Baker looking to go one better
Hereford United's number one Matt Baker knows he must be on top form this season, despite being the only goalkeeper at the club.
He told HU-FC.co.uk: "There is always competition for your place. Whether someone's here or not, there are plenty of other people out there willing to try and do your job so. I've just got to concentrate on doing my bit and hope it's good enough."
Graham Turner is actively looking for a new goalkeeper to back-up Baker, in case of injury or suspension. Last season, Baker played every Conference match and prevented Ken Griffiths from getting a look in, but Hereford have had a local lad, Adam Ding on trial.
"He's done really well," said Baker. "He fitted in really quickly and it's never easy as a goalkeeper coming in and having to learn everyone's names straight away to try and communicate with them. He's played two games, granted they've not been the best of opposition, but that's probably the best way to ease him into the team."
Last season was disappointing for the ex-Hull City stopper as United missed out on the play-offs. "We've had a long break to reflect on what happened last year and hopefully this season we'll finish one place higher," he said.
"We've got to be looking to get promoted. We've added to the squad and David Brown in a proven goalscorer. I know him from my days at Hull City and he's a top class finisher so coupled with Steve Guinan and Paul Parry, we've got a real attacking threat and we just need a right-back now to fill Matt Clarke's void."
In the right-back position, ex-Swindon Town man Nathan Edwards has played in the last couple of matches. Baker continued: "Nathan did quite well at right-back. Again, it's difficult to see what kind of level players are at if they're not playing against professional opposition and I'm sure if he gets a chance on Thursday or/and Saturday then he'll show what he's capable of. The defensive stability comes from last year. In Andy Tretton and Tony James, I don't think there are two better centre halves in the Conference - they're quick, strong and good in the air - and we have a great understanding at the back. Add Michael Rose, who's played for his country in every international this year, and I think we're looking pretty strong."
The Bulls play two more pre-season matches before they kick-off their Conference campaign at Tamworth on August 9th. United face Birmingham on Thursday, while two days later host Kidderminster Harriers in a Herefordshire-Worcestershire derby.
Baker said: "I think up to now, there's only really been the Wolves game that's been a really tough test, but I'm sure now we're further into pre-season and the big kick-off's approaching, and it'll be a really good test for us. Birmingham will hopefully bring a strong team and we can pit our wits against Premiership players which is always nice to do."