Walsall are the visitors to Edgar Street tomorrow as Manager Trewick uses this final opportunity before the opening League 2 match at Morecambe to tinker with the squad and formations.
The Saddlers finished last season in a respectable League 1 thirteenth place and have added to their squad during the close season. Veteran 'keeper, Clayton Ince, has signed a new one-year deal and has competition from Rene Gilmartin while former Swindon defender Jamie Vincent has joined to add experience the back division.
Another addition comes in the form of former Birmingham City and Grimsby winger Peter Till. Also joining is striker Sam Parkin from Luton and former Burnley attacking midfielder Steve Jones along with ex-Northampton defender Mark Hughes. Box to box midfielder Josh O’Keefe is another incomer, the 20 year-old arriving from Blackburn Rovers.
The notable departure from the Bank's Stadium was Anthony Gerrard who was sold to Cardiff.
The Bulls are expected to field their currently strongest XI with the possible inclusion of a surprise new central midfielder with the remaining trialists having one more chance to impress.
Bulls v Walsall FC. Saturday 1st August. KO 3.00 pm.
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Friday, July 31, 2009
Walsall will provide stern test
In Appreciation of Sir Bobby Robson
Hereford United supporters who are at Morecambe for the first game of the season will be able to take part in a one minute applause in memory of Sir Bobby Robson.
The former England manager, one of the most admired characters in football, died this morning after a long battle against cancer.
This from the Football League:
The Football League has asked its clubs to hold a minutes applause to commemorate the life of Sir Bobby Robson at all matches played during the opening weekend of the new football season. Sir Bobby died earlier today, at the age of 76, after a long battle against illness.
Players will also wear black armbands as a tribute to the man who led England to the 1990 World Cup semi-final.
Football League Chairman Lord Mawhinney said, "I am hugely saddened to hear the news of Sir Bobby's death. He was one of the greats of the English game and will be remembered as a fine player for club and country, an outstanding manager and an ambassador for the sport that he loved. He has shown tremendous courage throughout his battle with illness, selflessly raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity from which many others will benefit.
"The thoughts of The Football League, our clubs and their supporters are with Bobby's family and friends today. We will miss him."
Blackfriars Statement
The club have released the following statement regarding the re-development of the Blackfriars Terrace. The following comes from the Official Hereford United website, www.herefordunited.co.uk.
Talks are continuing with all parties involved in the redevelopment of football facilities in the Blackfriars End of the ground and whilst good progress is being made there has been one setback which has forced us into a major change to our plans.
Originally the Club were led to believe that a grant from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund was available for a 2000 capacity covered standing terrace.
Through no fault of the Clubs we have now been informed that it is not the policy of the Football Stadia Improvement Fund to provide grants for standing areas.
Hereford United are disappointed with this view because we believe that there is a large number of supporters who prefer to stand especially behind goals, however we understand the Football Stadia Improvement Fund’s policy over safety issues.
The Club have therefore had to reconsider the plans and a 1,500 capacity all seated stand with disabled facilities, canteens and toilets will be developed.
The target set for all concerned is to complete the project before the end of the coming season.
Midfielder set to sign
The Official Hereford United Website, http://www.herefordunited.co.uk/ is reporting that an un-named midfielder has agreed to join Hereford on a permanent basis.
The player is a central midfielder but no more information has been disclosed. More information about the deal is set to be released tomorrow.
On Tuesday evening, trialist James McQuilkin impressed when coming off the bench but whether the youngster has been offered a deal will remain unclear until tomorrow. Our guess is as good as yours at this time!
Young Bulls success in Aberystwyth
Both the U10's and U11's have won their finals in the eight-a-side Super Cup at Aberystwyth this morning.
The U12's eleven-a-side final kicks off at 3.30 this afternoon.
Update: - U12's are understood to have lost 2-1 in their final.
Two out of three ain't bad. Well done the youngsters.
More later.
Port Vale still undecided on Kris Taylor
The former Bulls player has appeared in several pre-season friendlies for the Valiants and seems to be close to a deal.
Manager, Micky Adams, has said he would like to add Taylor to his squad but any offer is subject to budget restrictions with suggestions of an initial non-contract deal being a possibility.
Adams is also looking at former Crewe keeper Stuart Tomlinson, with first choice Joe Anyon still recovering from last seasons leg fracture telling BBC Radio Stoke "We're in the driving seat, and if we could find some money from somewhere then we could get them."
Vale play their final PSF at Kidderminster on Saturday.
Clarke And Elmes In At Yeltz
Former Bulls Matt Clarke and Rob Elmes are the new management team at Halesowen.
It has been a difficult summer for the Yeltz, who had been barred from playing football over unpaid debts that former owner Morrell Maison refused to pay. He himself was subject to another banning order over his touchline behaviour, but club shareholders have now forced him out of the club entirely and cleared footballing debts to enable the club to prepare for the new season that starts in two weeks.
It will be an uphill task for Clarke and Elmes, who will go into the Southern League Premier division with a patched up squad. Clarke told the Birmingham Mail: "It's fantastic news that the sanctions have been lifted. It means I can now go out and bring in more players. While the sanctions were in place, players were reluctant to commit themselves. As a result I still need three or four players to make up the squad."
Elmes was brought to Edgar Street from Halesowen, playing 110 times for the Bulls between 1999 and 2002. Clarke played 143 times at Edgar Street over five seasons, leaving the Bulls to follow scout Ron Jukes to Telford in 2003.
Parry to move to Preston
Paul Parry's move to Preston is to go ahead according to the Welsh Press.
He is reported to have told his club mates at Cardiff City - 'I'm on my way'.
Preston boss Andy Irvine has offered Parry a three year deal and a fee to Cardiff approaching £300,000.
News Round Up
Port Vale are to sign Colchester forward Jamie Guy on loan. The 21 year old spent the latter part of last season at Dagenham, scoring once in nine games, and the first half at Oxford, scoring twice in 23 games. Shrewsbury are rumoured to be chasing Michael Bridges as a replacement for Grant Holt. The ex-England man has previously held talks with Darlington and Lincoln.
Rotherham will not be spending any cash received from the sale of striker Reuben Reid on players. The expected £250,000 windfall will go to bolster the club's finances in it's hunt for a stadium back in Rotherham. Northampton have signed ex-Arsenal defender Paul Rodgers on a one year deal. He spent part of last season at Sixfields, making 11 appearances. Chairman Dennis Cardoza says the club have received a number of written offers for their players but they've turned them all down in order to win promotion.
Brentford's supporters trust is mulling over an offer of a £5million investment loan over five years. If the deal is agreed fan Matthew Bentham will buy 35% of the club and have an option to buy the trust's majority stake if they don't repay his loan. The Bees owe £9million. Jimmy Harvey has called in his solicitor to resolve the problems with Forest Green. Club sources say he broke his contract, but the club refuses to make an official statement.
Rotherham have handed veteran winger Andy Liddell a month to month contract. The 36 year old spent last season at Oldham where he scored eight times in 34 games, half of them from the bench. Grimsby have been turned down by Luton full back Lewis Emmanuel, and he will sign a new deal at Kenilworth Road.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Bulls to finsh 9th
To date, most predictions from supporters of other clubs have put Hereford United close to the bottom of League Two this coming season. However Jacob Daniel, who contributes to Notts County Mad, has suggested that the Bulls could finish in 9th place.
After writing about last season and the promotion of John Trewick to manager, Daniel looks at the squad so far then makes his prediction.
The Squad
Has been rebuilt during the summer, which has pretty much become par for the course at Hereford in recent seasons. In goal Adam Bartlett, the best 'keeper in non-league, has been snapped up from Kidderminster Harriers in an impressive coup. Keith Lowe has also joined from Harriers in defence alongside another Blue Square swalwart, Darren Jones of Forest Green Rovers. Full back Ryan Valentine, formerly of Darlington and Wrexham, is one of the most solid left backs you could hope for at this level whilst Richard Rose has over 100 appearances at the club. At right back Ryan Green signs having spent a few successful years at Bristol Rovers after leaving Hereford the first time.
In midfield Trewick has also been busy, the loss of anchorman Toumani Diagouraga to Peterborough United for around £200,000 is a massive one for the Bulls, but in Kenny Lunt they have replaced a man who's has far too much quality for League Two, providing they can keep him interested. Jamie Tolley has also signed from Macclesfield Town as has Glen Southam from Dagenham, whilst youth team prospect Sam Gwynne remains at the club, more cover will be needed centrally if the Bulls are to maintain a play-off push however. Out wide young left winger Matty Done is not the finished article but has the pace and raw skill to terrify League Two defences, whilst right winger Marc Pugh, signed from Shrewsbury, is one of the more talented players you'll find at this level, again providing you keep him interested and motivated. Upfront the Bulls really do need more strengthening, but Leon Constantine could refind his goalscoring form from Port Vale a division lower whilst, as long as he stays fit, Lee Morris has the talent to succeed at this level.
Prediction
More bodies are needed, particularly in midfield and upfront, if Hereford are to sustain any sort of play-off challenge, but we have faith in Trewick to get a couple of players in and use the loan market, with Turner's help, if necessary throughout the season. Keeping Lunt, Pugh and Constantine motivated and up for it will be a huge test for Trewick, but if he succeeds then he has the core of a squad that can emulate the Bulls' promotion of 2007/08.
9th
The full article is at: http://www.nottscounty-mad.co.uk/news/loadfeat.asp?cid=EDZ9&id=455296
Jonny Godsmark 'linked' to Bulls
Jonny Godsmark is to join Hereford United for a six month loan spell according to a Newcastle United blog.
Whether there is any truth is this speculation remains to be seen.
However Bulls manager John Trewick does hail from the Newcastle area and no doubt has a few connections in the area.
For the record 19 year old Godsmark is a 'skilful ball-playing wing man' who signed a professional contract with Newcastle last year.
Youngsters into finals at Aberystwyth
Teams representing Hereford United have made it through to the finals of their particular age groups at the Welsh International Super Cup, one of Europe's largest soccer tournaments which used to be known as the Ian Rush tournament.
The finals will take place tomorrow (Friday).
This year is the 25th year Aberystwyth has staged a football tournament for youngsters.
The Hereford United teams competing in the tournament have been led by Jamie Edwards, Colin Williams and Gary Stephens.
Championship Clubs look at Mkandawire
Former Hereford United captain Tamika Mkandawire has been the subject of attention from several Championship clubs according to the Romford Press.
Millwall are understood to have had a bid turned down for the Leyton Orient defender.
Mkandawire says he's happy at Orient despite the transfer speculation.
"I just try and concentrate and block it out and stay focused," he said.
"As far as I'm concerned, I'm an Orient player and I'm looking forward to the new season."
Update: - Scunthorpe United boss Nigel Adkins is being linked with a move for Leyton Orient defender Tamika Mkandawire. A fee of £700,000 is being mentioned in some quarters.
The 26-year-old is reportedly eyeing a move away from the Mathroom Stadium and would welcome a move to the Championship. Mkandawire still has a year left on his current deal with Orient but Adkins is said to be ready to make a move as he looks to bolster his defensive options. (From Clubcall.com)
News Round Up
Bulls trialist Mustapha Dumbaya turned out for Doncaster at Grimsby on Tuesday night. Port Vale have opened talks over a regeneration of their Vale Park home in order to increase revenue at the stadium. Everton will not be following up their interest in Vale's teenage striker James Lawrie. The Bournemouth Echo is to run a campaign calling on the Football League to end their transfer embargo.
Ex-Bull Dean Smith has returned to his Walsall roots as their new Head of Youth. He started his playing career at the club before joining the Bulls in a club record transfer, and has returned after leaving Leyton Orient in January. Cheltenham have loaned goalkeeper Will Puddy to Bath City for three months. The 21 year old was their second choice keeper.
Bury have signed ex-Morecambe midfielder Damien Allen on a one year deal. The 22 year old played 24 times in two seasons at Christie Park. Accrington are to sign Leeds keeper Alan Martin on loan until January. The Scottish u-21 international spent much of last season at Barrow. Barnet have given winger Albert Jarrett a three month contract. The 24 year old was with Gillingham last season, playing 16 times.
Chester have been allowed by the FA to play Saturday's match with Droylsden. The game is a memorial match for a local soldier who died in Afghanistan. Southend chairman Ron Martin says there's nothing to worry about after the taxman adjourned a court appearance over an outstanding £690,000 tax bill. He says the club will have settled the bill by the new date of October 28th.
Chester To Take The Pain
Chester are prepared to accept the pain of a further penalty and go ahead without their CVA, according to owner Stephen Vaughan.
In a statement he says the deal for his Chester City Football Club 2004 Ltd to buy the club from the former company is unaffected by the collapse of the CVA due to the taxman's court case. But he acknowledges that the FA and Conference are likely to attach further punishment: 'The FA may find it fitting to penalise us further but we await the outcome of their decision.'
He says the FA require a copy of the new company's accounts, evidence to support the projected turnover, proof that their due £225,000 parachute payment would cover all footballing debts, and that the council will re-assign the leases to the new company from the old one.
The Conference will meet on Monday to discuss Chester's plight, with their rules on Administration far more stringent than the FA. While an additional points penalty, in line with those imposed on the likes of Bournemouth and Rotherham when they failed to agree CVAs, is likely there remains a chance that they may be thrown out of the Conference completely.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Harvey On The Move?
Ex-Bull Jimmy Harvey appears to be on the move after missing Forest Green's match with Leeds on Wednesday night.
He also missed the squad photo for the season according to the Stroud News and Journal and held talks with chairman Trevor Horsley during the day. The club are expected to make an announcement tomorrow about his future.
Harvey has spent three seasons at FGR, but has seen his budget consistently cut over the seasons. He spent nearly ten years as manager at Morecambe before being usurped by former friend Sammy McIlroy who he also coached with for Northern Ireland.
Another ex-Bull, John Layton, has left his managerial post with Westfields. He told the Hereford Times: "I left the club last night There's a little bit going on and I have got a few other commitments. I am disappointed to leave but there's no hard feelings."
Not long now!
With the big Kick-Off just over a week away, BN takes a brief look at the grounds we will be visiting this season.
Accrington Stanley
Frazer Eagle Stadium
Capacity 5057 (1200 seated)
Uncovered visitors terrace offers little protection for fans from what is often a cold and rain-swept bleak northwest. The saving grace is the close proximity to the changing rooms, which provides a good opportunity to discuss life, in general, with their likeable manager as he makes his way to the dugouts.
Aldershot Town
Recreation Ground
Capacity 7100 (2000 seated)
Ahhhh...The East Bank Terrace! Great memories from our Conference years and it will be wonderful to watch while being treated to our traditional warm welcome from the adjacent home fans on the other side of the fence. I note that the fixture computer has kindly ensured that our visit again coincides with the conker season.
Barnet
Underhill Stadium
Capacity 5500
We normally share the covered East Terrace with a "neutral area" dividing us from the natives. One missing joy this time will be the bating of the charming Mr Hendon who will be on the opposite side of the pitch in the dugout. Generally a good day out with the bonus of seeing some of the finest Armchair showrooms available to mankind.
AFC Bournemouth
Fitness First Stadium
Capacity 10700 (all seated)
Probably a first visit for most Bulls fans following the re-build of the old Dean Court in 2001 when the pitch was rotated through 90 degrees and the stands all replaced during one close season. Visiting fans are housed in part of The East Stand on one side of the pitch. April would not have been our choice for a time to go to the seaside.
Bradford City
Coral Windows Stadium (Valley Parade)
Capacity 25136 (all seated)
You're not famous any more! Since our last visit a couple of years ago, Visiting fans have been moved to part of the Midland Road Stand on one side of the pitch. The view is good and we will more than likely be part of the biggest League 2 crowd of the day given The Bantams low-price season-ticket policy.
Burton Albion
Pirelli Stadium
Capacity 6350 (2034 seated)
Another old Conference foe that now find themselves joining us in the Football League for their debut season. A good day out for visiting fans with Burton claiming to be the "home of beer". Visiting fans accommodation is on the covered East Stand Terrace at one end.
Bury
Gigg Lane
Capacity 11669 (all seated)
One of my favourite trips, "Le Stade de Gigg" provides Bulls fans with a view from the Manchester Road end and a fine selection of alehouses close to the ground. One to look forward too.
More to follow.
Backpass out next week
The latest edition of Backpass, the retro football magazine, will be available in the shops from next Tuesday.
IN ISSUE 8 READ WHO DUNCAN McKENZIE SAYS WAS THE HARDEST FOOTBALLER ON MERSEYSIDE IN THE 1970s - AND IT'S NOT TOMMY SMITH!
WE PUT FRANK O'FARRELL ON THE SPOT - WAS HE TREATED SHABBILY BY MANCHESTER UNITED?
HEAR FROM THE ONLY PLAYER SIGNED BY BOTH BILL SHANKLY AND DON REVIE
AND WHY DUNCAN EDWARDS WAS FINED IN MANCHESTER MAGISTRATES COURT!
PLUS MUCH, MUCH MORE, including the 1960 European Cup final, the ill-fated Debenhams Cup, Alun Evans, Terry Paine, Ernie Moss, Colin Lee, Bill Lucas, Wyn Davies, Cliff Jones, Terry Mancini, Ken Furphy, Coventry Sporting Club, the 1984-85 season, Stoke City's Delilah, a Birmingham City Dream Team, Football Weekly News magazine and the late Billy Baxter. And the chance to win a copy of 150 BC, CLOUGHIE THE INSIDE STORIES, and the OFFICIAL 2009-10 FOOTBALL YEARBOOK.
If your local shop doesn't stock BACKPASS then you can order a copy from their website: www.backpassmagazine.co.uk
BACKPASS is produced in Herefordshire.
The League Paper Re-launched
To co-inside with the start of the new season, the League Paper is to be re-launched.
As before it will cover all 72 clubs in the Championship, League One and Two including Hereford United with news, photos and articles.
David Emery will edit the paper which will have around 48 pages and will cost £1.50 per issue.
It's Cheaper to Watch Hereford United
Doom and Gloom at the top of English Football today with the release of figures from Virgin Money that show the cost of watching football at the top level has again risen sharply.
Virgin say that their Football Fans' Inflation Index is running at 15 per cent whereas government figures suggest overall inflation is nearer 2%.
The number of football fans intending to turn their backs on going to live matches has increased as the cost of attending games becomes ever harder to bear for hardcore fans, according to Virgin Money’s authoritative Football Fans’ Inflation Index.
Research for the index shows that 30 per cent of regular match goers have resolved to go to fewer live games in the ‘09/’10 season because of the cost – up from 26 per cent in pre-season last year.
And of those out-priced fans, 22 per cent are intending to follow a less expensive lower league club in order to ensure they continue to get their regular fix of live football.
Virgin Money’s Football Fans’ Inflation Index, which has tracked the cost of being a fan since January 2006, helps explain why - costs for fans have risen 15.1 per cent year-on-year and by 29.6 per cent compared to when the index launched in October 2006.
Rail fares, ticket prices and pay-per-view costs have all increased significantly compared to last year while costs in every category of the Virgin Money basket of goods have increased compared to when the Football Fans Inflation Index launched.
The research among more than 4,000 fans representing all 92 clubs in the Football League is worrying for all clubs, but three of the Big Four Premiership clubs are most at risk where 33 per cent of hardcore fans plan to go to fewer games. Birmingham, West Ham and Wolves fans are close behind at 31 per cent.
Premier League clubs that have the least to worry about include newly-promoted Burnley, Fulham and Hull. However even they face up to one in five fans cutting down.
Grant Bather, spokesman for Virgin Money, said: "Clubs need to come down from planet football and live in the real world. Despite some efforts to cut or freeze ticket prices, for many fans attending just one game burns a big hole in their pockets. To attend 10, 20 or 30 games in a season is asking a lot when prices are so high."
Virgin Money says supporters are only reacting to increasing pressures on their finances which have been caused by rising unemployment and increasing mortgage, food and fuel costs.
Malcolm Clarke, Chairman of the Football Supporters Federation, commented: "It is very worrying that ‘football inflation’ continues at a level way above standard inflation. Football fans are you, me and the bloke next door, not a different race, and with people losing their jobs and being worried about the future, it’s not surprising that going to the match – a leisure activity – might suffer.
"And in the middle of all this, fans see huge sums of money being paid in transfer fees and even a club talking of paying a player a million pounds a month, which many regard as obscene. A little bit of prudence – and a little bit of humility – from those at the top of our game, would not come amiss in the current climate."
So with season tickets and replica kit costing less than last year at Hereford United, perhaps it's time for some football fans to ditch Premiership football and come to watch a less expensive and hopefully more exciting alternative. Always assuming they don't buy anything from Lindley Catering.
Akwuegbu - He's a Powerful Boy
Hereford United manager John Trewick will continue to look at striker Benedict Akwuegbu. The Nigerian came on for the Bulls in the second half of last evening's friendly against Bristol Rovers.
The Bulls' boss told BBC Hereford and Worcester Akwuegbu has the experience but he needs to prove his fitness.
"He's an ex-Nigerian international, played 30 times for his country so he knows what he is doing," said Trewick who likened him to former Bull Guy Ipoua.
"He can certainly play the game as he is a powerful boy who is good in the air with a good strike.
"Whether he can regain that level of fitness is a guess but I am going to go along with him for a while and see what develops."
Trewick is taking sometime to make up his mind about several other trialists.
"I'll probably have to be patient a little bit so I'll give the boys who are in a the moment a fair crack of the whip and then decide.
"It would be fair to say there are still additional places to be had in the squad.
"We're without three players - Darren Dennehy, Darren Jones and Glen Southam, who has been injured for a while, so Glen as attacking player will give us an extra dimension when he comes back in."
As regards last night's friendly Trewick thought the game had been a good one coming as it did before the final friendly against Walsall on Saturday.
"It was a good workout for us.
I'm obviously disappointed with the result as I thought at half-time that we had had the best chances in the first half.
"Missing a penalty in the second half was a little bit disappointing.
"We started a little bit sloppily in the second half and paid for it but it was a good work out so I am relatively happy.
"Marc Pugh caused a few problems and Lee Morris was a threat as well.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
News Round Up
Saturday's opponents Walsall lost 3-1 at Mansfield on Tuesday night, while opening day foes Morecambe drew 3-3 with Tranmere. Aldershot have signed ex-Reading right sided player John Hills on a two year deal, and former Brighton defender Adam Hinshelwood on a one year deal. Northampton have signed full back John Curtis on a one year deal. The 30 year old was one of the starlets at Man Utd, but recently plied his trade at Wrexham.
Notts County have been blocked in their bid to throw the local rugby club out of Meadow Lane by the High Court. The court says the rugby club can play an August 15th friendly there while the case is argued, with the football club away on that date. The Magpies have paid £100,000 for teenage Portsmouth winger Matt Richie and want veteran Dietmar Hamann after his release from Man City.
Ex-Bull Chris Lane scored as new side Vauxhall Motors went down 5-3 to Wrexham. Northwich have been rebuffed in their 25p/£ offer of a CVA, with the taxman wanting more and blocking the deal. Chester have cancelled Saturday's friendly with Droylsden, leaving them having played only one friendly before the season starts.
Chesterfield are to sign striker Drew Talbot from Luton on a two year deal. He cost the Hatters £250,000 but scored only three times in 49 games before spending the second half of last season on loan at Saltergate, scoring twice. Bournemouth are to register assistant boss Jason Tindall as a player to bolster their squad with their transfer embargo unlikely to be lifted before the start of the season. He last started a League match in 2006.
Southend have confirmed that winger Damian Scannell has contracted swine flu. Brentford have also acknowledged that full back Ryan Dickson also caught the virus but has made a full recovery. Port Vale assistant boss Geoff Horsfield also says he had the virus just before joining the club.
Kuffour double seals Rovers win
Hereford United were defeated in their penultimate pre-season game against Bristol Rovers this evening at Edgar Street in front of 651, including 86 from Bristol. The game ended 2-1 to the visitors with Jo Kuffour scoring them both after coming off the bench at half-time; an own goal from David Pipe salvaged some pride for United and the club will be pleased that they successfully passed the fire evacuation which took place at half-time.
Rovers threatened early on when a mis-placed pass by Ryan Green was picked up by Daryl Duffy who forced Adam Bartlett into a low save. The front pairing of Rickie Lambert and Duffy, who caused United major problems last season, linked up when Duffy chased down a Lambert flick and sent a half-volley just past the near post. Bartlett kept the scores level as half-time approached with a fine point-blank save to deny the towering head of Danny Coles whilst at the other end, a rare chance for Hereford fell to the yet again impressive Marc Pugh who skipped past his marker and struck a shot goalwards, despite Lee Morris offering, which went out for a corner after a deflection.
Rovers took the lead early in the second half when Leon Constantine was easily beaten to the ball on the half way line and it made its way to Kuffour, who skipped past the challenge of Keith Lowe before firing under the body of Bartlett and into the net. Jamie Tolley hit a long-range effort over the bar before Bartlett was again called into action with a smart save to deny a header from Byron Anthony. An intelligent pass from Morris found Pugh on the left who cut in before again seeing an effort deflect past the near post. A lifted pass over the back-line by Pugh evaded Coles and Tolley met the ball with a forward run but he couldn't get a decent connection to direct it goalwards and the ball was slid out by a defender.
United were awarded a penalty mid-way through the half when a one-two involving Constantine and Morris saw the former Burton Albion striker chase the ball in the area and his legs were clipped. He picked himself up to take the penalty but his thunderbolt of an effort rebounded off the bar. The Pirates made Hereford pay for this miss soon after with Lambert receiving a pass left of the area and his strike across the area wasn't held by sub 'keeper Chris Adamson and Kuffour tapped in an easy second. A through ball by Sam Gwynne was superbly picked up by Franck Padovani, who held his run well before crossing dangerously and defender Pipe could do nothing else but chest into his own goal. As the game drew to a close, there was last chance in Hereford's locker with Nigerian trialist Benedict Akwuegbu drilling a snapshot just over the top right hand post.
Rovers showed some good touches and retained the ball well, much like they did in the League One encounters last season. This was the only second game I have seen this pre-season and I noted a couple of things. The midfield didn't press the opposition enough and gave them far too much time whilst Constantine offered little up front. Pugh looked as though he would make something happen everytime he was on the ball and is sure to be a major threat to League Two defences this coming season. Of the trialists, Padovani and James McQuilkin showed some good touches and looked lively when appearing late on.
Hereford: Bartlett (Adamson), Green, Lowe, Rose, Valentine, Manga (Gwynne), Lunt (Jones), Tolley (McQuilkin), Pugh (Done), Constantine (Padovani), Morris (Akwuegbu).
Bristol Rovers: Phillips, Pipe, Coles (Kite), Anthony, Lescott, Lines (Blizzard), Campbell, Reece (Kuffour), Swallow (Haldane), Lambert (Williams), Duffy (Rigg).
Bulls Beaten By Pirates
The Bulls were beaten 2-1 in tonight's friendly with Bristol Rovers at Edgar Street.
Neither Tomi Ameobi or Sunday Wasiu were on the teamsheet, but there was a new face in Benedict Akwuegbu - a Nigerian striker who has played 30 times for their national team. He played the final half hour with Franck Padovani up front.
Full report later.
Taxman Overturns Chester CVA
The taxman has got Chester's CVA thrown out in the High Court after a two day hearing.
A statement from the Administrator says that at the hearing Judge Pelling QC ruled in favour of the application by HMRC and revoked the approval on the basis of a debt owed by Chester City FC Ltd to a connected creditor.
It is unclear quite which 'connected creditor' the taxman is unhappy about. Former owner Stephen Vaughan was owed £4million to various companies that he would only waive if he was the approved bidder. Further sums on the creditors list also seem out of place, including one to a contract cleaning company that was only formed in February that was worth £11,000 a week for the life of the company, but voted in favour of the CVA to push it over the 75% requirement for acceptance.
The club is now understood to be back in Administration.
Saturday Night Bulls
BBC Sport have announced plans for a brand new Saturday night highlights programme called 'The Football League Show', which will follow 'Match of the Day' and showcase all the goals from the Coca-Cola Championship, League 1 and League 2 including Hereford United.
Presented by Manish Bhasin, The Football League Show will begin on Saturday 8th August at 11.10pm on BBC1. Joining Manish in the studio, with his unique brand of expert analysis and candid opinion on major talking points, will be Steve Claridge, whose playing career included spells at Leicester City, Portsmouth, Millwall and Birmingham City to name but four clubs. 5 Live regular Mark Clemmit takes up the role of roving reporter, bringing viewers all of the stories making the headlines.
Football League Commercial Director Stewart Thomson welcomed the news: "We are delighted to be starting this new relationship with the BBC, alongside our long-standing broadcasting partner Sky Sports.
"This season, supporters of Football League clubs will be able to enjoy their club's matches across a range of different broadcasting platforms, giving them the most comprehensive coverage of our competitions ever seen."
In addition to the BBC's offering, Sky Sports will be showing live coverage of up to 80 Coca-Cola Football League matches, including games from all three divisions and the Play-Off Finals at Wembley Stadium.
640 Tickets For Robins
Cheltenham have been given just 640 tickets for their August 15th trip to Edgar Street.
Thanks to the closure of the Blackfriars Terrace, Robins fans will get just 200 terrace tickets and 440 seated tickets for the Cargill Stand. They brought 868 to Edgar Street last November for the corresponding League One match.
The fact that the away side of the Cargill terracing now holds only 200 underlines the problems that clubs with ageing terracing now face, although both terrace and seating allocations are expected to include the obligatory buffer zone to seperate home and away fans.
Jackson trials for Burton
Former Hereford United right-back Richard Jackson is currently training with League Two new boys Burton Albion. Jackson, who was released at the end of last season after a dissapointing stint with The Bulls was rumoured to be on trial at Shrewsbury and was attracting interest from Hartlepool. He could follow another former Bulls' defender, in Tony James, at the Pirelli Stadium.
Manager Paul Peschisolido commented on Jackson to the Burton Mail, "Richard’s local and I’ve said to him he can train with us and use our physio to try to get himself fit.
"At the moment, all he is doing is working his way back after a bit of an injury, but we’ll see if we can take it any further."
Meanwhile Charlton have told Exeter they will have to increase their bid for Stuart Fleetwood. The Grecians are believed to have offered £50,000 for the striker, with Addicks boss Phil Parkinson saying they would be 'giving him away' at that price.
And another ex-Bull is trialling for a new club. Jose Veiga played for Macclesfield on Saturday, and already has an offer on the table from Harrogate Town.
Trewick happy with Morris Signing
Hereford United manager John Trewick has said that he is very happy with the signing of striker Lee Morris. He missed the recenmt friendly against Kidderminster as he had a 'dead leg' but played most of last Saturday's match against Wolves.
"I am happy with Lee. The only question mark is his injury record which is well documented," Trewick told the Worcester News.
"We are well aware of that but he’s been in since day one of pre-season, has trained very hard and looks fine to me.
"Hopefully, he’s got the injuries behind him now and can move on.
"He missed the one game but fortunately he’s come back and looks fine."
Trewick also spoke about pre-season to date.
"We’ve done well in every match we’ve played so far this pre-season apart from the first-half at Kidderminster which I think we can put down to complacency.
"I am happy with the squad of players I’ve got so far. I want to make two or three additions and if I can get the right calibre of player to join the squad then I’ll be relatively happy."
No Number for Dennehy at Cardiff
Although central defender Darren Dennehy has not been given a number at Cardiff City he will wear the number 17 shirt for Hereford United.
The 20-year-old, signed from Everton, is still a Cardiff player, but will be on loan with the Bulls until at least January. He has missed some training recently as he has had a toe-nail removed but is expected to be fully fit for the start of the season.
Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Dennehy has rejoined the Bulls after his loan spell from Cardiff last season was cut short when he contracted glandular fever while on international duty.
Hereford manager John Trewick reached a new agreement with Cardiff for Dennehy to return for six months.
News Round Up
Darlington's prospective owner Raj Singh has blamed a misunderstanding on Administrators sending staff home and locking the club's doors yesterday. Singh says that staff should be back in their posts today, and that they are '70% done' in getting Football League approval for the takeover. Lincoln have avoided a transfer tribunal over Dany N'Guessan's move to Leicester, with the Foxes paying out a deal that could be worth up to £400,000 over time.
Port Vale say they are not interested in selling striker Marc Richards to free up space in their wage budget to reinforce other areas. Richards turned down a move to Cheltenham last term when they triggered a £100,000 get-out clause in his contract, and Shrewsbury are now claimed in the press to be ready to test his resolve again with the clause now £150,000 after he signed a new deal.
Cambridge have appointed former Leyton Orient boss Martin Ling as their new manager. He will be assisted by Paul Carden, who agreed a new three year deal with the club last week. Northwich are to offer creditors 25p/£ over five years as part of their CVA. Torquay are expected to sign Peterboro pair Scott Rendell and Kieran Charnock. Rendell will be on a season loan while Charnock is to sign on a two year deal with both involving fees.
Chester have cancelled Saturday's friendly with Burnley in an ominous sign of the results of the court case between the taxman and their Administrator. An official club statement says the Administrator will make an announcement in the next 24 hours.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Swine Flu could Disrupt Football
The news that DHS staff have admitted they could force the FA to make England play its World Cup qualifier with Croatia in September behind closed doors has sent a message to the football authorites that Swine Flu must be taken seriously.
And it's also been revealed that football stadium managers should ban fans that look like sufferers.
"Places like Wembley and the O2 would be an ideal place for the virus to breed. All it needs is one sufferer and before you know it hundreds are in danger," said a spokesman.
"Stadium bosses have been warned to deal with the pandemic very seriously, and staff have been told to take a very hard line on customers suffering from the virus. People could be chucked out."
Whilst at present there shouldn't be any need to curtail attendance at football matches, there is the possibility that should Swine Flu affect more of the population, measurers may need to be put in place which might mean some behind closed doors matches.
Recently Government minister Andy Burnham was asked if he would be concerned about attending a football match with his children.
"Everyone has to make their own judgements and it's not for me to lay the law down to any parent," said Burnham.
"I am the parent of three children and I think everybody's anxiety levels would have raised a little last week when the very sad death of a child was announced."
The last time there was talk of suspending games was during the foot and mouth crisis in 2001.
Then the Herefordshire FA voted to suspend all home matches involving clubs under its jurisdiction - bar one, Hereford United, following nine outbreaks of the virus in the county famous for its beef cattle.
However, several senior non-league clubs who had already indicated their support for local farmers were furious to discover that an exception to the ban had been made for FA Trophy semi finalists Hereford United, who were told that they could continue to pay at Edgar Street during the epidemic.
Officials at Westfields were angry because their Rotherwas ground lies in the middle of an industrial estate well away from farmland - and, like Edgar Street, is part of Hereford's urban area.
Kington Town chairman Bill Mayglothing said that while he supported moves to protect farmers, it was ludicrous to believe that 2,500 fans visiting a Hereford United home game would pose less of a risk to farmers than a much smaller number visiting non-league grounds which also did not come into contact with farmland.
He accused the county FA of double standards - and made his feelings clear in a series of telephone calls to Lancaster Gate.
Following his approach, county FA chairman Ted Powell, who had earlier said that his committee would have been 'crucified' if it had tried to ban Hereford United's home games, stated that the situation would now be monitored on a daily basis.
Trollope expects 'Stern Test' from Hereford
Bristol Rovers are the visitors to Edgar Street this evening for Hereford United's last but one pre-season friendly.
Manager Paul Trollope is expected to bring his strongest squad for the game including former Bull Andy Williams.
"There are obvious bits we need to work on and Hereford will offer us another stern test," said Trollope.
Meanwhile Hereford United have announced that the recently postponed fire-drill will take place at half-time for those seated in the main stand.
It had originally been intended to have the drill at half-time when Bristol City were the opponents two weeks ago but it was so wet that evening that the exercise was postponed.
Admission to the game is £8 for adults and £4 for concessions. Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
£650,000 for Shergar
West Bromwich Albion are to receive £650,000 from Belgian club Germinal Beeschot for Sherjlll MacDonald. The Baggies have also agreed a 15% sell-on clause in the sale.
The former Dutch Under-21 international, who came to Edgar Street on loan during the 2007/08 season, enjoyed a successful loan spell at Beerschot's Jupiler League rivals Roeselare last season, scoring six times in 16 league games.
Meanwhile Paul Parry's proposed move to Preston North End is still not confirmed. The former Hereford United player had talks with PNE manager Alan Irvine yesterday afternoon and the two will meet again today.
Early Morecambe Travel News
HUISA have announced their plans for the opening game at Morecambe on Saturday August 8th.
Seats are priced at £19 with departure set for 8.30 am from outside Radford's Bar (formally Legends). The official HUFC travel organisers are keen to encourage fans to use their transport, as they need to recoup the losses that were made last season.
Seats can be booked in Radford's before tomorrow night's game against Bristol Rovers and again before the Walsall game on Saturday.
Bulls News understands that two Hotels in Morecambe are already reporting substantial bookings (one full) from Herefordians while nearby Blackpool is also expected to host several parties of Bulls fans.
Be there.
UPDATE: The Junior Bulls are also hoping to run a coach to Morecambe which will leave Edgar Street at 8am - more details on 01981 251762 or by emailing juniorbulls@bullsonline.co.uk
Exploratory Surgery for Purdie
Rob Purdie is to go into hospital tomorrow morning for 'exploratory surgery'. The former Hereford United player is reported to have a 'stomach muscle problem'.
Oldham manager Dave Penney said: "Rob is to undergo minor surgery which we hope will help sort out what has been troubling him."
26 year old Purdie who recently left Darlington to move to Boundary Park has yet to take part in any pre-season friendlies for his new club.
Benson Turns Down Shrews
Dagenham striker Paul Benson has turned down a six-figure move to Shrewsbury and signed a new deal with the Daggers.
The 29 year old opted against the switch to replace Grant Holt in order to stay in the London area, leaving the Shrews with four strikers at the club who managed just eight goals between them last season.
The Shrews had already lost second top scorer Ben Davies to Notts County, and released third top scorer Richard Walker, but hotshot Holt's departure leaves them desperately short of goalscorers with more than half of last season's League goals departing the side with five goal ex-Brighton rookie Jake Robinson the only forward arrival.
Hereford United Programme Subscription Service
Ron Parrott is again organising the programme subscription service for those living away from Hereford or simply for those who just want guaranteed supply and delivery of home and/or away programmes.
How does it work?
You pay a subscription rate up front at the beginning of the season and this guarantees your copy of the matchday programme for every home and/or away league game for the 2009/10 season. You no longer have to worry about missing out on a programme or about collecting it from the Club Shop, they will be despatched to you by first-class post, normally within a few days of the game (or as soon as possible in the case of away programmes).
The subscription covers league games only. All “specials” (i.e. Friendlies, Cup matches etc.) are still supplied but they are to be paid for separately and a bill is sent out at the end of the season.
If you wish to take advantage of this service, please fill in the details below and return the form direct to Ron Parrott at:
1, Stopford Close
Hampton Park
Hereford HR1 1TW
Please ensure that any cheques are made payable to Hereford United FC
Name:
Address:
Telephone No:
I wish to subscribe to the programme subscription service as follows: -
HOMES: £75 *
AWAYS: £85 *
TOTAL £ * delete as necessary
I wish/do not wish to receive “Specials” and agree to pay for them at the end of the season. Please make all cheques payable to “Hereford United FC”
Signed: ………………………
Doors Locked At Darlington
Darlington's Administrator sent home the club's staff and locked the stadium doors today.
A spokesman says the company in Administration has made all staff redundant, with the move believed to be linked to the cancellation of Wednesday's friendly with Middlesboro. None of the staff were yet to receive any of the five months wages they are owed, with the Administrator saying the £100,000 raised so far by the pre-season matches going to cover ongoing bills at the club.
The Administrator was 'caught on the hop' by the local press earlier, telling them the club wasn't shut and that a full statement would be issued in the next day or two. Prospective owner Raj Singh was critical of the Administrator following the move and says that his lawyers will investigate where the money from the friendlies has gone:
"I am the buyer and the administrators need to satisfy me - not the other way round. The staff have organised pre-season games and have been preparing for the season. The money for the pre-season games has been taken by the administrators, so I don't know why they have taken this action today. It is in the hands of my lawyers."
Weymouth look at Hereford Trialist
Weymouth are said to be interested in signing youngster Joe Arnold who have been on trial at Hereford United.
21 year old Arnold is a striker who was with Team Bath who he joined in 2006
He has made more than 40 appearances for the club. Previously he was with Derby County and Swindon Town.
Meanwhile another former Team Bath member that had a trial at Edgar Street, Sami El-Abd, has joined Hayes and Yeading for their forthcoming Conference season. He played in the HFA defeat at Westfields in April.
Parry uncertain about move to Preston
Paul Parry has said that he is in two minds whether to move to Preston North End. A deal has been agreed between his current club Cardiff City and the North-west club but Parry has not yet agreed personnel terms.
"The clubs have agreed a fee between themselves so I’m going up there for a chat," said Parry as reported on icWales.
"There are a lot of things to take into consideration. It is not just about me and it is certainly not about money. It is a hard decision I am going to have to make.
"To be honest it is 50-50 at the moment. It is a really tough decision."
It is believed that his former club Hereford United could pocket around £40,000 if the deal goes through assuming the sell-on clause when he moved to Ninian Park is still valid.
News Round Up
Bradford have signed Huddersfield goalkeeper Simon Eastwood on a six month loan. He spent the second half of last season at Woking after making just one appearance for the Terriers. Port Vale boss Micky Adams has told trialist Kevin Thornton to lose weight to get a contract. Adams managed Thornton at Coventry and Brighton, but the player was sacked from Coventry last season over a drink-drive conviction.
Rotherham striker Reuben Reid is now attracting interest from West Brom according to press reports. Blackpool were previously claimed to have made a £200,000 offer for the former Plymouth trainee. Bournemouth striker Jeff Goulding has enlisted the help of a boxing coach to toughen him up for the coming season after being accused of wimping out of challenges last term.
Chesterfield have signed their former midfielder Paul Allott after he was released by Tranmere just a month after agreeing to join them from Oldham. He spent five years at Saltergate sandwiched between two spells at Oldham. Livingston have been described as 'hopelessly insolvent' by their court appointed Administrator. He has given owner Angelo Massone 48 hours to hand over his majority stake for £25,000 or he will liquidate the club.
Cheltenham have agreed a settlement on the final year of midfielder John Finnegan's contract. He is now likely to join either Newport or Kidderminster.
Willo expected to be in Rovers Squad
Former Hereford United player Andy Williams is expected to be in the Bristol Rovers squad that visits Edgar Street tomorrow evening.
Williams spent part of last season on loan with Hereford but failed to find the goal regularily and returned to the Memorial Stadium at the end of the season. Speculation that he might return to Edgar Street on a season long loan appears to be highly unlikely.
Although along with Sean Rigg and Lewis Haldane, Williams is available for a move away from Rovers, there has been little interest in either of them.
"We have had a few enquiries but all three players have got their heads down, worked hard and are making sure they do the right things for themselves," said manager Paul Trollope.
Meanwhile Trollope has brought in Dominic Blizzard from Watford but his new signing has been suffering from a flu and a chest infection.
It's uncertain whether Blizzard will be fit enough to play some part in tomorrow's friendly.
Hereford United manager John Trewick has some decisions to make about several trialists. How many who played a part in the friendly against Wolves on Saturday will still be at Edgar Street for tomorrow's game remains to be seen.
Trewick is reported to have said that there are a couple of fresh trialists coming in this week. He will also be hopeful that Darren Jones, Darren Dennehy and Glen Southam will be back in training this week and available by next Saturday for the final pre-season friendly against Walsall.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Hereford United's New Kit
Two pictures of the new Hereford United skit. The top one is the home kit and the bottom one is the away kit.
Copyright Historical Football Kits and reproduced by kind permission.
Fantasy Football League
In association with Virgin Media, Bulls News will be running its very own Fantasy Football League for the forthcoming 2009/2010 season. It is open to everyone and entry is free. All you have to do is pick a team from Premier League players before the 15th August and see how they all do for the season. There is the opportunity to make changes to your team throughout the season too if things aren't quite going your way.
As an incentive to anybody wanting to play, there is a lucrative prize at the end of the season. The overall winner of the Bulls News League will receive a £50 voucher for Kitbag. Everyone in the league will also be eligible for the normal monthly and grand prizes, which includes a cash prize of £5,000 for the overall winner.
To enter, simply visit http://fantasyfootball.virginmedia.com Once you have registered, choose to join a mini-league; the league is called 'Bulls News League'.
So far, 46 Hereford fans have joined the league and we are hoping for many more.
Season Ticket Sales Steady
There was a steady sale of season tickets before yesterday's game at Edgar Street.
The books are in the same format as usual except that voucher K has been replaced by a voucher entitling a 10% discount on one replica shirt. It therefore appears that the days of getting 10% off most items in the shop, on production of a season ticket, are over.
How well sales of season tickets are going is, as ever at this time of pre-season, difficult to judge.
This supporters stand ticket, puchased yesterday, is number 143. Last season it was number 263 but the ticket was bought one week later.
With no early bird sales discount there is little reason to purchase a ticket until a few days before the season starts other than for convenience reasons.
So, hopefully, the queues will be longer next Saturday before the final pre-season game against Walsall.
A couple more signings might boost sales, especially if a forward with a eye for goal can be persuaded to come to Hereford.
Meanwhile over at the club shop, new systems have been introduced. Credit cards are accepted and the merchandise is bar-coded.
There was plenty of stock of the new home shirt (pictured) and other kit. And by next weekend the new away shirt is expected to be on sale.
Finally the pitch looked in good condition especially considering the recent wet weather.
There had been some very heavy rain in the Hereford area on Friday morning.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Pandiani...Padovani...Reg Varney?
Named as Frank Pandiani on Tuesday night, then Franck by the press, the striker that scored against Kidderminster has now been identified as Franck Padovani.
After John Trewick reported that he had impressed but returned to France following the Kiddy game, he is now back with the club and in training to earn a contract for the coming season.
Padovani is a 24 year old who has been plying his trade recently in the amateur fifth division in France, scoring 13 times in 41 games. Originally a trainee with top flight side Nice, he has been without a professional club since 2007.
Also on trial today was Matt Richards, (updated) who is believed to be a former Derby trainee who was most recently with Wycombe. His only League appearance was in a loan spell at Notts County last season against Wycombe while on loan at Meadow Lane.
Lee Morris - Profile
Hereford United confirmed today the signing of Lee Morris on a one year contract. The 29 year old played most recently for Blue Square Premier Champions Burton Albion. Here is a profile of United's new striker:
Morris, born 30th April 1980, started his career with Sheffield United as a trainee before eventually breaking into the first-team making an instant impact; he struck six times in 14 games for the Bramall Lane club before being snapped up by Derby County in a deal woth 3 million pounds. In his five seasons at Pride Park, Morris played just 92 games scoring 17 times. He had a short loan spell with Huddersfield in this period.
In 2004, Morris signed for Leicester City but failed to get on the scoresheet in any of his ten appearences. Spells followed at Yeovil Town and Burton Albion. For the Glovers, Morris was part of their team that reached the 2006/2007 play-off final at Wembley against Blackpool eventually going down 3-0. Morris scored in the semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest in a pulsating encounter which eventually ended 5-4 to Yeovil on aggregate. Morris featured at Edgar Street the following season in a Carling Cup match where Lionel Ainsworth grabbed all the headlines with a stunning hattrick. In March 2008, Morris has his contract terminated by Yeovil after another major injury, with the striker stating "I shall need another manager with the patience and foresight of Russell Slade". Morris played for the Brewers last season and despite only scoring 7 goals in 28 games, was highly praised by management and supporters alike for his role in taking Burton into the Football League.
Morris had great potential as a youngster and will be looking to re-discover his form after a career, so far, hit by major injuries to his knee. His most recent major injury was actually sustained at Edgar Street when playing for Yeovil!
The Joys of Edgar Street
It might only have been a typical pre-season friendly played on a warm summer afternoon, but there is something about going to Edgar Street for a Saturday 3pm kick-off after nearly three months away.
And with the news that at last the Blackfriars Terrace, pictured, is to be redeveloped perhaps also a certain amount of nostalgia.
Seeing some of the players for the first time, well most of them this season, and pretending one can tell how good they will turn out to be is part of the excitement.
Whilst the eleven who started were fairly easy to put a name against, when the substitutes came on it was more difficult, especially as the PA didn't seem certain of the names either.
For example who was that young looking player who came on as a sub in mid-field? Was he a lad from the youth set-up or someone completely different?
Certain players stood out. Ryan Green has lost a little bit of hair since that play-off final at Leicester but looks a good signing by manager John Trewick.
Marc Pugh, probably the man of the match, made some good runs down both wings and perhaps was unlucky not to score when he tried his luck from twenty yards in the first half.
Kenny Lunt looked solid in midfield and destined to be captain this season.
Richard Rose, playing in the centre of defence, made several last-ditch tackles to keep the Bulls in the game.
Of the two forwards who started the game, Lee Morris and Leon Constantine, Morris, in particular, worked hard and could be just the sort of forward the team lacked last season. However the jury is out on whether Constantine is a decent replacement for Steve Guinan.
As for Wasiu and Ameobi, the other two forwards on show, neither looked contract material on this afternoon's showing.
Finally as regards team matters, is the average age of the starting eleven the oldest for several years?
Off the pitch a sneak look in Legends now renamed Radfords revealed a lot of work has been carried out to brighten up the club house.
However a coffee from Lindley Catering now costs £1.70 a rise of 10p on last season. How they can justify that price increase at a time when coffee has dropped in price is open to question?
Bulls 0-0 Wolves
The Bulls shared a goalless draw against a mixed Wolves side at Edgar Street this afternoon.
With Lee Morris signing earlier today, the Bulls fielded a starting XI of contracted players with Morris partnering Constantine up front, and Sam Gwynne starting on the right with Marc Pugh on the left.
There were new trialists on the bench, with the team sheet reporting Marc Manga, Sunday Wasiu, Tomi Ameobi, and James McQuilkin being joined on the bench by Matt Richards and a newly named Franck Padovani. However the exact identities of quite who came on was a bit of a mystery. McQuilkin played as 23 rather than the listed 21, Padovani did not play according to the shirt numbers fielded, while no.20 was named as Joel Edwards but was not the youth team player signed on contract.
The game was largely the Bulls, with an inexperienced Wolves front line struggling to break past a resolute Bulls defence throughout the first half. At the other end of the pitch the marauding Pugh and Ryan Green were creating havoc down the flanks with Morris providing a constant threat with Wolves defender Darren Ward opting to phone-in his first half performance.
As early as the third minute a perfectly weighted crossfield ball from Green found Morris, but he blasted over while Jamie Tolley sent a similar ball the other way for Green to head into the box five minutes later that needed to be scrambled away before Morris pounced. With the defensive pairing of Richard Rose and Keith Lowe mopping up the neat passing of Wolves before it got dangerous a Kenny Lunt through ball saw Green break the offside trap and deliver a cross that the defence struggled to clear.
Pugh, who dished out lollipops like a rampant clown, latched onto a long ball from Rose to again terrorise the full back but Morris could only run the ball out of play before turning for a shot. While on the half hour mark Wolves provided their first real chance as Lowe was dumped on his backside in being turned inside out but got the ball away for a corner before a worrying moment as Adam Bartlett flapped a little at the crossed ball before it was hacked away.
The performance deteriorated in the second half as the subs appeared. Matt Done's introduction on the left saw Pugh cross to the right to terrorise the other full back, while Ameobi and Wasiu were both given half an hour to prove their worth. Both were capable of creating chances, but both hesitated when the chance was there and the opportunities were swiftly cut out.
With few clear cut chances a Pugh cross was flicked just over the bar by Rose after a corner was forced from a deflected Wasiu shot, before Pugh decided to do it all himself in beating two men before driving the ball just wide from 20 yards. McQuilkin came on and played some absolutely perfect passes as a late cameo.
At the end it remained goalless, with Pugh a clear Man of the Match for his relentless onslaught. The 797 crowd, with 151 from Wolves, would have been generally happy with the performances of the bulk of the contracted players.
Bulls: Bartlett, Green, Valentine, Rose, Lowe, Lunt, Tolley, Gwynne, Pugh, Morris, Constantine. Subs - Done, Manga, Jones, Wasiu, Ameobi, Padovani, Richards, Edwards, McQuilkin.
Bulls complete Morris signing
The official Hereford United website has confirmed the signing of Lee Morris prior to this afternoons pre season friendly with Wolverhampton Wanderers. The striker, who missed United's last outing against Kidderminster, has agreed a one year deal following an impressive trial at Edgar Street.
More later.
News Round Up
Aldershot have signed released Shrewsbury defender Ben Herd on a two year deal. The right back spent four years with the Shrews after being released from Watford. Grimsby have signed ex-Swansea striker Chris Jones on a three year deal. The 19 year old made a total of 15 League appearances for the Swans and Cambridge on loan without scoring. Oxford have netted at least £500,000 after ex-player Dean Whitehead moved from Sunderland to Stoke for a minimum £3million. It will help offset some of their losses for the coming season.
Notts County have dropped Vandanel as their kit supplier just one year into their two year deal. The club had agreed a deal in April for the sportwear manufacturer to be their shirt sponsor for the coming season but that has also been scrapped. Chester have handed ex-Accrington chairman Eric Whalley the title of Director of Football.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Legends renamed Radfords
The end of an era or the beginning of a new phase in the history of Hereford United?
It depends on ones opinion but the Legends name over the Hereford United club house is no more.
It's been re-named Radfords.
The new management has installed two large television with 'exceptional picture and surround sound complete with sky sports news'.
And the bar has been stocked with products such as Butty Bach and Westons.
Whilst work to refurbish the club isn't quite complete Radfords will be open from 12 noon today in advance of the afternoons friendly.
So supporters coming to Edgar Street today will have the chance to
a) Buy a season ticket
b) Buy a new shirt
c) Have a drink in or outside Radfords
d) See how John Trewicks new squad are performing
and all this on a summers afternoon.
Chester Crisis Goes To Court
Chester's ongoing inability to play matches shows no sign of lifting with the taxman meeting Administrators Refresh Recovery in court.
The move can be reasonably assumed to be a challenge to the way the company in Administration arranged a CVA that would see the taxman get just 15% of it's dues. The vast majority of the debts were owed to Stephen Vaughan and other family companies, and he demanded payment in full of these debts from any other bidder other than his own family.
The Monday meeting in court comes as a surprise after various Chester figures claimed the problem with the FA was merely over submitting the right paperwork however, as is usual thesedays at the Deva, it is more complicated than the club would admit.
Wolves Squad Named
Wolverhampton Wanderers have named the squad to visit Edgar Street tomorrow:
Hahnemann, Collins, Shackell, Batth, Ward, Bennett, Laing, Rooney, Davis, Hemmings, Landell, Malone, Wright, Metcalf, Reckord, McCone.
A number of the squad have first team experience. Marcus Hahnemann has just signed from Reading, while Darren Ward spent most of last season on loan at Watford and Charlton. Neill Collins hasn't played a first team match since January, and Jason Shackell spent most of his career at Norwich. Elliott Bennett spent last season at Bury, and Ashley Hemmings had a brief spell with Cheltenham.
Admission for tomorrow's friendly is £8 for adults and £4 for concessions.
Parry Set For PNE
Ex-Bull Paul Parry is the subject of a £300,000 bid from Preston North End.
Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale confirmed today that they have accepted a bid, telling Wales Online: "We have agreed a fee for Paul Parry with another club. The club involved have been given permission for talks with the player."
The site names Preston as the club in question, with the fee reported to be far less than that reported last week when Doncaster were claimed to be interested. Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll has rubbished suggestions he is interested in Parry, but another Championship club is claimed to be ready to join the chase.
The Bulls are still believed to hold a 20% sell-on clause on Parry, but it would not be a huge windfall on a £300,000 fee. After the initial £75,000 payment the Bulls received from Cardiff in 2004 further payments were received for two lots of appearances and his international debut that pushed the total fee received around the £100,000 mark. A 20% cut on the profit of a £300,000 move would be no more than £40,000 - not a season changing amount but a welcome addition to bolster finances in what will be a financially difficult season across the board.
Magpies Now L2 Favourites
Notts County have leapt to the top of the bookies lists for the coming season.
The Magpies were 25/1 shots in May after another dismal season, but are now favourites across the board at 13/2 following Sven Goran Ericsson's appointment. Rotherham are now second in the list with Shrewsbury third and drifting slightly on the rumours of Grant Holt's imminent departure.
The Bulls continue to slip in the odds, with more bookies offering 33/1 on a title win. Aldershot have slipped significantly to 66/1 but Macclesfield and Accrington remain the two favourites for the drop. Accrington can be backed at a whopping 298/1 on the betting exchanges to win the division, while Macclesfield are available for 248/1, with the pair both 7/2 for the drop.
John Trewick is 12/1 to be the first Manager of the Month of the new season, with League new boys Burton and Torquay's bosses heading the list at 9/1.
The first list for top goalscorer has also been released. The Bulls' sole striker, Leon Constantine, is 28/1 as is ex-Bull Steve Guinan and Bury hotshot Andy Bishop. Jack Lester heads the list at 12/1 with Dean Windass and Adebayo Akinfenwa on 16/1. In the League One list Theo Robinson is 20/1 seventh favourite to top the scoring charts.
MD quits at Shrewsbury
Rob Bickerton has left the post of STFC Managing Director with immediate effect according to the Shrewsbury Town website.
"Rob has left by mutual agreement and we will not be making further comment other than to thank him for his efforts during his time with us," said Chairman Roland Wycherley.
"This is an important stage in the Club's development, so the Board will take this opportunity to conduct a thorough review of all off-pitch operations and staffing.
"I have asked Club Director Derek Passant and former Chief Executive Steve Wellbeloved to conduct this review and report back to me and they will start work on this immediately."
Wolves to send 'development squad' to Hereford
Wolverhampton Wanderers are to send a 'development squad' to Edgar Street tomorrow for the friendly against Hereford United.
Their first team has a friendly at Bristol City.
The only name released so far by Wolves for the Hereford game is Marcus Hahnemann.
News Round Up
Darlington have had to cancel a money spinning friendly with Middlesboro as they cannot raise a team for the game. A series of injuries, and a reluctance of trialists to play for a side that can't hand out contracts, means they don't have the players available. Port Vale have allowed teenage striker James Lawrie to go on trial at Everton. If a move comes off they should be able to offer a contract to ex-Bull Kris Taylor.
Dagenham have received a six figure bid for striker Paul Benson from an unnamed League Two side. Shrewsbury striker Grant Holt is worth £450,000 to Norwich, according to local press reports. Barnet winger Albert Adomah is also in the Canaries' sights. Ex-Bull Stephen Jennings made his Motherwell debut in their 8-1 Europa League demolition of Albanian side Flamurtari.
Macclesfield have signed striker Matt Tipton on a 1 year deal. It is his third spell with the club after spending the last two seasons in non-league for Droylsden and Hyde. Notts County's appointment of Sven is starting to pay off, with their match with Torquay now to be shown live on Sky in October. They are also claimed to be chasing Sheff Utd striker Billy Sharp, whose 56 goals in 95 games for Scunthorpe saw him move to Bramall Lane for £2million.
Rotherham have confirmed talks with Blackpool over want away striker Rueben Reid. Former Bulls trialist Jacques Maghoma was forcibly substituted during Burton's 8-0 win over Rocester after he committed a tackle that left a Rocester player with severe bruising to his leg. Notts County have kicked Nottingham rugby club out of Meadow Lane. The tenant club are less than happy about the decision by the new owners of the football club, with the Magpies wanting a better pitch for this season.
Barnet are to loan striker Cliff Akurang to Rushden for the season. The 6ft 2in target man ended last season on loan at Weymouth.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Jeannin breaks his leg
Former Hereford United defender Alex Jeannin has broken his leg whilst on a pre-season mini-tour of South Wales with Truro City.
The game at Bridgend was abandoned after Jeannin landed awkwardly when going for a header.
According to the Cornwall Press it was thought he had a 'suspected broken leg.' Scans later revealed that he had suffered a fractured fibula and tibia.
Jeannin was on trial with Truro City. He played for Mansfield for part of last season but was recently released.
Lee Morris back at Edgar Street
Trialist Lee Morris is back at Edgar Street. He trained with the rest of the squad this morning.
According to manager John Trewick he missed Tuesday's game against Kidderminster because of a slight knock.
"Lee missed the Kidderminster game through a slight knock, he missed training on Wednesday, but was back today," said Trewick as reported on the Official Site.
"I've opened initial contract talks with him. It's looking positive at the moment that he might be with us for longer."
However it looks as though Trewick won't be signing Pandiani.
"I'm a bit disappointed that Frank Pandiani has decided to return to France. There is a slim chance he will be back, but I doubt it. I thought he did well for us while he was with us."
Budget Cuts at Advantage West Midlands
Advantage West Midlands, the government backed quango, has had its budget cut by £48 million and on top of this AWM's bosses are suggesting that revenue from its own assets could be as much as £20 million lower because of the recession.
AWM has been told by Lord Mandelson to focus on supporting industry so the agency has also moved £64 million from its budget for regeneration schemes and redirected it to projects designed to help companies.
It had been hoped that the National Football Centre would have received some funding from AWM but this is now unlikely.
Advantage West Midlands are one of the partners in the Edgar Street Grid scheme for the middle of Hereford close to Hereford United's football ground.
It is not yet known whether the change in emphasis for AWM will mean more delays for the ESG scheme.
UPDATE: It has been revealed by AWM that any possible Hereford by-pass will be delayed until 2014 at the earliest.
Trewick prepared to wait for right players
Hereford United manager John Trewick has told BBC Hereford and Worcester that he is prepared to wait to find the right players.
"I'm looking to bring in at least one, hopefully two within the next week.
"But that still leaves room for at least a couple more and if I have to go a bit longer then I will," said Trewick.
Trewick also spoke about the 3-2 defeat by Kidderminster last Tuesday.
"We played against the full Birmingham side, we played against the full Bristol City side and they were good tests.
"I think the difference was that Kidderminster were more competitive. They closed us down from the back and we were not quite sharp enough to move the ball, to play through them. We over-played it at times and got a little bit bogged down
"But we learn from that and we know what we'll do in similar situations if it occurs again."
New Home Shirt Goes On Sale Today
Hereford United's new home shirt goes on sale today from noon. The club shop will stay open until 8pm for sales of the shirt and other new 'kit'.
The new shirt will be available on line from noon tomorrow (Friday).
Meanwhile the club has announced that Prices for Match Sponsorship, Match Ball Sponsorship, Match Mascot Sponsorship and Programme Sponsorship will remain the same as last season.
They also report that there are some 'excellent deals' for Perimeter Board Advertising.
Supporters are also reminded that Hereford United will play their next friendly on Saturday against a select Wolves side. Kick-off is at 3pm.
UPDATE: Pictures of the new away kit has also been released this morning. It's a strong orange colour with black trim.
News Round Up
Nick Chadwick will not be getting a contract at Darlington after a lacklustre performance in their match with Hamilton last night. Kris Taylor will only get a Port Vale contract if they can free up money within their budget. Micky Adams hopes they can find more money before the start of the season, but may have to offload a player first.
Shrewsbury striker Grant Holt is the subject of renewed rumours of a move to Norwich after he missed last night's friendly with West Brom. Manager Paul Simpson would only state the player was 'unavailable' sparking further rumours. Notts County's new owners are yet to pass the League's 'fit and proper persons' test. The actual ownership of the club remains shrouded in mystery with the almost untracable companies involved administered by a Swiss bank.
Bradford have agreed a termination over Paul Arnison's contract, and the player is now expected to join Darlington. The Bantams have signed striker James Hanson from Guiseley for a fee to be decided. Darlington themselves have changed their minds over previously announced 'signings' Craig James and Ben Starosta. Aldershot have signed goalkeeper Clark Masters on a one year contract. He spent last season at Southend, but never made a first team appearance.
Chester will sack banned pair Jay Harris and David Mannix following their bans for betting. Forest Green say they will not comment on Andrew Mangan's status until any appeals process is exhaused, with the club warning the press that they have nothing to do with the case. Bury are to lose striker Andy Bishop for the first month of the season as he goes under the knife for a double hernia operation.