: "We've had two impressive games against Barnet and Woking, but tonight was different - we had to show true grit.



"We are not a physical side, so we have to battle for all we can get, but I thought we came through it with flying colours. At times we took a bit of a battering but, again, the lads were outstanding."



Chester boss Mark Wright said " I thought we had 65% of the play and can consider ourselves unlucky not to have got something from the game."



The PA gave Tretton 9 in the player ratings, making him man of the match.

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Tough night at Chester

Danny Williams, Paul Parry and Steve Guinan all had treatment as a result of injuries during last night's tough game at Chester.



First to need attention was Williams who appeared to have a gash on his side of his head. It looked as though he was struck by a Chester player with his elbow. Neither the referee nor the linesman witnessed the event which should have resulted in at least a yellow card.



Secondly, Parry was bundled off the pitch close to the dugout and needed attention to a head wound. The pitch has a type of tarmac surround which Parry fell onto.



Later, Guinan left the field for stiches to a wound on his face, but when he returned to the game he seemed to be even more motivated and it was not long before he scored.



Parry also gashed his knee late in the game, whilst Ben Smith was substituted but this seemed more of a tactical swap than an injury problem.



Just after the game ended some Chester hotheads rushed towards the two Hereford supporters buses but police and stewards were quickly on the scene.



"A few handbags were swung," said a policeman. Out of an attendance of 2507, some 285 Hereford fans were counted through the gate behind the goal. A few extra were seated giving a following of just under 300.

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Tretton praises Guinan

Speaking to BBC Hereford and Worcester after last night's win at Chester, Andy Tretton praised Steve Guinan who scored the only goal.



"He has played well all season but just hasn't been scoring goals but now he is reaping the rewards and is full of confidence."



As for the game itself, Tretton said: "Maybe even in the last ten minutes we would have settled for a point but we have let a few late goals in our selves so it was nice to put one in.



"It was a scrappy first half, bit of a fussy referee, the game never really got going. They were dangerous from set pieces but we defended them well. Matt Baker made a couple of good catches.



"It was a good win but we must concentrate and get as many points as we can over the Christmas period."



Graham Turner also praised Guinan, particularly for hsi recent upturn in form. "Steve Guinan is not a prolific goalscorer - he works very hard for the side - but suddenly goals are going in for him," Turner told the Evening News.



"He scored a hat-trick a couple of weeks ago and he got another one last week, and now he's scored another very important goal, and nobody deserves it more than him because of the amount of work that he's done.



"His second chance a minute later was probably easier than his first, but we won't be greedy, we'll settle for a 1-0 win.



"A really pleasing aspect is that we've now kept three cleansheets. Both sides worked hard to defend and reduced the opposition to very few chances, and we had the bit of luck to get the winner.



"This was a great victory for us and it was a fair old scalp to take, but now we've got to make sure we pick up points from our next three matches."



"My players are showing a lot of enthusiasm and we're now starting to pick up points."

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The Gentle Giant Project

I has been commissioned by Swansea City and County Council to produce a major exhibition to celebrate the life of the magnificent Welsh footballer, John Charles, with the full support of the Charles family, writes Phil Cope



The trilingual exhibition, its associated publications and activities will start in 2003/4 and is planned to tour Swansea, Cardiff, Leeds, Aberystwyth, Preston, Wrexham and Turin for the initial phase. We are actively looking for other venues - perhaps even Hereford. In addition, a smaller version of the exhibition will also be produced for community venues.



This will be the soccer exhibition for the twenty-first century. Utilising sound, huge visuals, objects and an all-enveloping environment, the visitor will be encouraged to forge a personal and participatory relationship with the man whose attributes and beliefs have so much to still teach us today.



In addition to a 64 page fully-illustrated catalogue to accompany the show, there will be a Research and Responses area. Here the visitor can explore further the history of the great man and the great clubs he represented through a library of books, CDs and access to the internet. Visitors will be able to add to this huge archive by contributing their own comments on computer, in comment books and directly onto the walls for others to share. Workshops will also be arranged with people of all ages.



The project is currently searching for recollections, memorabilia and images relating to John Charles, which will help the exhibition come alive. The Gentle Giant will have at its centre the memories of people from all of the places where Charles performed, celebrating the enduring effect of the man on those who met him and saw him play.



The Project would be extremely grateful if you would publicise a plea for artefacts, memories, memorabilia, etc. - especially those associated with his time at Hereford.



For further details, or if you can provide any assistance, please contact Phil at phil.cope@virgin.net.

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Late goal shocks Chester

Hereford United grabbed a vital victory at Chester this evening after Steve Guinan scored a late winner. The game finished 1 - 0.



This evening's report, written by Terry, is here.

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Rose aims to thorn Chester

Hereford United's Michael Rose will be hoping to extend his club's winning run with victory at Chester City tonight, kick off 7.45pm.



Rose, who notched two goals in last Saturday's 5-0 win over Woking at Edgar Street, signed from the Deva Stadium club in the summer after being released by Mark Wright, manager of the Cestrians.



Despite his release, Wright told the Cheshire News of the threat posed by Rose. "Apparently their first-half performance against Woking last Saturday was outstanding, and they would have matched anybody in the League," he said.



"Obviously, we know all about Michael Rose, who was with us last season, and we are aware of the threat his free-kicks pose. However, if we can play to our true potential then we need fear nobody. This holiday programme is going to be extremely demanding for all the players."



Rose was very disappointed by his release from Chester so the twenty year-old former Manchester United defender will be eager to prove a point.



"It's always interesting to go back to your former club and even better if you can come back and win," said Bulls boss Graham Turner in the Evening News. "He played around 38 games for them but wasn't offered a contract so he's got something to prove but he's done well for us."

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New date for Margate match

The Hereford United match at Margate has been rearranged.



The original game, scheduled for FA Cup second round day, was postponed because Margate were in action against Cardiff City.



Now United travel to Dover for the match on Tuesday 11th February.

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Bulls aim for trio of wins

Hereford United make the trip north to Chester City tomorrow in a battle of two of the top six in the Nationwide Conference, kick off 7.45pm.



After a recent 4-0 win against Barnet three weeks ago, followed by a 5-0 victory over Woking last Saturday, United will be confident of extending their unbeaten run against Chester, who won 4-0 at Leigh RMI last Saturday.



The Bulls will face Chester's prolific strikeforce of Daryl Clare and Ryan Sugden, a pairing which has propelled the Deva Stadium-based club to second in the Conference, three points behind leaders Yeovil Town and ten points ahead of second-placed Hereford. However, Chester failed to break the deadlock at Edgar Street in September, as United held the Cestrians to a 0-0 draw.



Graham Turner, manager of Hereford United is aware of the threat posed by Chester's attack, and told the Hereford Times: "They will need watching, but Andy Tretton and Tony James have developed an excellent understanding and I would back them against any strikers in the Conference."



Steve Brodie will not start for Chester City, because he has torn a muscle in his leg, and Mark Beesley has a back injury, whilst Hereford are likely to be unchanged. Matt Clarke has a niggling knee injury but should continue despite a possible requirement for surgery.

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Fancy a trip to Chester?

Hereford United have sold out one coach for Friday's trip to Chester City, but are looking to find a minimum of twenty five people to allow a second one to travel.



The coach is leaving Edgar Street at 4.45pm on Friday and will cost £11 each and although some bookings have been taken, more are required.



If you wish to make the trip, please call the club on 01432 276666 or pop into the main office in Blackfriars Street.

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Sugden to face Hereford

Chester City will have top scorer Ryan Sugden available for Hereford United's visit to the Deva Stadium on Friday night, kick off 7.45pm.



Sugden, having scored twelve goals this season, will be available before a three match ban starts on Saturday but had the game not been switched to the Friday night, he would have missed the match.



The game was switched to Friday night to boost the crowd at the Deva Stadium, which would otherwise have been hit by Christmas shoppers.



He was sent off at Morecambe two weeks ago for a head-butting incident and Chester manager Mark Wright told the Evening Leader: “He was wrong to do what he did at Morecambe, and he still has a lot of learning to do. He let himself down and he’s now let someone else have a chance to get in and make a mark for themselves, and form a partnership with Daryl Clare in the next few weeks.”



Mark Beesley, top scorer last season, Michael Twiss or Steve Brodie could start alongside Daryl Clare, who is in good form but will face a United defence who have conceded just twelve goals in ten away matches this season.



Chester boss Mark Wright also misses long-term injury victim Chris Blackburn, who is recovering from a cartilage operation.



Meanwhile, the Non-League Paper's tipster has predicted that Hereford could beat Chester in the match, although the pools panel verdict is of a home win.

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Two options says Turner

Graham Turner has told local media of his hopes for an extension to the deadline of May 2003 for the settlement of the £1.3 million debt to developers. He accepts that the club can not meet the deadline as originally agreed.



"There are only two options for the developers. They either demand the money back in May and if we can not pay put us under or they give us an extension to the loan and the obvious one is that that extension will be committed.



"We take nothing for granted but I would have thought that would be a sound business decision rather than put us under because there is nothing to be gained by anybody if that takes effect," commented Turner on BBC Hereford & Worcester.

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Farnborough date set

Hereford United's away game in the Nationwide Conference at Farnborough Town will now be played on Tuesday, 4th February 2003.



The game was initially set to be played on the first Saturday in January but Farnborough will travel to Feethams to play Darlington in the FA Cup third round.



Hereford's following to Cherrywood Road is now expected to be dramatically reduced because of the move from a weekend to a Tuesday evening.

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Little progress but deadline removed

Some weeks ago HU-FC.co.uk reported that the Chelverton Group Ltd. had gone into liquidation and suggested that other companies, namely Carillion and Richardsons, were becoming more involved in the probable regeneration of the centre of Hereford.



Last week it emerged that these two major companies, both based in the West Midlands, had taken over the lead in the project.



HU-FC.co.uk have discovered, from sources close to the club, that, at the informal shareholders meeting held last week, there was very little of substance for the directors to report. It had been anticipated, when the suggestion had been made to call this meeting, that there would have been activity over the autumn months. In fact, with the administrator being appointed at the developer, Chelverton, and the acquisition of its interest in the Edgar Street by Carillion, very little had happened; merely meetings as new persons got to meet the other interested parties.



It does appear that the dealine of May 2003 has been removed, but a revised date has not been elaborated.



Similarly, the UDP was only published very recently and the deadline for objections only passed on Friday. There has, therefore, been no real progress made with regards the Council. It does now seem to be accepted by all sides that there will be no relocation away from Edgar Street; any redevelopment of Edgar Street will need to incorporate a football stadium.



So who are these companies are what do they do?



Carillion is one of Britain's biggest construction companies. It was previously known as Tarmac and has its headquarters in Wolverhampton. Its chairman is Sir Neville Simms who is also a director of the Bank of England. The company has been involved in many major construction projects in recent years. Included in their portfolio have been the Channel Tunnel, the Thames Barrier, and the Royal Opera House.



Carillion consider themselves to be a market leader in retail and commercial building. They operate all over the UK and Overseas and are also do road and rail maintenance and NHS construction work.



Richardson Developments are based at Oldbury, in the West Midlands. They are well-known as investors and developers. There are three Richardson brothers; Don Richardson is understood to be the director who has been linked to the Hereford project.



The company has been involved in many projects in the West Midlands including both leisure and retail projects such as Star City in Birmingham and the Merry Hill complex at Dudley.

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Seven at the top!

After one December game in the HU-FC.co.uk Prediction League, seven players are tied at the top of the monthly league, whilst Cheesy has wrestled back control of the overall table.



More in the 'Interactive!' section.

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Cockerill crowing

Woking boss Glenn Cockerill was upset at the manner of the goals in today's 5-0 defeat at Edgar Street against Hereford United.



"We're disappointed because the goals came from silly mistakes," said Cockerill. "But we still feel we are making progress, the boys worked hard and didn't let their heads drop.



"I changed things around at half time when we were two goals down to try to get back into the game and that is probably why we conceded at the end."



United defender Matt Clarke told local media that he thought that the tide had turned and "things are going our way now".



"The change of formation seems to be going well," he said. "We just want to take each game as it comes.We are hoping to get a good Christmas period and get a few more points in the bag.The fixtures over Christmas work out quite well for us.



Talking about Ben Smith, he continued: "he's a great lad, he really adds a lot to the team and in the dressing room as well. He was magnificent today. Bit disappointed he did not get a hat-trick. He has added so much to our team.

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Good behaviour

After today's games Hereford lead the Fair Play table with 26 points. Telford, who were in front, had a man sent off today, whereas the Bulls received just one yellow card.



However, the yellow card went to Michael Rose who faces a one match suspension for the Forest Green Rovers game on December 28th.

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Bulls in control

Hereford United put in five goals against a poor Woking side this afternoon without conceding. Michael Rose and Ben Smith both scored twice and Steve Guinan once in a competent performance which gave the Bulls their first double of the season.



Today's report, written by Terry, is here.

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Turner outlines Galloway situation

Graham Turner clarified the situation regarding Mick Galloway last night on BBC Hereford and Worcester.



He said: "We first of all asked if he would stay for another month as we knew he had not got his problems sorted out with Carlisle. He was not too ameanable to that, he wanted it sorted out one way or the other and he put a bit of pressure on Carlisle. Ultimately it looks as if he is going to sign for Gretna. I thought people only went there to get married. I am quite surprised he is signing for them but I can see the circumstances.



"His wife is from Glasgow and wants to go back up there to live. There has been some fee paid to Carlisle for him from Gretna which we could not have afforded. So we have lost him and that is a big disappointment as I thought he played well for us. He is a good player but then we have got Danny Williams fit again and Danny will probably come in and take Mick's place.



"Before his injury I thought Danny was playing quite well this season so the loss is not too great. The rest of the side picks itself and justifies retaining places in the team with that performance against Barnet and its people like Ian Wright, Richard Teesdale, Rob Purdie and Rob Sawyers, those people will be on the bench. They have just got to kick there heals for a little while longer. I know they want to be playing first team football but the games over Christmas and New Year do not give much chance to recover from injuries, any slight knocks, and we have got one or two players on four bookings, one yellow card away from a suspension, so we need that squad to fall back on over these Christmas games.



"I thought Ben Smith played ever so well against Barnet. It was his first start of the season. He has missed an awful lot of football and training and I thought he took his goal very well and that's basically what he is about. He's a mid-fielder that can get in the opposing box. He's a midfield player that can get in for goal scoring chances and his record at scoring has been quite good over the seasons. I do think he's a good player with a lot to offer the club and I'm sure over the next two or three months then supporters will see the same as I have done over a number of years and that is he is an excellent Conference midfield player."



Asked if he was still looking to bring anyone in, Turner continued: "Yes, I would like to take the precaution of strengthening the squad before these games come up. We are not too badly positioned in the league, eighth, you know the top five is to aim for, and we have to make sure we have sufficient strength and depth to cope with any injuries we get. So we have been looking to strengthen the side with no success so far but that will continue. If we can bring in a mid field player and another striker before the Christmas matches I will be delighted."



Graham Turner was interviewed by Trevor Owens.



Please note that the Predictions League form is not currently working, as we previously advised, so please send all guesses to predictions@hu-fc.co.uk.

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High tempo is the key

Hereford United hope some flowing football and speedy play will be the key to success against Woking at Edgar Street tomorrow, kick off 3pm.



The Bulls were without a game last week but manager Graham Turner is adamant that this will not have stifled progess.



"It was unfortunate that we've had this break after winning 4-0 but we're in good shape and looking forward to the match," he told the Evening News. "Woking have got a lot of experience in their side with the likes of Dean Austin and Warren Patmore so we've got to have a high tempo game.



"We've studied the tape of their live Sky clash with Doncaster Rovers so we know a bit about them. But we've got youth on our side, a fair degree of fitness and if we play with the same pace as we did against Barnet we should be able to get a result.



"Before the Barnet game we had a poor run without playing badly in games such as against Dagenham & Redbridge and the return for our performances was unjustified. One point out of 18 makes pretty bad reading but we bounced back with four goals against Barnet and a Steve Guinan hat-trick so that's done everyone's confidence the world of good."



Woking, without centre-back Chris Collins, have injury doubts over Nicky Banger, whose hamstring problem is keeping him sidelined. Cards boss Glenn Cockerill says that he is "50-50" to place, whilst Grant Payne has turned his ankle and is doubtful. Hereford will be at full strength.

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No injuries for confident United

Hereford United play their first match in two weeks this Saturday as Woking visit Edgar Street, kick off 3pm.



The Bulls, currently eighth in the Nationwide Conference table, are four points off a play-off place and seven points above eighteenth placed Woking.



In the away fixture, Hereford won 2-1 under the Sky cameras and United boss Graham Turner told the Hereford Times: "We did well at Woking but we cannot underestimate them because, althout they've had a disappointing season, they have a lot of quality players in their team.



"We go in to the game with a lot of confidence having played well in the games against Wigan and Dagenham without the ball running for us, but getting a very good win in our last match against Barnet."



Hereford have no injury worries for the game, but must watch the card count. Each having collected four yellows, another booking for Michael Rose, Danny Williams or Steve Guinan would result in a ban over Christmas.



Woking will miss young defender Chris Collins, who is out with a groin injury, and striker Ben Abbey is out for a similar problem. In-form attacking duo of Warren Patmore and Raphael Nade should start for the Cards, whilst ex-Spurs defender Dean Austin is likely to feature at the back.

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Bulls hope for off-field progress

The informal shareholders meeting on Monday night saw Graham Turner announce that he hopes to get the repayment dates on the loans extended by another five years, reports the Hereford Times.



Hereford United are set to repay £1.3 million to development company Carillion Richardson, who have taken over the debt from Chelverton, in May 2003, but Turner is hoping for a two, or preferable, five year extension to offer the club some much needed stability.



Consultants are now looking at the redevelopment plan of the Edgar Street grid which is crucial to the long-term future of the club.



Any development, it is hopes, would include a redeveloped Edgar Street football ground as part oif a huge 43-acre development in the city.



Detailed implementation plans for the key sites should be ready by the end of June 2003, and Council leader Terry James said: "This is one of the most exciting regeneration projects in the history of Herefordshire. The brief is about getting consultants to do the groundwork and presenting options. It's for the council to decide the way forward then."



The major sticking point in the development seems to be the relocation of the city's livestock market, which is adjecent to Hereford United. There have been problems in finding a suitable site for a new development, as those proposed have faced great local opposition.

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HU-FC.co.uk Prediction League notice

Please note that due to server upgrades, some predictions entered into the competition on 14th-15th December may not register. Therefore, it is best to get your predictions in for the Woking game before the time period, or email them to predictions@hu-fc.co.uk.

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Promotion for Conference clubs improved

A new Football League initiative has been launched to allow clubs promoted from the Nationwide Conference time to upgrade their grounds to the required standard.



In previous years, clubs including Stevenage Borough and Kidderminster Harriers have been refused promotion after winning the Conference due to playing at grounds which do not meet Football League standards, and not upgrading them by the cut-off date.



It is now expected that club such as Barnet will have one year to upgrade their grounds after promotion to the league, as the North London side's Underhill ground currently doesn't meet the required standard.



The move comes as the Football League received news of a £20 million financial support package, backed by the FA, Premier League and Football Stadia Improvement Fund.



"Presently clubs have to have a grade A ground to get into the Football League," said acting Football League chief executive Peter Heard to the BBC. "We are altering that because this money is coming through to give them 12 months if they win promotion."



However, Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous is sceptical. "This has been talked about for a few weeks but I think the feeling at the club is that we will believe it when we see it, with all its clauses and conditions," he said.



Under current rules, clubs without A-graded grounds cannot take part in the play-offs, which will be competed for the first time at the end of this season.

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Council clarifies market situation

Herefordshire Council leader Terry James has suggested to HU-FC.co.uk that reports that McCartneys are considering building a new market near Kington are little more than speculation.



Referring to an article published on HU-FC.co.uk yesterday, Councillor James said: "McCartneys are not closing Kington Market and are not intending to build a new market."



He also clarified Herefordshire Council's position as regards the Bill going to the House of Lords.



"Not only in order to move the market do we need a Bill passed through Parliament, but if we were to cease providing a livestock market we would need a Bill to go through Parliament and our legal advisors state that it would be virtually impossible to pass a Bill to end provision of a market in the Hereford City area based on the view that it is virtually impossible to prove that a market is not needed and would be opposed very strongly by the NFU and the majority of the farming community", he continued.



"If Hereford United is to survive into the future, it has to be part of the large regeneration project we have planned for thr area and that is only viable if we are able to move the cattle market."

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Last Team Standing update

Both Richard Price and Jamie Griffiths remain in the BOLSA-run competition.



The loss of Harrogate Railway 1-3 against Bristol City means that Jamie's next fixture is Leicester City v Bristol City with Bristol City becoming his team



Mansfield's loss 0-3 v Crewe means that Richard's next fixture is Southend or Bournemouth v Crewe Alexandra with Crewe Alexandra becoming his team



Meanwhile, following the BOLSA committee discussion on Sunday night, it was decided that a meeting should be arranged to try and formulate a policy between all fundraising groups associated with Hereford United so that a common strategy for the future of our club can be decided upon.



"As the May 2003 deadline draws closer, what has become evident over the last month or so is that financially the club's position may be not as secure in the short term as initially thought. Coupled with this is the long term redevelopment of Edgar Street.



Various fundraising schemes are being undertaken by a number of groups and individuals. We feel that we should all be working together to gain maximum publicity for the club and make best use of the money we are raising.



The meeting will be on Saturday 14th December in the VP club starting at 5.30pm. It will be open to all fans, not just BOLSA members, because the views of everyone are needed if unity and maximum exposure are to be obtained. Please make the effort to come and have your say.

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Margate match blocked by Dover date

Any hopes that Hereford United will play their re-arranged game at Margate on January 4th appear to have been thwarted.



Margate are currently ground-sharing with Dover Athletic and the Dr. Martens League Premier Division side have a home game on that day, against Halesowen Town.



Consequently, United will have to find another date to play the game, as well as the away match at Farnborough Town that has been postponed because of their involvement in the FA Cup third round.

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Midfielder agrees deal

Mick Galloway will sign for Gretna when the international transfer window re-opens.



Hereford United had hoped to seal the signing of the midfielder following his release by Carlisle United, but he has signed on a trial basis until January 1st, waching Saturday's 2-1 defeat against Albion Rovers from the stand.



Just 299 turned up for the Scottish third division match, but Galloway told the Carlisle News & Star: "It was a chance that came out of the blue really. I've kept in touch with Rowan Alexander and Derek Frye ever since I came on loan last year. I've got a lot of time and respect for them and they did me a favour last year by taking me on loan and helping me get fit after my injury."



Assistant boss Frye said: "Micky Galloway is a good signing, without a doubt. He will spread passes around the park all day for us."



Galloway is said to have agreed a two and a half year deal with the club, which he will sign at the turn of the year.

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Market uncertainty could affect United

More potential problems for Herefordshire Council have emerged this weekend with speculation that a new livestock market may be built in the Kington area.



It is believed that McCartneys, the auctioneers who run both Kington and Knighton markets, are considering a move to amalgamate the two operations to a new site. The two existing premises are centered inside the towns' boundaries and would have considerable development potential.



The only other market in that area at Kinnerton recently closed. It is understood that Sunderlands, the operators, could not make the business viable.



Livestock markets are expensive to run and need to be used on as many days in the week as possible to contain costs. However, many markets are still situated in the centre of towns and have become unsuitable for today's needs. This has lead to closures and cost-cutting measures. Hereford Market Auctioneers pay rent to the council on a through-put basis, but that deal was done before the foot and mouth epidemic, when usage was much higher. Sources close to HMA suggest the market is close to breaking even, but it is believed that the council is in effect subsidising the operation.



Should a new market be built at Kington, there may be less pressure for another new market close to Hereford. This, in turn, will make voters query whether Herefordshire Council is right to take a bill to the House of Lords to make it possible to move the existing market.



The news could have the effect of stalling any hopes of redevelopment further, resulting in the future of Hereford United remaining uncertain for a longer period than originally thought.

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Date opens for Margate match

After losing the away game against Margate yesterday because of their FA Cup action, Hereford United look set to re-arrange the their match on third round day.



Margate went out of the cup 3-0 to Cardiff City yesterday, but Farnborough Town are in today's third round draw after beating Southport 3-0 yesterday, meaning that Hereford's trip to Cherrywood Road on January 4th will have to be re-arranged.



Dagenham & Redbridge and Morecambe have also progressed to the third round, leaving Hereford, Leigh RMI and Margate without matches on that day. It would, therefore, seem a superb opportunity to play the Nationwide Conference match at the Crabble between Margate and Hereford which was postponed yesterday.

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No Galloway

Gretna Green did not field Mick Galloway as they slumped to a Scottish Third Division defeat against Albion Rovers, which sees the victors move to the summit of the table.



HU-FC.co.uk's Tim Ward was at Worcester City to track to progress of Scott Voice today. The Hereford United striker is on-loan at Hinckley United, who gained a 2-2 draw against the Dr. Martens League Premier Division high-flyers. According to Tim, Voice's fitness has improved and he looks much livelier than he has in United matches. He got the first of Hinckley's goals with a good header from a first-half corner



Elsewhere, Chris Lane, formerly of United, was sent off as Southport crashed out of the FA Cup 3-0 against fellow Conference side Farnborough Town. Non-Leaguers Dagenham & Redbridge and Morecambe join Graham Westley's side in the third round draw.

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Midfielder signs for Gretna

Mick Galloway was set to sign for Gretna Green - on a trial basis.



The midfielder, who was released by Carlisle United yesterday, is expected to have linked up with the Scottish Third Division side in time for today's match against Albion Rovers.



Gretna can get around transfer regulations that bar Scottish sides from signing players until the transfer window opens up in January as his trialist forms allow him to play for three games.



Gretna spokesman Steve Barker said: "Hopefully the paperwork will be signed up ready for us to get international and inter-league clearance and play him on Saturday as a trialist. When the first transfer window closed in August he was signed for Carlisle United, so he cannot be registered as a player for us until January 1. But we can play him for a maximum of three games as a trialist."



However, Hereford United can still sign the player at any time until he completes a move to Gretna.

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Galloway released by Carlisle

As Hereford United and Gretna Green compete for the signnig of Mick Galloway, news has emerged that the midfielder has been released by Carlisle United.



The club's official website says the 28 year old has had his contract cancelled by 'mutual consent', and he is 'currently considering several offers'.



Galloway spent time on-loan at Gretna before a two-month stint with Hereford which ended last Saturday. His last game for the Bulls saw Barnet defeated 4-0.

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Update on development

Hereford United shareholders will have the opportunity to be updated on the development issues in a special meeting.



The event will take place next Monday at Edgar Street, where the club will discuss the plans for the Edgar Street grid.



It is, as yet, unclear as to whether non-shareholders can attend, and what time the meeting starts.



Meanwhile, a report on the official Carlisle United website suggests that Mick Galloway will sign for Gretna Green in the next few days after Brunton Park manager Roddy Collins confirmed that he had no future at the club.

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Bulls fly high in card table

Hereford United lie second in the Nationwide Conference discipline table having picked up fewer yellow and red cards than almost any other club.



Only Telford United lie above United in the fair play league, and Hereford are the only club without a red card to their name. The Shropshire-based side have picked up eighteen yellow and two red cards since August in the league.



Andy Tretton's sending off at Dagenham & Redbridge has been over-ruled by the FA, leaving United in a good position with twenty five Conference bookings this season.

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Bulls battle to sign Galloway

Hereford United have lost the services of midfielder Mick Galloway, and could face opposition to sign him on a full-time



The Carlisle United man has been on-loan at Edgar Street for the past two months but the player has rejected the offer of a third month at the Bulls.



Now, the news has emerged that Scottish third division newcomers Gretna Green are taking a look at Galloway and could oppose Hereford in the race to seal his signature.



Graham Turner, the Hereford boss, told BBC Hereford & Worcester that although a contract for a permanent move has been agreed, there were issues to resolve at Brunton Park.



"Galloway is not prepared to come back on loan for another month, at this stage," Turner said. "He would like to get it tied up permanently, so this week he's going up to Carlisle to see whether he can get a settlement up there."



"There is a bit of concern we might have lost him. He's done very well for us, he's enjoyed his time with us, and I think what we talked about in terms of a contract seemed acceptable to him, so it would be a bitter disappointment if he didn't end up with us on a more permanent basis."



"He's got to discuss the situation with them (Carlisle) and see if there's a settlement for him."



Hereford are without a game this weekend, giving Galloway time to sort out his future. No match has been arranged for this Saturday after the trip to Margate was postponed due to the Kent club's cup commitments.

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Turner anticipates big crowd

Graham Turner has told the Evening News that he expects a big attendance for Hereford United's FA Trophy third round tie against Yeovil Town in January.



"It's a cracking draw though I would have liked as easy a passage as possible because it's a cup competition that we have got a realistic chance of winning," he said.



"We've already had a good go against the Second Division leaders Wigan so why shouldn't we have a good crack against the Conference leaders?



"I would have thought there is enough interest to attract a crowd in excess of 3,000 because they will bring a reasonable following.



"Forget what competition it is, it is a knock-out cup against the leaders who I suppose are our nearest thing to a local derby. They've also got a couple of former Hereford players in Gavin Williams and Michael McIndoe."



The game will be played on 11th January.

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Thoughts from the Meadow End

- I've written about formations here before. At first I didn't like 3-5-2 , preferring the traditional 4-4-2, but conceded that Graham Turner might have a point after a string of excellent defensive performances. Yesterday's terrific result and performance was in a 4-4-2 line up, so what does that prove? What it proves is that in the end good individuals are probably more important than any formation. In Galloway & Smith United had a pair of midfielders who can dominate and direct the game - with all respect to Williams, Purdie, Sawyers etc., they are a bit lightweight and can't really influence the course of the game, particularly when we're under real pressure. Even in 4-4-2 line up, the full backs still got the chance to go forward, particularly Clarke.



- There cannot be any doubt after the Barnet game which Paul Parry's best position is. Wide on the left he supplied a string of testing crosses which Guinan finished off with equally fine headers. He was able to play there due to John Grant's return which meant that Parry didn't have to play the striking role which he doesn't look comfortable with.



- If there's a better central defender in the Conference than Tony James I'd like to know who he is.



- It was pleasing that Grant got a good round of applause when he was subbed. He works hard and has ability but freezes in sight of goal. Confidence is vital to a striker so the last thing he needs is the crowd giving him a hard time.



- Ian Wright has been a great servant of the club and will always give 100% but he's nowhere near as quick and mobile as James or Tretton, so if GT is sticking with a back four then those two should be his centre back pair.



- Where are all the supporters? 1400 is a pretty poor turnout. They can't all have been Christmas shopping. Maybe this will bring a few of them back for the next one.



- I'm sure the floodlights are getting dimmer, or maybe it's my eyes. I noticed that the Wigan manager made some comment about the poor floodlights so I'm not alone.



- The delight on Ben Smith's face having scored was obvious. He's had a rough time with injuries over the last 18 months so cracking home a fine shot in his first full home game must have left him feeling pretty good.



- Supporters really do need to be more patient. I was surrounded by people bellowing "get it forward", "stop messing about" etc. each time United passed the ball around the midfield. People have to learn that it's better to keep possession and work an opening than just thump it forward all the time, particularly as we don't have a big target man to play to.



- Some of United's passing was first class. Galloway in particular spread it about very well. Let's hope we can sort out whatever the problems are preventing him signing on permanently.



- It's a shame there's no match next week to try and build on the momentum. More performances like that and a play-off spot is a very real possibility.

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Save your pennies

It is now less than six months to May 19, 2003 and we're no nearer knowing what will happen to the club after that date, writes BOLSA secretary John Perkins. One of BOLSA's task is to raise money to help the survival of Hereford United regardless of who owns/runs the club. We will be reviving the 'Jars of Change' collection but would like to challenge internet users in an attempt to get this started.



Please set aside a jar in your house and whenever you receive any coins of 20p value or less do not spend them but put them aside in the jar. If each person was to raise £10 pounds in change between now and May, that's another £3000 pounds towards our fund based on fans forum users alone.



Please join us in this activity. Every little bit helps to meet our goal.

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Galloway set for United deal

Mick Galloway is hoping to get his move to Hereford United finalised soon.



The Carlisle United midfielder, who has been on-loan at Edgar Street for the last two months, has been told that he can leave Brunton Park and a contract has been offered by Hereford.



However, he wants to sort out his pay-off from the Cumbrian Third Division side which has been the sticking point in making the move permanent so far.



Meanwhile, any hopes that Hereford United would be playing Burton Albion this Saturday have been thwarted. The Brewers have arranged a league match at Doncaster Rovers, leaving the Bulls as the only Conference side not in action this Saturday.

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United get tie of the round

Hereford United have been drawn at home to Conference rivals Yeovil Town in the third round of the FA Trophy.



Yeovil, managed by Gary Johnson, are currently top of the Conference and holders of the FA Trophy after their win last season at Villa Park.



The game will be played at Edgar Street on Saturday, 11th January 2003.

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Trophy draw made today

The FA Trophy third round draw is made today.



It is the stage of the competition where Nationwide Conference clubs enter proceedings, and Hereford United could face a number of local rivals - including Dr. Martens Premier Division pacesetters Worcester City.



Newport County have also progressed, whilst Gloucester City, Halesowen Town and Merthyr Tydfil will replay before entering the third round draw, which will be made at Liverpool's Anfield ground.

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Monthly award to Swindon Whites

At the end of November, Swidon Whites wins the monthly prize, finishing a point ahead of 'jonnymed'. Swindon Whites, please email predictions@hu-fc.co.uk to claim your prize!



In the overall table, 'len westons last stand' and 'SMBull' are now a point clear of 'Cheesy' at the top.



All the details are under the 'Interactive!' menu.

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