NEXT HOME GAME - TBC
NEXT AWAY GAME - SUPPORTERS XI ARE PLAYING WORCESTER AT MALVERN ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3rd AT 3.00pm

Monday, April 30, 2012

Bulls Supporter To Carry Olympic Flame

8,000 inspirational people will carry the Olympic Flame as it journeys across the UK. Nominated by someone they know, it will be their moment to shine, inspiring millions of people watching in their community, in the UK and worldwide.  And one of them is a Hereford United supporter.

Sarah Davies is 28 and works at a local Children's Nursery. A year or so ago she won an Award from the Girl Guides for her dedication over a number of years as a guide leader. The most extraordinary thing is that she's done so much whilst dealing with the fact that she has not got any arms. She was born this way. Never has she ever complained about her situation, she's simply got on with and made the best of it. For so many people with such a disability it would have been easy to sit back and not find work, not learn how to drive, not volunteer.

Sarah will be carrying the Olympic Flame through Lugwardine village, just outside Hereford, on May 24th.

From the Archives - Hereford Travel to Leyton Orient

Continuing BN's look back at the last time Hereford United faced relegation from the League, here's a reminder of the last but one game of that season.

On Saturday April 26th 1997, the Bulls travelled to Leyton Orient knowing three points were needed to help propell them to safety from relegation. It didn't happen.

Leyton Orient 2 Hereford 1 (report from various sources)

Hereford face a fight for their league survival next week at Edgar Street, when they go into their clash with Brighton on equal points.

Brighton's superior goal tally leaves Hereford needing victory from this final game of the season to avoid the drop to the Conference league.

Hereford were lucky to go into the halftime interval with the score sheet blank. Keeper Trevor Wood keept them in the game with a series of fine saves but all the excitement was saved for the final 45 minutes.

Ten minutes into the second half the goal finally came, Alex Inglethorpe's shot bouncing over Wood.

After 63 minutes Martin Ling's great effort from just outside the box floated into the corner to put the O's two up despite the linesman flagging for offside.

Hereford awoke from their sleep for the final 20 minutes, but their efforts proved to be too late despite their 75th minute goal from Agana.

For the Bulls their greater battle is still to come in a death-or-glory finale against Brighton. It's a game they must win.

Hereford: Wood, Norton, Brough, Matthewson, Fishlock (wdrn), Sandeman, Hargreaves, McGorry, Turner (wdrn), Foster , Williams . Subs: Warner, Agana .



BBC H&W at Edgar Street on Saturday

With the Bulls taking on Torquay in their last game of the season, BBC Hereford and Worcester's Sport on Saturday will come direct from Edgar Street this coming Saturday.

Starting at 2pm, the programme will have all the build up to the game, full match commentary, and post match interviews and reaction.

Bulls Shift 1,000 Tickets On Monday


The Bulls have sold over 1,000 tickets today for Saturday's match, despite it not being all-ticket.

They sold 800 during the day before the 1,000 mark was reached with evening sales in the club bar. Fans are urged to secure their place at Edgar Street as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Another evening sales session is due on Wednesday from 7.30pm til 9pm in Addisons.


Bulls Trio In Team Of The Week

Three Bulls have been named in the Team of the Week after the emphatic win at Crawley.

Midfielders Kenny Lunt and Nicky Featherstone, and keeper Adam Bartlett all make the team after the 3-0 win. For Bartlett, it was a second straight award to go with his second straight clean sheet.

Southend and Bristol Rovers managed two players each in the XI, while ex-Bull Andy Williams was nominated for the League One side.

Police Operation For Torquay Game

Temporary Chief Inspector Martin Taylor, from the Police Command Team in Hereford, has today confirmed that a police operation is in place ahead of Hereford United's all important League Two fixture against Torquay United on Saturday 5 May.
The fixture - which kicks off at 3pm - is likely to attract the biggest crowd of the season to Edgar Street and police are anxious supporters can enjoy the occasion without incident.
Torquay have already sold their entire allocation of 1300 tickets while Hereford United fans are encouraged to buy tickets from the club in advance to ensure they can get into the game on the day.
Temporary Chief Inspector Taylor said:
"We realise that interest in this game is huge and that it is very important to both clubs, but we do need to ensure the game passes off without incident off the field.
"Therefore a police operation will be in place on the day to ensure the safety of everyone attending the game and this operation will also ensure that any away fans who do not have a valid match ticket will be turned away.
"Although at the present time the match is not all ticket for home supporters, we would also encourage Bulls fans to buy their tickets in advance because there will be no entry to the game once all the tickets are sold.
"It goes without saying that for safety reasons we cannot allow fans to enter Edgar Street once the capacity is reached.
"The aim of our policing operation to ensure genuine supporters from both sides can enjoy the game in safety without interference. There have been very few problems at Edgar Street this season and our aim is to ensure that Saturday's game is equally trouble free.
"Finally, on behalf of the Herefordshire Territorial Policing Unit, I'd like to take this opportunity to wish the Bulls all the very best ahead of this vital game."

Extra Ticket Sales Monday & Weds Nights

The Bulls will be selling tickets for Saturday's game both tonight and Wednesday from the Starlite Rooms.

Tickets will be available from 7.30pm until 9pm for anyone that cannot get in during the day. Sales will be cash only, and no phone sales will be available during those times.

Tickets for the Player of the Year awards evening will also be on sale.


We Have A Chance Says Keyte

Hereford United chairman David Keyte has said that the Bulls have a chance to avoid relegation.

"We've chipped away, or the other clubs around us moreso have helped us, and we have a chance," Keyte told BBC Hereford and Worcester this morning.

"One last chance on Saturday.

"We have to win against Torquay. And then if Barnet lose or draw we're okay.

"This is a game for Hereford people to come out if they've still got a little bit of interest in Hereford United."

In the interview Keyte warned that whatever happened on Saturday there would have to be changes at Edgar Street.

"If we miss out on Saturday and go down to the Conference we know the figures involved and it's quite stark. So there will be changes.

"We'll be full-time but the top heavy management structure will change which ever League we are in."

News Round-Up

Macclesfield have confirmed that manager Brian Horton has left the club by mutual consent. Assistant boss Glyn Chamberlain will take charge of their final match with Southend. Former Bull Tony James needed three stitches in a wound during Burton's win over Macclesfield. The defender is expected to be fit to face Barnet on the final day.

Bournemouth say they have resolved their dispute with the Bournemouth Echo and the paper can resume reporting on the club. The pair fell out over what the club deemed as negative coverage. Bradford have told midfielder Dave Syers that their contract offer to him remains on the table. He rejected the deal in January but the Bantams have left the door open.

Plymouth have lost the services of veteran striker Steve Fletcher after Bournemouth opted to recall him.  The 39 year old still has one year left on his Dean Court contract. Oldham are facing a race to repair damaged caused to their Boundary Park home after high winds over the weekend ripped cladding from one of their stands leaving a 15ft hole. 

Luton have released three players ahead of their Conference play-off campaign. Defender Ed Asafu-Adjaye, winger Charlie Henry and midfielder Christian Tavernier were all bit-part players during the current season.

Torquay Game 'Not All Ticket'

Hereford United have confirmed that Saturday's game against Torquay is NOT all ticket for Bulls supporters.

However supporters can purchase tickets in advance, as many have already done this morning.

Once they are gone, they are gone.

Please note the club has said that there might be a delay answering the phone for tickets as they are currently very busy.

Meanwhile hospitality packages are available for Saturday's game. The cost is £36 per person and includes ticket, meal and match programme.

More details from Rachel at Hereford United  on 0844 276 1939

Exeter fan sends support


Many fans will recall the day that Exeter fans joined the throng on the Meadowend to remember the life of Adam Stansfield. Several fans traveled from Exeter and were joined by "Exile in Wales" (Paul) who traveled from Aberystwyth to wear their Exeter shirts on the heartland of Bulls supporters.

Bulls News has today received a letter from Paul sending best wishes for the game against Torquay.

"Just want to wish you all the best for Saturday. Will be shouting for you from here (Aberystwyth). Great result last Saturday. Your team showed great spirit. Regards Paul"

Exeter were confirmed for relegation back to League 2 and a victory for The Bulls against Exeter’s local rivals Torquay could see a renewal of the rivalry with The Grecians next season.


Player Of The Year Award Evening On Saturday

HUISA will be holding the Player of the Year presentation evening on Saturday in the Starlite Rooms.

There is a disco and buffet alongside the awards presentation. Tickets for the event, starting at 8pm, cost £10. Today is the last day for voting for your Player of the Season. Votes can be cast with forms available at the club, or can be emailed to huisavote@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, Addisons will be showing the FA Cup final on their big screens (5.15pm kick-off) between Saturday's match and the awards.

Bulls Fans Begin Snapping Up Tickets

Bulls fans have begun snapping up tickets for Saturday's crunch game.

There are several reports on the internet forums that fans are visiting the club and phoning up to reserve tickets, which can be picked up on the day or posted out.

Torquay have confirmed this morning that they have sold out their full 1,300 allocation, meaning that no tickets will be available for the temporary stand for Bulls supporters.

Demand is expected to be high, so it is highly recommended that if you don't already have a ticket then you should contact the club ASAP to secure your space in the club's biggest game since returning to the League.

12-match and 6-match ticket holders with games remaining on their ticket should contact the Club ASAP to claim their tickets. Full season ticket holders do not need to contact the club, and should use match voucher 23.

It Will Be Some Game says Ling

Torquay manager Martin Ling has said that this coming Saturday's match at Edgar Street will be 'some game'.

Torquay need points from the game to ensure they are in the play-offs just as much as Hereford need them to try and avoid relegation.

"We heard that on the bench that Crawley were 3-0 down, so Hereford have got a lifeline and it will be some game there"

Meanwhile it appears that Hereford United are already taking bookings for Saturday's game.  As at 10.30am there hasn't been official confirmation that the game is all-ticket, however it's expected the club will announce what they have decided shortly.

Finally Torquay have sold out of tickets for the game. They were given 1300 and the last few have been snapped up this morning.

Countdown to Saturday

All this week BN will look back at the last few days of the 1996/97 season when, just like this season, Hereford United went into the final week of the campaign knowing they were on the brink of being relegated to the Conference.

Ask any Hereford United fan and they will take you back to May 3rd, 1997. It was the last game of the season, and Hereford United, who had been dragged into the relegation dogfight, were bottom of the Division Three table. Brighton, who were twelve points adrift at one point, had clawed their way to 23rd place. Brighton were in trouble with the FA, as their stadium was to be demolished in a few days time, and pitch invasions had been penalised with a two point deduction by the FA.

So guess the final game of the season. You guessed it! Hereford United vs Brighton and Hove Albion at Edgar Street. (Doesn't the fixture calender pull some horrible stunts). The morning before the game Hereford had 47 points, and Brighton also has 47 points. Brighton had scored 53 goals, Hereford had scored 50. So if Hereford won, they would stay up. A draw or defeat would mean relegation to non-league football.

At half time, the score was 1-0 to Hereford, and Brighton were on their way to relegation from the Football League. The final whistle blew, and the crowds poured onto the pitch, but with the minority celebrating. The majority were crying, astonished that the unthinkable had happened. A second half equaliser, scored by Robbie Reinelt, had put the game at 1-1, and Hereford United were relegated. The Bulls 25 season stay in the Football League had come to an end.

For starters, here's an article from the Independent dated April 26th 1997:

Bottom clubs prepare for shoot-out at the KO corral

With a fortnight to go in the season, the particular agonies of promotion and relegation will be gripping sides throughout the Nationwide League this weekend, but nowhere will the pressure be more intense than at the foot of the Third Division.

There six clubs are teetering over the abyss that separates them from non-League football, knowing that by next Saturday one of them will disappear into the GM Vauxhall Conference.

Brighton are currently three points adrift in bottom spot, but Hereford, Hartlepool, Exeter, Doncaster or Darlington could swap places with them yet. With Brighton scheduled to visit second-from-bottom Hereford on the final day, a nerve-jangling denouement appears likely.

Provided Brighton get at least as many points from their home game against Doncaster this afternoon as Hereford manage at Leyton Orient, the relegation issue will rest on the outcome of that match. And this year, unlike the previous three, the League's 92nd club stands no chance of a reprieve on the grounds that the Conference champions' stadium is not up to standard.

Although next Saturday's fixture has captivated both sets of supporters - a sell-out crowd of 8,500 is virtually assured - the Hereford director of football, Graham Turner, is somewhat less enthralled. "Even over the last few weeks when we have slipped to second from bottom, I thought and hoped that everything would be settled beforehand and it wouldn't be significant," he said. "But it looks more and more likely that it will be vital for both of us."

Brighton have never won a League match at Edgar Street and their away record this season - one win and only 11 goals in 22 matches - is unrivalled for sheer awfulness. Turner, however, attaches little importance to such statistics. "I think the fear factor will be decisive," he said. "Whichever side alleviates it will do better. It's up to our experienced players like John Williams and Tony Agana to help us, but even they're getting edgy."

Both sides should also prepare for the unexpected. In 1987, Torquay were saved from demotion when a police dog bit one of their players. During the time added on for the stoppage, Paul Dobson scrambled a goal which sent Lincoln down instead.

The tight finish to this season had seemed implausible at the turn of the year. Brighton, plagued by turmoil and deprived of two points by the indiscretions of their own supporters, trailed Hereford by seven points on 1 January, having played a game more.

Now, thanks to Gritt and sheer determination, Brighton's destiny is in their own hands. Steve Gritt, the manager, has hauled a doomed side back from the brink. If they win their two remaining games it is likely they will survive for another season of League football.

This season's struggle has been a novel and unpleasant experience for Turner, whose previous appointments at Shrewsbury, Wolverhampton and Aston Villa were peppered with promotions and championships. The anguish has been all the greater given that he guided Hereford to the Third Division play-offs last year.

"Nothing I've done in 19 years as a manager prepared me for what I'm feeling at the moment," he said. "This is a totally new experience and one I could do without. People talk about pressure when you're chasing championships but it pales into insignificance compared to being near the bottom of the Third Division.

"Even bring relegated from the First or Second Division can't compare. At least then you maintain your League status and continue to play against similar clubs. Finishing bottom of the Football League means dropping into the unknown. It's a massive blow."

The experience of the five teams who have been demoted since 1987 indicates that loss of League status is not necessarily a one-way ticket to oblivion. Although Newport have folded and Halifax currently languish in the lower reaches of the Conference, Lincoln, Darlington and Colchester have returned stronger from their brief non-League sojourns.

"Any team that can maintain a full-time squad has a good chance," Turner said. "But we haven't given that a moment's thought yet. We've got the next two games to get through first."

Turner acknowledges that Hereford will be the most likely victims of Brighton's revival, but remains confident. "It's certainly in our favour that Orient have nothing to play for against us today whereas Brighton have Doncaster, who aren't definitely out of trouble themselves."

O'Kelly on Late Kick Off


Hereford United manager Richard O'Kelly is to be the special studio guest on tonight's Late Kick Off on BBC Midlands at 11:05pm.

Pell Can't Wait For Final Game

Harry Pell can't wait for Saturday's match with Torquay.

The midfielder returned to the Bulls starting XI for the first time in three months on Saturday as the Bulls upset the odds at Crawley. He said after the match, as reported by the Daily Star: 

“We can’t wait for the next game – I wish it was tomorrow. We knew what we were playing for, and we got a performance from every single person. The plan was to go out and express our- selves and and put the nerves aside.

“We couldn’t have asked for anything better going into the final game.”

Sunday, April 29, 2012

News Round-Up

Bookies Blue Square have halted betting on bookings during SPL matches after what was termed as 'further suspicious activity' in the SPL over the weekend. Former Bulls man Stephen Jennings was told only last week that no further action would be taken against him after his arrest following a Police investigation into his red card in a match in 2010.

Morecambe are offering an early-bird terrace season ticket for just £199, saving over £50, in a bid to boost attendances at the Globe Arena. Defender Chris McCready has been named as the Shrimps' Player of the Year. Cheltenham fans have named midfielder Luke Summerfield as their player of the year.

Former Bull Darren Jones has been named Player of the Year at Aldershot. The 28 year old is out of contract this summer. The Shots have extended the contract of utility man Aaron Morris into next season. The 22 year old has started 41 games this season after joining the club from Cardiff in January 2010.

Kidderminster striker Anthony Malbon was airlifted from the Aggborough pitch after a clash with a Mansfield player at the end of their loss to Mansfield that ended their play-off hopes. Scans in the hospital gave him the all-clear and he was discharged last night. Macclesfield fans protested against the clubs board and made attempts to access the boardroom following their relegation yesterday.

Yeovil are reported to have offered ex-Bull Andy Williams the biggest contract the club have ever offered in a bid for him to stay at Huish Park. The 25 year old is out of contract in the summer and can move on a free. The Glovers are reported to be set to release ten other players in the coming weeks. Oxford had to bring in emergency loan keeper Connor Ripley for Saturday's game after ex-Bull Wayne Brown picked up an injury in training.

Bristol Rovers have handed young pair Eliot Richards and Ollie Clarke new deals at the club. Striker Richards has signed a two year extension after netting ten times this term, while midfielder Clarke has signed a one year deal. A landowner where Gillingham plan a new stadium says she only found out about the plans when another landowner showed her plans for the site. She says the land has been in her family for generations and will not be sold.

Accrington have sold nearly 300 season tickets for next season, after having sold 500 for the current term. Their early-bird discount period ends on Monday. Neath are to be relegated from the Welsh Premier after failing in an appeal over the refusal to hand them the required licences to compete in the division next season. They finished the season in 3rd place, but will also be denied a Europa League qualifying place.

Hamilton are set to break a Scottish record after naming a 13 year old on their bench for yesterday's loss at Ross County. Midfielder Mark Hill was an unused sub but is expected to play some part in their final match at home to Partick next Saturday after playing for their reserves in midweek.

Gulls Coming To Edgar Street In Numbers

Torquay are closing in on selling out their allocation for Edgar Street next Saturday.

The Gulls sold out their Cargill Stand allocation last week and have been allocated at least the majority, if not all, of the Blackfriars End temporary stand. They report today that they have just 170 of their allocation available.

It is widely expected that the Bulls will confirm advance ticket details on Monday with demand to watch the crucial game expected to be in excess of the ground capacity.

Early Odds for Next Weekend

A few bookmakers have released their prices for next weekend's crucial League Two matches involving Hereford United and Barnet, one of whom will be relegated to the Conference.

Firstly Hereford United who play Torquay at Edgar Street.

Hereford 19/10 Draw 5/2 Torquay 5/4

Secondly Barnet who are away at Burton.

Burton 8/5 Draw 5/2 Barnet 6/4

Odds from Stan James and may vary.

Sympathy for Bulls from Dons Fans

Yesterday AFC Wimbledon lost 4-0 to relegation candidates Barnet. Many Dons supporters were dismayed at the poor performance by their team and some had sympathy for both Hereford and Macclesfield.

Wimbledon put out an under-strength side which gave Barnet an advantage.

Here are a few posts from the Wimbledon Downunder site.

“It must have been a real boost for Macc going into their game knowing we were resting our first-choice keeper (Seb Brown) and best midfielder (Sammy Moore), with our top scorer (Jack Midson) on the bench!” boomed the voice of Radio WDON Mikey T.

“Do you know who I feel sorry for the most?….. the Hereford fans. They turn up at Crawley expecting to get thrashed, see their team play out of their skins and gain an unexpected victory to boost their survival hopes only for our bunch to roll over and die to a very poor Barnet team,” Tommy Woolgar vented.

Secret Agent countered: “The only apologies owed are from the players to us. We have been consistent in giving away points away from home to the bottom three, so I have no sympathy for Hereford or their fans if they go down.”

Rover T pointed to Wimbledon’s magnaminous equal opportunity status to the relegation-threatened trio: “I don’t buy this ‘feel sorry for the Hereford fans’ stuff. We capitulated away to Hereford, Barnet and Macclesfield, so no-one can have any complaints. Well, apart from us of course!”

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Bulls win at Crawley to take it to the final match



Hereford United came away from The Broadfield Stadium with a fine 3-

0 win against promotion chasing Crawley this afternoon.  A second half strike from Joe Colbeck and a pair from Yoann Arquin stunned the hosts and disrupted their planned promotion celebration.

Richard O’Kelly was forced into a late change when top scorer Tom Barkhuizen was taken ill.  Colbeck got the nod with Harry Pell also given a start in place of Will Evans who found himself without a place on a bench that saw the return of Simon Clist and James McQuilkin.

From the kick-off, Purkiss sent a long ball forward which Facey flicked into the path of Colbeck but his driven cross went out on the far side.  Crawley responded with an Alexander cross that was stabbed home by Billy Clarke but the assistant’s flag was already fluttering in the wind.  Harry Pell broke down the left and his dangerous ball into the box was hacked away by the giant Claude Davis.

Referee Russell incurred the wrath of the travelling Herefordians when McFadzean unleashed a thunderbolt that cannoned off a Hereford player who was stood less than a yard away and awarded a free kick.  Intentional?  Not a chance.  Could it have been avoided?  Not a chance.  Where do these referee’s get these imaginary rules from?  Russell then allowed advantage to Crawley but when they misplaced a pass he brought play back to award them a free kick.  Two advantages?  How strange therefore that when Captain Purdie was blatantly shoved out of the away nothing was given.

With half an hour on the clock, good work by Lunt and Facey set up Featherstone but his effort was straight at keeper Kuipers.  Then with seven minutes of the half remaining a Crawley corner was cleared up field and Colbeck broke through with only the keeper to beat.  Kuipers was well out of his area as he palmed the ball to safety but the referee, surprisingly, only produced a yellow card.  Kenny Lunt’s effort from the resulting free kick was dealt with by the lucky Kuipers.  The half finished with a disappointing display of so-called professionalism when Billy Clarke took an extended motionless lie down before eventually jogging back to the halfway line to deny the undertakers a days pay.

HT  Crawley 0  Bulls 0

The hosts had looked the more threatening in the first period with their brutal, direct style but United’s defence had held firm with the help of a few last ditch clearances.

A Crawley cross from the left was volleyed a foot wide by McFadzean before The Bulls took a slightly fortunate lead.  Colbeck chased a through ball that should have been dealt with by Kuipers and defender Dean Howell but the pair conspired to abdicate responsibility and Joebeck was able to tap into an empty net.

Adam Bartlett brought hearts to the mouths of the visiting fans with a poor clearance but the resulting Torres’ shot rebounded off the bar before Kenny Lunt gifted another opportunity but recovered to get in a great saving tackle.  Then, when Scott Davies sent in a rocket from the edge of the box, Bartlett reacted superbly to tip over.
 

With the home side pushing for an equaliser, they were careless at the back to allow both Facey and Arquin (on for Colbeck) to break clear.  Facey deftly rounded the keeper and squared to Arquin who gratefully finished unchallenged.

With the casual home fans already heading for the exits, The Bulls struck again through Arquin.  This time the mercurial Frenchman fired home from 18 yards after outpacing his marker to send a delighted 367 visitors out of a total gate of 4615 home to sweat for another week.

FT Crawley 0  Bulls 3

Hereford: Bartlett, Purkiss, Townsend, Anthony, Chambers, Featherstone, Pell, Lunt (McQuilkin 87), Purdie, Colbeck (Arquin 69), Facey (Stam 85). Subs not used: Clist, Clucas.

Crawley: Kuipers, Simpson, Wassmer, Davis, Howell (Neilson 70), Davies (Akinde 83), McFadzean, Torres, Bulman, Clarke (Watt 77), Alexander. Subs not used: Shearer, Mills.

Saturday it is then.




Reaction from Players

Below are the reactions of a few of Hereford United's players and staff after their 3-0 win at Crawley this afternoon.

Nicky Featherstone:  Massive result today. Great away performance!! Gives us a chance going in to the last game of the season against Torquay 

Dave Cornell: What a performance from the lads today, long journey home is that little bit easier with the win

Russ Hoult: Safe trip home everyone thanks for putting in the effort today performance Love the same next week at home.

Nathan Elder: Well done to the team. Especially an Yoann on the goals

Bryon Anthony: Fantastic performance from the boys well deserved 3pts, an well earned clean sheet Thank you for the support was

Harry Pell: What a performance, what a win, who's BULLieving?, to every hereford fan who travelled down, use made such a difference! 

Finally from the BBC's Dan Walker: Bulls are my least favourite animal :) Hammered at home by Hereford

Former Bulls Reporting From Crawley

Both Sky Sports and BBC Hereford and Worcester had former Hereford United players working for them at Crawley this afternoon.

Matt Murray, who kept goal for the Bulls whilst on loan from Wolves, was reporting on the game for Sky Sports News.

And Peter Heritage, one of the early 1990 'players', was alongside Keith Hall on BBC Hereford and Worcester.

Heritage later commented on the game.

"To be honest Hereford looked the better side today. They've got a bit of momentum going now.

"They've beaten Crawley who are probably one of the best sides in the League.

"There's no reason against Torquay they can't get the result they want."

Meanwhile one punter is reported to have placed a bet on Hereford winning 3-0 and Joe Colbeck to score the first goal of the game.

It's thought the odds may have been over 1000/1. 

That's a Massive Win said Colbeck

Joe Colbeck scored Hereford United's first goal at Crawley this afternoon and afterwards he spoke to BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"That's a massive win, the lads in the changing room are really buzzing.

"It's brought us massive confidence to play at home."

Colbeck described his goal.

"I chested it down and I didn't know what happened between their defender and the keeper.

"As I jinked over the keeper the ball was in front of me and so I put it away.

"It might have been a keeping error by the lad.

"But they all count don't they!

"I thought we were the better side, we were creating more chances.

"They had a little spell ten minutes second-half when they were on top of us but I didn't think they were going to score."

Yoann Arquin scored Hereford's other two goals.

"Yoann has done fantastic the last few games. He is a game changer and hopefully can do the same for us next week."

It's now all down to next Saturday.

"We've got to win it. Hopefully we'll go out and put on the same performance as we have done today."

Results Round-Up - Macc Down

Macclesfield have become the first side relegated from the Football League this season after losing 2-0 at home to Burton. The Silkmen extended their winless run to 21 games in sacrificing their 15 year League stay, with manager Brian Horton admitting afterwards he was not sure whether he would be in charge next week. The Bulls will need a final day win and hope Barnet fail to do the same after the Bees beat a half-strength Wimbledon side 4-0 at Underhill.

At the top, Swindon confirmed the Championship with a 5-0 win over Port Vale, while Shrewsbury secured promotion and second place with a 1-0 win over Dagenham. Crawley lead Torquay by only goal difference for the final automatic spot after Torquay drew 1-1 with Crewe after conceding an injury time equaliser. The Railwaymen now only need a point from their final game to seal the last play-off place after Oxford lost 2-0 at home to Southend, while Cheltenham sealed their place in the end of term lottery with a 3-1 win over Bradford.

In other games, Aldershot drew 2-2 with Rotherham, Bristol Rovers beat Accrington 5-1 with ex-Bull Matt Lund scoring twice, Morecambe drew 2-2 with Plymouth, and Northampton drew 1-1 with Gillingham.

In the Conference Luton sealed the final play-off spot after beating Fleetwood 2-0 with Kidderminster losing 3-0 at home to Mansfield. The Hatters join the Stags, Wrexham, and York in the play-offs. Forest Green ended their season in tenth after losing 1-0 at York.

At the foot of League One Exeter, Chesterfield, and Wycombe all joined Rochdale in dropping out of the division. The Grecians lost 4-1 at Carlisle, the Spireites lost 3-2 at Yeovil with Andy Williams scoring the winner, and the Chairboys wasted three seperate leads in going down 4-3 at home to Notts County.

Confidence Boost for Bulls says O'Kelly


This afternoon's 3-0 win at Crawley was a confidence boost for the Bulls said  manager Richard O'Kelly (pictured before kick-off)

"The opposition today in the second half put us under a lot of pressure," O'Kelly told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"We blocked the ball, we defended well, we kept our organisation well. Had a bit of good fortune.

"But the pleasing thing was when we got the ball we were constructive with it and went forward with a bit of quality rather than somewhere near.

"The problems from Alexander and Clark, we dealt with it really well and when we got possession of the ball we got at their back players which is what the plan was.

"The team that scores first always gives you a boost. You see the body language changing. Today was nice for the players because of the effort they put in."

The Crawley goalkeeper (Kuipers) appeared to handle the ball outside the area in the first half but was only given a yellow card by referee Russell.

"You watch a game and the referee gives a foul one minute for one thing and doesn't the next.

"There was no doubt about it - it was a foul, it was outside the box. I know he was a long way from goal but he's stopped the ball going towards the goal so may be it should have been a red card."

Finally O'Kelly thanked the Hereford United supporters.

"They were fantastic. Some turned up in fancy dress.

"Ever since I have been here the support especially away from home has been really good.

"What we are looking for now is a good crowd next week at Edgar Street to give us a boost and put the pressure on Torquay."

 
 

Extremely Disappointing says Crawley Manager

Crawley manager Craig Brewster spoke to BBC radio Sussex after this afternoon's match with Hereford United.

"Extremely disappointing. The fans turned up in great numbers today expecting a good result and we let them down a bit.
"The real disappointment for me was the calamity we lost the first two goals. It was there for us to do but we didn't deliver.

"We were slack from the word go and a bit sloppy. We told them [Hereford] were fighting for their lives and we'd have to work extremely hard. We had a few chances, in the six yard box, but it didn't fall for us. But we're still in it."


Stats from Crawley


Here's a run down of the stats from Crawley this afternoon:

Final Score: Crawley 0-3 Hereford

Goalscorers: Joe Colbeck, Yoann Arquin 2

Possession: Crawley 56% Hereford 44%

Shots on target: Crawley 10 Hereford 5

Shots off target: Crawley 8 Hereford 1

Corners: Crawley 12 Hereford 3

Fouls: Crawley 3 Hereford 14

Attendance: 4,615 including 367 jubilant supporters from Herefordshire.

Table: (Played, points, goal difference)
22nd Barnet 45 43 -28
23rd Hereford 45 41 -21
24th Macclesfield 45 37 -23 (Macclesfield are relegated)

Roll on next Saturday!

All Ticket Expected For Torquay Finale

It is expected that the club will make next Saturday's home match all Ticket.

With Torquay already having sold a sizable number of tickets, the Bulls are likely to announce details soon regarding the match.

Bulls Hammer Plastic Crawley

The Bulls recorded their biggest win of the season with a 3-0 demolition of Crawley.

It was one way traffic for much of the game as Crawley bombarded the Bulls goal. But Joe Colbeck sent the travelling Bulls barmy before Yoann Arquin turned the mood to delirium with two more against the hot favourites and their  pathetic referee.

Full report later.

Talk with O'Kelly at End of Season

Richard O'Kelly has told the Sun that he will talk to the directors at Hereford United about his future at the end of the season.

"I used to work as a postman about ten years ago," said O'Kelly.

"I was out of football and had five different jobs.

"I needed to earn a living then Hereford picked me up.

"When I came back ten weeks ago my brief was to try and keep the club in the League.

"The deal was we'd sit down at the end of the season and talk about it then.

"We all still want to be in the Football League and whether we stay in the League or drop out will decide what  happens."



Friday, April 27, 2012

Commentary from Crawley

BBC Hereford and Worcester will have full coverage of this afternoon's crucial Hereford United match at Crawley as part of their Sport on Saturday programme.

The coverage will begin with a preview, then the whole of the match and afterwards interviews and comment.

Keith Hall and a special guest will be at Broadhall Way for the station whilst Terry Goodwin will present the programme.

As usual there will also be coverage of the game on Bulls Player with Jamie Griffiths and Gregg Davies.


Betting Preview For Crawley Match

Below are some prices for tomorrow's League Two match at Crawley. As reported earlier the best price for a Hereford United win remains at 19/2. That's with BetVictor.

Top price for a draw remains at 21/5. That's also with BetVictor.

Now for the correct result:

Hereford to win 1-0: 27/1 with BetFair
Hereford to win 2-0: 60/1 with Coral
Hereford to win 2-1: 32/1 with BetDaq
Hereford to win 3-0: 225/1 with Paddy Power
Hereford to win 3-1: 100/1 with BetVictor
Hereford to win 3-2: 80/1 with SportingBet

0-0: 16/1 with SkyBet
1-1: 19/2 with BetFair
2-2: 22/1 with William Hill
3-3: 100/1 with SportingBet

First Goalscorer in the Game:

Delroy Facey 14/1 with Bet365
Yoann Arquin 14/1 with Bet365
Tom Barkhuizen: 16/1 with Bet365
Harry Pell: 25/1 with Paddy Power
Rob Purdie: 25/1 with Bet365

As ever all prices from oddschecker.com and are subject to change.


New Home Kit Launched Tonight

The new Bulls home kit for 2012/13 will be launched on the official website tonight.

A limited number of the new design will be available for purchase, in Adult sizes only, prior to the final home match against Torquay. Prices are £37 (short sleeved) and £39 (long sleeved).

Meanwhile, the Bulls are on the lookout for 20 boys and 20 girls aged 16-17 to begin the new Futsal Scholarship in September. Details on the scheme are on the official site here.

Radio Silence At Barnet

Barnet boss Martin Allen has banned the press from Underhill this week so his side can concentrate on their match against Wimbledon.

The trouser-dropping manager saw his Bees side turn in what was widely reported as their worst performance of the season at Southend last Friday, so Allen has barred all interviews and cameras saying 'talk is cheap'.

Wimbledon intend to field teenage keeper Jack Turner in goal for only the fifth time in his career. The 19 year old has only one Football League appearance, against Rotherham in April, and is yet to play for the Wombles away from Kingsmeadow.

Elsewhere, Macclesfield boss Brian Horton acknowledges that only a win against Burton tomorrow will be good enough to keep them in the race. Horton believes his side need to 'play without fear', telling their official site:  

"In games like this it can go two ways. You can let the pressure get to you or you can go out there and play with a bit more freedom. So training this week has been all about getting the lads to play without that fear. Confidence has obviously taken a hit in the last couple of months. But we shouldn't die wondering."

Burton will have 12 players out of contract this summer. Ex-Bull Tony James is one of them, and he told the Burton Mail: “We’ve got a lot of players here out of contract and we need to start thinking about next season, and we need to put in performances to warrant getting a contract at the end of the day."

Crawley Players Want Promotion

Crawley pair Kyle McFadzean and Gary Alexander have spoken to the press about tomorrow's match.

Alexander told the BBC that the Red Devils would be ready to match the Bulls' determination to get a result, adding that the arrival of Steve Coppell had helped them:

"They're fighting for their lives so it's not going to be easy, We'll give Hereford all the credit they deserve but we want promotion so we'll be just as hungry as them. We've got experience in the dressing room and hopefully we can keep everyone chilled, go out and get a result."

"The words Steve gives us in the dressing room fill us with confidence. It's been a fantastic help having such a big name. It's a boost to have someone of his calibre come in and help out."

McFadzean isn't so confident, telling the Crawley News that he expects matters to go down to the final game:

"Crewe is going to be a hard game for Torquay and we've got a difficult game because (Hereford) need a win to stay up. So on balance, I reckon it will go down to the last game."

News Round-Up

Port Vale bidder Keith Ryder has been handed a £100,000 discount on his purchase of the club after the local council agreed a deal to take £700,000 up front for their debt rather than the originally offered £800,000 in installments. Ryder will own the ground outright once the deal is done. Meanwhile, the club's Administrator has confirmed they have been in touch with Staffordshire Police as they investigate the handling of the club prior to their appointment. 

Rotherham have signed a five year £6.1million deal for catering, bar, and hospitality at their new ground with rubbish caterers Lindley. Burton have offered new contracts to midfielders Jack Dyer and Jimmy Phillips. The duo, both under 24, are yet to make themselves permanent fixtures in the Brewers' side.

Plymouth have handed midfielder Simon Walton a new one year deal. He is one of just four players left at the club from their final Championship season two years ago. Portsmouth's Administrator says the club's chances of survival are '50/50'. Trevor Birch says he is in talks with two bidders but neither are close to making an acceptable offer, and that they will run out of cash in June. The club are under pressure from the Football League to prove they will be able to complete the 2012/13 season.

Tamworth are offering Adult season tickets for just £115 - if they can sell 2,012. They average around half that in home fans for each match. Northampton have added two more names to their exit list. Goalkeeper Freddy Hall, who made three appearances this season, and defender Andy Holt, who has made over 200 appearances for the club, put the list of released players at Sixfields up to seven.

Swindon have won the Ronnie Radford Award for their win over Premier League side Wigan in the FA Cup Third Round. The Robins won 32% of the fans vote and were the only League side in the running. Forest Green are reported to be on the verge of sealing a deal to sign Fleetwood striker Magno Silva Viera as one of their three new striker signings. The Brazilian, who first hit Conference headlines with a loan spell at Carlisle, has scored nine times in 28 games this season.


Dry First Half Expected At Crawley

While Herefordshire is still receiving heavy rainfall, Crawley is expected to be largely dry in the run up to tomorrow's match.

Heavy rain is predicted by the Met Office from 4pm on Saturday, but there is little forecast before then and there has been only occasional showers in the last two days.

Elsewhere, Barnet's home match with Wimbledon is also unlikely to be endangered by the weather and Macclesfield's game with Burton is likely to go ahead as long as the forecast is correct. The Manchester area has taken some heavy rain this week, but it is expected to be largely dry in the 24 hours before the match.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

You Never Say Never - O'Kelly

Central ITV  has interviewed Hereford United manager Richard O'Kelly at the training ground where the squad were being put through their paces in advance of Saturday's game at Crawley.

In the introduction mention was made of the 'good honest football on a tight budget followed all the way by a passionate fanbase.' But the Bulls are currently relegation candidates.

"Until the last ball has been kicked, you never say never," said O'Kelly.

"It's a situation where if we focus on what we can do, that's all you can do.

"So we'll keep doing that until the end."

O'Kelly explained how well he got on with former manager Jamie Pitman, now coach, whom he replaced last month.

"Jamie was a player when I was here as a coach before and we've always had a good relationship.

"We used to discuss the game an awful lot and we've kept in touch over the years.

"So that transition for me has been really good and talking to him he seems to be enjoying it as well.

"We both want Hereford United to remain in the Football League so we are pulling in the same direction."



O'Kelly has watched Crawley

Hereford United manager Richard O'Kelly has watched Crawley and knows his side will have to perform at their best to take anything from Saturday's match betweeen the two clubs.

"Crawley will be going all out for it," O'Kelly told BBC Hereford and Worcester earlier today.

"They've got a very strong squad of players.

"I went down to watch them the other week. The ground is a wonderful facility.

"They've developed under the previous manager and the interim manager has taken over.

"Looking at them last week they seem to be playing with a bit more flair, so that should be interesting on Saturday."

O'Kelly is wary of some of the Crawley players.

"You have to accomodate what they have got. They've got Gary Alexander and Billy Clark who could rip you to shreds.

"You never take anybody for granted."

News Round-Up

Port Vale's CVA has been passed by 87% of the voters today after the local council agreed to accept Keith Ryder's £1.3million offer last night. The council, which voted 38 to 3 in favour of the offer, will lose £1.5million due to the deal but it is reported to be a better outcome than liquidation. Vale Park, on which the loan is secured, has been valued at just £1million after the previous board claimed it was worth over £4million. On the pitch, Micky Adams has released first year pro Charlie Raglan after the defender failed to make an impression on the first team.

Macclesfield report that they should have injury victims George Donnelly, Tony Diagne, and Carl Tremarco back fit for this weekend's game against Burton, but that keeper Steve Collis will not play again this season. Swindon are claimed to be one of two sides that have made a bid for Rotherham striker Lewis Grabban. Rotherham have appointed Richard Stewart, son of chairman Tony, as their new Vice Chairman.

Derby have denied being the club to make a bid for Northampton midfielder Michael Jacobs, but they have confirmed they are watching the out of contract player. Morecambe have won the award for best pies in the Football League for the second successive season. They also scooped three other prizes at the British Pie Awards.

Scunthorpe boss Alan Knill says the club's budget next season will be substantially lower than the current campaign. Knill had to do a hatchet job on his playing budget last summer following relegation to League One and now has to do the same again. Tranmere boss Ronnie Moore expects to employ five less players next season. The former Rotherham boss is to agree a one year contract to remain at the club this week.

Bournemouth have reported a profit of £1.1million for last season, their first profit in over 10 years. They sold four players and received a fee for manager Eddie Howe's departure to Burnley. Darlington's fans are to present new proposals to the FA in a bid to strike agreement with Raj Singh over his demands to waive his debt. Singh has blocked their revised CVA after the FA objected to the clauses he demanded.

Grimsby have released striker Rob Duffy and defender Scott Garner after telling the pair they would not be offered new contracts. Garner is an England C International. Cheltenham have raised their season ticket prices by £10 for next season. Standard priced terrace tickets are £310, with grandstand prices between £390 and £409.

Burton keeper Kevin Poole will retire at the end of the season. The 48 year old started his pro career in 1981, and will continue coaching.

Cider Festival Rearranged For May 12th

The planned Cider Festival will now take place on May 12th, in Radfords.

It had been planned for the Easter weekend, but had to be rescheduled. Tickets remain priced at £5 with tickets for the original date still valid. There will, as before, be three free 'tasters' for ticketholders as well as live music.

Player Of The Season Presentation Evening


The Club have announced details of the annual POTS evening which, this year, is to be held in The Starlite Rooms on Saturday 5th May following the final home game of the season.

Tickets are priced at just £10 and can be booked by calling 08442 761939 or by asking at the reception desk in Addison's.


Crawley Update

A couple of items of news about Saturday's match at Crawley.

Firstly only a few seats remain for Hereford United supporters. Anyone wishing to sit should contact Crawley as soon as possible on 01293 410000.

Secondly HUISA are not taking any more booking as the coach is reportedly full.

Lastly the 19/2 price available for a Hereford United win is currently still on offer from BetVictor.

Youth Game Postponed

Tonight's planned u18 match with Lads Club has been postponed again after yesterday's torrential rain.

A new date will be announced soon.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Bulls Watch Pompey Crisis

The situation at Portsmouth Football Club appears desperate. The club is reported to be £58M in debt and the administrator can't find a buyer.
Football League chairman Greg Clarke noted the situation earlier today.

"I think it [liquidation this summer] is a distinct possibility because the debts of that club are immense, tens of millions of pounds, and they have relatively few assets," Clarke told Sky Sports News.

"Unless someone comes along with significant capital to invest in that club, that club will be liquidated by the administrators."

Should Portsmouth be liquidated, it's almost certain they will reform. But what isn't certain is in which league they would play.

On the one hand the practical problem of housing Pompey supporters at away games might suggest they couldn't drop out of the Football League. On the other hand clubs like Accrington had to drop down four of five leagues when they got into trouble.

Timing of any liquidation could have an effect on Hereford United. If Pompey were to be liquidated by early June, the League might decide that only one club would need to drop to the Conference.

However if liquidation happened after early June when the fixture list is compiled, then it more likely that League One would have one less club in it next season.

19/2 for a Bulls Win at Crawley

Earlier this week the best price on offer for Hereford United to win at Crawley this coming Saturday was 8/1. That price is now 19/2.

The bookies seem so certain that Crawley will win the game that even a draw is now quoted at 21/5.

Both 'best' prices are available with BetVictor.

Latest offer from, not so generous, SkyBet:

Crawley 1/3 Draw 10/3 Hereford 15/2


League Votes For Financial Rules

Championship clubs have finally agreed to similar financial rules that are currently in force with other Football League clubs.

Each individual division will decide the exact makeup of their own rules, but for Championship clubs next season they will 'only' be allowed to lose £4million, reducing to £2million in the 2015/16 season. Club owners will only be able to plough £8million a year into a side, dropping eventually to £2million, with sanctions including fines, transfer embargoes, or other penalties available for breaches of the new rules.

League One and Two sides will continue with their Salary Cost Management Protocol scheme, which allows only a specific percentage of turnover to be spent on player wages. The actual percentage will vary between the divisions with League Two continuing at 55% and League One 65% for the 2012/13 season.

Preview: Crawley vs Bulls

The Bulls travel to the Broadfield Stadium for the first time in over six years to face Crawley Town.

Crawley programme, 1965
Since the pair last met in the Conference both sides have experienced changes in ownership and contrasting fortunes. Back in the 05/06 season the soon to be play-off winners did the double over their part-time counterparts with a 2-1 win at Edgar Street following a 2-0 victory in Sussex. Overall, the Red Devils have failed to beat the Bulls in five encounters since they made it to the Conference in 2004, although the pair played each other as long ago as 1965 when the Bulls won 2-0 at Crawley after winning promotion.

The Red Devils are looking for a second successive promotion with current caretaker boss Craig Brewster also looking to earn the job on a permanent basis. A large crowd is expected for what could turn into a promotion party if they win and Torquay lose to play-off hopefuls Crewe. Brewster will have Sergio Torres and Pablo Mills back from suspension, but one player who won't be featuring is striker Richard Brodie. The forward cost a reported £275,000 and netted 12 times for the Conference champions in 10/11 but was farmed out on loan this season and doesn't look to be in their plans at all.

The Bulls have been drinking in last chance saloon for several weeks now, but the inability of rivals Barnet and Macclesfield to finish the job means the Bulls have a final chance to save their status. The Bulls need to at least match Barnet's result to take matters into the final game. Rob Purdie's welcome return added to the Bulls cause, while a reseve run-out yesterday for Simon Clist should mean the Bulls have more left-side options available than in recent weeks.

Crawley Town vs Hereford United, Broadfield Stadium, Saturday 28th April, 3.00pm.

News Round-Up

The FA have upheld Northwich's appeal against expulsion from the Northern Premier League. Instead of the two division drop, the Vics will now only drop one tier this summer. Meanwhile, Woodley Sports have ambitious plans despite their own FA enforced relegation from the same division. They have appointed former Aston Villa man Peter Withe on a two year full time deal as manager.

Crawley have handed two of their scholars professional deals, just a year after setting up their Centre of Excellence. Torquay are trialling former Southend and Swindon midfielder Craig Easton, who left Dunfermline in January after his short term deal expired. Bradford fans have named defender Luke Oliver as their Player of the Year.

Port Vale are awaiting a response today from the local council on whether they will accept the CVA offer on the table from Keith Ryder. Negotiations are still ongoing on how much of his £1.4million offer will be paid up front. Meanwhile, the Valiants say they will offer striker Marc Richards the best deal they can in a bid to keep him at the club. Shrewsbury are claimed to be still trying to sign the 29 year old, while other clubs are also reported to be interested.

Luton moved into pole position for the final Conference play-off spot with a goalless draw at Gateshead last night. They go into Saturday's final games needing only a draw at Champions Fleetwood to become the final side into the hunt. For Kidderminster to overhaul them, the Harriers will need to beat Mansfield with Luton losing or - if Luton draw - win by at least 13 clear goals.

U18's In Action At Edgar Street Thursday Night

The Bulls u18 side play their rearranged HFA Giantkillers Cup match at Edgar Street on Thursday night.

Kick off is 7.30pm versus Lads Club for the trophy. Entrace is through the VP Club, next to Radfords, and is £3 for Adults and £2 concessions.

Pre-Booking For Crawley Tickets

Crawley Town have advised Bulls fans to pre-book their tickets for Saturday's game.

The Red Devils expect a large gate as they push for promotion, while good numbers of Bulls fans are hoped to also travel. Most Bulls fans will be put in the North Stand terrace, which is shared between home and away fans with a moveable segregation barrier.

Tickets can only be booked by calling the Crawley Town ticket office on 01293 410000. Collections of pre-booked tickets can be made from their pre-booked ticket window of their ticket office in the car park.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Russell to Referee at Crawley on Saturday

Mick Russell from Hertfordshire is set to take charge of this coming Saturday's League Two match at Crawley where Hereford United are the visitors.

The Bulls haven't met Russell for three and a half years. On that afternoon, Oct 18th 2008, they played at Brighton and came away with a goal-less draw and yellow cards for three players, Karl Broadhurst, Bruno N'Gotty and 'Dave' Diagouraga.

A year earlier Russell came to Edgar Street and was the man in the middle during the Bulls' 5-1 win over Darlington. Trevor Benjamin, Ben Smith, Easton, Robinson and Rose scored for the home side.

And in November 2006 Russell took charge of an away game at Swindon which the Bulls won 2-1. Andy Williams scored both games.

So, to date, the Bulls have never lost when Russell has refereed. Hopefully that will continue on Saturday.

Russell has missed much of this season so has only been in the middle for 11 games in which he has given out 23 yellow cards and 2 red cards.