Test: December 2012

Monday, December 31, 2012

4/1 for A Bulls' Win At Kiddy

Hereford United make the short trip to Kidderminster tomorrow for a Conference fixture but the bookies don't except them to get much, if anything out of the match.

Best price for a Hereford victory is 4/1. That's with BlueSq, the bookmaker who recently 'gave' £5k to the Bulls, and 888Sport.

Top price for a draw is 56/19 with Pinnacle.

A Kidderminster win is 4/5 with Ladbrooks

Wayne Brown gives up the booze for charity

Former Bulls' keeper Wayne Brown is going teetotal for the month of January to raise money for the DryAthlete Cancer Fund.

All monies raised including the usual Gift Aid contribution from HMRC will go directly to Cancer Research UK.

Donations can be made via JustGiving here.

...and no falling off the wagon Brownie!

I think it will be tight again says Burr

Steve Burr, the Kidderminster Harriers manager, isn't taking a win over Hereford United tomorrow afternoon for granted despite their 1-0 defeat of the Bulls at Edgar Street on Boxing Day.

"I think it will be tight again," Burr told the Harriers OS.

“Winning over at Hereford could give you a psychological barrier but we know that they are a good side and they caused us some problems on the day.

“I think we can play better than we did but you have to take into consideration the conditions and we adapted well.

“Martin will be looking to get his team to bounce back but our lads have got a point to prove because we showed one side of our game in digging in deep on Boxing Day but we know with better conditions we can play better.”

As reported earlier on BN, there's been little rain today at Aggborough and the game is expected to go ahead. No pitch inspection is planned.

Kiddy Get Double Curse

Kidderminster manager Steve Burr and striker Jamille Matt have been named as Manager and Player of the Month respectively for December.

Matt netted seven times in the months after missing eight months with immigration issues, while Burr led the Harriers to five straight wins in the month to take their winning run to seven matches.

Burr has reported no new injury worries since the Bulls and Harriers met on Boxing Day, with both sides seeing their Saturday matches postponed. Winger Marvin Johnson is reported to be nearing fitness and may make the bench.

For the Bulls, boss Martin Foyle reported four players having received stitches on Boxing Day. Andy Gallinagh's eight minute cameo left him with eight stitches and he is unlikely to feature, while keeper James Bittner needed to be patched up on the pitch with sub keeper Dan Hanford not named on the bench on Boxing Day.

New arrival Chris Sharp is likely to feature in some form. He started Telford's first two matches of December, but has missed out on the last two games following the Bulls' move to sign him. Both Ryan Bowman and Marlon Jackson are reported to be two weeks away from fitness, with loanees Kyle Perry and Phil Marsh still available in the interim.

Marsh's loan, signed for three months in early October, is expected to expire after next Saturday's trip to Grimsby. Perry should be available for a further week afterwards to take in the Telford and Alfreton home games.

Harriers Hopeful Hereford Game Will Go Ahead

Friendly with Hereford at Aggborough in July 2008

Kidderminster Harriers have released a short statement this morning about tomorrow's home game against Hereford United.

In-form Harriers will look to start the New Year with style on Tuesday when they meet rivals Hereford United at Aggborough (3:00pm)

As we speak, the Aggborough pitch is in good condition following the game against Dartford on the 22nd and there are no concerns over the game. We'll obviously inform you should this change, but otherwise please head to the ground and bring as many fans as you can with you!

Whilst there has been a lot of rain around Hereford this morning, Kidderminster hasn't been as badly affected, so far.

NYE At The Club

The Club Reception is open until 4pm today for ticket sales for tonight's party in the Starlite Room.

The night starts at 7.30pm with a welcome drink of Mulled Wine or Cava and continues with a full buffet, party games, a raffle, and disco from Midnight Sounds, playing the hits of 2012 plus the classics from the 60's to the 90's. Tickets cost £20.

Also, now in Addisons, DJ Moon on a Stick is hosting his own party with Curry and rice on offer. £10 entry, pay on the door.

News Round-Up

Barrow say the racism claims laid against one of their players followed a fracas in the tunnel after their loss to Macclesfield. Referee Phil Gibbs needed Police assistance to seperate the two teams afterwards, with the Bluebirds stating that Gibbs witnessed punches being thrown between the sides. They add that the claim about abuse of defender Ryan Jackson 'was down to the area of his origin'.

Worcester fans have been quizzed on their views of the club's proposed temporary move to Kidderminster. 95% of around 700 who responded want the club to offer £100 season tickets for next season. Newport director Howard Greenhaf says the club will not be placed into a bidding war despite the wealth of chairman Les Scadding.

Morecambe boss Jim Bentley has told the press they will be unlikely to make any further additions to their squad in the January window, and are still in negotiations with Crawley over Richard Brodie. Brodie's loan ends tomorrow. Lincoln boss David Holdsworth is to seek out a midfielder in the transfer window after having skipper Gary Mills ruled out for six weeks with a knee injury. Defender Peter Gilbert will also miss a similar time with a groin problem.

Grimsby have agreed an extension of the loan of winger Marcus Marshall from Bury until the end of the season. The 23 year old has made eight Conference appearances since debuting at the start of November. Former Bull Tamika Mkandawire has ended his loan spell at Southend and returned to Millwall. He played 11 times during the loan spell after a knee operation kept him out for a year, and will discuss a new deal with his current contract expiring in the summer.

Farnboro are offering directorships at the club for £25,000 each in a bid to get funding into the struggling side. Eight directors would be appointed, holding 100% of the club between them, putting up £10,000 each up front and a further £15,000 over the next 18 months.

Somebody Got A New iPad For Xmas

The stats on visitors to Bulls News have uncovered something different this Christmas - there's an awful lot of new iPads.

Visits to BN from iPads make up just 8% of all traffic since the start of the month - and just 2% in the last three years - but have accounted for 15% of traffic since Christmas Day.

Because of the rise in popularity of the Apple devices, the Safari browser now accounts for half the traffic to BN in the past week, way up from the historical 20% since Google started counting

However the Apple operating system, in it's various guises, isn't the most popular - that remains Windows with 39% of traffic, with Apple getting 34%, and Android 17%. Blackberry accounts for just 4% and rapidly falling.

Sunday, December 30, 2012

News Round-Up

Luton have had a bid accepted for Wimbledon striker Christian Jolley and are waiting on the player to decide whether he wants to accept the move. The NLP reports that the Dons are asking for £25,000 for the forward, who is out of contract in the summer, plus another £5,000 if the buying club is promoted. Newport boss Justin Edinburgh says his £20,000 offer was rejected and he will not pay the extra for a player that will be a free agent in the summer.

Barrow are set for another investigation following yesterday's FA Cup loss to Macclesfield after claims that Silkmen defender Ryan Jackson was racially abused by a Barrow player. The Bluebirds are already being investigated by the FA and Police after a fan was claimed to have racially abused Nat Brown in the reverse fixture. Former Bulls youth player Adam Worton is set to return to Newtown from Aberystwyth. He left Newtown after 140 games in the summer of 2011.

Sharp Looks For Full Time Fitness Boost

New Bulls signing Chris Sharp has told the Non-League Paper that he joined the Bulls to return to full-time football.

After netting 15 goals last term for Telford, Sharp has managed just a handful of games this term after a double hernia operation, telling the paper: "The full-time factor is the big draw for me. I said when I signed for Telford that the club maybe had plans to go full-time in the not-too-distant future, and I hoped it would happen with them.

"The opportunity has come elsewhere and I've had to take it. Being on the training ground every day is what's best for my career, and the chance might never come again if I'd turned it down.

"It will hopefully improve me as a player and, even though I've always been in the gym in the morning when I've only been training two nights a week, working with other lads on a daily basis will certainly help me regain my full match sharpness quicker."

Sharp also told the paper he was keen to work with the Bulls' manager: "Martin Foyle was a good striker in his day and I've only heard good things about how he works with the forwards. He did it with Richard Brodie at York and Ryan Bowman's been having a great season under him at Hereford.

"Hopefully I can learn from him in the same way."

Sharp played alongside current Bulls forward Marlon Jackson for the Bucks last season, with Jackson on loan from Bristol City. Sharp netted five times during the eight game spell, with Jackson also scoring once.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

New Years Eve in Radford’s

The party scheduled for New Years Eve in Radford's will now take place in Addison's Bar.

All other details remain the same with the entry fee of just £10 to include a curry supper.

Times – 8 'till late.

Arrangements for the party upstairs in The Starlite Room are unchanged.

Saturday 26th January may be available for Newport game

The Bulls are due to visit Gateshead on that date but the fixture is subject to the result of The Heed's trophy match against Barrow on 12^th January. If they win, the next round is due to be played on the 26^th.

Similarly, Newport's scheduled opponents on the 26^th are Southport but they also may find themselves in the next Trophy round if they overcome Kings Lynn on the 12^th.

Wins for Barrow and Southport would see The Bulls and The Exiles without a game on the 26^th.

Results Round-Up

The Bulls remain in 14th place in the table, and now have at least one - and up to four - games in hand over every other side bar Mansfield with just five games taking place today.

Wrexham ended up with 10 men as they drew 2-2 at home to Tamworth to remain third. Seventh place Dartford also failed to capitalise on others not playing in drawing 1-1 with Cambridge, who move up to eighth. The U's are joined on 32 points by Hyde, who beat Southport 1-0.

Down the bottom, Stockport needed a late Dan Preston own goal to draw 2-2 at home to Telford. While it ended a run of six straight defeats, the result leaves them a point inside the drop zone with Telford, now nine without a win, two points clear. In the other game, 12th placed Gateshead drew 1-1 at 13th placed Lincoln.

We're Not Selling For Sellings Sake says Keyte

Hereford United chairman David Keyte has said that the club will not be selling players in the up-coming transfer window unless sensible offers are received. In any case several of the players that might be wanted have been injured recently.

"We are certainly not going to be selling for sellings sake," Keyte told BBC Hereford and Worcester earlier this afternoon.

"Hopefully we can keep the squad and have a good run at getting up this league table."

Keyte was pleased with the signing of Chris Sharp who joins the Bulls in time to be considered for the game at Kidderminster on Tuesday.

"He joins us on the 1st, striker.

"We've obviously been ravaged by injuries in that department and it's costing us.

"We're hoping Ryan Bowman is going to be back mid-month and Marlon Jackson around that time as well.

"We are going to put a bit into the second half of the season."

As reported on BN yesterday Sean Canham is leaving the club and it's expected Kyle Perry and Phil Marsh will return to their parent clubs shortly. Players will have to leave before more are brought in.

"That will be the arrangement. Martin (Foyle) is aware of that. We have to keep the finances as tight as we can. We'll try to shake it up a bit.

"The wages are about even - people going out, people coming in. We'll progress on that basis."

Keyte was disappointed that today's game against Newport County had to be called off because of the weather.

"It was probably a £30,000 gate for us plus the bars.

"We'll try and rearrange it as soon as possible I think although January is choc-o-block already.

"We've got 25 fixtures to play in 17 weeks.

"We've seen it coming so we're trying to help Martin out by getting two or three lads in."

KIDDY TRAVEL – New Years Day

Kidderminster Harriers v Hereford United

Blue Square Bet Premier

Tuesday 1^st January 2013 KO 3.00pm

Aggborough Stadium

Hoo Road

Kidderminster

DY10 1NB

Phone 01562 823931

The Bulls travel to Aggborough on Tuesday (weather permitting) for an attractive Blue Square match.

Visiting supporters are housed on the South Stand terrace, which is covered and can accommodate up to 1500 fans. The facilities are good with the Aggborough soup and homemade cottage pies being famous throughout non-league. A number of seats are also made available in part of the Bill Greaves East Stand. Admission is believed to be £14 for adults, concessions £8, U16’s £5 with children under 5 gaining free admission. There is a premium of £3 for adults and concessions that require a seat.

HUISA – departs from Radford’s at 12.30pm with a fare of £10 (non-members £12). Seats can still be booked through the Club office (08442 761939).

BY CAR - Leave Hereford travelling north on the A49 towards Leominster. At Woofferton (Salway Arms), turn right onto the A456 (sign Tenbury). Continue through Tenbury Wells following signs for Kidderminster. Stay on the A456 taking care to bear left at the pub in Newnham. Pass through Clows Top and follow the road around Bewdley and passed the Safari Park. Enter Kidderminster via Bewdley Hill and join the inner Ring Road (clockwise). Follow the ring road until you pass the turning for Comberton Road then look for signs for Aggborough (Hoo Road), which will be to your left.

PARKING - There are two fair sized car parks at the ground, but it can sometimes be difficult to get away quickly after the game. It is worth noting that the car park behind the away terrace costs £3, whilst the car park behind the opposite home end is free. Otherwise you can park at the Severn Valley Railway station for £1.50 and walk through to the ground (From Football ground guide).

TRAIN – Hereford to Kidderminster change at Droitwich (20 minute stopover). Departure times from Hereford are 10.40am, 11.40am and 12.40pm to arrive at Kidderminster at 12.05, 13.05 or 14.05. The return trains leave at 18.00 or 18.55 arriving in Hereford at 19.24 or 20.29 again, with a break in Droitwich. Kiddy station is a ten-minute walk from the ground. The adult fare is shown as £10.60 return on the National Rail site.

REFRESHMENTS – There have been suggestions that under Police advice the Pubs around the ground will not be open prior to the game but it’s unlikely that the town centre pubs will be shut. The Harriers Club at the ground normally admits visiting fans but I have no information regarding this fixture.

COYB

News Round-Up

Luton have signed former loanee Jonathan Smith from York on a permanent deal. The 25 year old has cost the Hatters £50,000, signing an 18 month deal at Kenilworth Road. Hatters boss Paul Buckle has also confirmed an interest in signing Christian Jolley, but has downplayed speculation over former Grimsby loanees Ross Hannah and Nathan Pond. Buckle says he has enough strikers, while Fleetwood want to keep Pond.

Mansfield have released youth team graduates Jobe Shaw, Joe Holland, and Scott Rogers at the expiry of their six month deals. The Stags have also allowed midfielder Jamie Hand to join Hayes and Yeading on a months loan. Grimsby are waiting on an answer from Bradford over a third cash offer for striker Ross Hannah, but joint boss Rob Scott has denied that the club is interested in Hull midfielder Jamie Devitt, another former loanee at Blundell Park.

Lincoln boss David Holdsworth says he is under no pressure to sell striker Jamie Taylor despite rumours of interest from other clubs. Holdsworth says he has no plans for the January window and has not asked for any additional funds to buy new players. Telford boss Andy Sinton says that winger Jon Brown, a summer trialist for the Bulls, is to emigrate and will be the third player to leave the club in two weeks.

Friday, December 28, 2012

Today's Game At Edgar Street Is OFF

Today's lunchtime game between Hereford United and Newport County has been postponed because of a water-logged Edgar Street pitch.

The game will now be played on a Tuesday evening, unless a free Saturday becomes available, on a date to be agreed between the two clubs.

With the predicted heavy rain arriving in Hereford around 6am and expected to last for several hours, there was no realistic chance of the game going ahead

Barnet Axe Robson

Barnet have sacked Head Coach Mark Robson, placing Edgar Davids in sole charge of the League Two strugglers.

Davids joined the club in mid-October after a disasterous start to the campaign that saw the Bees five points adrift of safety at the foot of the League Two table. Robson had failed to win any of his 13 games in charge until that point.

The Dutch legend's arrival brought about a brief upturn in fortunes, but they returned to the bottom two on a regular basis until Saturday's surprise win at Gillingham lifted them three points clear of the drop zone.

Pitch Inspection at 7.30am

There will be a pitch inspection at Edgar Street tomorrow (Saturday) morning at 7.30am to decide if the game against Newport County can go ahead.

Although Friday has been fairly dry so far, more rain is expected tomorrow morning.

Meanwhile Newport County have some tickets, reported to be 170 terrace and 150 stand, for the match still available.

The game is all ticket for Newport supporters.

UPDATE: A source at the club has told BN that whilst it will be disappointing if the game is called off (which seems inevitable) all will not be lost as it will give several players more time to recover from knocks.

'It's also reasonable to assume that as Newport is only an hour away from Edgar Street a decent following would come to any rearranged game even though it would be on a Tuesday evening'.

Sharp Joins Bulls According To Telford OS

A statement from Telford football club claims that Hereford United have signed striker Chris Sharp.

AFC Telford United have agreed a fee with Hereford United for the transfer of centre forward Chris Sharp.
Sharp who joined the Bucks in August 2011 from The New Saints is likely to complete his move to Edgar Street in time for their New Years Day fixture.

Club Chairman, Lee Carter, said "We received an approach from Hereford and once it was established that the player wished to move on it was important to get the deal done."

26 year old Sharp is the son of former Everton and Scotland player Graeme Sharp.

He made his name as a prolific goalscorer in the Welsh Premier League. His form for Bangor prompted TNS to pay a fee for him in January 2010 and he went on to score 22 goals from 38 appearances at Park Hall before the Bucks signed him for an undisclosed fee in August 2011. Chris has also made several appearances in the Champions League, UEFA Cup and Europa League, scoring for TNS last season in their win over Bohemians.

As reported earlier on BN, Telford manager Andy Sinton revealed a few days ago that there was interest in Sharp.

"I can’t say a great deal but we had an inquiry from a team about three weeks ago that led to nothing," Sharp told the Shropshire Star.

"That inquiry has intensified over the last few days. I think chairman spoke to chairman.

"It's a non-league club, it's a full-time club and, if the fee is right, Chris would probably express a desire to go on, I have got to respect that and so has everyone."

Sharp hasn't played a lot of football this season as he underwent a hernia operation last summer.

UPDATE: The fee is understood to be £3,000 - which is less than Telford paid for Sharp.

Meanwhile the club has reported that Sharp will wear the number 10 shirt - which had been given to Sean Canham who is currently with Bath City.

Canham will leave the club on January 1st.

Striker Signings Rumoured

The Bulls have been linked to a pair of January striker signings.

Long standing target Richard Brodie's future is again up in the air with parent club Crawley seemingly keen to get him off their wage bill. Red Devils' boss Richie Barker has already agreed settlements with winger Scott Neilson and defender Charlie Wassmer to depart the club early, and Brodie is also expected to be on the list of names the former Bury manager is keen to offload to enable his own January acquisitions.

The 25 year old striker has netted six times in 25 games during his half-season loan at Morecambe. Shrimps boss Jim Bentley wants to extend the deal to the end of the season but finances are tight at the Globe Arena with their last home match attracting just 1,385 spectators.

Also on the list of rumoured targets is Telford striker Chris Sharp. He netted 22 times in 38 games for TNS prompting the Bucks to shell out an undisclosed fee, claimed in the press to be a club record, in August 2011. Bucks boss Andy Sinton confirmed that a Conference side had made a move for the player in his post-match interviews two days ago.

Rumours also persist that defender Chris Todd is to return to Edgar Street in January. The 31 year old had a highly successful six game spell with the Bulls earlier in the season and has seen only FA Trophy action for Forest Green since being recalled.

For these signings to occur there are likely to be high profile departures from the playing squad, unless some as-yet undeclared new investment has been found.

A number of Football League scouts have watched Bulls matches in recent weeks, with rumours that Ryan Bowman, Sam Clucas, Stefan Stam, and Harry Pell have all been the targets being watched after impressing during the FA Cup run.

News Round-Up

Lincoln have extended the contract of defender Peter Gilbert to the end of the season. The former Southend man has played 15 times since signing a short term deal in early October. Woking have released keeper Sam Beasant by mutual consent. The former Glenn Hoddle Academy man has signed for Conf South side Billericay instead after not playing a first team game in nearly three months.

Attendances in the Welsh Premier are down 14% compared to the first half of last season. Boxing Day attendances were down 19% on last year's figures. Telford boss Andy Sinton has told the press the club have received an offer from another Conference side for striker Chris Sharp. The former Welsh Premier hotshot was reported to be a club record signing when he switched to the Bucks 18 months ago.

Forest Green have appealed for witnesses after a small group of Newport fans clashed with stewards inside the stadium during their Boxing Day match. Lincoln have put veteran keeper David Preece on contract until the end of the season. The 36 year old will combine playing with a coaching role at the club after originally signing non-contract terms at the start of the month.

Coventry are reported to have failed to meet a deadline of Boxing Day to pay the £1.1million in rent owed to the owners of the Ricoh Arena. The matter can now be taken to a winding-up petition, with the documents unable to be filed until the courts reopen on Jan 2nd. Tamworth will extend the loan of Cambridge winger Adriano Moke to the end of the season once the transfer window reopens. The 22 year old has played in 8 Conference matches since arriving at The Lamb in October.

Telford have transfer listed defender Chris Blackburn. The 30 year old, who has not played for the first team since August due to injury, has played over 400 games, mostly at Conference level.

Exiles To Come Looking For A Win

Newport boss Justin Edinburgh has told the press he intends to take three points from their trip to Edgar Street tomorrow.

After their win over Forest Green on Boxing Day, he told the press: "That is gone now and we head for Hereford who will be gunning for us as has been the case all season with teams who want our scalp. As in every game we will prepare and try and go out to win the game, we're not a team that looks for draws and we don't play that kind of football."

The Exiles took 1,029 fans to the Gumpers, and expect a similar number to travel to Edgar Street despite home gates falling in recent weeks:

"The supporters have been super. When the players come out for a game, look around an away ground and see that kind of support it can only lift the whole place."

"And I am sure that is what drove us on that extra yard, that extra tackle, you could not fault them, it's up to us to give them something to shout about - we are doing our best."

On the injury front, striker Danny Crow is back in training after two months out but is not yet considered fully match fit.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Bulls 2/1 To Defeat Newport

Newport County are the visitors to Edgar Street on Saturday, weather permitting, and the bookies think they are likely to win the Conference match.

Best Price for a Hereford Win: 2/1 with BetVictor and Stan James

Best Price for a Draw: 13/5 with Bet365, SkyBet, BetVictor, 888sport and BlueSq

Best Price for a Newport Win: 6/4 with Coral

Ground Staff working on the pitch

HUFC ground staff were on the pitch today trying to repair the surface following yesterday’s match against Kidderminster.

The divots were the least of the problems with the continuing rain having left standing water is several areas.

The early kick-off scheduled for Saturday’s Newport game means that an earlier than normal decision will need to be made regarding the playing surface.

More heavy rain is expected before Friday evening and it may be that a late Friday inspection will be arranged in order to give the Newport players and fans sufficient notice of any potential cancellation.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Both Sides Gave Everything said Burr

In his post match interview, Kidderminster manager Steve Burr said he felt both sides gave everything in this afternoon's game at Edgar Street.

"It was a different kind of game today, the conditions played their part but I thought both sides did very well and put on an entertaining game of football," Burr told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"We got the early goal and I was a bit disappointed we didn't add to that but all-in-all I was really pleased to come to Hereford and get all three points.

"There was a couple of mistakes from our defenders that led to a deflection, but Danny reacted very quickly and made two good saves.

"It was a typical local derby, the conditions were tough and both teams gave everything."

Lack Of Cutting Edge Costs Bulls said Foyle

Hereford United manager Martin Foyle felt that his squad had put in a 'very, very hard honest working performance' this afternoon against Kidderminster despite losing 1-0.

"I thought we did alright without having that cutting edge and that little bit of luck," Foyle told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"Lewis (the Kidderminster keeper) got named man of the match and brought off three or four magnificent saves first half whereas Bitts didn't have a lot to do today.

"It was a poor goal, that's the only bad point today.

"We know how to defend corners, got the first ball but I can't remember much about how the ball dropped and who never reacted but it doesn't matter because it's in the back of the net. It gave them a life-line.

"I thought Clucs and Marley put some great corners and free-kicks in the first half but we couldn't get on the end of them."

Several Hereford players received knocks this afternoon.

"Four players are having stitches in the treatment room which isn't healthy.

"That tackle on Andy Gallinagh - I'm sorry I'm talking about the referee again, I thought he was way below the standard today.

"He's just run onto the ball, knocked it past him and the lad has taken him out.

"Studs up, he's got eight stitches in his foot.

"I'm not going to give the referee any recognition at all."

Referee Brett Huxtable About To Give Kyle Storer A Yellow Card For A Foul On Sam Clucas

The transfer window opens on January 1st and Foyle can't wait although several of his injured players are improving.

"I just want to get to January 1st to freshen up a little which I feel is important.

"Curruthers is running, Marlon is running but if you haven't any games for a long period it's very hard just to turn it on."

We Deserved A Draw said Preedy

Hereford United director Dave Preedy felt the Bulls should have taken something from this afternoon's game against Kidderminster.

"I thought we deserved a draw," Preedy told BN.

"Their goal looked sloppy I thought. I'd like to see it again. Was it a mistake, did the ball stick in the mud or whatever?

"Our side is still lacking firepower up front.

"I thought we might have finished Kiddy's good run today.

"We just need to get to that January transfer window.

"Today Ryan Bowman would have made a difference. Our lads weren't sharp enough, Ryan would have been.

"Kiddy set themselves up knowing we haven't got a striker.

"Ryan is, I'd say, another three weeks away."

Preedy was not impressed with the tackle that left Andy Gallinagh having to have eight stitches in his foot after the game.

Gallinagh receiving attention from Ian Rodgerson

"Lad comes on, that run he did was fantastic, I think it may have been a goal-scoring chance.

"The lad has chopped him in half and he's hurt him.

"The ref has given him a yellow, sometimes you think the game is not fair.

"You get the break sometimes, today we didn't.

"They never intimidated us, we were up for it all the time.

"The lads worked their socks off I thought.

"Bittner didn't make many saves.

" A draw would have been a fair result."

Finally asked if he had a New Years Resolution, Preedy responded positively.

"We are going to challenge for the play-offs!"

Early strike seals Kiddy victory

A sixth minute goal from Jamille Matt handed Kidderminster three points in their local derby at Edgar Street. The in form striker ensured that Harriers secured a seventh straight league victory whilst Hereford have now lost three games in all competitions. 2,902 were in attendance on a soggy Boxing Day, with 755 making the short journey from Worcestershire.

Marley Watkins returned to the starting line up after a long stint out with injury, whilst Kyle Perry and Brian Smikle were the preferred partnership up front. The visitors included Josh Gowling in their first eleven; former Bull Steve Guinan failed to make the squad.

The Bulls were the first to threaten; Will Evans fired a trademark 25 yard shot over the crossbar. Minutes later though and the visitors were in front. A corner from the left wasn't properly dealt with and Kyle Storer returned the ball into the danger area; after it had riocheted around, Matt eventually prodded goalwards and the ball trickled over the line.

Kyle Perry Trying To Get To The Ball

Martin Foyle's men reacted well, with some good build up inside the Harriers' half eventually leading to Watkins being slid clear down the right and the former Cheltenham trainee sent a deep cross to the back-post where Clucas controlled a volley just past the post.

Brian Smikle Waiting For The Ball From Perry

Perry's quick-thinking on the touchline allowed him to play a one-two with Smikle but his strike went harmlessly wide. Harriers used a similar tactic as a clever throw in created space for Anthony Malbon to drive into and his dipping shot cleared James Bittner's crossbar.

Just Before Half Time James Bittner Received Attention From Dr Frith To A Head Wound

After the half-time dressdown, United returned to the pitch with more attacking intent. Smikle slid a pass to the lively Watkins and he struck early from 20 yards, clipping the outside of the post with his drive. At the other end, Townsend got too tight to Malbon and the attacker skipped past him and then went away from Harry Pell and his dangerous cross was palmed away by Bittner, before being cleared to safety. Hereford looked nervous in the sticky conditions and were nearly made to pay for indecisive defending; a cross from the left wasn't cleared, causing panic in the Bulls' back-line with Joe Heath giving the ball away creating the opportunity for James Vincent to fire over from inside the area.

With the game settling into a scrappy encounter, both sides made a host of changes. Josh O'Keefe and Andy Gallinagh came on for Perry and Townsend, but Gallinagh's afternoon didn't last long after being on the end of a poor tackle from Mickey Demetriou, leaving Gallinagh needing eight stitches in a wound to his ankle.

Andy Gallinagh Brought Down By Dunkley

Phil Marsh replaced the former Cheltenham defender. Kidderminster also made changes, with Nathan Blissett and Ryan Rowe introduced in place of goalscorer Matt and Malbon. In the closing stages, the Bulls countered after Harriers had pushed forward with Clucas breaking from deep in the Hereford half. He fed a well-timed run by Marsh, who got up to 18 yard box, passing low to Smikle. The former Harriers man tried to set up Pell but the ball broke back to him where he fired goalwards but his effort was well blocked. In added time, Sean Clancey replaced Ricky Shakes.


Marley Watkins About To Pass To Will Evans

It was a fairly poor game, with Harriers shading the encounter with the early strike from Matt. United, for all their hard-work and and endeavour, lacked hugely in the final third with Perry and Smikle failing to threaten. The absence of Ryan Bowman and Marlon Jackson has been a telling factor in the lack of goals. The conditions didn't help as the pitch cut up badly in the pouring rain, putting some doubt whether the home game with Newport County on Saturday will go ahead.

Hereford: Bittner, Townsend, Graham, Stam, Heath, Watkins, Pell, Evans, Clucas, Smikle, Perry.

Subs: Gallinagh, O'Keefe, McQuilkin, Hackney, Marsh.

Kidderminster: Lewis, Vaughan, Dunkly, Gowling, Demetriou, Storer, Vincent, Briggs, Shakes, Malbon, Matt.

Subs: Vaughan, Williams, Clancy, Rowe, Blissett.

Results Round-Up

Grimsby lead the table by a point after winning 4-1 at local rivals Lincoln with former Bull Joe Colbeck netting the last goal direct from a corner. Newport are second after winning 2-1 at Forest Green, who slip to sixth behind Kidderminster. Wrexham are third after a 4-1 win over sliding Telford, with the Bucks now only a point clear of the bottom four. Luton are fourth after beating Woking 3-1, with Janos Kovacs scoring the opener. Dartford are seventh after arresting their recent slide with a 3-1 win over Ebbsfleet. Cambridge moved into the top half with a 3-0 win at Braintree, while Mansfield's FA Cup hangover continues with a 2-1 loss at home to Alfreton leaving the Stags six points adrift of fifth place.

Down the bottom, Barrow are two points adrift at the bottom with a game in hand after losing 2-0 at home to Gateshead. Ebbsfleet are 23rd with Nuneaton next after beating Tamworth 2-1. Stockport make up the bottom four after losing 2-0 at home to Hyde, their fifth straight defeat, with the Ewen Fields outfit now up to 12th. Southport moved clear of the bottom four with a 3-2 home win over Macclesfield.

Stats From Edgar Street

Stefan Stam leading the Bulls

Below are the main stats from this afternoon's Conference derby between Hereford United and Kidderminster Harriers played on a pitch that cut-up quite badly during the ninety minutes.

Final Score: Hereford 0 Kidderminster 1

Possession: Bulls 48% Kiddy 52%

Shots on Target: Bulls 5 Kiddy 2

Shots off Target: Bulls 5 Kiddy 6

Corners: Bulls 7 Kiddy 5

Fouls: Bulls 7 Kiddy 12

Cards: Harry Pell was given a yellow card.

Hereford Man of the Match: The sponsors choose Sam Clucas

Attendance: 2902 including 755 in the away areas

Middle of League Two:

11	Gateshead	23	-1	30
12	Hyde	23	3	29
13	Lincoln City	22	-2	29
14	Hereford	21	-2	29
15	Alfreton	22	-8	29
16	Woking	24	-13	29

Bulls Fail To Take Chances

The Bulls lost today's match with Kidderminster 1-0 at Edgar Street.

An early scrambled goal settled matters with the Bulls hitting the woodwork and having point blank efforts saved as they dominated the game for long spells.

Full report later.

Team Coach Update

Over the past few weeks Hereford United supporters have dug deep into their pockets to help with the cost of the team coach to away grounds.

The next away coach that needs supporting is the one to Grimsby on January 5th. The club has decided not to have a team coach to Kidderminster on January 1st and will use a combination of cars and a minibus on that day.

LWLS (Paul) who has been co-ordinating the coach donations and auctions says that the club would like supporters to help with the cost of the team coaches for the remainder of the season and also help with the cost of the coach to Ebbsfleet last Saturday.

'All coaches up to Ebbsfleet last weekend had been paid for. As many of you know the club paid for an overnight stay which of course proved fruitless and according to Lee, from the club office, we are unlikely to receive any compensation from the league for the wasted trip.

'Currently there stands £180 in the coach kitty with one outstanding donation (you know who you are) The Grimsby coach is currently up for auction as the club have decided to go to Kiddy by mostly car sharing and mini bus, I think the club should be applauded for this prudence.

'If anyone would like to bid for a place a coach in advance please feel free to do so.'

Terry Paine Named As Honorary Southampton President

Former Hereford United player Terry Paine has been named as Southampton's Honorary President.

Paine, who made a record 815 appearances for the Saints between 1957 and 1974, will act as an ambassador both at home and abroad.

Paine was 35 when he moved from the Dell to Edgar Street to become player-coach for Hereford United.

He stayed for three years by which time he had played 823 League games and another 95 in other competitions.

It was towards the end of his time with Hereford that, in 1977, Paine was awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours list in recognition of his service to the game of football..

Game On At Edgar Street

This afternoon's Conference game between Hereford United and Kidderminster Harriers goes ahead.

There has been little rain in Herefordshire during the last 24 hours which has given the pitch time to start to dry out.

The kick-off at Edgar Street is 3pm.

Meanwhile for those unable to watch the game, full match commentary will be available from BBC Hereford and Worcester with Keith Hall and Gareth Davies.

Bulls Player will also cover the game. For those not currently subscribing there is a special offer available.

Finally best price for a Hereford United win this afternoon is 15/8 with BetVictor.

A draw is 22/9 with Pinnacle.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Mixed fortunes in Boxing Day matches

Somewhat surprisingly The Bulls got off to a slow start in their Boxing Day fixtures following their election to The Football League in 1972. Despite rising rapidly through the leagues to the heady heights of League 2 (now The Championship), it was not until 1978 when they were back in Division 4 that they recorded their first Boxing Day win with a 2-0 away win at Stockport County.

1988 brought a 2-0 home win over Wolverhampton Wanderers with a 4-2 victory over Newport County the following season. The early nineties saw a couple of wins against Wrexham before the best-forgotten 7-1 mauling at the hands of Mansfield at Fieldmill in 1994.

The first season back in non-league (1997) provided a win over The Harriers when Neil Grayson powered home a spot kick after Richard Leadbeater was felled in the box.

2001 and 2002 both saw 1-0 wins over Telford courtesy of goals from Scott Goodwin and Steve Guinan. Then in 2003 a Rob Purdie Christmas cracker from the edge of the box beat James Bittner in the Exeter goal before the current Bulls’ stopper was dismissed for bringing down Paul Parry in game that was live on Sky.

Sadly, the 2007 win away at Macclesfield is the most recent Boxing Day victory when Theo Robinson managed to stay onside to convert.

We are due a win. COYB.

Monday, December 24, 2012

We Don't Fear Anyone Says Kiddy's Matt

Kidderminster striker Jamille Matt thinks Hereford United will be very wary of their near neighbours when the two sides meet at Edgar Street on Boxing Day.

Matt has been in fine form recently after a long lay-off. Last Saturday he scored twice in Kidderminster's 5-1 win over Dartford.

"I don't think anyone will be looking forward to playing us at the moment," he said.

"I think Hereford will look at our record of six wins on the bounce and be wary of us.

"We don't fear anyone, we're looking forward to the next game."

Bookies Undecided About Boxing Day

Hereford United play Kidderminster Harriers on Boxing Day and the bookies appear undecided about the outcome.

Whilst BetVictor, for example, makes Kiddy favourites to win the game, BlueSq are 'backing' Hereford.

Best price for a Hereford win is 15/8 with BetVictor.

Best price for a draw is 12/5 with Bet365 and BetVictor.

Best price for a Kidderminster win is 13/8 with BlueSq.

Latest odds from BlueSq:

Hereford 7/5 Draw 23/10 Kiddy 13/8

Stan Machent 1924-2012

News has reached club historian Ron Parrott that former Bulls forward Stan Machent has died aged 88.

Inside-right Stan started his career with local amateur side Chesterfield Ramblers, progressing to Chesterfield FC, still as an amateur before signing for Sheffield United in October 1938. He was at Bramall Lane at the same time as Charlie Thompson but couldn’t break into the first team and went out on loan to Buxton the following season before war interrupted his career.

During hostilities Stan turned out for Chesterfield and as a guest player for Bath City and Distillery in Ireland but after the war he moved back to Chesterfield in a part-exchange deal but a broken arm didn’t help his chances and he rejoined Buxton in the close season of 1949.

Stan remained with the Cheshire League side for another two seasons and scored a remarkable 26 goals in only 19 league games last season before signing for United in July 1951.

Competition for places was fierce and Stan spent most of his time in the Reserves, making only two first-team appearances in his one season at Edgar Street. He spent three more seasons back with Buxton before ending his career and taking up a coaching post with Chesterfield.

News Round-Up

Dagenham have announced the sale of striker Dwight Gayle to Peterboro for an initial £500,000. The 22 year old netted five times in six games on loan at the Posh since a November loan move. Wrexham want to sign loan defender Danny Devine on a permanent deal after he was released by Fleetwood. The 20 year old's loan spell ended last week but he is now a free agent after agreeing a settlement.

Grimsby face competition from 'one or two other' Conference sides for striker Ross Hannah, according to Bradford boss Phil Parkinson. The 26 year old is out of contract in the summer. Kidderminster director Joe Hancox says the club's finances are in good shape despite a £250,000 loss last season. He says the only long term debt at the club is a £56,000 brewery loan that is being repaid at £400 a month.

Luton have confirmed the signing of winger Scott Neilson following his release from Crawley. The 25 year old, who will not be eligible to play until New Years Day, has signed a deal to the end of the season after playing 10 games on loan at Grimsby. Gateshead have parted company with coach Derek Forrest after new boss Anth Smith wanting to bring his own men into the backroom. Forrest also served as the club's kitman.

Kiddy Add Defender Smith

Kidderminster have signed defender Sam Smith ahead of Wednesday's trip to Edgar Street.

The 24 year old comes in on non-contract terms after four years with Stourbridge and previous experience with Chasetown. His arrival comes with former Bulls loanee Josh Gowling doubtful for the trip after having to be subbed during their win over Dartford on Saturday.

The other former Bull in the Harriers' ranks, forward Steve Guinan, is also unlikely to feature on Boxing Day. The much travelled frontman, who turns 37 today, has made only a handful of sub appearances this season - the last of which was a single minute at the start of December.

The Bulls have two former Harriers players in their current ranks. Brian Smikle spent four years at Aggborough before following Mark Yates to Cheltenham, while James McQuilkin was loaned by the Bulls to the Harriers back in January.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

News Round-Up

Leaders Grimsby have seen the loan spells of winger Scott Neilson and Ross Hannah end with joint manager Paul Hurst admitting they were unlikely to see Neilson in a Mariners shirt again. Today's Non-League Paper claims the released Crawley man has agreed a deal with Luton until the end of the season, while Bradford boss Phil Parkinson has told the Mariners they will have to make a cash offer to retain Hannah's services as he won't let the 26 year old out on loan again.

Portsmouth's Supporters Trust has completed a deal for land around Fratton Park, but neither the Trust nor the Administrator has commented on claims by Portpin that the club is on the verge of running out of money. Kidderminster striker Jamille Matt is a target of both Wolves and West Brom, according to the latest press reports.

The Non-League Paper has named a Team of the Year for the Conference. Grimsby, Wrexham, and Newport all have two players each in the side. Former Bulls loanee Jake Jervis has been recalled from his loan at Portsmouth due to injuries at Birmingham. The 21 year old has made only two FA Cup sub appearances for the Blues, but has played over 50 times out on loan.

Former Walsall and Kidderminster striker Stefan Moore has been released by Southern League side St Neots Town. The 29 year old, a former Martin Foyle loanee at Port Vale, is reported to be struggling to travel to the Cambridgeshire side two days a week for training alongside his work commitments. St Neots were reported to have paid out a five-figure fee for him two years ago, resulting in 62 goals in the last two seasons, and their chairman warned two weeks ago that they were over budget with falling gates.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Kiddy Thrash Dartford

Kidderminster beat Dartford 5-1 in the only Conference game to beat the weather today.

Jamille Matt scored twice as the Harriers moved up to sixth in the table, pushing the Kent side down to seventh. Steve Burr's side come to Edgar Street on Boxing Day having won six straight league games, with last week's FA Trophy loss to Bromley their only blip in recent weeks.

The Weather Has Beaten Us said Keyte

Hereford United chairman David Keyte hadn't arrived at the Ebbsfleet ground when the game was called off around 11am. On his way back at just 20 miles per hour on the M25 he spoke to BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"We had stopped about 30 minutes away,"said Keyte.

"Unfortunately the weather has beaten us but at least the lads on four bookings will get to the Kidderminster match.

"I've got to say we're starting to fear a little bit that the Boxing Day match might already be at risk.

"I understand it's been pouring with rain back in Hereford."

The interview then turned to financial matters.

"We've still got a lot to do because the real icing on the cake would have been to have got through to the televised match against Everton.

"I wouldn't say we are back to square one but we've got to be careful in the second half.

"The home matches financially over Christmas are important to us so we do need those on.

"We've got a run over January and February where we catch up on our home matches.

"The cup run has given us a big boost and the fundraising as well."

Ebbsfleet Game Off

Hereford United's game at Ebbsfleet this afternoon has been called off due to poor weather conditions.

Only two of today's scheduled 11 Conference games are still on, but neither are certain to go ahead. Macclesfield-Lincoln is subject to a Noon inspection, while Kidderminster-Dartford will be inspected when the referee arrives - although the Harriers are confident the game will be on.

Update: Macclesfield-Lincoln off, Kidderminster-Dartford on after inspection.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Commentary From Ebbsfleet

Full match commentary from this afternoon's Conference match between Ebbsfleet and Hereford United will be available both on BBC Hereford and Worcester and Bulls Player.

H and W's coverage will be on 94.7FM around Herefordshire and also on-line.

Bulls Player is a subscription based service. More details on the OS.

Meanwhile, like most other places in England and Wales, it's expected to be wet at Ebbsfleet for much of the day. However as at 7.30am there's no indication of any pitch inspection.

However inspections have already been arranged at Hyde and Newport in advance of their fixtures due to take place this afternoon.

News Round-Up

Luton boss Paul Buckle has confirmed an interest in former Newport loan striker Christian Jolley and current Grimsby loanee Scott Neilson. The Mariners are also keen to retain Neilson past January after nine league appearances for them since arriving on loan, with parent club Crawley telling the player he is free to leave. Paul Buckle has also told midfielder James Dance he can go out on loan. Grimsby also want to sign loan striker Ross Hannah with the Bradford man due to return to the League Two side next month.

Current Truro City keeper Luke McCormick is reported to be the target of a number of Football League sides after impressing during his return to playing following his release from prison. Alfreton have sold striker Tom Denton to Worksop Town for a small fee. The former Huddersfield man made only a handful of sub appearances after a summer move, but has been prolific for Worksop on loan.

Lincoln have extended the contract of midfielder Mamadou Fofana until the end of the season. The Frenchman, 24, has made 16 appearances since arriving on a short term deal in September. Newport have confirmed talks with Charlton to retain striker Michael Smith to the end of the season. The 21 year old has scored four times in six Conference games and is due to return to the Addicks in January.

Dunfermline boss Jim Jefferies has denied his players went on strike in the week after the club missed a deadline on Tuesday to pay the late wages from November. The matter was finally settled Wednesday night with Jefferies insisting that the squad was due to have that day off anyway. Histon have been fined £5,000 - £4,500 suspended for three years - for failing to fulfil their fixture at Colwyn Bay last month. They called off the match after losing a court case against a former director.

Telford will release veteran striker Darren Byfield when his contract expires in January. The 36 year old has made just six appearances since signing late in the summer due to a persistent hamstring problem, but is now reported to be fit. Macclesfield have loaned midfielder Harry Agombar to Ryman League side Grays for a month. His only first team action this season since his summer move to Moss Rose has been in a loan spell at Histon.

The Police have obtained a three year banning order against a Barrow fan. The 20 year old was detained on a train for being drunk and disorderly after attending his first match after his original banning order had expired. Nuneaton have recalled goalkeeper Ben McNamara from Barwell just a day after loaning him out due to an injury to first choice Adam Smith.