Skybet have announced the odds for Tuesday's vital Conference clash between Hereford United and Carlisle and suggest that the Cumbrians are favourites to win the game.
However they have the game listed as Carlisle versus Hereford which, of course, is the wrong way around, so maybe the odds are favourable to supporters wanting to put a pound or two on the Bulls.
As at Sunday morning Skybet reports the following:
Carlisle v Hereford 2005-04-05
Carlisle 6/5 Draw 12/5 Hereford 7/4
However other bookmakers are favouring Hereford:
William Hill has Hereford 23/20 Carlisle 7/4 and Draw 12/5.
Bet 365 has Hereford 11/10 Carlisle 2/1 and Draw 9/4
Totesport has Hereford 6/5 Carlisle 9/5 and Draw 9/4
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Sunday, April 03, 2005
Have Sky got it wrong?
Away support helps the Bulls
The 500 Hereford United fans that watched the game at Stevenage yesterday were a credit to their club and no doubt helped the Bulls secure their victory.
Hereford United have the second best away record in the Conference and probably the highest number of away supporters. Only leaders Barnet have a better away points talley but their support is much lower.
One of the reasons Hereford appear to have so much support when away from Edgar Street is that their fan base comes from all over the country and beyond.
It was very noticable at Broadhall Way that there were fans that are not always seen at Hereford. Earlier in the season the same appeared to be the case at Crawley.
A London based fan said that it was difficult to get to Edgar Street for home games but he always tried to see the Bulls when they came to the South East. There are many more like him.
Their support could be vital at Woking in a few weeks time when Hereford play their last away game in the Conference this season. Both teams are currently in with a chance of making the play-offs and good support for the Bulls could make the difference.
The other two away games are at Forest Green and Halifax. Normally Hereford take plenty of support to the Lawn, but although Halifax is a long journey at least the game is on a Saturday.
The Non-League Paper mentioned the Hereford support in its report on the Stevenage match.
"The sight of Hereford's all-singing, all-dancing fans bouncing out of Broadhall Way said it all - their team had just won a crucial match in the end of season play-off chase."
It must be hoped that they can report the same story from the Lawn and the Shay.
Saturday, April 02, 2005
Ten minutes of madness
Graham Westley, the Stevenage manager, spoke to BBC Three Counties about the game today and thought his side had edged the first half.
"Ten minutes of madness after half-time was the difference in the game. I thought we edged the first-half, had the better of it.
"We didn't adjust very well to the conditions after the break. It was windy out there and we sank and we allowed them to bring pressure for ten or fifteen minutes and didn't adjust quickly enough.
"In that period they got the goal that eventually won the game. They will go away delighted with their three points."
Although named on the bench Simon Travis, who used to play at Stevenage, looked not quite fit as he warmed up for the game away from his team colleagues.
He has yet to play against his previous team as he also missed the game at Edgar Street earlier in the season.
A massive win says Stansfield
Defeating Stevenage this afternoon was a massive win said Adam Stansfield talking after the game to BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"They're a good team, big and strong."
Although the teams were fairly even in the first half, Hereford soon gained the upper hand after the break.
"I think after half-time we started to play football and they couldn't cope with it. We broke them down and we got what we deserved in the end.
"I had a couple of chances. One was cleared off the line, one the keeper saved, then a great break down the wing from Rob Purdie and he put a great ball in. The defenders all left it for the keeper and I got it in from six yards."
Meanwhile with all todays results taken into account the Bulls News Potential Points Table is still showing Hereford United with a great chance of making the play-offs.
The table assumes each club gets three points from each of their remaining games.
1 Barnet 89
2 Carlisle 83
3 Hereford 80
4 Halifax 78
5 Exeter 76
. Woking 76
7 Aldershot 75
. Morecambe 75
. Stevenage 75
10 Accrington Stanley 72
Bulls bypass Boro into play off place
Hereford United collected an excellent three points against play off rivals Stevenage Borough at Broadhall Way this afternoon. The victory means three straight league wins for United and three clean sheets for 'keeper Craig Mawson. It is hoped that they will use this platform to put together a sequence, like last season, as they make a final push for the end of season play offs.
With Danny Carey-Bertram and Leeroy Williams suspended, Graham Turner decided to draft in Lee Mills from the subs bench to partner Adam Stansfield in the attack. Danny Williams was back after an ankle injury, but could only make the bench as did Simon Travis, who had a late fitness test.
United survived the hosts early onslaught, which saw Darren Stamp go close with a header and Anthony Elding go close, before Mills shot at 'keeper Alan Julian and then, moments later, had a shot from a good position, having received the ball from Craig Stanley, pushed away and turned behind by a defender at the far post. Mills again found himself in a good position following good work from Rob Purdie and then Stansfield, who played his strike partner in on goal, but Mills took a touch too many and was foiled by Julian. The resulting corner was headed back into the danger zone by Mills and met by a Tamika Mkandawire over head kick, which was headed off the line by Jason Goodliffe.
Elding came close again when Dino Maamria knocked the ball down for him to flick goal bound, but Mawson managed to push his effort onto the roof of the net. Stamp knocked a short pass to Elding just outside of the box for Boro's best shot of the half, but he was denied by the fingertips of a scrambling Mawson. Ryan Green's long ball, cushioned by Stansfield, was volleyed wide by Mills at the end of an exciting first half.
The Bulls came out on the charge at the second half, much like Stevenage had at the beginning of the game. Stanley sent Stansfield through on goal on the right flank and the Hereford top scorer lifted the ball over the advancing goalie, leaving the 500 traveling supporters behind the goal anticipating the opener, but Goodliffe somehow got back to hook the ball off the line. Jamie Pitman found Stansfield inside the area with a high curling ball, and he fired a scorching shot towards the top corner but it was theatrically turned away by Julian.
The Bulls were looking threatening and Purdie's cross to the far post was met by a defender, heading the ball to safety. Mark Robinson's corner led to a goal mouth scramble, which was eventually cleared for a throw in. Play was switched to the left, where Purdie fired a low left footed cross along the six yard line for Stansfield to run onto and knock into the back of the net for the only goal of the game.
Maamria was booked soon after the fifty fifth minute goal, and Graham Westley made his first change with half an hour left. George Boyd was introduced after a spell out with injury in place of Darren Stamp. The Bulls continued to attack though and it was once again Stanley creating opportunities for the front men. His through ball was well timed for Mills, who had a run in on goal from the left. He got into the area but could only shoot straight at the 'keeper from an angle.
Boyd shot over the bar from a good position after some Boro pressure before man of the match Mills was in action at the other end once again, having his twenty five yard effort deflected behind. Purdie swung in the corner and Mills met it, but headed it over the bar. Ronnie Henry and Jon Nurse were subbed on within a five minute period as Boro looked to get back on level terms. Andy Tretton and Mkandawire were solid in the United defence and aided them through the last ten minutes in which the hosts threw everyone forward. A couple of superb blocks denied them in a scramble in the penalty box, before United were handed a free kick for handball.
Elding came close to equalising when he headed beyond Mawson, but Tretton was well placed to head over the bar for a corner. Dannie Bulman fired a free kick from twenty five yards with five minutes remaining, which deflected off the defensive wall before dropping an inch or so wide of the far post. Williams was brought on to replace Darryl Taylor in the dieing moments by Graham Turner as the Bulls saw out the remaining minutes to claim an excellent away victory.
A very exciting game was witnessed by 2,614, who created a good atmosphere at a vital game for both teams. Hereford now find themselves back in the play off places for the first time in a few weeks, and they will be hoping for a similar performance, and result, against Carlisle on Tuesday night in another massive game for both sides. If United defeated the Cumbrians, then Barnet will be crowned Conference champions and will return to the football league.
HUFC Team: Mawson, Green, Tretton, Mkandawire, Robinson, Taylor, Stanley, Pitman, Purdie, Stansfield, Mills. Subs: Travis, Scott, Hyde, D Williams, A Williams.
SBFC Team: Julian, Hocking, Goodliffe, Laker, Gregory, Brady, Bulman, Quinn, Elding, Stamp, Maamria. Subs: Henry, Boyd, Jarret, Westhead, Nurse.
Boro sunk by Stansfield strike
Hereford United secured a 1-0 victory over Stevenage Borough at Broadhall Way this afternoon.
In a tense first half, either side were able to break the deadlock but ten minutes after the restart, Adam Stansfield put United ahead.
That proved to be enough for the Bulls, who jump into fifth place in the Nationwide Conference table.
Brian's full report will be online later.
Barnet failed to collect the title today, as they slumped to a 2-0 defeat at Northwich Victoria. Second-placed Carlisle United, who make the trip to Edgar Street on Tuesday, won 2-1 at Farnborough Town, but if United beat the Cumbrians on Tuesday, Barnet will be crowned champions.
Halifax Town come back from a goal down to hammer Leigh RMI 5-1, and lie third, while Aldershot Town stay fourth. Two points behind Hereford in sixth are Morecambe, who beat Scarborough 2-1, while Accrington Stanley are seventh after their 2-0 defeat against Crawley Town.
1 Barnet 38 46 81
2 Carlisle 36 33 65
3 Halifax 37 21 63
4 Aldershot 38 12 63
5 Hereford 36 22 62
6 Morecambe 37 13 60
7 Accrington Stanley 38 12 60
8 Stevenage 37 10 60
9 Exeter 36 15 58
10 Woking 36 10 58
Friday, April 01, 2005
Strong squad at Stevenage
Graham Turner, the Hereford United manager, has told the Worcester News that he thinks cool heads will be needed to overcome Stevenage tomorrow and that any more flashes of red-mist may damage their chances.
"We've had a good Easter. We said before and after the Morecambe game that we had to win our two games over Easter and could not afford any slip-ups.
"We got through both games quite comfortably in the end, scoring 10 goals and conceding none, despite the setback of having a player sent-off in both.
"The games were marred by stupid actions but we reacted positively. However, we can't allow this to happen again because teams will punish us.
"Our next two games against Stevenage and Carlisle are important. In our last seven games, we play five teams that are currently in and around the play-offs.
"Stevenage are one of the big spenders in the Conference, particularly with wages. They have got a strong squad of players, but I'm sure they will be a lot more concerned about us than we are about them."
Meanwhile Brian Smikle, who Graham Turner says is still available to play for Hereford United, did play for West Bromwich Albion reserves last night against Aston Villa.
No new signings says Turner
Graham Turner has confirmed that there will be no new signings at Hereford for the rest of this season. The deadline for transfers etc passed yesterday.
According to Turner's interview on the Official Hereford United Website a player whom Turner had lined up to come to Edgar Street let him down at the last minute.
Meanwhile last night Bulls News reported that "it appears that Brian Smikle has returned to West Bromwich from Edgar Street." The player, who has been on work experience at Hereford, has been offered a new contract at the Hawthorns.
However there is some confusion as to whether he may still be able to play for Hereford United this season.
In his interview Graham Turner states that "we still have him available to us if we want to use him."
Finally, no new date has yet been arranged for the Kington Cup game according to the Herefordshire FA.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Coverage of Stevenage Match
BBC Hereford and Worcester are to cover tomorrow's game at Stevenage both on FM and the internet.
On radio, there will be the usual up-dates, and on 94.7 FM there will be full second-half coverage.
The match will also be covered on the internet.
Parkabull for Parliament
P R Parkabull is to stand as a candidate for the Hereford constituency in the General Election expected to be held on May 5th. Liberal Democrat Paul Keetch currently hold the seat with a majority over the Conservatives just under 1,000.
Parkabull, as he is affectionately known to his friends, was brought up in Hereford but is living in Barnet at present. A long-time supporter of Hereford United Football Club, he recently told Bulls News that his aim in standing for the election was to highlight the difficulties the football team finds itself especially in regard to the possible redevelopment of the ground.
Well-known for his public relations skills, Parkabull works in the music business in London but travels to Hereford to watch games as often as he can. He tends to keep a low-profile but often can be spotted wearing his parka which is said to have seen better days. Allegedly it was worn on that great day back in 1972 when Newcastle United came to Edgar Street.
It is believed that the candidates headquarters will be at Leg-ends. From there Parkabull is expected to travel the constituency in his new (to him) Peugeot Estate. His helpers are said to be known as his invasion force.
The result of the last election was as below:
Paul Keetch Liberal Democrat 18,244
Virginia Taylor Conservative 17,276
David Hallam Labour 6,739
Clive Easton UK Independence 1,184
David Gillett Green 1,181
Majority 968
Striker shortage for crunch match
Hereford United travel to Hertfordshire to face Stevenage Borough in a play off crunch match tomorrow afternoon, kick off 3.p.m. Both sides have good chances of making the end of season play offs and this game may prove vital in deciding if either of the teams make them. Boro will be placing this game in the "must win" category, where United may be content with taking a point away from Broadhall Way.
Stevenage were busy on deadline day, yesterday, but had more players leaving than they had joining. Gary Schillaci, Matthew Batt, Chris Sullivan and Laurie Stewart have all been loaned out to lower league sides until the end of the season and Mark Westhead has been drafted in, also on loan until the end of the current campaign. Midfielder Jon Brady is out of the game as he completes a two match ban and George Boyd is also a doubt for Graham Westley's side.
Graham Turner will have to make forced changes to his side as Danny Carey-Bertram begins his three match ban, having been sent off against Northwich Victoria on Monday. With Leeroy Williams, on loan from Walsall, also banned United face a shortage of strikers. Lee Mills is a possibility but it has to be considered whether he would last the full ninety minutes, as he has struggled to in the past. If Danny Williams returns from an ankle injury Turner will have the option of pushing Rob Purdie into the front line, as he has opted to do previously.
Tony James will once again miss out with his ankle ligament injury and so Jamie Pitman will continue to stand in as skipper. Simon Travis, a former Boro player, may not be risked once again as he is struggling with a hernia and so Ryan Green and Mark Robinson should continue at right and left back, respectively. It remains to be seen if United added to their squad on deadline day, so maybe their will be a suprise name on the teamsheet at Stevenage.
Hereford are currently once place, and one point, behind their hosts but have one game in hand. The two sides met earlier in the season at Edgar Street in a very physical game, in which the visitors stole a late injury time winner. Should Stevenage adopt a similar physical style, United might find it hard to compete. However, The Bulls will be hoping to continue their recent goalscoring form and jump above Stevenage in the table and maybe even move into the play off places once again.
Smikle back at West Brom
It appears that Brian Smikle has returned to West Bromwich from Edgar Street.
Smikle has not featured in any of the recent Hereford United matches despite a useful first appearance at Eastwood.
He was named in the Baggies reserve squad that was due to play against Aston Villa this evening.
Meanwhile Hereford United had not announced any new signings by the transfer deadline, which was at 5pm. However sources close to the club expect manager Graham Turner to reveal any signings at some stage tomorrow.
Barnet expected to win title on Saturday
Barnet travel to Northwich Victoria on Saturday in a game that could see them seal the Conference title. The Bees are 18 points clear of Aldershot and a win would return them back into the Football League. Barnet are the form side and their boss Paul Fairclough is set to be named manager of the month for March.
Northwich, however, will be hoping to bounce back after their 4-0 defeat at Hereford United last Monday.
Third placed Carlisle United travel to Farnborough Town whose manager Neil Sillett is reported to have left Cherrywood Road earlier today. The Cumbrians are on good form, winning their last five games. Boro on the other hand haven't won in 18 games and a win for the home side looks most unlikely.
Crawley Town have a must win game against fellow play-off challengers Accrington Stanley if they are to get back in with a chance. They are without defender Ian
Simpemba who is banned whereas Accrington's Paul Crighton is likely to be replaced in goal by Jon Kennedy who has been recalled from Whitton Albion after just two days. A victory for Crawley would help Hereford United as Stanley lie fifth in the table.
Of the other play-off contenders, Morecambe play Scarborough and Woking face Dagenham and Redbridge in what are likely to be tough games as both sides need victories to keep up the pressure on the top sides. Exeter travel to Canvey Island whilst Chris Wilder's Halifax Town, who have signed goalkeeper Matty Taylor from Hucknall, entertain bottom placed Leigh RMI at The Shay.
Aldershot are not in action this weekend.
Specially written for Bulls News by Kevin.
Pitman warns top clubs
Hereford United's stand-in captain Jamie Pitman has warned the top Conference clubs in the race for the play-offs that the Bulls are just getting started.
After scoring ten goals in two games last weekend, Hereford travel to Hertfordshire on Saturday to play fellow play-off contenders Stevenage in what should be an exciting game.
"We're getting into our stride and we're more than capable of going on a long run," he claimed," Pitman told the Non-League Paper.
"Stevenage stifled us at Edgar Street earlier in the season. They robbed us that day and we need to make amends."
Meanwhile Scott Willis has moved to Stalybridge. Willis, who played for Hereford last spring until falling out with manager Graham Turner, was with Halifax but failed to make an impression at the Shay. Recently he has turned out for Runcorn FC Halton.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
New director for Hereford United
Hereford United have appointed their first new director for several years.
Dave Preedy, who owns the Express Bathroom and Tile Warehouse Ltd, is a 48 year-old long time supporter. He has recently been helping with the new dressing room extension.
Meanwhile, according to the Hereford Times, only 14 shareholders and 5 directors attended last week's AGM.
They were told that the record profit announced a few weeks ago was three times higher than the previous highest profit and that the debt to Formsole is £1.069 million. All other major debts have been cleared.
"It was not just a remarkable season on the pitch but a remarkable set of financial results have come out of it,too," director Hugh Brooks told the meeting.
He confirmed that the club has received a total of £138,750 for the sale of Paul Parry and Michael Rose and the selling on of Michael McIndoe in the accounting year. Some more money is expected from the Parry sale which will go into the current year.
Betts still enjoys his football
Rob Betts who spent a short spell at Hereford towards the end of last season is now playing with Racing Club Warwick.
Betts is no longer a full-time player however he is still enjoying his football although he admits that life at Warwick is much different to what he has been used to.
The midfielder spent six years with Coventry City and then had spells with Rochdale,
Kidderminster Harriers and Hereford United but, now 23, Betts accepts the dream of being a professional footballer will remain simply that.
"I've got to start another career now and think of what to do with the rest of
my life," said Betts, who has a wife and two children to look after. "I don't
know anything but football but I've been in touch with the PFA for advice on
different courses at colleges.
"But I don't regret it. I have had the chance that every kid wants and you can't
keep thinking what if. You can only do your best."
In the article in today's Birmingham Post, Betts tells of his youth group at Coventry and reveals that only three of the 14 in the group remain in professional football.
"Football is all about opinions. Sometimes the manager likes you, sometimes he
doesn't and that's where your fate is decided," he said.
He was released by Coventry in the summer of 2003, then joined Rochdale but come to Kiddermister when Ian Britton was in charge. However he only started one game for successor Jan Molby before leaving in March 2004 to play a part in Hereford's push for promotion in the Conference. However Graham Turner released him at the end of the season. Last summer he moved to Warwick and played a few games for them before being recruited by Forest Green. However after a change of manager at the Lawn, Betts returned to Warwick.
"It's just a case of getting my boots on and playing," said Betts. "I'm enjoying
it, I enjoy the banter of the lads more than anything else."
Tonight's reserve game is off
Tonight's reserve game between Hereford United and Kidderminster Harries at Edgar Street has been postponed due to a water-logged pitch.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Away to Stevenage on Saturday
Another long away trip for Hereford United fans this coming Saturday with the visit of the Bulls to Stevenage, which has one of the best grounds in the Conference.
Away fans are usually allocated the South Stand, with a seated capacity of 1400, behind the one goal. There is a very good view from this position compared with many other away ends.
To reach the Broadway Stadium, here are some edited details from Boroguide:
By Car:
Road - From the North, A1(M)
Coming from the North you'll need to make your way onto the A1(M). If you're coming from the M1 and aren't local, you're best advised to head East along the A14 at M1 J19 (M6 junction) for approximately 44 miles, then head south down the A1. Go for a further 34 miles to Stevenage South (Junction 7), take the first exit, and follow the signposts.
Road - From the South-West, A1(M) (probably the route most fans will travel from
Herefordshire)
Coming from the South-West you'll assumedly be coming around the M25 clockwise. If you're confident then you can cut past St. Albans at Junction 21a saving about 15 minutes on the A405/A414, joining the A1(M) at J3. Else, head on to Junction 23 of the M25 and join the A1(M) northbound at its source. Head up to Stevenage (Junction 7), take the third exit and follow the signposts.
Car Parking:
Parking for Broadhall Way is fairly straightforward:
- Fairlands Valley Park car park (across the dual-carriageway from the entrance to the ground)
- Roaring Meg car park
When visiting Boro', there is generally a designated car park for fans to park in. This is the Fairlands Valley Car Park, and is easily reached. Exit the A1(M) (if from the west) at junction 7, and continue along the A602. At the second roundabout (Knebworth B197), carry on forward and shortly on your left will be the signposted car park.
If, however, the circus is in town, the best bet is probably to park in the Roaring Meg Car Park. At the roundabout on which Broadhall Way sits, follow the signs for the Town Centre. Almost immediately on your left is a turning for the retail park which contains Burger King and Pizza Hut. Do NOT park in the car park by Focus Do It All, as they have warned that clamping is in operation.
By Train:
STEVENAGE sits on the East Coast Main Line, that is served by GNER on a national scale, and WAGN (or whatever the hell its now called) on a regional scale. WAGN trains run between KINGS CROSS and PETERBOROUGH/CAMBRIDGE, with tube connections at FINSBURY PARK (Victoria line to VICTORIA).
GNER trains run between KINGS CROSS and NEWCASTLE/DONCASTER/EDINBURGH. Stevenage Station is adjacent to the Town Centre, and 1 mile from the ground. It's walkable on a nice day in 15-20 minutes, although a taxi rank is provided or you can risk the buses (route 5 from bus stop E passes the ground) found by passing along the walkway through the Gordon Craig Leisure Centre.
By Coach:
HUISA are arranging coach travel as usual for Hereford fans. Please contact the club for more details on 01432 276666
Admission:
Access to the ground for away supporters, is via the South Stand (Buildbase Stand). Prices are £13 and £10 for concessions.
Match Day programmes cost £2.50.
Conference announce Play-off dates
At last the Conference authorities have confirmed the play-off dates for this season.
NATIONWIDE CONFERENCE PLAY-OFFS:
1st leg-Mon 2 May 2005
5th place vs 2nd place
4th place vs 3rd place
2nd leg-Thurs 5 May 2005
2nd place vs 5th place
3rd place vs 4th place
NATIONWIDE CONFERENCE PROMOTION FINAL
Sat 14 or or Sun 15 May 2005 at Stoke City (unless Stoke City reach the Championship play-offs)
Winners of 2nd v 5th vs Winners of 3rd v 4th
No excuse says Turner
Graham Turner, the Hereford United manager, told the Western Daily Press after yesterday's game with Northwich that there was no excuse for the two sending-offs over the Easter period.
"We had Leroy Williams sent off at Farnborough on Friday and now Carey-Bertram which is absolutely crazy, " said Turner. "It could be put down to the impetuosity of youth but there is no excuse for what he did today.
"We had to take the six points over Easter and we have done that - scoring ten goals and conceding none and that is a job well done."
Monday, March 28, 2005
Seven Conference Games remaining
There are just seven more games for Hereford United in this Conference campaign. Three are at home and the other four away.
The full list is:
Apr 2nd Stevenage Away (3pm)
Apr 5th Carlisle Home (7.45pm)
Apr 9th York Home (3pm)
Apr 12th Forest Green Away (7.45pm)
Apr 16th Halifax Away (3pm)
Apr 19th Woking Away (7.45pm)
Apr 23rd Accrington Home (3pm)
BBC Hereford and Worcester are hoping to cover a couple of the away games. They are unlikely to cover the home games as the club appears to take the view that live coverage can affect the attendance. However should the last game of the season be crucial then that may be broadcast.
Meanwhile Graham Turner has until Thursday afternoon to bring in more players. He said last week that one more was probable, but that was before two of his strikers received red cards.
As the Conference table is so tight at present Bulls News will publish a table of how many points a club could get assuming they win all their outstanding games. This table will be updated after each Hereford game. For clarity we will call it the Potential Points Table:
1 Barnet 96
2 Carlisle 83
3 Hereford United 80
4 Woking 79
5 Exeter 78
..Halifax 78
..Stevenage 78
8 Accrington Stanley 75
..Aldershot 75
..Morecambe 75
Bulls up to seventh place
After this afternoon's results Hereford United have moved up to seventh place in the Conference table.
Several play-off teams dropped points.
Accrington were held at home by York, Dagenhan defeated Crawley and Tamworth draw with Stevenage. Later Carlisle defeated Halifax with a goal in controversial circumstances very close to the end of the game.
1 Barnet 37 81
2 Aldershot 38 63
3 Carlisle 35 62
4 Halifax 36 60
5 Accrington Stanley 37 60
6 Stevenage 36 60
7 Hereford 35 59
8 Woking 35 58
9 Exeter 35 57
10 Morecambe 36 57
Playing Kington game would help suspension position
Hereford United may give consideration to playing the outstanding Kington game this week after Daniel Carey-Bertram was sent off in the Bulls 4-0 win against Northwich this afternoon.
The young striker committed an identical offence as loanee Leroy Williams did at Farnborough last Friday. He may have been provoked by Northwich's McCarthy, but the assistant referee spotted the headbutt and after consultation the Referee had little option other than to send Carey-Bertram off.
The Cup game would count in getting suspensions over one game quicker. Without it being played Hereford United will be without two strikers for the Stevenage and Carlisle games and just Carey-Bertram for the home game against York.
Jamie Pitmam was reluctant to discuss the sending off when interviewed after the game on BBC Hereford and Worcester.
"They're both young lads and they have got to learn. You just can't do those types of things and it's really put a dampener on the two performances because now we have lost both of them for three games.
"They have got to learn by their mistakes and hopefully they will come back better. We need those players within and weekout.
"In the last few games Danny has been excellent. He's obviously disappointed himself. We are going to miss him.
"With the run in we've got we need every player we can."
Bulls succeed with ten men again
Hereford United cruised past relegation strugglers Northwich Victoria at Edgar Street this afternoon. However, the good performance had a shadow cast over it as Hereford played out the final half hour with ten men, as, in similar fashion to Leeroy William's sending off on Friday, Carey-Bertram was given his marching orders.
United made a few changes from the side that began the romp at Farnborough. Rob Purdie, Mark Robinson and Adam Stansfield were all promoted to the starting eleven from the subs bench. Simon Travis was given a rest as he was named on the bench, due to him carrying a hernia. Leeroy Williams began his three match ban and Danny Williams was out with an ankle injury. Tom Smith was left out of the squad as Lee Mills and Andy Williams were recalled to the bench.
A steady first half an hour saw few chances as the visitors frustrated their hosts. Carey-Bertram did have the ball in the net early on though when, after latching onto Stansfield's flick header, he slotted the ball home but Stansfield was deemed offside. Robinson shot wide from thirty yards before his long ball, headed on by Stansfield, led to United first real chance. Carey-Bertram took the ball in his stride, cut inside, before cracking a low shot wide of the near post.
Purdie raced past three players on the left before crossing for Stansfield, who opened the scoring just after the half hour mark. His first touch took him neatly around his marker before he fired into the roof of the net at the near post. Stansfield won another long ball in the penalty area moments after and was seemingly shoved by his maker. The referee waved any appeals away as the ball fell to Purdie, who shot just wide from twenty yards out.
The Bulls doubled their lead four minutes later and had goalkeeper Andy Ralph to thank for his part in the build up. He cleared straight to Carey-Bertram, twenty five yards from goal, and he rounded his marker before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner before Ralph could get back in position. Pitman shot wide from long range as United continued to put pressure on a shell shocked Northwich defence, but it fell wide after a deflection off the back of a defender.
Craig Stanley's quick free kick resulted in United's third goal in ten minutes. He found Pitman on the half way line who then found the run of Carey-Bertram beyond the last man with a delightful pass. Carey-Bertram's first touch hit the goalkeeper, but it fell to Stansfield who fired into the top corner from the edge of the box for his second goal. Stanley shot towards the top corner but Ralph denied him with a decent save before the first half ended.
The second period, like the first, started slowly but Hereford continued to dominate without really having to push too hard. Steve Burr made two half time changes, including a switch in goalkeepers as Ben Connet was introduced. Robinson's corner was met by a towering header by Andy Tretton but it was superbly tipped over by Connet. Purdie skinned two on the left before crossing to the edge of the box where Darryl Taylor sliced his volley. It fell to Stanley and he struck it wide of the mark.
The Bulls broke with Carey-Bertram who then knocked play wide to Stanley. He found Pitman in the area with a low cross before the stand in skipper was denied a goal from a glorious chip, heading for the top corner, as Connet tipped it behind for a corner. Then, in a moment of madness, Carey-Bertram appeared to head butt Jon McCarthey, although there did not seem to be much, if any, contact. The referee missed the incident, but his assistant noticed it and Carey-Bertram was duly shown the red card.
Pitman played another top class pass to the right for Taylor who dribbled forward before finding Stansfield, though his shot on the turn failed to trouble the 'keeper. Tretton then began a quality move from the back, when he nut megged his opponent. Stansfield found Green, who layed on to Taylor at the end of it, but his shot was inches wide of the far post. Lee Mills replaced man of the match Stansfield with twenty minutes to go, probably to give Stansfield a rest before the clash at Stevenage on Saturday.
Purdie caused problems all afternoon for the Northwich defence and won a free kick after skinning two players in a dangerous position in the build up to United's fourth and final goal. He got up to cross in the free-kick to Tamika Mkandawire, whose header rebounded off a defender. Mills was first to it and had a simple task of heading into the back of the net from close range. Graham Hyde and Williams were introduced late on in place of Pitman and Stanley as Graham Turner gave his centre midfield partnership a well-earned break.
Northwich went on to create a couple of good opportunities at the end of the game, but poor finishing let them down. Johnny Allan had three great chances in the final ten minutes. He fired wide from a good position after Mark Quayle had headed down for him and then he fired well over the bar from a good central position. Then he latched onto a good long pass from Karl Munroe, but hit the post when one on one with Craig Mawson. Chris Gaghan had the ball at his feet with the goal in front of him, but was robbed by Ryan Green at the last minute.
Hereford will be more than satisfied with their Easter period, which has seen them score 10 times without conceding. However, they will be disappointed with the two stupid red cards that have been picked up along the way. It would be a good idea to play the HFA Senior Cup semi-final against Kington this Thursday, to get rid of one match on both Carey-Bertram's and Leeroy Williams' suspensions and also allowing Turner to have a look at any trialists before the transfer dead line this Thursday.
The crowd of 2,931, including 76 away fans, saw Hereford's best home win of the season.
HUFC Team: Mawson, Green, Tretton, Mkandawire, Robinson, Purdie, Stanley, Pitman, Taylor, Carey-Bertram, Stansfield. Subs: Travis, Scott, Hyde, A Williams, Mills.
NVFC: Ralph, Charnock, Garner, Handyside, Carr, McCarthy, Gaghan, Garvey, Band, Allan, Quayle. Subs: Munroe, Mayman, Connet, Bailey, Byrne.
United made a few changes from the side that began the romp at Farnborough. Rob Purdie, Mark Robinson and Adam Stansfield were all promoted to the starting eleven from the subs bench. Simon Travis was given a rest as he was named on the bench, due to him carrying a hernia. Leeroy Williams began his three match ban and Danny Williams was out with an ankle injury. Tom Smith was left out of the squad as Lee Mills and Andy Williams were recalled to the bench.
A steady first half an hour saw few chances as the visitors frustrated their hosts. Carey-Bertram did have the ball in the net early on though when, after latching onto Stansfield's flick header, he slotted the ball home but Stansfield was deemed offside. Robinson shot wide from thirty yards before his long ball, headed on by Stansfield, led to United first real chance. Carey-Bertram took the ball in his stride, cut inside, before cracking a low shot wide of the near post.
Purdie raced past three players on the left before crossing for Stansfield, who opened the scoring just after the half hour mark. His first touch took him neatly around his marker before he fired into the roof of the net at the near post. Stansfield won another long ball in the penalty area moments after and was seemingly shoved by his maker. The referee waved any appeals away as the ball fell to Purdie, who shot just wide from twenty yards out.
The Bulls doubled their lead four minutes later and had goalkeeper Andy Ralph to thank for his part in the build up. He cleared straight to Carey-Bertram, twenty five yards from goal, and he rounded his marker before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner before Ralph could get back in position. Pitman shot wide from long range as United continued to put pressure on a shell shocked Northwich defence, but it fell wide after a deflection off the back of a defender.
Craig Stanley's quick free kick resulted in United's third goal in ten minutes. He found Pitman on the half way line who then found the run of Carey-Bertram beyond the last man with a delightful pass. Carey-Bertram's first touch hit the goalkeeper, but it fell to Stansfield who fired into the top corner from the edge of the box for his second goal. Stanley shot towards the top corner but Ralph denied him with a decent save before the first half ended.
The second period, like the first, started slowly but Hereford continued to dominate without really having to push too hard. Steve Burr made two half time changes, including a switch in goalkeepers as Ben Connet was introduced. Robinson's corner was met by a towering header by Andy Tretton but it was superbly tipped over by Connet. Purdie skinned two on the left before crossing to the edge of the box where Darryl Taylor sliced his volley. It fell to Stanley and he struck it wide of the mark.
The Bulls broke with Carey-Bertram who then knocked play wide to Stanley. He found Pitman in the area with a low cross before the stand in skipper was denied a goal from a glorious chip, heading for the top corner, as Connet tipped it behind for a corner. Then, in a moment of madness, Carey-Bertram appeared to head butt Jon McCarthey, although there did not seem to be much, if any, contact. The referee missed the incident, but his assistant noticed it and Carey-Bertram was duly shown the red card.
Pitman played another top class pass to the right for Taylor who dribbled forward before finding Stansfield, though his shot on the turn failed to trouble the 'keeper. Tretton then began a quality move from the back, when he nut megged his opponent. Stansfield found Green, who layed on to Taylor at the end of it, but his shot was inches wide of the far post. Lee Mills replaced man of the match Stansfield with twenty minutes to go, probably to give Stansfield a rest before the clash at Stevenage on Saturday.
Purdie caused problems all afternoon for the Northwich defence and won a free kick after skinning two players in a dangerous position in the build up to United's fourth and final goal. He got up to cross in the free-kick to Tamika Mkandawire, whose header rebounded off a defender. Mills was first to it and had a simple task of heading into the back of the net from close range. Graham Hyde and Williams were introduced late on in place of Pitman and Stanley as Graham Turner gave his centre midfield partnership a well-earned break.
Northwich went on to create a couple of good opportunities at the end of the game, but poor finishing let them down. Johnny Allan had three great chances in the final ten minutes. He fired wide from a good position after Mark Quayle had headed down for him and then he fired well over the bar from a good central position. Then he latched onto a good long pass from Karl Munroe, but hit the post when one on one with Craig Mawson. Chris Gaghan had the ball at his feet with the goal in front of him, but was robbed by Ryan Green at the last minute.
Hereford will be more than satisfied with their Easter period, which has seen them score 10 times without conceding. However, they will be disappointed with the two stupid red cards that have been picked up along the way. It would be a good idea to play the HFA Senior Cup semi-final against Kington this Thursday, to get rid of one match on both Carey-Bertram's and Leeroy Williams' suspensions and also allowing Turner to have a look at any trialists before the transfer dead line this Thursday.
The crowd of 2,931, including 76 away fans, saw Hereford's best home win of the season.
HUFC Team: Mawson, Green, Tretton, Mkandawire, Robinson, Purdie, Stanley, Pitman, Taylor, Carey-Bertram, Stansfield. Subs: Travis, Scott, Hyde, A Williams, Mills.
NVFC: Ralph, Charnock, Garner, Handyside, Carr, McCarthy, Gaghan, Garvey, Band, Allan, Quayle. Subs: Munroe, Mayman, Connet, Bailey, Byrne.
Sunday, March 27, 2005
The start of the final charge
Hereford United will aim to take the momentum gained from the impressive victory at Farnborough and use it to overcome a Northwich Victoria side, battling for survival in the Nationwide Conference. The Vics are currently one place above the drop zone, in ninteenth, but only on goal difference. They were deducted ten points earlier in the season for going into a CVA; without that they wouldn't be quite so far down the table.
Northwich have already visited Edgar Street this season, in the GLS Conference Cup, when they progressed to the next round thanks to a 1-0 victory. However it is unlikely that result will play any part in their preparations to the game this afternoon as both teams fielded much weakened sides.
Steve Burr's side, who have lost there last four league games, will be without midfielder Paul Devlin, as he serves a one match ban following his red card, for two bookable offences, in the Vics' 2-1 defeat against Gravesend & Northfleet last Friday.
Hereford will once again be without Tony James who is still sidelined with an ankle injury and so Andy Tretton will continue to deputise. Danny Williams and Ryan Green are both doubts for the Bulls. Williams was replaced early on in the 6-0 demoltion of Farborough on Friday with an ankle injury and Green may not have recovered from his injury sustained at Morecambe last Tuesday. Rob Purdie is likely to take Williams' place on the wing.
Adam Stansfield could be recalled to the starting eleven in place of Leroy Williams, who was sent off on his goalscoring debut on Friday. He now has to serve a three match ban. Stansfield is favourite to partner Danny Carey-Bertram as he scored two goals in the fifteen minutes that he played against Farnborough. Darryl Taylor will make a home debut as he continues on the wing for United.
Stansfield told BBC Hereford and Worcester that Northwich will be a stiffer test than Farnborough last Friday.
"We played them earlier in the season and beat them 3-1. They weren't bad then but they've had some great results lately so we'll have to work hard."
Hereford will be most disappointed if they cannot follow up the victory on Friday with another three points against another of the league's struggling sides. The Bulls are clear favourites to win and some will expect them to do so by a fair margain, but Graham Turner will be warning his players not to let any complacency slip into their game.
Convincing win for the Shots
Aldershot have defeated Woking 4-0 this afternoon and are now second in the Conference table. Woking stay seventh.
It was Woking's worst defeat for two years. They were totally out-played in the first half and although they staged somewhat of a come back in the second half, fate was not on their side as they went down to ten men.
The revised table is as below:
Barnet 36 - 78
Aldershot 38 - 63
Halifax 35 - 60
Carlisle 34 - 59
Accrington 36 - 59
Stevenage 35 - 59
Woking 35 - 58
Hereford 34 - 56
Exeter 34 - 54
Morecambe 35 - 54
Crawley 36 - 54
Tomorrow there are ten Conference games including Hereford/Northwich.However only one game involves two of the play-off challengers so assuming the Bulls win they could find that they are still outside the play-off zone.
It is the Carlisle/Halifax that many supporters will keep on eye on. Carlisle have picked up several results recently, including a 3-0 win at Canvey last Friday, after a disappointing start to the new-year. They will start favourites to defeat Halifax, who could only draw at home to Tamworth last Friday, although a draw would help the Bulls. This game is live on Sky with a 5.35pm start.
Of the other challengers Crawley could slip up at Dagenham and Stevenage may also drop points at Tamworth. But Accrington will be expected to defeat York, Morecambe should return from Leigh with three points, and Exeter must fancy their chances against Farnborough at home.
Only if both Stevenage and Accrington lose, will Hereford, assuming they win, move as high as fifth place.
Bulls can make play-offs
With just eight games to go Hereford United will probably need to take at least sixteen points from those games to make the Conference play-offs this season.
It can be done but the Bulls will need three points from their game tomorrow against Northwich Victoria to set them on their way.
Sixteen points will give Hereford seventy two points in total. Last season fifth placed Aldershot reached the play-offs with seventy points, however because Chester and Hereford were so far ahead of the rest of the league the number of points needed to reach the play-offs was probably lower than what will be required this time.
Another way to compare seasons is to look at the form of Aldershot last campaign. Their return was twenty wins, ten draws and twelve defeats.
This season fifth-placed Accrington Stanley at present are on seventeen wins, eight draws and eleven defeats. They have six games left to play.
Assuming that their form continues in the same vein as they have acheived so far then they could finish with twenty wins, ten draws and fourteen defeats giving them seventy points. But as they have played two more games than the Bulls then that return will probably not be enough to make the play-offs.
Today's game between Aldershot and Woking could be crucial to the Bulls chances of making the play-offs. Woking are two points ahead of Hereford having played the same number of games. Should they defeat Aldershot they will move up to second place. A draw would take them to fifth position. Either result would mean that Aldershot's campaign would have taken a knock as they have played up to four more games than some of the clubs around them.
As matters stand before the start of the game, which is live on Sky kick-off 1.45pm, the Shots maximum return this season will be seventy-five points. A defeat today could make a play-off place for the Hampshire side that less likely and so help Hereford United's prospects.
And with Accrington Stanley's chances slipping, especially after failing to win at Burton last Friday, there's still plenty to play for. The six goals that Hereford scored on Friday could be crucial if it comes down to goal difference.
Meanwhile Grays Athletic will join the Conference next season. They won promotion from Conference South yesterday, as nearest rivals Cambridge City were defeated. Grays are currently ninteen points ahead of Cambridge.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Who scored the third goal yesterday?
When Hereford United score six goals and for most of the time with only ten men, some supporters might think that confusion in the media over who scored the third goal yesterday doesn't really matter.
But to the players each goal scored helps their talley and keeps them in the
limelight.
Jamie Pitman, standing in as captain for Tony James, was credited with the goal by the report in the Worcester News, but other media, such as the BBC Sport, gave
it to Daniel Carey-Bertram.
Our match reporter hedged his bets:
Six minutes later, after Taylor's run down the right and cross into the middle, Pitman volleyed in the third, although it may be credited to Carey-Bertram who appeared to get the final touch in putting the ball over the line. It would be harsh if this goal is not awarded to Pitman, as he was denied a goal in similar fashion against Morecambe.
However viewed from the side of the pitch it looked as though the ball was over the line before Carey-Bertram got his touch.
BBC Sport reported the goal as : Daniel Carey-Bertram... stabbed home his second from close range.
Worcester News had a different version: Six minutes later, Taylor's cross was clipped in by Jamie Pitman to put the result beyond doubt.
Peter McMillan reporting for BBC Hereford and Worcester also gave the goal to Pitman as he said: "...Jamie Pitman making it three.
And the Western Daily Press said: Midfielder Jamie Pitman claimed their third when he floated the ball over the line.
However Confguide went with Carey-Bertram.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Saddlers comment on their players
This short comment comes from a Walsall websie, The Saddlers FC:
Leroy Williams had another debut to remember - He has managed to score and get sent off within 30 minutes Hereford won 6-0 and the Farnborough goalkeeper was a Mr Andrew Petterson.
Both Leroy Williams and Daryl Taylor started the game, as did Andrew Petterson who lined up for the relegation threatened Farnborough Town.
Williams opened the scoring with a well executed chip, then got sent for what reports are calling a headbutt. Daryl Taylor is also said to have made a good impression, but the Bulls will now be frustrated to lose Williams for what looks like being a 3 game ban.
How ironic is it to see Petterson let in another 6 on a debut? Especially when you consider that it was one of our own players that started today's six goal rout.
Stanley and Halifax drop points this evening
In the two Conference games played this evening both Accrington Stanley and Halifax could only draw with Burton and Tamworth respectively.
Overall it has been a good day for Hereford United with three other play-off challengers, Crawley, Morecambe and Exeter dropping points this afternoon.
There are no Conference games tomorrow but two of the other play-off contenders, Aldershot and Woking, play each other on Sunday.
The table is as below:
1 Barnet 36 47 78
2 Halifax 35 18 60
3 Aldershot 37 8 60
4 Carlisle 34 31 59
5 Accrington Stanley 36 14 59
6 Stevenage 35 11 59
7 Woking 34 16 58
8 Hereford 34 17 56
9 Exeter 34 14 54
10 Morecambe 35 10 54
11 Crawley Town 36 3 54
A full version of the table can be found by clicking the link on the left of this page.
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