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

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Latest Accounts Due Soon


Hereford United are expected to publish their latest set of accounts within the next six weeks. The previous set of accounts were released last November. They covered the year to May 31st 2011. Here's a reminder of some of the figures.

Net Profit: £431,601

Operating Loss: £173,537

Turnover: £2,055,026

Wages and Salaries: £1,286,805

Net Assets: £218,078

Total Assets: £596,851

Total Liabilities: £378,773

Shareholders Funds: £218.078

It's worth noting that at the end of May 2010, effectively the last year Graham Turner was in charge, shareholders funds were in the red to the tune of £213,523. So in David Keyte's first year the club made a paper profit of over £400,000 (£431,601). However this was all because of buying back the Richardson's debt at less than it was stated on the balance sheet.

So what about the latest figures?

Firstly there has been a substantial amount of spending on the Starlite Club which appears to have been covered, in the main, by loans or gifts to the club. It's thought four directors/supporters each put around £80,000 into the venture but the total cost is understood to have been nearer £400,000.

Keyte spoke to BN about the investors (May 11th) 

There were four investors. One part came by way of a donation, one is on the basis of it being repaid as and when surplus funds allow and two are loans to be repaid over the medium term.

Secondly there was no FA cup run last season and several players still on relatively high wages.

Thirdly there was little income from tranfers when compared with the previous season. Maybe £70,000 as against £297,730.

These figures alone point to a large six-figure loss or a 'significant loss' as predicted by chairman David Keyte last December.

So the club will, once again, have a negative balance sheet.  

Keyte Reacts To Foyle's 'Massive Debt' Comment


Chairman David Keyte has reacted to manager Martin Foyle's words from his pre-match interview given to Bulls Player last Friday where he mentioned massive debts at Hereford United.

Foyle was talking about the problems of bringing in players given the tight budget he's under.

 "We've got to try and get a mixture of winning on the pitch but also settling massive debts off the pitch."

Later Keyte commented:  

 "Martin's comments were clearly based on discussions I've had with him following the last four home attendances, which are well under-budget. Whilst we would all like to attempt to improve the playing squad we will have to balance that against the loss of income through the gate.

"Martin was quite rightly referring to our discussion, but I would describe it more as day-to-day running costs, which I would describe as substantial, but maybe not massive. As supporters know we did clear what I would term as massive debts when we settled the £1million debt that we inherited, which was owed to Richardsons Capitol.

"It is a fact that until we see a return on that settlement through ground development it has put pressure on the cashflow, which has now been exacerbated by relegation and such low attendances.

"We certainly need help from anyone who considers themselves a HUFC supporter, in whatever way they can.

"As each week passes we will struggle to pay our way on current attendances." .



News Round-Up


Barrow are seeking a new keeper after newly signed backup Ben Woodhead was ruled out after damaging a thumb in training. The problem was increased when Danny Hurst, their only fit keeper, was stretchered off during yesterday's loss to Cambridge leaving them to play an outfield player in goal for 75 minutes. Kidderminster have confirmed that they remain in talks with Worcester over a groundshare at Aggborough next season.

In a Q&A session done on BBC radio, Lincoln chairman Bob Dorrian told supporters the club had cut it's off-field staff from 24 to 8 since dropping into the Conference, but that the playing budget was down £200,000 on last season. He denied claims of Administration despite gates dropping down to just 1,500 at Sincil Bank. There are no Bulls in the England C team to face Albania in two weeks time. There are four each in the 16 man squad from Forest Green and Luton. 

Kettering's future is again shrouded in mystery after manager John Beck was escorted out of Nene Park before their loss in the FA Trophy yesterday. Just 200 fans watched the Poppies, winless this season, with assistant boss Dean Greygoose and two of the players walking out of the club in the week with wages unpaid. Club owner Imraan Ladak remains the only director at the club.

Former Bull Ben Smith is writing a book about his football career, telling Total Football magazine it will be a stripped back, honest assessment. He also tells the mag he rates the Bulls' FA Cup win at Leeds as one of his career highlights.



Bulls U18 In FA Cup Derby Match Monday Night


The Bulls' u18 side will take on their Pegasus Juniors counterparts in their FA Youth Cup match tomorrow night.

Kick off is 7.30pm for the Second Qualifying Round match, with entrace for the game through Addisons Bar. Admission is £4 adults and £1 for concessions.

The winners of the tie will get a home match against either Walsall Wood or Atherstone Town in the Third Qualifying Round in two weeks time.


Saturday, September 29, 2012

Bulls secure valuable point at Fieldmill



Hereford United picked up a useful point against a fairly low quality Mansfield team this afternoon.  An early strike from Marlon Jackson was equalled by an Exodus Geohaghon header with both goals coming in the first period.

Ryan Bowman was withdrawn from the squad through illness and Martin Foyle opted for caution following a couple of hefty away defeats.  The back division was unchanged and Marlon Jackson, in the lone strike role was supported from midfield by Watkins, O'Keefe, Pell, Clist and Clucas.

Debut for O'Keefe
The Bulls attacked the goal in front of the visiting Herefordians in the first half and Simon Clist quickly felt the studs of Anthony Howell in a late challenge.  Watkins lost possession on the halfway line but the breakaway was stopped at the expense of a fruitless corner before a Pell through ball found Jackson on the move but he was quickly closed down and the ball was cleared.

The quality in the opening twenty minutes left plenty to be desired and when Clucas tried to inject some pace and skill into the proceedings he was scythed down by Stags' captain Murray who duly received a yellow flash from referee Handley.  Then, with a little over twenty minutes played, Clucas created the opening goal for Jackson.

The enthusiastic Clucas intercepted a cross-field ball and he set off on a run from just inside the Mansfield half before releasing Jackson on the edge of the box.  With the home defence already stretched, Jackson was able to drill home from 12 yards.

Players surround Jackson after Hereford's Goal
Daniel blazed high over the bar for the hosts then a free kick similar to the one that produced a goal for FGR on Tuesday fell wide of the target as The Stags enjoyed a rare few minutes of pressure in what was, generally, a poor first half.  Jackson just failed to get on the end of a Pell through ball and, from a corner, Simon Clist was clearly pulled from behind in the box but Mr Handley clearly had his eyes focused in another direction.  Then with a long ball into The Bulls box only being half cleared the ball fell to Nick Wright who found Geohaghon unmarked six yards out and he nodded in with Bittner seemingly rooted to his line.

Marlon Jackson with the ball watched by the 'Giant'
Clucas almost created the late first half opportunity when he jinked his way into the box but the score remained level as the twenty-minute queue for coffee commenced.

HT  Mansfield 1  Bulls 1

Mrs Ex commented at the break that it was boring and the facts were confirmed in the second period when, I believe, she actually went to sleep for the first time at a game.

It was fully fifteen minutes before anything of note happened after the oranges and that was a cross from Watkins that sailed harmlessly beyond the far post.  Then there was a throw in.  Did I mention Geohaghon's throws?  No?  Oh well, perhaps I was asleep as well.

Marley Watkins
The industrious Clist fed a pass for Jackson but he was eased off the ball and the ball rolled out for another throw.  Mansfield made a couple of substitutions which made no difference whatsoever and then there was a throw in.  Jake Speight received a deserved yellow for following through into Bittner long after he had collected the ball before Canham replaced Jackson for the final five minutes of enthralling throw-ins witnessed by 2248 including 137 in the visitors pen.

FT  Mansfield 1  Bulls 1

Bulls: Bittner, Gallinagh, Graham, Stam, Curruthers, Watkins, O’Keefe, Pell, Clist, Clucas, Jackson (Canham 87).  Unused Heath, McQuilkin, Sammons, Smikle.

Mansfield: Redmond, Sutton, Thompson, Pilkington, Long Throw Geohaghon, Howell, Murray, Daniel, Meikle (Briscoe 76), Speight, Wright (Rhead 71).  Unused Beevers, Clements, Stevenson.

Not the best but looking like MF is addressing the early season midfield failings.  Marley took a bang on the leg but should be fine by next weekend and Samuel Raymond Clucas turned in another hard-working shift that included most of the better parts of the afternoons performance.  The midfield looked a lot more solid if a little lacking in support for Jackson up top. However, it was, overall, much more palatable than the last two away efforts.

Stockport County?  Bring 'em on!



Hanford Angered By Mansfield Stewards


Dan Hanford travelled with the Hereford United squad to Mansfield today but wasn't in the starting eleven or on the bench.

Before the game he was out training with James Bittner.


Later he was seen celebrating the Hereford goal.

However it appears the Mansfield stewards decided he couldn't stay where he was, or in the Hereford dug-out.

Hanford wasn't pleased.

'Most these stewards are p****s in mansfield .. removed from dug out. Removed from stands missed a goal. Now stuck in the changing rooms'

Stats from Mansfield


Below are the main stats from a sunny but somewhat windy Mansfield where Hereford United took a point from this afternoon's Conference match.

Result: Mansfield 1 Hereford United 1

Scorers: Jackson (21) for Hereford, Geohagon (44) for Mansfield

Possession: Mansfield 49% Hereford 51%

Shots on Target: Mansfield 2 Hereford 3

Bittner making a save
Shots off Target: Mansfield 8 Hereford 1

Corners: Mansfield 3 Hereford 5

Fouls: Mansfield 11 Hereford 9

Cards: No Hereford player was carded

Attendance: 2248 with 137 in the away end

Conference Table:

7 Tamworth
12 2 19
8 Tamworth
11 1 19
9 Mansfield
12 -1 17
10 Hereford
12 -3 17
11 Gateshead
12 0 16
12 Woking
12 -1 16
13 Telford
12 2 15
 

Foyle Delighted With Point


Martin Foyle appeared to be the happier of the two manager after this afternoon's game at Mansfield. The Bulls took a point from the game but had a lot of defending to do particularily in the second half.

"I'm delighted with the point," Foyle told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"The way that Paul Cox sets up with the long throw in their armoury, I would probably do it myself if I could as it's effective.

"But we stood up to it fantastically today."

Foyle then described the Hereford goal.

"I didn't think we were going to get there, the wind was that strong.

"Clucas was running away but they seemed to be catching him but he placed the ball just at the right time.

"And Marlon, whether he caught it properly I don't care, it's in the back of the net."

Marlon Jackson pleased to score Hereford's goal
Mansfield equalised one minute before half-time.

"It was disappointing. The wind was so strong I thought if we went in 1-0 and took the wind second half, I would have fancied our chances.

"Allowing Mansfield to score just before half-time gave them a lift but it was also a wake-up call for the second half.

"There was heart and commitment and I can't fault them.

"But we need to be a bit more streetwise but that comes with playing games."

Late in the interview Foyle made a valid point about free kicks.

"Free kicks away from home, they have got to go in the box.

"Marley had one short, Clisty had one short then a corner went short.

"Frustrating. Sometimes you have to take your time, set yourself up then deliver at the right time."  

Listen to the interview: http://audioboo.fm/boos/983173-we-stood-up-to-the-challenge-fantastically-hereford-s-manager-martin-foyle



Reaction From Mansfield Manager


Mansfield manager Paul Cox spoke to the press after this afternoon's 1-1 draw with Hereford United.

“It was a mixed bag really," said Cox as reported by the Mansfield Chad.

"I can only remember Hereford having one shot at goal and they scored from it.

"We gave the ball away sloppily in a bad area which put us on the back foot.

"We probably had 70% of the territorial possession, but that doesn't win you football matches.

"We got back in the game but they just put ten men behind the ball and made us work really hard to break them down.

"We got the ball into good areas on several occasions but failed to take a gamble.

"We should have worked their keeper with more efforts."

Ex-Bull Watch


In League One, Gavin Williams scored a penalty as Yeovil lost at Preston. 

In League Two, Tom Barkhuizen scored the winner as Fleetwood beat Barnet.

In Conference South, Tim Sills scored a hat-trick for Basingstoke as they beat Billericay. Glen Southam scored for Eastleigh as they beat Hayes.

In the Welsh Premier, Zac Evans scored a penalty as Newtown won at Afan Lido. Kenny Lunt scored for Bala Town as they won at Llanelli.


Results Round-Up


The Bulls move up to tenth in the table with today's results, with Forest Green leading the table. The Gumpers beat Lincoln 3-0 in the televised game last night to head the table by a point from Newport, who were held to a goalless draw by sixth placed Grimsby. Wrexham are third after their own goalless draw with Nuneaton, with Luton fourth after beating Southport 3-1. Dartford are fifth after a late comeback saw them beat ten man Hyde 2-1. Tamworth beat Woking 3-2 to hold seventh place.

At the foot of the table, Kidderminster moved out of the bottom four with a 3-0 win over Macclesfield. Cambridge also moved out of danger with a 4-1 win at hapless Barrow, who had man sent off, conceded a penalty, and let in an own goal within the opening ten minutes. Ebbsfleet's woes continue with a 3-1 loss at Stockport, whose £5 entry day saw 1,200 more than their average attendance watch the match but took nearly a third less than average in gate receipts.


Bulls Get Creditable Point At Stags


The Bulls earned a decent point with a 1-1 draw at Mansfield in today's Conference match.

Marlon Jackson's fourth goal in five starts gave the Bulls a shock start, with strike partner Ryan Bowman missing the game with a bug, before human catapult Exodus Geohaghon headed home an equaliser before half time.

Full report later.


Statement from Herefordshire Council about Market Site

Herefordshire Council have released a statement about the old livestock market site which is situated close to the home of Hereford United football club.

Preparatory work will begin on Hereford’s Old Market site on 1st October 2012. This will ensure the site is prepared and safe for construction which will hopefully begin later this year. This significant step has been taken following the positive news that Herefordshire Council, Stanhope plc and British Land plc have exchanged contracts for the funding agreement for the redevelopment of the only new retail and leisure scheme to open in the UK in 2014.

Councillor John Jarvis, leader of Herefordshire Council responded to this announcement saying:

“I am delighted that that contracts have been exchanged over the Old Livestock Market site and that work will finally begin to prepare the site for development.

"This is a huge vote of confidence in the city and in the county. It is a vital part of the Council’s strategy to build a thriving economy in Herefordshire.

"It has been very tough to get to this stage and I’d I like to thank everyone for their patience and commitment. There is more hard work yet to do but the fact that site preparation is taking place this week is a real boost for the county.

"I want to make sure that across Herefordshire people have access to good quality jobs, shopping and entertainment. This huge development is just one piece in a wider programme of investment Herefordshire Council is making across the whole of the county”



Friday, September 28, 2012

Tall Players At Mansfield


Hereford United travel to Mansfield later this morning for this afternoon's Conference match and manager Martin Foyle has noted that the Stags has got some tall players in their squad

"They have a player, Exodus Geohaghon, with a long throw," Foyle told BBC Hereford and Worcester. 

"They launch it from back to front. Seven of their team are over six foot three.

"So we know what we will be up against.

"It's just our confidence now that we're organised.

"Probably in the last two games our shape have been better.

"The chances have been not so many - they only had four shots on target last Tuesday.

"So we know we are doing things better but at the moment we seem to be punished for any chance that comes our way."


HUISA still have spaces for tomorrow


There are still around a dozen seats available for the HUISA coach to Mansfield tomorrow.

The coach leaves Radford's at 10.30am with a fare of £15 (non-members £17).

Any fans making a late decision to go and cheer on The Bulls can just turn up in the morning on a first come, first served basis.


CouncIl Confirm Livestock Market Deal


Herefordshire Council Leader John Jarvis has told BBC Hereford and Worcester that contracts for the redevelopment of the former livestock market were exchanged late this afternoon.

Jarvis also confirmed that preparation work will begin on Monday with the hope that demolition will commence in two weeks.

The start of work will be welcomed by the Hereford United board who wish to develope the two ends of their Edgar Street ground which is next to the livestock market.

"The development is going ahead," said Jarvis.

"The contracts are exchanged."

Jarvis went on to explain the exchanging contracts wasn't the same as completion, rather like selling a house.

"There's still the completion to go, it's 99.9% signed, we've just got some final details to sign off.

"But contracts have been exchanged and we are making a start on Monday.

"I suspect it will be two weeks or more before we get anything really noticable."


Weekend Fixtures Start With TV Game


This weekend's Conference fixtures start with tonight's Premier Sports televised match.

Their cameras will be at Forest Green tonight (7.45pm) to see the Gumpers face Lincoln City in the first of a full set of fixtures, with David Hockaday's men able to top the table at least overnight with a victory.

Tomorrow sees the other 11 matches kick off at 3pm, with current leaders Newport entertaining fast rising Grimsby in the headline match. Third place Wrexham entertain strugglers Nuneaton, while title favourites Luton entertain Southport.

Kidderminster can spring themselves out of the bottom four with a home win over Macclesfield, while bottom side Hyde travel to surprise package Dartford.


News Round-Up


Ebbsfleet have signed Grimsby winger Louis Soares on loan for an initial month. The 27 year old was listed for loan by the Mariners last week after a quiet start to the campaign. Macclesfield have loaned young striker Jay Burgess and second choice keeper Andrew Mills to New Mills for an initial month. Mills' loan move leaves the Silkmen without a spare keeper for first team duties.

Former Bull Yoann Arquin has been described as 'quite stroppy' by new Notts County teammate Dean Leacock. The defender told the local press "A lot of us call him Anelka because he's got so much skill - and he's quite stroppy too!". Truro City have been given two weeks by the Conference to provide financial guarantees or be thrown out of the competition. Former manager Steve Massey says he wants to take over the club, and has entered talks with the Administrator.

Woking chairman Mike Smith has moved to calm fan fears after club accounts for last season showed a £150,000 loss. Smith says the loss is within the club's means and it will not spend money it does not have. Barrow have signed Blackpool striker Louis Almond on loan until January. The 20 year old has already had two loan spells with the Bluebirds in his career, scoring seven times in 48 games, before ending last season with a month at Lincoln.


Finances Curtail Foyle


The current state of the finances at Edgar Street is curtailing manager Martin Foyle. He says that he is unable to bring in a player unless another one is released.

On Tuesday Foyle let Bryon Anthony go and today the Hereford United manager is trying to bring someone in to back up his defence.

"Bryon is a very good professional and he wanted to come here," said Foyle in his latest Bulls Player interview.

"But unfortunately with the position I've got to try and get somebody in but unfortunately somebody has to go.

"Finances are hard.

"I don't think people realise how hard they are.

"So we've got to rally together.

"We've got to try and get a mixture of winning on the pitch but also settling massive debts off the pitch.

"I've tried to get a fresh face. I did agree with somebody but the player got injuried in training yesterday.

"These sort of things test you but if we've got to go with what we've got then we do."

Stags Sign Keeper


Mansfield are reported to have signed Notts County keeper Liam Mitchell on loan as cover for their pair of injured stoppers.

The 20 year old had a 10 game spell in the Conference two years ago with Tamworth, being sent off in his final appearance, before a stint with Ryman League side Lewes last term, but is yet to make his bow for the League One side.

Regular keeper Alan Marriott dislocated his shoulder in training yesterday, while reserve stopper Shane Redmond also picked up a sore elbow.


Collins Switch Could Trigger Bulls Loan Deal


Shrewsbury are reported to have added to their ranks of former Bulls by signing current Barnsley man Lee Collins on loan.

With Martin Foyle having watched Shrewsbury reserves earlier in the week, there is speculation that one of the Shrews' current defenders could be on his way to Edgar Street - with Collins' move helping to pave the way. The former Port Vale man played 20 times for Graham Turner at Edgar Street during the 07/08 promotion campaign as a young loanee from Wolves.

Young defender Conor Goldson is one of two players touted for a possible move to Edgar Street. The 6ft 3in 19 year old has made 10 first team appearances for the Shrews, the last one being nearly a year ago, but he has been back in the matchday 18 in recent weeks.

The second is long term injury victim Reuben Hazell. The former Oldham man, 33, missed 11 months through injury before returning at the start of September with three full first team games, but he has been left out of the last two matchday squads.

Meanwhile, there is speculation that former Bull Dan Preston may be on his way out of Telford after his second red card of the season against Newport. Manager Andy Sinton told reporters he had "no complaints" about Preston's dismissal on Tuesday and that "all avenues are being explored" regarding the player's future at the New Bucks Head after he added a four game suspension to the six match ban already served this term.

Update: The Shrews have also signed former Bulls loanee Sam Winnall on loan. The Wolves 21 year old scored twice in nine games for the Bulls last term, before a disappointing spell in the SPL with Inverness.


Thursday, September 27, 2012

Bulls 31/10 to Win at Mansfield


Given Hereford United's last two away performances, it's not surprising that the bookies don't rate their chances of a win at Mansfield this coming Saturday.

Currently the best price for a Hereford win is 31/10 with BetVictor.

Top price for a draw is 29/10 with Pinnacle.

Latest Prices from BlueSq;

Mansfield 10/11 Draw 12/5 Hereford 5/2


Stags have Keeper Crisis


Mansfield Town manager Paul Cox is reported to have a goal-keeper crisis in addition to other problems in his squad which plays Hereford United on Saturday.

First choice keeper Alan Marriot is said to have a dislocated shoulder and back-up keeper Shane Redmond a sore elbow after training ground incidents.

Marriot could be out for a month and Cox is currently looking for a replacement.


Postponement Leaves Stags Short Up Top


With the Bulls due to visit Field Mill on Saturday, Mansfield boss Paul Cox is still looking for reinforcements to his forward line.

Having had Tuesday's trip to Macclesfield postponed late, much to Cox's anger at the Silkmen's handling of it, they face the Bulls without striker Matt Green. The former Cardiff man, who hit 30 goals last term, was due to sit out the last of a three game ban on Tuesday but will now have to miss the Bulls' visit.

Despite having big money resources at his disposal, Cox is having to juggle finances to meet his needs after his summer recruitment drive produced some disappointing on-pitch results. After being second favourites in the pre-season betting, the Stags are only goal difference above the Bulls and, like Martin Foyle's men, are also sitting on a negative goal difference.

Cox reports that he has only Matt Rhead and former Wrexham man Jake Speight available as forward options for Saturday's game, touted as a 'must win' in the local press to keep up their promotion hopes. While Green is suspended, Ross Dyer is out for the season with a knee injury, and Nick Wright and Ben Hutchinson are also both nursing knocks. The manager told the local press:

"We went into last Saturday with two fit strikers and when you have aspirations like ourselves, that is not going to benefit you. In the second half we played with a central midfielder up front. We have to compete with the likes of Luton and I would like to bring in another striker and I have to look at doing a bit of wheeling and dealing.

"We are expected to be challenging and to go into a long period of games with two available strikers is not good. We have options with both loans and free transfers but a lot has to be done."


News Round-Up


Llanelli's players will have crisis talks at the weekend after not being paid for two months. They will meet after Saturday's game with Bala Town to decide their next move, with wages due on Friday. Barrow have extended the loan of defender Tom Aldred for the maximum 93 day period. The 22 year old Colchester man has been given permission to also play in the FA Cup.

Cambridge boss Jez George is still mulling over the future of Robbie Willmott after bringing fellow exiled pair James Jennings and Adriano Moke back into the squad for Tuesday's game with Kidderminster. The 22 year old winger still has a future at the Abbey Stadium, say George, if he wants it. Luton have loaned full back Greg Taylor to Tamworth for an initial month. The 22 year old had played eight times this season after his move from Darlington was made permanent in the summer.

Kidderminster have signed Luton midfielder Adam Watkins on loan for an initial month. The 31 year old has made five appearances for the Hatters this term. Luton have signed defender Simon Ainge from Guiseley on a months loan. The former Bradford trainee, 24, has been Guiseley's captain in Conf North for the last two seasons.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

FGR Manager Pleased With Victory Over Bulls


David Hockaday spoke to the press after his side defeated the Bulls 2-1 at Edgar Street on Tuesday evening.

"The goal we conceded came from a great delivery," Hockaday told the Western Daily Press.

"They are hard to defend and sometimes you have to hold your hands up.

 "It's three points against another top team away from home, so we've got to be really happy with that.

"Hereford will get lots of points against some of the better teams in this league, so we're doing a lot right and working on the areas where we can improve."


Mansfield Travel


Mansfield Town v Hereford United
Blue Square Bet Premier
Saturday 29th September 2012 KO 3.00pm
One Call Stadium (Fieldmill)
Quarry Lane
Mansfield
NG18 5DA
Phone 01623 482482

Mansfield's main stand pictured in 2006
The Bulls travel to Mansfield on Saturday to take on the "Stags" for the first time in over four years. Admission is believed to be £15 for adults, £12 for concessions (OAPs and Students), £8 for U16s and £4 for U10s.

HUISA – Depart 10.30am from Radford's. Fare £15 (non-members £17). Book through the Club office on 08442 761939.

BY CAR - From Hereford go to Worcester joining the M5 at J7. At M5 J4A join the M42. At junction 3A take care to remain on the M42 by following signs for M42 The North. Continue to the end of the M42 and join the A42. Continue to the M1 joining the northbound carriageway at J23A. Travel north on the M1 to junction 28 where you leave to join the A38 (sign Mansfield/Matlock). At traffic signals continue forward following signs for Mansfield. After 2 miles, turn right into Mansfield Road (A6023) and straight on at the lights (A38). You will pass the Travel Lodge. Continue along the A38 onto Sutton Road. At "Sir John Cockle" public house continue forward (sign Town Centre). At traffic signals, turn right onto Rosemary Street A6009 (sign A38, Nottingham A60). At traffic signals, continue forward onto A60 (sign Nottingham). At traffic signals, turn right into Quarry Lane. Field Mill will be visible. Parking is uncertain, as I believe they now offer reserved parking only. There are public car parks on Union Street and Walkden Street off the A6009.  Distance Approx 125 miles. Allow 3 hours because of peak-time traffic particularly on M42. POSTCODE NG18 5DA.

TRAIN – Mansfield station is a ten-minute walk from Fieldmill and is served by trains from Nottingham.

ALEHOUSES – An old favourite is The Court House (Spoons) in Market Place while The Talbot on Nottingham Road (near Sainsburys) has received decent reviews. Coming into Mansfield from the M1, you will pass (or not as the case may be) The Sir John Cockle. It's a decent size pub that does food and keeps a couple of hand-pumps as well as the usual major brands. A further four hundred yards will take you to The Bold Forrester, which is a real ale fan's paradise. The supporters' bar at the ground does, normally, allow visiting fans.

CHIPS – The Barracuda Fish Bar is near to The Sir John Cockle pub. There is a KFC and John's Fish Bar going out of town on the Nottingham Road (left out of the ground and right at the end of Quarry Lane).

Enjoy




"The Bull" With The Bulls On Saturday


Terry Jenkins is at the Starlite Rooms this Saturday:


A draw will take place through the night for 20 people to play "The Bull", £1 a ticket. An auction for a signed shirt and the night's dartboard will also take place.


News Round-Up


Southport have sold striker Tony Gray to Chester for an undisclosed fee. The 28 year old was unable to commit to the Sandgrounders' training regime due to work commitments so has opted to drop back to Conf North level after one goal in seven games this term. Barrow have signed goalkeeper Ben Woodhead on non-contract terms as injury cover. The former Burnley teenager will act as no.2 while Shaun Pearson recovers from a knee operation.

Steve Guinan has been added to Kidderminster's backroom staff. The veteran ex-Bull will combine a part-time coaching role at the Harriers with his playing duties and his full time role at Hartpury College. Port Vale Administrator Bob Young says there are three leading bidders from the seven to have made enquiries about the club, and that a deal may be done within a month.

Stockport have loaned striker Cameron Darkwah to Colwyn Bay for an initial month. The 20 year old has made two starts and a sub appearance since agreeing a new deal with the Hatters at the end of August. Macclesfield have apologised to fans for the late call-off of last night's game with Mansfield, but say the referee made a 'marginal decision' to call off the game at 5.15pm after insistence from the club all day that there was no danger of a postponement.

Macclesfield have parted company with defender Euloge Ahodikpe by mutual consent after the Togo international failed to make a first team appearance after his summer arrival. Former Bull Dan Preston has been handed a four match ban for his red card last night. The Telford defender had just completed a six game ban for a red card and subsequent FA charge relating to his dismissal in a match against Luton earlier in the season.


Referee Gets Player Sacked


“I was just saying to your colleague, the referee has got me the sack, thank him ever so much for that, won’t you?”

Former England manager Graham Taylor made his feelings know in that infamous TV documentary that covered his time with the national team. At the time, many mused that it was a long string of events that led to Taylor's downfall rather than just one decision.

However, for Byron Anthony, Conference referee Declan Ford has pretty much put him back on the employment scrapheap for one bad decision.

Declan Ford at Edgar Street last Saturday
Scroll back to Saturday, against Cambridge, with the U's surging down the right hand side. Anthony, coming in at pace, challenges for the ball. Apparent from the motion of the ball that Anthony has made contact, the linesman moves to put his flag into his right hand to signal a Cambridge throw, apparently seeing nothing else wrong with the challenge two yards in front of him.

Only for Mr Ford, who has sent players off in all two of his games this season, to come steaming in and dish out a ludicrous red card. Astounded by the decision, Anthony pleads his case. Fellow Bulls players urge the ref to ask the linesman but he's having none of it and waves away their pleas.

Four days later Byron Anthony, unable to do his job for two more weeks due to one poor decision from a referee, is unemployed again with the club having to balance their finite resources to produce a team.


Anthony Departs Bulls


The Bulls have released defender Byron Anthony, the club have announced.

The former Bristol Rovers defender was harshly sent off in only his second appearance at the weekend, leading to the decision to release him due to his ban and the need to bring an available defender in.

Chairman David Keyte tells the official site that, with gates down 400 on their attendance budget, there will be some tough choices to be made on players to keep the side within budget.

"Martin (Foyle) and I met yesterday when the manager stated that due to injury and now a suspension he needed to get a defender into the football club," said Keyte.

"Our agreement is that there is no problem in doing that, providing we do it within the agreed budget."

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

We Can't Stop Conceeding Goals admits Foyle


In his post match interview Hereford United manager Martin Foyle said that he was disappointed with the outcome of the game.

"We went ahead with a fantastic cross for the goal which I hoped had given us that little bit of life that we needed to go on and have another good home performance," Foyle told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"But we can't stop conceeding goals.

"We gave away too many silly free kicks, we've giving cheap ones away and then the ball lands up in the box.

"The lad finished it from 25/30 yards. Could have been Bittner's position there, it's something I'll have to look at.

"Then the next one.

"Klukowski scored 18 goals last season. We told the lads that he will make those runs from mid-field.

"He's just run off the mid-field, gave Stef a problem because he was marking another man.

"It's not an easy header, the lad has finished it well, but it's in the back of the net again. And that's what frustrats me at the moment."

Foyle was full of praise for Forest Green.

"They're a good side.

"They are my favourites. I've seen them two or three times this season.

"They can change their side around left, right and centre.

"They stick to that 4-3-3 formation and they caused us problems."

But he also had some praise for his team.

"I thought we put some fantastic crosses in the box first half.

"We probably should have pinched another one before half-time.

"Second half what did they create?

"But we need to keep that ball better in that final third.

"I'm delighted with the effort but we need that little bit more quality at the right time." 

 

BULLS GO DOWN TO THE FOREST


It seems unnatural to face old foes Forest Green Rovers in the role of underdog, yet their lofty league position suggested that this was indeed the case. Despite the encouragement of an early goal, the Bulls had fallen behind before the interval, and rarely looked like squaring matters in the second half. The visitors also created few direct chances, though they seemed more assured in possession, and were quicker to close down the Hereford midfield. This technical ability, coupled with a gritty approach not seen in Gumpers sides in days of yore, allowed them to return to Gloucestershire with a deserved three points.

The game began in ”the kind of rain that wets you through”. In the opening exchanges, Sam Russell dealt smartly with a Ryan Bowman shot, whilst at the other end, Magno Vieira found an alarming amount of space in the box but failed to connect with a header.

Ryan Bowman - pictures taken by Linda Richards
Then Eddie Oshodi nodded straight at James Bittner when well placed. At this point, a visiting fan, presumably mistaking Edgar Street for the San Siro,(an easy thing to do, I know) ignited some kind of smoke bomb and was ushered away. While departing, he probably heard the cheers from the Meadow End as Hereford took a 7th minute lead. Sam Clucas lashed a corner kick across the box to where Stefan Stam had found room enough to wake a telling connection, and give the Bulls some breathing space.

Forest Green proved very quick to counter-attack, and in one lightning break, Matt Taylor made a chance for Vieira who shot straight into Bittner’s arms. Marley Watkins headed on for Marlon Jackson who sent a dangerous cross whistling across the face of goal. Then, with 16 minutes on the clock, Luke Graham was penalised for a foul on Ben Wright, who offered to take the kick himself. Despite the age it took for the defensive wall to be correctly positioned, Mr Wright managed to get the ball over it and into the corner of the net .
James Bittner beaten by Ben Wright's free kick
Bowman challenged Chris Stokes who then rolled around the floor in an over-reaction, and it was sad to see several FGR players attempting to influence the referee, one Mr Bull, to send the striker off. Yellow was the verdict, and Stokes made a miraculous recovery, re-entering the field in his new-found role as pantomime villain. Generally, Mr Bull seemed too easily swayed in his decision making by the appeals of players, and in some cases, the shouts from the crowd. Bowman cleverly flicked on for Clucas who could not find the difficult angle. Jamie Turley made a terrific interception and run downfield which won a corner for his side. Good work between Taylor and Stokes finished with a cross by Jamie Collins which fell kindly for Yan Klukowski. No-one could get in a tackle, and the visitors took a 32nd minute lead.

Watkins played an intelligent pass into the six yard box and a defender stuck out a foot which almost resulted in an own goal, but Russell prevented such a mishap. Hereford were guilty of allowing their opponents too much time and space in this phase of the game, whereas the ability to close down with speed made it difficult to forge openings for the home side. The closest we came to an equaliser was when Collins cleared straight to Bowman who was somewhat taken by surprise and failed to control the ball.

HT: HUFC 1 FGR2

Marlon Jackson
Hereford showed some early promise in the second period as Bowman latched on to a sliced clearance, but Turley reacted quickly to snuff out the danger. Clucas then was unlucky with a ricochet as he charged into the area, and a couple of free kicks in a prominent position were won, but unfortunately wasted. Bowman and Clucas then tried to set up Watkins, but the final ball lacked pace. For their part, the visitors made it very hard to be creative by their constant co-ordinated harrying whenever the Bulls had the ball. In trying to compete more effectively in the middle of the park, the more productive side of the Bulls game gradually faded.

Bittner, facing his old club, made some good saves, firstly from another Wright free kick and then claiming a high hanging ball when under extreme pressure. Jackson and Bowman contrived to set up Harry Pell for a long-range effort. Despite keeping his drive low, it could not find a path through a forest of legs. Bowman nearly set up Pell for another shot, but Russell managed to smother. Although some effort was made, it grew increasingly obvious that the Glos outfit were largely in their comfort zone, and that they would leave with maximum points. They also managed to bundle the ball untidily over the line late on, but a linesman’s flag cut short the celebrations.

Andy Gallinagh
As Hereford struggled to have any different ideas, the game concluded with some crisp passing from FGR, resplendent in their high-vis green kit, particularly from Wright, Ed Asafu-Adjaye, and Kieron Forbes, illustrating to all the reason for their place near the top.

FT: HUFC 1 FGR 2
Attendance: 1656, including 122 from Nailsworth and district.

HUFC: Bittner, Gallinah, Graham, Stam, Carruthers, Watkins, Pell, Sammons (O’Keefe 65), Clucas, Jackson, Bowman.

FGR: Russell, Stokes, Oshodi, Turley, Asafu-Adjaye, Collins, Vieira (Styche 46), Bangura, Klukowski (Forbes 76), Taylor, Wright (Brogan 90).

Results Round-Up


The Bulls are down to 11th after today's results, with Newport top of the table by a point after beating Telford 4-2. The Bucks will be in further trouble after having two more players sent off, with ex-Bull Dan Preston one of those red carded after only just completing a six game ban. Forest Green hold second after their win at Edgar Street, with Wrexham third after a 3-0 win over Barrow. Grimsby are up to fourth after beating Gateshead 3-0, while Luton beat Tamworth 2-1 with a Stuart Fleetwood winner to be fifth. Dartford are up to sixth after beating Braintree 2-0.

Kidderminster moved off the bottom of the table with a 3-1 win at 10 man Cambridge. They leave Hyde on the bottom, whose match with Alfreton was postponed. Ebbsfleet are 22nd after a 2-2 draw with Woking, while Cambridge are only out of the bottom four on goal difference from Barrow and Nuneaton, who lost 2-1 at Lincoln with Nicky Nicolau scoring one of the Imps goals. Stockport remain a point clear of the drop zone after a 1-1 draw with Southport.

Macclesfield's home game with Mansfield was also postponed due to the rain, with a large number of fans complaining that the Silkmen guaranteed that the game would be on mid-afternoon.


Stats From Edgar Street


Below are the main stats from a damp Edgar Street where Forest Green defeated Hereford United 2-1.

The Bulls took the lead after seven minutes when Stefan Stam scored from a Sam Clucas corner. However Ben Wright equalled with an excellent free kick which sailed past James Bittner on sixteen minutes.

Jan Klukowski sealed it for the Grumpers on thirty-two minutes. Full report later.

Possession: Bulls 45% FGR 55%

Shots on Target: Bulls 5 FGR 4

Shots off Target: Bulls 2 FGR 3

Corners: Bulls 3 FGR 5

Fouls: Bulls 14 FGR 11

Cards: Yellows for Marley Watkins and Ryan Bowman

Man of the Match: The sponsors selected Marley Watkins.

BN's Man of the Match: Stefan Stam

Attendance: 1656

The Conference Table:

8 Tamworth 11 1 16
9 Woking 11 0 16
10 Mansfield 10 -1 16
11 Hereford 11 -3 16

Merton Meadow Open For Parking


After being closed yesterday because of flooding, the Merton Meadow car park is back in operation today. Therefore there should be plenty of space for Hereford United and Forest Green supporters going to this evening's match to park either there or close-by.

Meanwhile Hereford United supporters who are not season ticket holders but watched last Saturday's game against Cambridge are reminded to take their ticket stub with them if they wish to take advantage of a lower admission charge this evening. 

In other news Hereford United manager Martin Foyle has been spotted watching Shrewsbury's reserves this afternoon.  

One of this evening's Conference matches has been called off. The Hyde pitch is water-logged.

Update: The game at Macclesfield is also off.


The Big Boys At Edgar Street This Evening


How things change. 

Not many years ago Forest Green Rovers would have been thought of, at least by most Hereford United supporters, as that small club on the top of the hill.

But, at least in manager Martin Foyle's eyes, Forest Green is a side with more financial clout than Hereford.

"Forest Green are the big boys and, although our supporters will not appreciate me saying it, they are a million miles away from us," said Foyle as reported by the Western Daily Press.

"It will be a good game. They play a certain system and have electric pace up top.

"It will be a different challenge to the one we faced against Cambridge on Saturday when we faced aerial attacks.

"Forest Green will be much more a counter-attacking side."


Foyle To Shuffle Defence


Hereford United manager Martin Foyle will need to make at least one change for this evening's Conference game against Forest Green Rovers.

Recent signing Bryon Anthony was red carded last Saturday so will miss the next three games.

Foyle will probably pair captain Luke Graham with Stefan Stam at the heart of defence and go with a 4-4-2 system this evening.

If so it's likely that Joe Heath will be at left back and Andy Gallinagh at right back.

Foyle brought in midfielder Josh O'Keefe yesterday and it's expected he will play some part in proceedings.

With Simon Clist struggling with injury, Harry Pell and Ashley Sammons will probably start in midfield along with Sam Clucas and Marley Watkins on the wings.

Ryan Bowman and Marlon Jackson, who formed a useful partnership last Saturday, will be the two strikers.

Finally Foyle will need to decide whether to recall Dan Hanford in goal. He was dropped for the first time this season after nine goals went past him in the previous two games. James Bittner had his first start for the Bulls last Saturday and will be eager to be in goal this evening especially given the game is against his former club. He will probably get the nod.  

Monday, September 24, 2012

All Even Ten Seasons Ago

Hereford United welcome Forest Green Rovers to Edgar Street this evening for the first meeting between the two clubs since the Bulls were last in the Conference.

In the past Grumpers were deemed as local rivals and hopefully that friendly rivalry will continue.

There have been several high scoring games between the two clubs including a 7-1 win for the Bulls at the Lawn with Paul Parry getting a hat-trick.

However ten seasons ago the when the two clubs met at Edgar Street the result was a 1-1 draw.

Here's a look back:

Hereford United 1 - 1 Forest Green Rovers (Saturday December 28th 2002)

Colin Addison will be the happier of the two managers as his Forest Green Rovers side snatched a point at Edgar Street through ex-Hereford United favourite Neil Grayson.
The veteran atacker popped up in the Hereford area on 72 minutes, leaving Matt Baker with no chance as he nodded home a Steve Cowe cross from six yards out.
Cowe's move down the Rovers right wing saw him beat Rob Sawyers, who was filling in for the suspended Michael Rose for Hereford. Jamie Pitman, out through injury, was replaced by Rob Purdie who came off with a knock midway through the second period.
Grayson's goal was a bitter blow to a Hereford side who had taken the lead just a minute earlier. Steve Guinan had flicked a through-ball to John Grant, who knocked it home past the stranded Steve Perrin in the Forest Green goal.
The away side sported a different type of strip for the match - they wore Hereford United's red away tops due to clashes with both their home and away shirts. The Hereford kit sported squad numbers and Herefod player names, which meant identifying the players even more complicated than normal!
The first half was a relatively drab affair. Hereford had the better of the possession and attacking play, although the two most promising openings came at the other end. Neil Grayson had a header turned over the bar by Matt Baker, and Kayode Odejayi nodded a cross wide at the far post, missing the target by inches.
Any hopes Hereford had at scoring seemed to be almost eliminated by the Forest Green defence, which consisted of ten outfield players at times. On the rare occasions the Bulls did break through the back-line, Perrin was on-hand to make saves, although there were few of note.
Hereford's best effort on goal came on the hour, when Steve Guinan volleyed the ball onto the top of the bar from twenty yards out, and Michael Husbands, making his debut from Aston Villa, came on to liven things up just before the goals.
The most influential player for the Bulls on the afternnon was Danny Williams, who battled away in his midfield role, chasing after every ball and covering every blade of grass on the field. The team was also boosted by a bumper crowd - some 3271 turned up, including 129 from away, to bolster the club's coffers.
However, the win wasn't to be and Forest Green defended deeply but effectively after Grayson had equalised Grant's first league goal for Hereford. Despite dropping points, Hereford make ground on the sides around them, going level on points with Morecambe who are in the last play-off position.