Some major news is expected from Hereford United tomorrow according to Mark Farmer, one of the official site webmasters.
"The impression I got was certainly good news," said Farmer.
This news could relate to the lease situation at Edgar Street which has been under discussion for several months with both the owners of the ground, Herefordshire Council, and the Richardsons who hold the first lease.
Hereford United chairman David Keyte recently said that he was hopeful that the club could regain the leases of the ground. To do this he needs an agreement with the Richardsons which in effect would mean they would relinquish their interest.
However there is also the matter of the £1M plus debt to the Richardsons and it's highly unlikely that they will not want at least a gesture towards the debt especially if they have agreed to give up the lease.
Another major news story which has been in hibernation recently is the proposed development of the Blackfriars End of the ground. Chairman Keyte has said he is minded to change the original plans drawn up by former chairman Graham Turner's architect into a stand with a larger capacity.
.jpg)
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Major News expected Tomorrow
Bulls favoured to defeat Morecambe
Early prices released by bookmakers suggest that Hereford United may be in line for their first home win of the season on Saturday when Morecambe are the visitors to Edgar Street
At present 7/5 is available for a Bulls' win with both BlueSq and 888sport.
Latest Odds from Skybet:
Hereford 13/10 Draw 5/2 Morecambe 19/10
Tuesday Trip To Port Vale
Hereford United will travel to Port Vale on Tuesday January 11th for a League Two fixture.
Originally the game was due to be played on the previous Saturday as Vale are in the third round of the FA Cup the date has been rearranged.
The kick-off will be at 7.45pm.
News Round Up
Bury's home match with Shrewsbury has been picked for live Sky coverage at the end of January. FC United's FA Cup replay with Brighton has been selected by EPSN for coverage. Tonight's League Two match between Cheltenham and Southend has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Cheltenham chairman Paul Baker says the club will sign more players in January if they are in the top ten. They estimate they have made £50,000 from their cup run with £30,000 coming from gate receipts from their 3-0 loss at Southampton. Tamworth have confirmed Des Lyttle as their permanent manager after a spell as caretaker.
Stevenage have extended the loan of Birmingham winger James O'Shea until January. He has played six times in his month at the Lamex Stadium so far. Oxford defender Jake Wright will miss two months with a fractured bone in his foot. Plymouth have failed to pay the wages of either their players or office staff for November. They say it is because their bank account has been frozen after they received another notice of winding up proceedings.
Monday, November 29, 2010
November Draw Winners
The November draw of the 200 Club was made on Saturday at Edgar Street.
The prizewinners were:
£50 - Dave & Nikki White
£25 - Mrs Hyde
£10 - Andy Swift
Done could be a very good player
Matty Done never shone at Hereford United and his release by Graham Turner wasn't much of a surprise.
However he had a pre-season trial at Rochdale and won himself a contract. Yet he hasn't figured often this season and only played last Saturday when he came on as a sub after a hamstring injury to Joe Thompson early in the game against neighbours Oldham.
"Football is very funny with regards to how opportunities come along," Rochdale manager Keith Hill told the Manchester Evening News.
"Matt Done had a rollicking prior to this game. He wasn’t doing what I expected in training and he was becoming background music, and I find background music irritating.
"Against Oldham he performed to the standard he is capable of. He is a very privileged player – he has all the ability in the world.
"He plays golf off three and could easily get down to scratch, so he has that natural ability to play any sport quite comfortably. What we are asking him to do is turn up with the passion, commitment and endeavour to match that ability. If he does, he is a very good player."
Poster for Morecambe Match
Hereford United have produced this poster for next Saturday's League Two game against Morecambe.
They have asked that supporters print copies and display in prominent places.
(Click on the poster twice to enlarge, then it can be copied)
Covers remain On at Edgar Street
With the cold weather forecast to continue all week, Hereford United have taken a sensible precaution by keeping frost covers on the Edgar Street pitch.
The use of the covers allowed last Saturday's FA Cup-tie against Lincoln City to proceed and they were put back on the pitch just after that game finished.
So if they do their job as well as last week, next Saturday's game against Morecambe has a good chance of going ahead.
Only One New Banning Order Last Season For Bulls
The Home Office has today (29 November) released statistics on football-related arrests and banning orders for all league clubs for the 2009-10 season.
West Mercia Police is pleased that the trends in disorder and subsequent arrest and prosecutions connected with Hereford United are falling in line with national trends.
Currently there are a total of 12 men subject of football banning orders with connections to Hereford United; most of these are longstanding and there was only one new order put in place last season.
Five people connected with the club were arrested in the same period, again a decrease on previous years; in 2009 there were 15 arrests.
Jim Mooney, Football Liaison Officer for Herefordshire, said: “Despite problems at the recent Shrewsbury Town match, we are pleased with how the overall trend is developing with Hereford United supporters.
“Compared to other teams of a similar support and size, Hereford United has a below average number of arrests and banning orders. Only one person was given an order last season and the majority of orders date back some three years.
“Working in partnership with Hereford United, West Mercia Police will continue to deal with the minority of those supporters who are intent on causing disruption at football matches in a robust and positive manner to ensure that attending games is safe for all.”
Miller to Referee on Saturday
Pat Miller from Bedfordshire is set to referee Hereford United's League Two match against Morecambe at Edgar Street next Saturday.
Miller is no stranger to Hereford United. Last season he was in charge of one of Graham Turner's final games with the club, against Grimsby on April 10th. The Bulls lost the game 1-0 and Miller booked Gavin McCallum.
The previous season he made two visits to Hereford. Firstly for the visit of Crewe, a game the Bulls won 2-0 with goals from Stephen O'Leary and Bradley Hudson-Odoi and secondly for the visit of Leicester. Although Steve Guinan converted a penalty the Bulls lost that game 3-1.
Miller didn't book any Hereford United players during either game.
To date this season Miller has been in charge of 14 games in which he has dealt out 55 yellow and 4 red cards.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Gowling returns to Gillingham
Of all the Lincoln players at Edgar Street yesterday defender Josh Gowling, who had a spell with Hereford during the 2008/09 season, must have been pleased with his performance.
For much of the game he kept Hereford United striker Sean Canham in check and when Mathieu Manset came out to replace Canham he didn't give the Beast much space either.
However the good news is that Gowling has played his last game for the Imps as his loan deal with them finished yesterday and he is back with Gillingham.
On the other hand striker Delroy Facey was absent from the Lincoln squad as he was on international duty with Grenada. He will be back for the replay.
It could be Wycombe Wanderers
The winners of the Hereford United/Lincoln City replay have been drawn against Wycombe Wanderers away in the third round of the FA Cup.
In truth a rather disappointing draw for the Bulls, but if they can get past Lincoln in nine days time, it's a tie they would have a chance of winning.
And the two teams are already destined to play each other as the Bulls travel to Wycombe on Boxing Day for a League Two fixture.
Wycombe are currently 7th in League Two.
The tie will take place on Saturday January 8th.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Ex-Bull Watch
Steve Guinan was a late sub on his Forest Green debut as they drew with Rushden, with Tim Sills booked for the Diamonds. Danny Thomas scored Tamworth's second but they lost at Carlisle. Joe Anyinsah scored in six minutes for Charlton but they were held by Luton.
Results Round Up
The only game in League Two saw Morecambe remain just three points above the Bulls after losing at home to Crewe 2-1 in front of their lowest gate of the season so far.
In the Conference Cambridge were the latest side to hammer Altrincham with a 4-0 win while Forest Green drew 2-2 with Rushden.
In the FA Cup there were a few upsets. FC United led Brighton until getting a man sent off, and will have to replay after a 1-1 draw. Luton hit back twice to earn a 2-2 draw at Charlton, and Dover beat Aldershot 2-0.
In other matches Cheltenham went down 3-0 at Southampton, Torquay beat Walsall 1-0, and Stevenage won 2-0 at AFC Wimbledon.
LATE PEN. EARNS BULLS REPLAY
A bitterly cold afternoon at Edgar Street ended with the necessity for a third meeting of Bulls and Imps in as many weeks. The home side will rue Stuart Fleetwood’s penalty miss and the gift of a goal to Mustapha Carayol, but feel some relief that their name will be in the hat for round 3 after Mathieu Manset’s late spot kick.
Permanent temporary relief caretaker supremo Jamie Pitman named Joe Heath as replacement for the suspended Ryan Green, and fellow loanee Matt Lund was on the bench. The warm-up, much needed as the mercury fell, took place with orange balls, a sensible precaution in view of the adverse weather forecast, though curiously the game began with a white one. Further puzzles concerned the absence of any ball boys, a complete turnaround from the unnatural multiball experience, and the necessity for the floodlights to blaze away from the start. Surely not at the behest of the esteemed F A Cup sponsors, as suggested by one cynic.
In the opening exchanges, the Bulls looked in positive mood. Fleetwood and Rob Purdie engaged in some tricky passing moves, and Nicky Featherstone and Kenny Lunt forced a corner after a promising build-up. The dangerous Carayol had a run and shot which Adam Bartlett parried. The ricochet then rebounded to the striker, but he was unable to control the ball. Josh O’Keefe then fired a harmless free kick way over Bartlett’s bar.
With 19 minutes played, Sean Canham was penalised for a push on O’Keefe on halfway. Alert to the possibility of a quick break, Scott Kerr took the kick, with the ball still moving (a fact not spotted by the officials) and found Ashley Grimes down the right flank. The experienced Grimes spotted Bartlett closing him down and chipped him perfectly to put Lincoln into the lead.
Just as this blow came out of the blue, Hereford’s equaliser a mere 4 minutes later came as a surprise. Purdie showed determination in chasing a loose ball but there seemed little danger as Gavin Hoyte shepherded it back to Joe Anyon in the visitors’ goal. A momentary hesitation allowed our Rob (well Oldham’s anyway, for the moment) to get a foot in and find the net with a trundling effort from the edge of the box.
Scorer Rob Purdie being congratulated by Sean Canham - Pictures taken by Andy Compton of the Hereford JournalAnother 4 minutes and another early Christmas gift, this time presented to Mr Carayol. Under pressure from Grimes, Bartlett and Michael Townsend dithered over a clearance and the ball fell into the striker’s path, and he gratefully accepted the chance. To their credit, United set about restoring parity with some vigour. Fleetwood delayed his shot marginally too long, and then Joe Heath, gaining in composure, fired a low cross cum shot across the face of the goal. After another attack Lunt’s shot appeared to be handled, and Heath’s follow-up certainly was. Optimstic claims for two penalties were denied, but at least Mr Williamson spotted the second one. It was unexpected when Fleetwood was given the responsibility of taking the kick, and a disappointing effort was caught by Anyon. There was still time for a further sortie which ended with some over-elaboration and no shot on goal.
HT: HUFC 1 LINCOLN CITY 2
The wisdom of sending the team out early in what by now were sub-zero temperatures seemed dubious as much shivering was to be seen. A chance to reflect on modern footballers’ kit, with various combinations of long/short sleeves, gloves and tights, was enlightening. And the prize goes to macho man Richard Rose for his gloveless, short-sleeved bravado.
Featherstone and Purdie cleverly played Heath down the line and his hanging cross was headed over by Canham. Some enterprising approach play at both ends lacked the final pass and shot on goal. The game entered a frustrating phase, with niggly fouls and plenty of dissent being shown. Fleetwood in particular seemed determined to start his next collection of yellow cards with his continuous arm-waving and whingeing whenever things were not going his way, and sure enough, the booking materialised. The arrival of Mathieu Manset livened up proceedings, and one terrific spin and shot almost bore fruit. The Frenchman then nearly found the tiring Purdie with a fine pass. Joe Colbeck fired in a dangerous cross and new boy Lund added some energy to the midfield.
Lincoln created chances too, and a Joe Anderson cross caused some consternation in the home penalty area. Sam Gwynne’s timely intervention then prevented another chance and allowed Bartlett to pounce on the loose ball. As the game drew to a close, it seemed that a cup exit was a probability, and despite some endeavour, and the welcome return of Guillem Bauza, an equaliser did not seem forthcoming. Then, with 86 minutes gone, Fleetwood burst into the box and was tripped, Mr Williamson pointing straight to the spot. Some dispute then took place, with several candidates pointing out their penalty taking prowess on their CVs. Monsieur Manset proved the successful applicant, and then justifying the selection by blasting the ball unceremoniously down the middle.
Mathieu Manset and captain Michael Townsend after the 'Beast' scores the penaltyLittle of note followed, with a replay at Sincil Bank to look forward to.
FT: HUFC 2 LINCOLN CITY 2
Attendance: a poor 1803, with 235 from the far east.
HUFC: Bartlett, Heath, Townsend, Rose, Gwynne, Purdie, Featherstone, Lunt (Bauza 81), Colbeck (Lund 62) , Fleetwood, Canham (Manset 53).
Lincoln City: Anyon, Anderson, Watts, Gowling, Hoyte, Carayol, Kerr, O’Keefe, Jarrett, Grimes (Broughton 65), B.Hutchinson.
We were always in the game - Purdie
Winger Rob Purdie, who scored Hereford's first goal this afternoon, felt that the Bulls were always in the game despite going in at half-time 1-0 down.
"I said at half time this had probably got a draw written all over it," Purdie told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"I was confident we would score. If we had scored a little bit earlier we might have been able to put a bit of pressure on them and snatch a win.
"Their second goal and our first goal shouldn't really have happened. We've come back from a goal down both times which is promising.
"I thought we passed it well at times so we just need to work on the little errors."
Fleetwood missed a penalty but made one later when he was brought down.
"He's confident, if he had got the ball for the second penalty then I don't think anyone would have argued. He doesn't miss many, but Manny put the second one away really well."
After Lincoln went 2-1 ahead they appeared content.
"I think they were happy to sit back and try and defend which, to be fair, away from home you are probably going to do. Which is why we thought we were always in the game."
And Hereford's second penalty?
"No doubt at all, stone-wall.
"Bauza and Manny wanted it. I think Manny grabbed the ball. I think I was fourth choice. I was ready in case they dropped it and ran off but I can't really come here on loan and call the shots.
"It was a good penalty. Manny is a goal scorer at the moment and he is great for us."
FA Cup Draw 6pm Sunday
The draw for the third round of the FA Cup will take place tomorrow (Sunday) at 6pm on ITV One.
Hereford or Lincoln City are ball number 59.
Cup Replay at Lincoln on December 7th
It has been confirmed that The FA Cup replay between Lincoln City and Hereford United will take place at Sincil Bank Stadium on Tuesday 7 December 2010 with a 7.45pm kick-off.
Admission prices will be £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and £5 for juniors.
HUISA will be running transport to the game. Full details in due course.
Two Errors cost us a Win said Pitman
Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman thought that two deficiencies cost the Bulls a win against Lincoln City this afternoon.
"You don't need me to tell you but two deficiencies from ourselves caused us problems again," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"We've done that a number of times this season. If we could eliminate those, we'll do alright.
"The way we play we'll always score goals. I think we've only failed to score once in a game (since Pitman was in charge), now we need to concentrate on not conceeding.
Pitman said he was pleased with his recent acquisitions.
"Matty Lunt has come in off the bench and done very well.
"Joe Heath was excellent at left back.
"Nicky Featherstone continues to get better and better."
Guillem Bauza came on a sub late in the game but Pitman implied he was not yet match-fit.
"Everyone was calling for Bauza but the lad has hardly trained. He's come back from a groin problem after four weeks and he's very rusty.
"People were calling for him but I see what they do in training in the week. I hopefully made the right decision by leaving him out."
Pitman was pleased to be in tomorrow's draw for the third round but first a replay.
"We'll go there and have another game with them. We'll enjoy each others company soon."
Good news on the injury front as Pitman said he hoped both Janos Kovacs and James McQuilken would be available next Saturday.
Draw was Right Result said Rose
Hereford United's Richard Rose thought that a draw with Lincoln City was the right result this afternoon at Edgar Street.
"Defensively at times we made a few errors," Rose told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"But fortunately we were able to put the ball in the back of the net now hopefully we can go up there and get a result and get a good draw in the next round.
"No one really wanted to go for it, but when the game opened up there was some good football played. A draw was a fair result in the end.
Lincoln's second goal came from a misunderstanding between Adam Bartlett and Mike Townsend.
"I think both players thought they had it or the other one had it and the result for a goal for them.
"At the end of the day we kept plugging away and we got back in it. Unlucky towards the end not to get a winner. We created so many chances and looked good on the break.
"Hereford's second goal was coming. The way we were playing and passing it around we always thought we were going to get back in it.
"It took a good run from Fleets, the lad brought him down, it was a stone-wall penalty and Manny scored from the spot."
Cup Stats from Edgar Street
All the main stats from a very cold Edgar Street where Hereford United draw 2-2 with Lincoln City and so are in the draw for the third round of the FA Cup.
Possession: Bulls 50% Imps 50%
Shots on Target: Bulls 4 Imps 5
Shots off Target: Bulls 5 Imps 2
Corners: Bulls 9 Imps 2
Fouls: Bulls 15 Imps 11
Yellow cards: Richard Rose, Stuart Fleetwood and Sam Gwynne
Attendance: 1803 including 235 in the away end
Men of the Match: Joe Heath and Rob Purdie
Bulls Gets Third Imps Test
Stuart Fleetwood's missed penalty proved telling as both sides gifted goals to the other but a second Mathieu Manset penalty salvaged a late draw.
Full report later.
Cup Game Is ON
This afternoon's FA Cup game at Edgar Street between Hereford United and Lincoln City is ON.
Although temperatures dipped well below freezing last night, the club has confirmed that the game will go ahead as planned.
Some games in the Conference have been postponed but, as at 11am, none in the FA Cup.
Buy An Ascari's Pie and Keep Warm
It doesn't look as though it will be very warm watching football at Edgar Street this afternoon, so it might be a good excuse for any supporter who hasn't yet tried food from the new caterers at the ground to do so.
Ascari's do a range of pies. Top of the list is a Hereford Beef Pie. Also available are real bacon rolls. And they are good.
How times have changed.
For many years supporters who regularly travel to away games often commented how the pies were much better at many venues than the fare dished out by Lindley's at Edgar Street.
This season that isn't the case. As yet it's probably fair to say no other ground has sold pies that are as good as those from Ascari's.
So with this afternoon likely to be the coldest day at Edgar Street this season so far what better reason than to purchase hot food and drink from Ascari's inside Edgar Street.
And help a local business employing local people using local ingredients.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Guinan Goes Gump
Former Bull Steve Guinan has signed for Forest Green on loan until January.
With current club Northampton signing Ryan Jarvis until January, transfer listed Guinan has been allowed to go to Gloucestershire's top side until the New Year with the Cobblers saying the move will be made permanent in January.
Guinan says he's gone back to the Conference to play regularly, while FGR boss Dave Hockaday says the signing proves his new chairman is prepared to back the club's bid to survive: “To have secured someone with Steve’s outstanding record in the game is a great boost to the whole squad, let alone me. I hope the supporters now realise that we mean business."
The move means that, almost certainly, Guinan's hopes of landing the Bulls managerial job have evaporated. He was interviewed shortly after Jamie Pitman was appointed as caretaker boss, and was expected by many to be an imminent arrival at Edgar Street at least as a player/coach.
Meanwhile another former Bulls striker is also on the move. Mark Beesley has joined Altrincham on loan from Fleetwood until January. The 29 year old hasn't featured for the big spending Conf side since being farmed out on loan to York at the start of October.
Bulls 6/4 to win Cup-tie
Hereford United can be backed at 6/4 to defeat Lincoln City tomorrow and so be in the draw for the third round of the FA Cup. However this price is only available with Victor Chandler and William Hill.
Latest Odds from SkyBet:
Hereford 13/10 Draw 12/5 Lincoln 2/1
For a 1-0 victory for the Bulls 15/2 can be found at Bet365, William Hill and ExtraBet.
A 2-0 win for the Bulls is 12/1 at William Hill.
A 2-1 win for the Bulls is 9/1 at SkyBet, BlueSq, 888sport and ExtraBet.
Hopefully there will not have to be a replay but a goal-less score can be backed at 10/1 with Bet365, Sportingbet and William Hill.
A 1-1 draw is 6/1 at BlueSq, 888sport and William Hill.
A 2-2 draw is 16/1 with SkyBet.
For first goal scorer in the game, Mathieu Manset is 6/1 with Bet365, BlueSq and 888sport, Stuart Fleetwood is 7/1 with BlueSq and 888sport, Guillem Bauza is also 7/1 but with William Hill, Paddy Power, SkyBet and Boylesports, and Sean Canham is 15/2 with SkyBet.
News Round Up
Plymouth have been handed another court date by the taxman over unpaid taxes. Their home match on Tuesday night attracted less than 5,000 spectators - half their home average last season and 50% down on this term's figures. They are in talks with Peter Ridsdale over possible investment. Torquay confirmed they received further bids for striker Elliott Benyon before the deadline but a deal could not be reached.
In late loan news, Northampton have loaned defender Craig Hinton to Luton until January. The former Bristol Rovers man has made only one appearance for the Cobblers this season. New Crewe loan signing Chris Hussey has returned to parent club Coventry after picking up a wrist injury in training.
Sheff Weds are said to be within 24 hours of being taken over by Milan Mandaric with the Co-op bank taking just £8million of their £23million owed to escape the club. Walsall have reported a fifth successive year of profit, announcing a £5,000 for the year to the end of May 2010.
Covers on early at Edgar Street
With temperatures expected to fall during the darkness hours on Thursday and Friday nights, HUFC staff were quick off the mark to get the playing surface covered with frost resistant covers.
The main pitch preparation was completed in good time and yesterday afternoon the "League regulation" covers were put onto the playing area to protect it from the expected frosts. With the extra work on the pitch and late player registrations to be completed, it was well after the normal "knocking off" time when staff left the ground last night.
The Bulls host Lincoln City in the second round of The FA Cup on Saturday KO 3.00pm.
Big Ron Dinner a success
Last night's HUFC Gala Dinner at the Three Counties Hotel was well supported with nineteen tables of guests enjoying a superb three course meal followed by the very funny comedian, Stan Johns, and tales of the expected from Ron Atkinson.
Big Ron opened his session with a fake faulty microphone act followed by the comment "don’t you sometimes wish all microphones were like this"! He continued with stories from his long career including several references to his joint work with Colin Addison who was in the audience.
The evening included an auction of football memorabilia and the usual stand-up bingo which was well supported. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining evening and those in attendance will no doubt be already looking forward to the next event.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
We have a point to prove says Pitman
After two defeats in four days Hereford United will want to get back to winning ways on Saturday with a victory over Lincoln City in the FA Cup.
A win for the Bulls would be worth worth £27,000 and, perhaps more importantly, a place in the draw for the third round when the Premiership and Championship clubs enter the competition.
With Ryan Green suspended, Bryon Webster cup-tied and several other players still out with injuries, manager Jamie Pitman has strengthened his squad with two loanees. However despite losing to Bury 5-0 last Tuesday, Lincoln City will be tough opponents.
However having played them last Saturday at least Pitman will know what they are like.
"It's another game but there should be a bit of fight in our bellies because we got beaten up there," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"We have a point to prove, we are not a bad side.
"We need to get back to what we were doing regularily three or four weeks ago."
Pitman has also spoken to the Worcester News about the cup-tie.
"We want to get into the third round and get the big dream tie," he said.
"To do that we need to perform to our potential. Our only home win has come in the FA Cup so hopefully we can keep winning in the competition.
"We are going to go into the game as prepared as we always do but hopefully a little bit better than we have in the last couple of games."
Former Loanees Farmed Out Again
Former Bulls loanees Paul Downing and Lateef Elford-Alliyu have been sent out on loan by West Brom again.
Downing moves to Rotherham until January 4th. The central defender played six times for the Bulls during February, getting sent off in his final appearance against Notts County.
Elford-Alliyu played only once for the Bulls, starting against Port Vale at the end of January, but was left on the bench for the remainder of his month after a poor display. He, surprisingly, joins League One Tranmere.
Lund Is Second Loan Signing
Stoke midfielder Matthew Lund has joined the Bulls on a months loan, the Premier side have confirmed.
The 20 year old was signed from Crewe's Academy side with Tony Pulis telling the Stoke official site: "This will be a good chance for Matty to gain his first experience of playing regular first team football at this level and it is important he gets such an opportunity now to further his development."
Lund was one of a pair of Academy starlets that controversially switched to near-neighbours Stoke in 2009 after coach Steve Holland had made the move. Lund cost the Potters £80,000 as an 18 year old in a tribunal deal that could rise to £430,000.
Stoke have given permission for Lund to play in Saturday's Cup game against Lincoln City if selected.
Heath joins Bulls
Central defender Joe Heath has joined Hereford United on an initial one months loan from Exeter City.
The 22-year-old started for the Grecians at Edgar Street earlier this season in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Second Round Tie. The game was Jamie Pitman's first in charge of the Bulls after Simon Davey was sacked.
"Joe has been terrific since he joined us," said Exeter Director of Football Steve Perryman.
"He is one of the best trainers I've ever seen and unfortunately for him the chance has just not come his way
"We feel that it would do him a lot of good to get some senior games under his belt and the morale boost that playing for points gives a player."
As no mention has been made of him being cup-tied it is assumed he can play against Lincoln City on Saturday.
Heath started his football career as a trainee at Notts Forest. He went out on loan to Lincoln City for six months from July 2009, a hernia operation limited his appearances, and then to Exeter last March for a month. He signed for them in August but other than in the Trophy game at Hereford is yet to have been given a start.
There's Life after Football says Baker
Former Hereford United goalkeeper Matt Baker, pictured in 2003, is now working for the Sun. He does match reports for them. However it's only part time and he has other interests as he explained to the Football League website.
Baker, who kept goal for the Bulls from August 2000 to July 2004, had to give up his career in football after a knee injury.
"I was about 26, and I started to think about what I should do after football. A journalism degree course came up at Staffordshire University and I combined that with what I was still doing. I did it for two days a week and thought I fancy a bit of that.
"I managed to make quite a few contacts and after I retired as a player I did a year working for the MK Dons' website, 'Dons World'.
"During that time I got to know the Assistant Sports Editor of The Sun who lived nearby and covered their games. He said I should ring him because he was looking for good people to cover games. I did and the following week I was covering a Bradford City match. Pretty much since then I have been covering a game every week."
In the week Baker works for a major machine tool manufacturing company. And on top of that he's gone into politics with the Conservative party.
"In the last two or three years, since all the economic problems started, politics has come to the fore and people have started to take more of an interest which is a good thing.
"The emphasis is on more power and local government and local people getting involved in issues that affect them. I went from volunteering to being a candidate, it was quite exciting and a great experience.
"There are days when I think I should still be playing out there. If I did I probably wouldn't be able to walk for three or four days afterwards.
"I still pay attention to the results of my old clubs, particularly Hereford United. The Manager, Jamie Pitman, was best man at my wedding so I hope he does well!
"Anybody who tells you they didn't enjoy playing is a liar. The main thing you miss though is the banter in the dressing room, you just don't get that in any other workplace
"I'm still not sure about what I'll be doing in the future but in a strange way politics replicates football. You're in the public domain, you have the chance to affect people's lives in a positive way and that's something that really appeals to me. The experience of the last year has been fascinating."
News Round Up - Loan Deadline Day
Accrington have signed Oldham defender Joe Jacobson on loan until January 3rd. The former Cardiff defender spent time at the Crown Ground in 2006. Lincoln have extended the loan of Arsenal defender Gavin Hoyte until January 29th, but expect to lose ex-Bull Josh Gowling with Gillingham needing him back due to injuries.
Bournemouth have loaned striker Josh McQuoid to Millwall ahead of a permanent January transfer. The fee is claimed to be £550,000 with the player, who was a winger until a summer switch up front, signing a £4,000 a week deal. Torquay have agreed to loan defender Kieran Charnock to Morecambe with a permanent deal going through in January, and they have extended the loan of Wolves man Ashley Hemmings into January.
Histon are offering free admission to any season ticket holder or member of any of the 92 Premier or Football League sides to tonight's match against Bath City on production of their book or card. Rotherham have received permission to build a new stadium in the town by the local council. The brownfield site, an old foundry, is hoped to be ready by the FL deadline of the summer of 2012.
Brentford boss Andy Scott has warned Martin Allen off after the trouser dropping fruit loop began stalking the under fire boss in the national press. Scott told the local press: 'If he’s putting his name into the hat, he shouldn’t think he can walk into a League One job after not doing nearly so well at a League Two club.' Bury have signed Everton midfielder James Wallace on a months loan. The 18 year old England u19 international has been at Goodison Park since he was 13.
Shrewsbury have signed Man City midfielder Andrew Tutte on a months loan. The 20 year old opened the season with Rochdale, making seven appearances. Accrington have signed Ian Craney from Fleetwood for a third spell with the club. The 28 year old will remain until January. Cheltenham say they were unable to finalise a deal to bring in another loan player before the deadline.
Northampton have signed Leyton Orient striker Ryan Jarvis until January 3rd. The 24 year old former Norwich man has scored three times for the Orient this term but has made only one first team appearance in nearly two months.
Webster can't play in Cup Game
Loan signing Byron Webster can't play in Saturday's FA Cup game according to the Hereford Times. Doncaster United don't want him cup-tied and therefore have told Hereford United he can't take part in the game against Lincoln City.
Manager Jamie Pitman will have to make a couple of changes for the game with Ryan Green suspended.
At present it looks as though Richard Rose may have to partner Mike Townsend in central defence unless Pitman can bring in another loan player assuming that player isn't cup-tied.
Sam Gwynne could be called into the team at right back with Kenny Lunt likely to revert to his more usual position in mid-field.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Trouble well controlled says Bebbington
Ian Bebbington, operations and commercial manager at Shrewsbury Town, has spoken to the Shropshire Star about the trouble at their game against Hereford United on Tuesday evening.
"Unfortunately there were a few supporters who were intent on causing disruption. We identified a number of troublemakers in the first half and brought in some extra police support.
"The stewards did a fantastic job. There were an element of Shrewsbury Town fans involved but they were being incited by Hereford fans. It looked like a major disorder but it was actually very much under control."
Meanwhile this morning the Hereford Times has printed a picture taken by Steve Niblett of the OS showing a spectator being carried out of the ground.
Williamson to Referee on Saturday
Iain Williamson from Berkshire is set to referee next Saturday's round two FA Cup-tie between Hereford United and Lincoln City.
BN believes that it will be the first time Williamson has officiated at Edgar Street.
To date this season Williamson has given out 56 yellow and 2 red cards during the 15 matches he has been in charge.
Meanwhile Hereford United have said that three former players will be at Edgar Street for Saturday's Cup-tie.
Tony Gough and Ricky George from the team of 72 will be present along with Peter Heritage who was a striker with the Bulls from 1990 to 1992.
Gough was the captain and George scored the winning goal against Newcastle.
"With eight minutes to go we were on our way out and then the great man pulled the trigger and suddenly we had hope, we were in with a chance," said George.
"I was the man who just happened to get on the end of the winner which bobbled into the net. We were a great team, a good bunch of lads who gave everything we had."
Both Gough and George will be on the pitch at half-time. Whether George will try and re-create his goal, as Ronnie Radford did a few weeks ago when he was a guest, remains to be seen.
Heritage holds the record for the fastest goal scored at Edgar Street.
It was in a game against Lincoln City on the 28th September 1991 when Heritage scored in just 14 seconds after running on to a through ball from Simon Brain. And to cap it all the Bulls won the game 3-0.
As well as playing for Hereford he also played for Hythe Town whom the Bulls defeated in the first round of the Cup.
Lunt Not on Suspended List
Kenny Lunt is not on the latest FA suspension list so it looks as though he will be able to play in next Saturday's FA Cup match against Lincoln City.
Lunt picked up a booking last night at Shrewsbury and it was quickly noted by members of the Bulls Player commentary team that he had collected five yellow cards so would miss Saturday's match. However BN's count suggests that including last night's booking he has only collected four cards to date which is why we did not report it last night.
No doubt the OS will clarify.
Meanwhile the FA has been confirmed that Ryan Green who was sent off last night will miss the next three games.
Hereford United FC RYAN GREEN 23/11/2010 Suspended from all football until the Club have completed 3 first team matches for a Sending Off in a match played on 23/11/2010.
Finally Shrewsbury Town have reported that there were 904 spectators in the away end last night.
Five Arrests To Date
BBC Radio Shorpshire has reported that five so-called supporters have been arrested so far after trouble at last night's Shrewsbury Town/Hereford United game.
They say that about 25 police officers went to the ground to deal with the trouble.
Several police officers and stewards received minor injuries.
Five people from the Shrewsbury and Hereford areas were arrested for various offences including assult on police and club stewards.
Video footage is being studied to identify others in the disorder.
Meanwhile Chief Inspector Martin Whitelegg has spoken about the trouble at the ground.
"Prior to the fixture, we were not requested by the club to provide policing at the ground as they have their own stewards. However, we did have a small number of officers on duty to deal with any ancillary disorder in the town.
"But due to significant disorder breaking out in the ground during the match which the stewards were unable to manage on their own, the club's safety officer requested assistance from the police and we attended to restore order."
News Round Up
Bournemouth have announced that they will not be allowed to sign any loan players ahead of the loan deadline on Thursday after the Football League refused permission. They remain under strict coverage until next summer under the terms of their departure from Administration. Bradford have extended the loan of striker Jason Price for a third month.
Crewe have confirmed that goalkeeper Steve Phillips can go out on loan after Rhys Taylor agreed to a loan deal with the Railwaymen until the end of the season. They have signed Coventry full back Chris Hussey on loan until January 1st. The 21 year old was signed last January from AFC Wimbledon and has made nine appearances for the Championship side. Martin Foyle and Jimmy Quinn have both confirmed applications to be the next Mansfield manager.
Torquay's Elliott Benyon is claimed to be a target of Dagenham, who had a £40,000 bid turned down last week. Swindon are also said to be interested with their local press saying the Gulls want £75,000. Shrewsbury have extended the loan of Bolton forward Temitope Obadeyi until January 8th. He has played seven times for the Shrews in his month so far, scoring once.
Gillingham have lost the services of coach Wally Downes to West Ham. They had won both their games since his arrival after losing four on the trot.
Bulls To Ban Troublemakers
Hereford United say they will ban troublemakers that caused problems at last night's match.
A club statement says they will assist the Police and Shrewsbury Town to identify troublemakers and ban them from Edgar Street. David Keyte told the official site:
"We are sad and sickened by what happened and hopefully all the culprits will be identified and dealt with by the courts. This sort of thing casts a shadow over the club, its loyal supporters and the game of football"
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Defensive Frailties Bring Bulls Demise
Hereford United were on the receiving end of sound beating as they capitulated at the back and conceded three poor second half goals after going in for the interval with just a single goal deficit. In the end, a hat-trick from Mark Wright plus a header from Cansdell-Sherriff condemned The Bulls to the second defeat in four days.
Jamie Pitman was able to welcome back Rob Purdie, albeit probably short of a couple of days’ training with Werling starting in the left fullback role. Tyler Weir and Stuart Fleetwood dropped to the bench to make way.
The Bulls actually started the brighter and Manset had a chance after Lunt and Werling fashioned an opening but the Frenchman fired his effort into the side netting. Both teams struggled to take control in the early stages but The Shrews broke the deadlock on thirteen minutes when a corner was only partly cleared. The ball fell to Wright, wide on the left, and his cross-shot curled just inside the far post.
Richard Rose tested Chris Neal from just outside the box and Colbeck pulled an effort wide of the upright but the home side, without producing real chances, certainly looked the more likely to score as they asserted their greater physical presence on proceedings. The referee played advantage when Werling was chopped down and only stopped play after Manset was similarly brought to a halt on the edge of the box but the free-kick came to nothing. Whilst The Bulls looked reasonably comfortable in possession going forward, defensively they looked short of confidence. Young Byron Webster gifted an opening to Harrold but Bartlett saved his bacon with a smart block. At the other end, Kenny Lunt set up Richard Rose but his shot was headed off the line with the keeper stranded and it was Lunt again who chipped over the hosts backline only for Manset to blast wide with a low shot.
HT Shrewsbury 1 Bulls 0
Colbeck made an early break just after the interval when he outstripped his markers but his cross into the box was easily cleared. On the counter, the ball was squared across the Bulls’ box and Bartlett had to tip McIntyre’s shot over at the expense of a corner. The Bulls keeper was kept busy as he blocked an effort from Robinson who was through on goal Pitman replaced Lunt with Bauza after an hour but the shape of the team seemed to disappear as the hosts rattled in three goals inside fifteen minutes from opportunities provided by indiscipline in defence. Two strikes from Wright who was in yards of space and a header from Cansdell-Sherriff left The Bulls wishing for the final whistle long before it was due.
Pitman threw on Stuart Fleetwood for the tiring Purdie and also swapped Manset for Canham without result although Fleets did force a rare second half save from Neal.
Late in the game Ryan Green picked up a red card for a strong challenge on Mat Sadler. The Welshman came out of the 50/50 challenge with the ball but presumably incurred the referee’s wrath for showing his studs or leaving the ground. He will probably miss a few games as a result.
As reported elsewhere, there was plenty of banter between the fans who numbered 6576 with a healthy but unknown (600/700?) contribution from The Shire.
FT Shrewsbury 4 Bulls 0
Hereford: Bartlett, Green, Webster, Townsend, Werling, Colbeck, Rose, Featherstone, Purdie (Fleetwood 69), Lunt (Bauza 63), Manset (Canham 78). Subs unused: Heister, Weir, Gwynne, Stratford.
Shrewsbury: Neal, Sadler, Sharps, Cansdell-Sherriff, Wright, McIntyre, Harrold, Robinson, Holden, Disley (McAllister 59), Obadeyi. Subs unused: Leslie, Neal, Van Den Broek, O’Donnell, Smith, Bradshaw.
Another poor result for The Bulls who had shown some endeavour in the first period despite some errors at the back. Dominic Werling offered little more than young Weir had done at Lincoln and Webster varied between composed and chaotic in a defence that provided far too many gifts to an attack that was only too grateful to take the opportunities handed out.
Oh for a Tony James to steady the ship, a full back that marks his winger (Richard Rose anyone?), a back to basics 4-4-2 and don’t start me on traffic diversions.
Goodnight.
Turner delighted with three points
Graham Turner was understandably delighted at Shrewsbury's 4-0 win over Hereford United this evening.
"I thought as a team we played well. The first goal was possibly the best we scored this season," Turner told BBC Radio Shropshire.
"Just a few scrambles from Hereford set-pieces that we had to deal with.
"The atmosphere was very good.
"I glanced across several times to hope there wasn't too much trouble in the corner.
"I was asked not to wave towards the end of the game because that was provoking one or two of the incidents.
"Whether it was or not - you have to respect that view.
"In the end it's another three points for us. It doesn't matter whether it's Hereford or anybody else in the league."
Results Round Up
The Bulls are three points, and some goals, shy of safety after tonight's results. Barnet remain also in the drop zone after losing 2-1 at home to Gillingham, with Northampton residing in 22nd place after they drew 2-2 at Rotherham. Alongside the Cobblers on 18 points are Morecambe after they didn't play with their match against Crewe moved to Saturday. Stockport and Lincoln are on 19 afer the Hatters went down an increasingly familiar 5-0 at home to Port Vale, while the Imps managed the same dismal scoreline at home to Bury. Oxford and Southend are next on 20 points with Oxford winning 2-1 at Chesterfield and Southend drawing 1-1 at Stevenage. Bradford drew with Accrington 1-1 to move both sides up to 21 points, alongside Burton who lost at home to Aldershot 2-1.
At the top Chesterfield's loss means Port Vale take top spot by a point with Bury third. Shrewsbury stay fourth with Rotherham fifth and Torquay, 3-1 winners at Wycombe, overtaking the Chairboys. Cheltenham beat Macclesfield 2-0 to leap above them into eighth.
In the Conference York beat Southport 2-0 to move into mid-table.
Stats from Shrewsbury
Not a good evening for Hereford United as they were defeated 4-0 at Shrewsbury this evening. There was some trouble on the stands and a few Hereford United supporters were thrown out of the ground along with some Shrewsbury fans.
Possession: Bulls 50% Shrews 50%
Shots on Target: Bulls 1 Shrews 6
Shots off Target: Bulls 8 Shrews 8
Corners: Bulls 3 Shrews 8
Fouls: Bulls 9 Shews 8
Cards: Red for Ryan Green, Yellows for Kenny Lunt and Bryon Webster.
Attendance: 6565
Bottom of League Two:
17 Southend 17 -2 20
18 Oxford Utd 18 -3 20
19 Lincoln City 18 -12 19
20 Stockport 18 -18 19
21 Morecambe 17 -6 18
22 Northampton 18 -9 18
23 Barnet 18 -14 16
24 Hereford 18 -16 15
Green to miss Three Games
Ryan Green is expected to miss Hereford United's next three games after being red carded at Shrewsbury this evening.
Delayed Start at Shrewsbury
BBC Hereford and Worcester's Keith Hall has reported that there could be a delayed start at Shrewsbury this evening because of the accident on the A49 just a few miles south of the ground.
7.10pm: Confirmed 8pm kick-off.
Hereford United Starting XI for Shrewsbury Match
Tonight's starting eleven:
Adam BARTLETT
Ryan GREEN
Michael TOWNSEND
Byron WEBSTER
Dominik WERLING
Richard ROSE
Nick FEATHERSTONE
Joe COLBECK
Rob PURDIE
Kenny LUNT
Mathieu MANSET
Subs:
Daniel STRATFORD
Sean CANHAM
Sam GWYNNE
Stuart FLEETWOOD
Guillen BAUZA
Rhette HEISTER
Tyler WEIR
A49 Closed at Dorrington
As at 5.45pm the A49 is closed at Dorrington which is just south of Shrewsbury because of a serious accident.
Hereford United supporters travelling to this evening's game at Shrewsbury may be delayed. Diversions are in operation.
Police say the accident was between a milk tanker and a car. A quantity of milk has split onto the road and needs to be cleaned up.
Update 6.40pm: Road still closed - diversion is taking around 30minutes.
Update: 7.45pm: Road has re-opened.
Ball 59 for Bulls
Hereford United will be ball number fifty-nine in Sunday's FA Cup third round proper draw always assuming they do not lose to Lincoln City on Saturday. 1 ARSENAL
The FA has today listed all ball numbers for the draw, which will be broadcast live on ITV1 this Sunday (November 28th) at 5.45pm.
There will be a little rock and roll in the draw as former Oasis star Noel Gallagher and Kasabian's Serge Pizzorno has been chosen to select the balls.
All Premier League and npower Championship clubs enter the draw at the third round stage, plus the 32 teams from the lower leagues and non-league who have battled through from round two.
Ties will be played on the weekend of January 8th/9th 2011.
2 ASTON VILLA
3 BARNSLEY
4 BIRMINGHAM CITY
5 BLACKBURN ROVERS
6 BLACKPOOL
7 BOLTON WANDERERS
8 BRISTOL CITY
9 BURNLEY
10 CARDIFF CITY
11 CHELSEA
12 COVENTRY CITY
13 CRYSTAL PALACE
14 DERBY COUNTY
15 DONCASTER ROVERS
16 EVERTON
17 FULHAM
18 HULL CITY
19 IPSWICH TOWN
20 LEEDS UNITED
21 LEICESTER CITY
22 LIVERPOOL
23 MANCHESTER CITY
24 MANCHESTER UNITED
25 MIDDLESBROUGH
26 MILLWALL
27 NEWCASTLE UNITED
28 NORWICH CITY
29 NOTTINGHAM FOREST
30 PORTSMOUTH
31 PRESTON NORTH END
32 QUEENS PARK RANGERS
33 READING
34 SCUNTHORPE UNITED
35 SHEFFIELD UNITED
36 STOKE CITY
37 SUNDERLAND
38 SWANSEA CITY
39 TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
40 WATFORD
41 WEST BROMWICH ALBION
42 WEST HAM UNITED
43 WIGAN ATHLETIC
44 WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
45 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY OR NORTHAMPTON TOWN
46 BURTON ALBION OR CHESTERFIELD
47 HUDDERSFIELD TOWN OR MACCLESFIELD TOWN
48 AFC WIMBLEDON OR STEVENAGE
49 HARTLEPOOL UNITED OR YEOVIL TOWN
50 BURY OR PETERBOROUGH UNITED
51 NOTTS COUNTY OR AFC BOURNEMOUTH
52 DROYLSDEN OR LEYTON ORIENT
53 CRAWLEY TOWN OR SWINDON TOWN
54 BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION OR FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER
55 SOUTHAMPTON OR CHELTENHAM TOWN
56 TORQUAY UNITED OR WALSALL
57 CHARLTON ATHLETIC OR LUTON TOWN
58 COLCHESTER UNITED OR SWINDON SUPERMARINE
59 HEREFORD UNITED OR LINCOLN CITY
60 PORT VALE OR ACCRINGTON STANLEY
61 WYCOMBE WANDERERS OR CHELMSFORD CITY
62 CARLISLE UNITED OR TAMWORTH
63 DOVER ATHLETIC OR ALDERSHOT TOWN
64 DARLINGTON OR YORK CITY
Odds ease on a Bulls Win
Some bookmakers have slightly lowered the odds available on a Hereford United win at Shrewsbury this evening.
Whereas yesterday SkyBet was offering 9/2 on a Hereford win, today their price has dropped to 4/1.
Top price at present is 17/4 with either Victor Chandler or Bet 365.
Latest from SkyBet:
Shrewsbury 8/13 Draw 3/1 Hereford 4/1
Commentary from Shrewsbury
There are various ways to keep in touch with all the action from Shrewsbury this evening.
BBC Hereford and Worcester will have full commentary for those who can receive their transmissions on 94.7FM around Herefordshire. As ever Keith Hall will be behind the microphone. There will also be be updates on line. Terry Goodwin will be presenting the programme in the absence of Georgie Frost.
BBC Shropshire will also have commentary on 96.0FM.
For everyone else there is the subscription based Bulls Player. More details can be found on the OS.
Purdie and Bauza in Squad for Shrewsbury
Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman has said that he is pleased to have both Rob Purdie and Guillem Bauza available for selection for this evening's League Two match at Shrewsbury.
"To have these players back is good news," Pitman told the Worcester News.
"It gives me more scope on the selection front because it has been difficult. It’ll be good to see Graham (Turner) and everyone again because he did so much for me in my career.
"But we just have to treat it as a normal match. Hopefully, Graham will see that I have been doing a good job since I’ve become manager.
"Maybe he’ll give me a few words of his wisdom as well."
Monday, November 22, 2010
Happy Birthday Kevin Rose
Former Bulls' goalkeeper and holder of the all time record for consecutive appearances, Kevin Rose, celebrates his 50th birthday today.
Rose was born in Evesham in 1960 and played initially for hometown Club Evesham United before moving to Worcester City in 1979. His later performances for Ledbury Town attracted interest from several League clubs and he soon moved to Lincoln City for a reported fee of £10.000. The fee was spent on erecting floodlights at the New Street ground.
He failed to make the first team at Lincoln and returned to Ledbury in September 1980 before signing for The Bulls in January 1983. Rose made a record 253 consecutive appearances for Hereford during the eighties before moving on to Bolton Wanderers in 1989. A loan spell at Carlisle preceded a move to Spotland where he spent a couple of seasons playing for Rochdale before finishing his career at Redditch after a three-year stint at Kidderminster where he also gained a couple of "Caps" for the England Non-League XI.
Shrewsbury Predictions
This is a reminder to anyone wishing to enter the Bulls News Prediction League for tomorrow's match at Shrewsbury Town. Will former manager Graham Turner claim the points at the New Meadow? Or will his former player Jamie Pitman get one over the supremo himself?
To enter, simply send in your final score and attendance predictions to bullsnewspredictions@hotmail.co.uk. Remember to include your chosen username.
The deadline for tomorrow evening's match is at 7.00pm. Please note that the Prediction League will not be running for Saturday's FA Cup match against Lincoln.
We need a win against Hereford says Turner
After dropping two points last Saturday against Southend, Shrewsbury Town manager Graham Turner has said that it's vital to get three points tomorrow against Hereford United.
"We'll have to work harder than last Saturday," Turner told the Shrewsbury OS. "Perhaps we're having a little bit of a sticky time recently. We're conceeding the odd chance and the opposition are scoring.
"I've played against former clubs before. I think it is other people that make it a bigger issue than it really is.
"I'm obviously aware of a few players at Hereford that we left there who are apparantly doing okay despite their league position.
"I was there for 15 years, I don't like to see them struggle. There are a lot of good people there.
"In the end you want the teams in the locality to be League sides. We spent long enough in the Conference so I wouldn't like to condemn them to that again.
"I think a lot of teams will come here and do that (to frustrate us) particularily knowing we pass the ball. But Hereford have one or two decent forward players that we'll be aware of.
"They had a run up until Saturday where they went quite a number of games without defeat. Whether Saturday's defeat at Lincoln knocks their confidence remains to be seen.
"They've got a big FA Cup game again against Lincoln this coming weekend. Their minds might be on that.
"There are one or two players who worked with John Trewick and myself, maybe it means a bit more to them than a normal match.
"As far as I'm concerned it's just another game where we have to take the three points."
Support the Bulls on Saturday
Hereford United have asked supporters to print copies of this poster and put them on display.
The idea is to encourage more supporters to watch next Saturday's FA Cup-tie against Lincoln City.
The poster can be downloaded from the OS.
Ronnie Radford Award Launched by FA
The Football Association has announced that a new annual award will launch this season, recognising the team which achieves the most impressive giant-killing act in The FA Cup sponsored by E.ON.
The award is named after Ronnie Radford whose long-range goal for Hereford United against Newcastle United in 1972 brought about arguably The FA Cup’s most famous giant-killing.
The FA’s General Secretary Alex Horne said: “The giant-killing nature of The FA Cup is part of the competition’s unique magic.
“Perhaps the most famous giant-killing of all was Hereford’s triumph over Newcastle in 1972. Ronnie Radford’s spectacular goal on a mud-covered Edgar Street pitch – watched by the TV cameras and greeted with unbridled glee by 26-year-old rookie commentator John Motson - is a constant and wonderful reminder of that FA Cup magic.
“I am delighted to announce that we are instituting ‘The Ronnie Radford Award’ for the team achieving the most impressive giant-killing act of the competition in any one year. We see it as a further way of acknowledging the huge part played in The FA Cup by teams from the lower leagues.”
Ronnie Radford added: “It is a real honour for me that The FA has chosen to use my name for this new award. It will be fantastic to see the achievements of the minnows of football recognised in this way.
“I would never have imagined when I scored that goal back in 1972 that it would still be shown on television almost 40 years later and recognised as one of The FA Cup’s most famous moments. I’m proud to have played my part in the wonderful history of The FA Cup and I look forward to seeing many more small teams upsetting the odds and earning their place in the spotlight.”
The Ronnie Radford Award will be voted for by fans online via TheFA.com from a shortlist of victories compiled by a panel of sports journalists. The winning team will be the guests of The FA at The FA Cup Final of that year – and be presented with the ‘Ronnie Radford Award’ on the pitch at half-time.
Loan Deadline Thursday
Football League clubs have until 5pm on Thursday to agree loan deals before the window shuts until January.
The Bulls currently have 3 loan players in the squad. Rob Purdie will remain with the Bulls until January, while fellow midfielder Nicky Featherstone will see his current deal expire on December 5th and defender Byron Webster will remain until December 19th.
It is not entirely clear what sort of budget Jamie Pitman has to bring new players in. Simon Davey pushed the boundaries of the playing budget, and Pitman cut O'Neill Thompson, Amadou Rabihou, and Samba Kanoute from the misfiring squad before he brought the current loanees in.
Rules allow for two more loanees to be added to the matchday squad but, if the budget allows, Pitman may wait on updates on his injured players before making a move. With Purdie and James McQuilkin struggling with injury another midfielder may be called on to bolster the ranks, although if Ryan Valentine's injury is to keep him out for an extended period then cover would be needed in defence as well.
Guillem Bauza's injury leaves the front line short of options and his reappearance in the first team picture will ease that concern. Pitman will have to decide whether to continue with his current strikeforce, recall Sam Malsom from loan, or find a new striker to shake things up.
Tuesday Travel to Slopshire
Shrewsbury Town v Hereford (City) United
Football League 2
Tuesday 23rd November 2010 KO 7.45pm
Greenhous Meadow
Oteley Road
Shrewsbury
SY2 6ST
Phone 01743 289177
For all it's obvious benefits over the old Gay Meadow, there is no doubt that from a visiting fans' point of view the Greyhous is much less convenient than it's predecessor. The days of a simple train journey to the doorstep of the ground are long gone and replaced by a tiresome hike to the outskirts of the town. Having said that, the accommodation at Oteley Road is generally good with pleasant food outlets and a bar within the "away" end. Advance tickets are available at discounted prices until 4.00pm this afternoon.
Bulls News Official Clothing Guide – Two Coats.
By Car – Travel north on the A49 passing through Leominster, Ludlow, Craven Arms and Church Stretton. As you approach Shrewsbury, just after Bayston Hill, you will come to a roundabout. Take the third exit onto the A5 east (sign Telford) then leave at the second roundabout to join the A5064 (sign Town Centre/Shirehall). At the Shirehall, you will find a Park and Ride car park (and the adjacent overflow car park) from where buses to the ground run every 15 minutes from 18.15 'til 19.15. Return buses leave the ground shortly after the end of the game. Parking is free with the return fare on the bus costing £2.50 (£1 U16 with an adult). There is limited parking at a couple of Pubs closer to the ground but these tend to fill up quickly on match days.
Walking from the center of town can take upwards of three quarters on an hour and it would be advisable to take a shared ride in a taxi.
Trains depart Hereford 14.28, 14.55, 15.55, 16.28 and 16.56 with the latter arriving at Slop at 17.54. The return trains leave Shrewsbury at 22.01 and 23.08. Journey time in each case is a little under an hour.
HUISA – departs from outside Radfords at 5.30pm. Spaces are still available and seats can be booked by calling the Club on 08442 761939. Fare is £11 (£9 for members).
FUNBUS – departs Wetherspoons (Hereford) at 6.00pm prompt - £10. Two spaces remain as at 12 noon Monday.
Enjoy.
Preview: Shrewsbury vs Bulls
The Bulls travel up the A49 to face Shrewsbury Town in a League Two match on Tuesday night.
The two sides met 11 times during Graham Turner's stint at Edgar Street, with honours even at three wins apiece in the League meetings. Most notable for the Bulls was their first trip to the out-of-town stadium, when Gary Hooper's winner saw the Bulls win 2-1. Last season, Leon Constantine scored the opener for the Bulls but the Shrews won 3-1 in one of John Trewick's final games in charge.
The Shrews are the only League Two side to remain unbeaten at home. Of the nine games at the Greenhous Meadow they have won six, but have kept only two clean sheet - a feat that must have John Trewick bouncing off the walls. Former Bulls winger Lionel Ainsworth is a doubt for the game, but he is yet to find the form he showed for Turner at the Bulls with just two goals from 13 games so far. Striker Jake Robinson, a failure under Paul Simpson last term, has nine goals so far this season.
The Bulls hope to have several faces back in contention for the trip up the A49. While Ryan Valentine may find Tuesday comes too soon, Guillem Bauza is likely to find his way back onto the bench at least after missing three weeks of action. Rob Purdie will also hope to be back in action, but James McQuilkin will miss out again. Jamie Pitman has already joked about getting into the wrong dugout with the backroom trio of Turner, Trewick, and Tony Ford in the opposition dugout, but he will be eager to demonstrate what he has learned with a victory over the old master.
Shrewsbury Town vs Hereford United, Greenhous Meadow, Tuesday 23rd November, 7.45pm.
News Round Up
Port Vale have announced losses of over £350,000 for last season. They lost £5,000 a week on the day to day running of the club and total debts are up to £3.6million including nearly £1.4million in short term debts. Income from their affinity saving scheme with the Britannia fell by nearly 75% due to interest cuts, costing the club £150,000.
Former Bulls loanee Marcus Browning has joined Poole Town on a non-contract basis. The 39 year old has been without a club since leaving Bath in the summer, and will play a few games to decide whether he wants to continue regular football alongside his work with Bournemouth's youth department. Marc Pugh needed 13 stitches in a knee wound caused by landing on a sprinkler in the pitch after Saturday's game at Leyton Orient.
Aldershot have signed striker Wesley Ngo Baheng on a short term deal. The 21 year old Frenchman was with Newcastle, who paid a fee to take him from Le Havre in 2006. He is also a rap artist, performing as F.I.K'ass. Rotherham manager Ronnie Moore says five defenders have turned down loan moves to the Millers is the last few days. One of those was Huddersfield man Nathan Clarke.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Managerial Merry Go Round Spins Again
While there is unlikely to be any change in the Bulls' dugout before the new year, two of the featured candidates for the post are eyeing up other jobs while some new faces may be on the market by January.
Mansfield's decision to offload the once-prized David Holdsworth means Dave Penney is now the likely new man in the Field Mill hotseat. The former Doncaster boss watched the Stags play Hayes and Yeading on Saturday sat next to chairman John Radford - although the insurance millionaire has told the press the deal is not certain yet.
There may well be managerial vacancies at Oxford and Northampton in the next few weeks. At Oxford, one time Halifax boss Chris Wilder has found League management tough and sees the U's, who have the second highest average attendance in League Two, with one win and six losses in the last seven games.
Wilder's side are just goal difference above Northampton, where Ian Sampson faces more calls for his head after they crumbled 4-1 at Barnet and had another man sent off - their fifth in the last seven League games. That comes after winning three of their four previous matches but they remain just two points clear of the bottom of the table.
With there being just six points between 12th and 24th places in League Two, any manager faces being a hero or villain on the back of two results at the moment.
Spell on the Sidelines for Valentine
It is understood that Hereford United defender Ryan Valentine is likely to spend a spell on the sidelines whilst a stomach injury is sorted.
Valentine missed the FA Cup game against Hythe Town on November 6th with an injury but was fit enough to play against Cheltenham last Saturday. Yesterday he was missing again with what Richard Prime of the Hereford Times described as an 'abdominal injury'.
At present it isn't clear how serious the problem might be and for how long he might be unavailable. However manager Jamie Pitman did mention his injury to the HT last week.
"Ryan Valentine has to see a specialist about a stomach problem which has been troubling him so he may miss out."
No doubt Pitman will clarify in due course.
Hereford 9/2 to win at Shrewsbury
Perhaps not surprisingly given the defeat at Lincoln yesterday, Hereford United are as high as 9/2 to defeat Shrewsbury on Tuesday evening.
Latest Odds from SkyBet:
Hereford 9/2 Draw 11/4 Shrewsbury 8/13
Most other bookies are offering 4/1 on a Bulls victory.
As regards the actual result a 1-0 win for the Bulls is 12/1 with Bet 365.
A 2-0 win for the Bulls is 25/1 with several bookies.
A 2-1 win for the Bulls is 16/1 with various bookies.
A 0-0 draw is generally available at 10/1.
A 1-1 draw is 6/1 with Bet 365 and BetFred.
A 2-2 draw is 16/1 with Ladbrooks.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Bulls beaten at Sincil Bank
Jamie Pitman’s unbeaten run ground to a halt as Lincoln ran out 3-1 winners this afternoon. The hosts rattled up a two-goal interval lead and although Stuart Fleetwood reduced the arrears after the break, The Imps quickly restored their lead and then saw out the game for what was eventually a comfortably gained three points.
Pitman had lost the services of Ryan Valentine (stomach injury) and Rob Purdie (hamstring) but included new loan signing Byron Webster in the heart of the defence. Ryan Green returned to his customary right back position with youngster Tyler Weir switching to the left back birth while Fleetwood filled the left of midfield spot.
The Bulls were first to threaten but Lincoln were soon into their stride. Wingers Jarrett and Carayol showed their intent by getting in some dangerous early crosses with Tyler Weir, in particular, struggling to contain the constant attacks down the flanks. Jarrett skipped passed him to deliver a cross which just evaded Carayol at the far post. Byron Webster got an early taste of League 2 action when he had to hold off Delroy Facey before Jarrett’s flag kick was headed over by Hutchinson. Bartlett had to be alert to block away a Jarrett cross when the winger got passed Weir again. On the break, Richard Rose picked out Manset on the right and The Bulls’ striker cut in and shot just over from the corner of the box. Kenny Lunt dinked a ball to Manset who threaded it through to the advancing Colbeck but the wideman was fractionally offside before one of the rare contentious decisions of the game. Kenny Lunt found a defence splitting pass to Colbeck who was one on one with keeper Anyon. Colbeck slipped the ball passed the keeper only to be sent crashing to the ground well inside the area. It seemed a nailed on penalty with the obligatory red card to follow but referee waived away all the protests and promptly awarded a corner to The Bulls which came to nothing. Very strange. Meanwhile, Jarrett got in another telling cross which Hutchinson headed over from 8 yards before Fleetwood released Manset only for the Frenchman’s driven cross/shot to be deflected the wrong side of the post.
With just short of twenty minutes of the half remaining, the hosts took the lead. Carayol, who had swapped wings with Jarrett popped up on the right to deliver a pinpoint cross which Hutchinson headed in powerfully from the edge of the six-yard box. Seven minutes later, in happened again as The Bulls failed to prevent the Carayol cross coming in and this time Facey was on hand to thump in the header from a similar position. At this point, memories of the recovery at Northampton came drifting back and many of the visiting fans were willing the referee to bring the half to an early end as Lincoln threatened to run riot. As the half eventually did draw to a close, The Bulls had Bartlett to thank for a smart save from Hutchison who had beaten the offside trap and was clear on goal.
HT Lincoln 2 Bulls 0
Pitman withdrew Kenny Lunt and added Canham to the attack after the interval and shortly afterwards relieved Weir by bringing on Werling into the fullback position. Some decent approach work from Hereford failed to produce the required threat as, all to often, the final ball went astray. Carayol showed a clean pair of heels to Werling but fired over before The Bulls struck ten minutes into the second period. Ryan Green’s forward run allowed him to feed Manset who cut inside before unleashing a swerving thunderbolt that Anyon could only beat away. The alert Fleetwood was on hand to rifle in from 10 yards and give The Bulls renewed hope with most of the half remaining.
Unfortunately, it took The Imps just two minutes to restore the margin. This time it was Carayol himself who found the net after he cut in from the right passed Werling and fired into the far corner to round off a convincing man of the match display. Shortly after, the hosts had another chalked off for offside. The Bulls continued to try to find an opening but found the game slowed every time they built up anything like a charge. In fact, it was noticed that one of the staff from the home dugout collected all the spare balls from around the pitch with over twenty minutes remaining to allow The Imps to delay every throw-in. Fleetwood picked out Manset with a free-kick only for The Beast’s header to rebound off the crossbar. Werling’s corner from the right found Fleetwood at the far post and the Bulls striker’s spin-turn gave him space to get in a low shot but it was hacked away. Lincoln made a couple of late substitutions to help wind the clock down and The Bulls finished well beaten in front of 3888 including 179 from The Shire.
FT Lincoln 3 Bulls 1
There is little doubt that the disruption caused by injuries contributed to this defeat particularly with the inexperienced defence. B Young Tyler Weir should not be criticised too much but he was clearly out of his depth against the strength and quality of Carayol and Jamie Pitman may be reflecting, with hindsight, that the usually reliable Richard Rose could have served him better at left back. Once again, the withdrawal of Kenny Lunt seemed to signal the end of degree of craft in the forward movement and in fact his replacement Canham did little to enhance his reputation. Debutant, Webster showed touches of quality and a desire to play the ball to feet but was found wanting occasionally with his positional play and strength.
The Bulls might have been at the races on Thursday but they certainly weren’t today.
Lincoln: Anyon; Hoyte, Watts, Gowling, Clapham, Carayol (Hughton 76), Kerr, O’Keefe, Jarrett (Anderson 85), Facey, Hutchinson (Broughton 88). Subs unused: Musselwhite, McCallum, Hutchinson, Miller.
Hereford: Bartlett; Green, Webster, Townsend, Weir (Werling 52), Colbeck (Gwynne 76), Featherstone, Rose, Fleetwood, Lunt (Canham 46); Manset. Subs unused: Heister, Stratford, Evans, Thomas.
Ex-Bull Watch
Andy Williams scored for Yeovil, and Gavin Williams was booked, as they lost at Charlton. Marc Pugh scored both goals for Bournemouth as they drew at Leyton Orient. John McCombe scored both Port Vale goals as they beat Wycombe.
Danny Thomas scored twice as Tamworth drew at Cambridge. Nick Chadwick scored as Barrow drew at Grimsby. Lee Morris scored as Kidderminster beat Eastbourne. Jamie Tolley was booked as Wrexham beat Darlington.
We were not at the Races - Pitman
Jamie Pitman admitted that Hereford United were not at the races this afternoon at Sincil Bank.
"We've been great for the past two months - a little blip," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"So, onwards and upwards.
"We were not at the races. Not to the second ball.
"They didn't do what we asked them to do, really all over the place.
Pitman gave a debut to Bryon Webster alongside Mike Townsend in the heart of defence.
"He got better as the game went on.
"It was a tough game to come into - their front four were a handfull."
With a league game at Shrewsbury on Tuesday and the visit of Lincoln City to Edgar Street next Saturday it will be a difficult week for Pitman.
"Hopefully we'll have some of our injured players back. You can't carry the players we've got injured at the moment. Every single one of them brings something different to us.
"Let's hope Bauza will be back. Fingers crossed he's going to be involved on Tuesday".
Results Round Up
Barnet beat Northampton 4-1 to climb off the bottom of the table but they remain in the drop zone a point short of the Cobblers and Oxford. The U's lost 1-0 at home to Gillingham - the Gills first away win for two whole managers - that keeps the Kent club out of the bottom two. They're on 18 points along with Morecambe who drew 1-1 at Cheltenham. Four sides are then on 19 points, one of them Lincoln. Stockport drew 1-1 with Torquay, Aldershot lost 2-0 at home to Chesterfield, and Southend drew 1-1 at Shrewsbury. Bradford and Accrington are in mid-table but only five points clear of the bottom with the Bantams losing 1-0 at home to Macclesfield and Accrington beating Stevenage 1-0.
At the top Chesterfield's win means they are two points clear from Port Vale, who beat Wycombe 2-1, with Bury in third after beating Burton 3-1 last night. Rotherham are fourth after a 1-0 win at Crewe, with Shrewsbury, Wycombe, and Torquay making up the play-off spots.
In the Conference Crawley lead the table by a point after beating Altrincham 7-0, with Luton taking second with a 5-1 demolition of Histon. AFC Wimbledon play on Sunday and can take top spot with a win. Kidderminster beat Eastbourne 2-1 to move within goal difference of a play-off spot, and Forest Green drew 1-1 with Gateshead to move out of the drop zone on goals scored.
Bulls Back To The Bottom
The Bulls are back on the bottom of the table after losing 3-1 at Lincoln this afternoon.
Stuart Fleetwood's goal with the Bulls two down gave some hope, but the two goal lead was established again within two minutes and the Imps held on to move themselves clear of the drop zone. The Bulls sink to the bottom after Barnet beat Northampton, with the Cobblers now holding the final safe spot two points clear of the Bulls.
Full report later.
All the Stats from Lincoln
On a cold and foggy afternoon, shot-shy Hereford United were defeated 3-1 at Sincil Bank, thus ending their undefeated League run under manager Jamie Pitman.
The defeat puts the Bulls back at the bottom of League Two.
Possession: Imps 50% Bulls 50%
Shots on Target: Imps 3 Bulls 1
Shots off Target: Imps 15 Bulls 3
Corners: Imps 5 Bulls 6
Fouls: Imps 2 Bulls 8
Hereford goalscorer: Stuart Fleetwood (55)
Cards: Joe Colbeck was given a yellow card
Attendance: 3888 with 179 in the away end
Bottom of League Two:
15 Southend 16 -2 19
16 Lincoln City 17 -7 19
17 Aldershot 17 -7 19
18 Stockport 17 -13 19
19 Morecambe 17 -6 18
20 Gillingham 17 -6 18
21 Oxford Utd 17 -4 17
22 Northampton 17 -9 17
23 Barnet 17 -13 16
24 Hereford 17 -12 15
Purdie out of Imps Clash
Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman will be without Rob Purdie for this afternoon's League Two game at Sincil Park. It is thought Stuart Fleetwood will take his place on the wing. HEREFORD UNITED
Ryan Green will return to his usual position as new loan signing Bryon Webster joins up with captain Mike Townsend in the centre of defence.
1 Adam BARTLETT
2 Ryan GREEN
5 Michael TOWNSEND
29 Byron WEBSTER
21 Tyler WEIR
6 Richard ROSE
18 Nick FEATHERSTONE
17 Joe COLBECK
16 Kenny LUNT
7 Stuart FLEETWOOD
9 Mathieu MANSET
subs
8 Daniel STRATFORD
10 Sean CANHAM
15 Sam GWYNNE
19 Aidan THOMAS
23 Zac EVANS
28 Dominik WERLING
31 Rhette HEISTER
Coach Space Available For Shrews Game
HUISA still have coach space available for Tuesday's trip to Shrewsbury after they added a third coach for the match.
Bookings can be made with the Club Office on Monday.
Cargill giving support to Lincoln Today
The American giant, Cargill, is sponsoring the match ball at Sincil Park this afternoon when Hereford United are the visitors.
Cargill have sponsored Hereford United for many years, in fact their support of the Bulls is believed to be the longest association between a sponsor and a club in the whole of the Football League and Premiership.
But just for this afternoon Cargill have decided to give some support to the Imps.
It's not that surprising given Cargill have a location close to Lincoln at Witham St Hugh's.
No doubt in seven days time when the Imps come to Edgar Street for that all-important second round FA Cup-tie, Cargill will be totally behind the Bulls.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Don't be complacent - Hereford are coming
Shrewsbury Town manager Graham Turner has warned his players not to be complacent just because Hereford United are the visitors to the New Gay Meadow next Tuesday.
"Hereford are having a revival and have put in spirited performances at a number of places," Turner told the Shropshire Star.
"They’ve been unbeaten in quite a number of games, certainly since Jamie Pitman took over."
Shrewsbury are currently third in the League and face Southend tomorrow.
"It’s now coming to a tricky time of the season where you get upsets," continued Turner.
"You look sometimes at the tables and think ‘that result should happen here, they’ll win there or they’ll beat them’ and sometimes you get upsets.
"Even at the top level it happens when you get Sunderland winning at Chelsea."
Shrewsbury may be without former Bull Lionel Ainsworth on Tuesday. He is said to be recovering from a groin injury.
Fleetwood is looking very sharp says Pitman.
Striker Stuart Fleetwood is likely to start tomorrow's game at Lincoln after missing last week's game against Cheltenham because of suspension.
"He's served his ban," manager Jamie Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"He's looking very sharp as he has done for probably the last month or so.
"He's just waiting to explode into action. It's been a very stop start period for him and hopefully he is going to be fresh and energetic."
Pitman will be pleased to have Fleetwood available as no less than six players could be unavailable for tomorrow's game.