Test

Friday, March 11, 2011

Booth Drops Out Of Wrexham Running

Colourful Wrexham bidder Stephanie Booth has dropped out of the running to buy the club.

The move means former Premier League footballer Ashley Ward is the only bidder for the club after the Wrexham Supporters Trust withdrew their bid earlier in the week.

Booth's bid came with a business plan (.doc format) that stated that the club was currently losing £750,000 a year, had an immediate need for £500,000, and that she had witnessed staff pocketing club cash. Her plans to increase revenues included charging more for match entry the later supporters entered the stadium.

News Round Up

Tyler Weir played the full 90 minutes of their 2-0 win over Corby on Wednesday night. Sam Malsom again missed the game through injury. Former Bulls midfielder Danny Williams is on trial with AFC Telford, and will play in a fundraising game with a PFA XI on Sunday.

Southend have denied Steve Tilson's claims that he is owed money after his dismissal, saying he was paid up to the point he became Lincoln's manager. Tilson says he will avoid Shrimpers chairman Ron Martin when the two clubs meet tomorrow. Rotherham trialist Jordan Robertson has left the club in favour of a trial at SPL side St Johnstone.

Crewe are to sign Man City defender Reece Wabara on loan after the move was halted last week after Kolo Toure's positive drugs test. Grimsby's departed vice-chairman Mike Parker is to inject £500,000 into the club to cover it's operating losses. Former Gillingham and Barnet boss Mark Stimson is the latest to confirm interest in the Mariners' managerial vacancy.

Bradford caretaker boss Peter Jackson has been given more time to stake his claim for the job permanently after one win and one loss since taking over from Peter Taylor. He will remain in charge for the next three games. Hyde are insisting there is no crisis at the Conf North side despite the chairman and two directors resigning this week. Major shareholder John Manship has been covering the wage bill since January but told the board he would not continue to do so leading to claims that the club are on the verge of bankruptcy.

Altrincham are the latest side to lose their main sponsor with former chairman Geoff Goodwin withdrawing his backing for the club at the end of the season. Alty will offer any main sponsor not only shirt sponsorship but the chance to name their Moss Lane home.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Fairclough looks at the Hereford Squad

In advance of tomorrow's League Two game at Edgar Street, Barnet manager Paul Fairclough has been giving his view about some of the Hereford United squad. He started with keeper Adam Bartlett who played for the England C team when Fairclough was their manager.

"Most keepers these days will be able to save a direct shot at goal," Fairclough told the Barnet OS.

"Goals happen when the keeper makes a mistake, the ball is seen late, or it takes a wicked deflection on the way.

"Our midfield needs to start wading in with shots, with goals. If you don't take shots at keepers then you don't ask questions of them.

"Their two front men in Fleetwood and Fairhurst are very quick and dangerous, always looking to drop off the shoulder of defenders.

"They've got big men for set plays in Kovacs and Townsend. So we'll be looking out for them.

"We've identified some weaknesses in their team too, but I'll keep that under wraps for now.

"Every game is tightly contested in League 2. We've had two tough games against opponents who are in the top three and we've shown that we can compete with them.

"Hereford will be a tough nut to crack, but if we put in the same performance as we did against Wycombe then I am confident we will win."

Bauza training to be a Cobbler

Former Hereford United striker Guillam Bauza is reported to be training with Northampton Town.

Since leaving Edgar Street Bauza, who is a free agent, has been linked with several clubs but it appears Northampton are quite likely to give the former Swansea player a short term deal.

New manager Gary Johnson is short of a striker or two.

Pitman in talks with Doncaster

Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman is reported by PA Sport to be in talks with Doncaster Rovers over a possible extension to Waide Fairhurst's loan spell with the Bulls.

As matters stand Fairhurst is due to play his last game for the Bulls on Saturday against Barnet.

However it's possible the loan could be extended as a recall clause can be written into any deal.

Earlier this week Harry Pell was recalled to Bristol Rovers from Edgar Street despite the two clubs agreeing an extension to his original one month deal.

Morris hopes Canham will stay with Kidderminster

Former Hereford United striker Lee Morris is hopeful that Sean Canham, currently on loan from Edgar Street, will stay with Kidderminster.

Before Canham joined the club Morris talked to Richard Rose and Adam Bartlett, who used to keep goal for the Harriers, about Canham.

"Sean is more experienced at a higher level than this, so he certainly adds more quality to the squad," Morris told the Express and Star.

"With the run-in we are having, we need all the help we can get so, if he can stay, it will be good for the team."

Canham missed last Tuesday's game against Crawley as he failed a late fitness test. He has a sore achilles but should be fit for their game on Saturday at promotion rivals AFC Wimbledon.

His loan spell ends next Monday.

Preview: Bulls vs Barnet

The Bulls entertain Barnet on Saturday in a League Two match at Edgar Street.

The two sides met in the final game of Simon Davey's reign at the start of October, with a spiritless Bulls performance ending in a 2-0 defeat prompting an unstoppable demand from fans for Davey's head. Overall, Barnet have won in only one of 13 visits to Edgar Street. That came in January 2008 with the Bees winning 2-1 thanks to a late Nicky Nicolau goal. That game saw the Bulls field Theo Robinson and Gary Hooper up front while the Bees featured Jason Puncheon, who scored for Blackpool against Chelsea on Monday.

The Bulls will look to rectify their home form against one of the odds-on relegation candidates. The Bulls sit bottom of the League on their home form alone, with two points less than any other side, and having scored fewer home goals than any other side bar Lincoln. A positive, attacking, display will be most welcome after some recent lukewarm performances, but it could be Waide Fairhurst's final game at Edgar Street. The Doncaster striker sees his loan expire after Saturday's game though there is some hope of an extension with Donny's injury crisis easing over the past week.

The Bees have failed to score in six of their last nine games and have only scored eight goals in their last 11 - including a four goal haul against Lincoln. Despite the lack of goals they have lost only four times in that run, with their threadbare defence holding surprisingly firm. Of the four ex-Bulls in the Bees squad only one is likely to feature due to injuries. Darren Dennehy has missed most of the season, while Glen Southam and Anwar Uddin are both shorter term casualties leaving only Mark Marshall to line up against the Bulls. The former Swindon winger had a ten game loan at Edgar Street in late 2009 and has already scored six times this term.

Hereford United vs Barnet, Edgar Street, Saturday 12th March, 3.00pm.

Huge Game on Saturday says Chairman Keyte

David Keyte has told the Hereford Times that Saturday's clash against Barnet is a 'huge' game for the Bulls.

In effect three points from the game would widen the gulf between the two clubs and lessen the possibility that the Bulls could be relegated.

"Saturday is a huge game for us and, after our win on Tuesday at Stevenage, we could actually put Barnet to bed," said the Hereford United chairman.

"We need to view it as a cup final, they certainly will – realistically it will be their last rally.

"It would be such a big bonus to get three points at home.

"We are very conscious that people are coming out to watch us on the back of some superb away results and we have not delivered at home.

"We need them to stick with us, however we get over the finishing line.

"After the bad start we had to the season, I think we'll all be very happy to stay up this time."

News Round Up

Stockport have confirmed Ray Mathias as their manager until the end of the season, with previous caretaker boss Peter Ward assisting him along with long term club coach Alan Lord. Fans are claiming that the club decended into farce on Monday when shareholders decided to dispense with Ward and Lord, only for Mathias to also quit in protest at the way they were treated. All three only agreed to continue to prevent the side being rudderless for Tuesday's game at Accrington, and they reached a compromise yesterday.

Southend have confirmed that striker Matt Patterson will remain at Stockport for the rest of the season. He has scored twice in six games for the Hatters and is out of contract in the summer. The Torquay have signed Ipswich striker Ronan Murray on loan for the remainder of the season. The 19 year old has made a dozen sub appearances for the Tractorboys this season, scoring once, but is one of 21 players out of contract at Portman Road in the summer.

Crawley have signed teenage Hayes and Yeading defender Charlie Wassmer, with Steve Evans claiming that contract negotiation details were posted on Twitter by the player's agent while they were ongoing. Agent Darren Lewis appeared to be attempting to stoke up interest in his client with Exeter also said to have made an offer. Grimsby director Peter Furneaux has quit the club with immediate effect after initially saying he would leave in the summer. The Mariners now have just three board members remaining.

Former Premier League striker Ashley Ward is claimed to be the latest bidder interested in buying Wrexham. The 40 year old is now a property developer who once had a month long loan spell with the Dragons. Meanwhile the Wrexham Supporters Trust are seeking a mandate from supporters over where they go next after their bid for the club collapsed. They will hold a vote to decide whether to back Stephanie Booth's bid for the club.

Wycombe and Macclesfield have each been fined £9,000 for the mass brawl at the end of their match two weeks ago. Boston have denied receiving an approach from Grimsby for managerial pair Rob Scott and Paul Hurst. The duo are now bookies favourites. Barnet have handed teenage defender Mauro Vilhete a long term deal with the club.

Plymouth's Administrator has set a Monday deadline for bidders to come forward. Brendan Guilfoyle intends to have a preferred bidder, with funds to see the club through Administration, in place by next Thursday. The local press say there are currently four interested parties, one of which is associated with the Japanese shareholders. Any bidder will need to put up at least £6million, according to Guilfoyle, with around one third of season ticket holders donating the voluntary £10 admission charge for Tuesday night's game. Total gate receipts were double that of the previous game.

Former Bulls loanee Jordan Mutch made only his second Premier League appearance for Birmingham in last night's draw with Everton, setting up the Blues' goal. Cambridge have been forced to deny rumours that Roy Keane is interested in buying the club. Bury are offering £5 admission for their home match next Tuesday to anyone buying the local Bury Times this week. Season ticket holders are also offered the chance to bring a friend for £5.

Evo-Stik League side Marine have stated that a 'considerable sum' of money was stolen in a raid on the club's ground on Monday. The club have also reported significant damage to the premises as a result of the break-in. Southend winger Ryan Hall has had his 20 week sentence for affray suspended for a year on appeal. He now has to do 150 hours of unpaid work in the community.

Burton have extended the loan of Wolves striker Sam Winnall until the end of the season after he scored four times in his opening six matches. Southend face being reported to the Football League over former manager Steve Tilson's sacking from the club. Tilson, now at Lincoln, is yet to receive what he says he is owed by the Shrimpers after being sacked last July.

Macclesfield have loaned defender Matt Lowe to Kidderminster for a month. The 20 year old youth team graduate has made 11 appearances since debuting a year ago. Former Bull Jimmy Quinn has been put in caretaker charge of Evo-Stik Premier side Nantwich after joint managers Kevin Street and Darren Tinson left by mutual consent. Quinn became Director of Football there last month.

Northampton have released winger Alistair Slowe by mutual consent. The 22 year old failed to made a first team appearance after signing from Cypriot football in the summer. Former Bulls loanee Lateef Elford-Aaliyu has extended his loan at Tranmere for a third month. The 18 year old has scored five times in 17 games for the League One side.

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

From The Archives - Hereford 4 Barnet 0

With Barnet visiting Edgar Street on Saturday BN looks back to November 2002 when the Bulls defeated the Bees 4-0.

Saturday 30th November - (3pm kick-off) - Nationwide Conference league match

Four goals get United going

Hereford United 4 - 0 Barnet

It's been a long time coming, but Hereford United gained their first league win in seven and they did it in style.

Barnet were the visitors at Edgar Street, and were duly overturned by a five-star United performance which included a hatrick from attacker Steve Guinan.

Manager Graham Turner made a bold move before the game. reverting to a 4-4-2 formation and dropping captain Ian Wright in the process. Danny Williams missed out with a knee injury, allowing Ben Smith to make his first start in United colours and John Grant to push into attack, leaving Paul Parry free on the left wing.

Barnet, managed by former Tottenham Hotspur Peter Shreeves, were two places above Hereford in the league but tonight lie below Hereford on goal difference.

It took just four minutes for Hereford to break the deadlock as Paul Parry fired a cross in front of defender Craig Pope over from the left for Guinan to head home at the near post.

The away side had few efforts, as Greg Heald headed over a corner from Mark Gower, and Ben Strevens also missed the target on another occasion. Paul Parry, at the other end on twenty four minutes, knocked over another cross from the left for Ben Smith to smash home from twelve yards to double the Hereford advantage.

Seven minutes later, it was 3-0. A John Grant shot was deflected over, and from the corner, taken by Mick Galloway, was headed down on the far post six yards out by Guinan.

After the break, Barnet made three changes in quick succession to stimulate some life into their team, but to no avail. Junior Agogo tested United stopper Matt Baker with a couple of chances by Hereford were brimming with confidence. It came as no surprise when Guinan headed home another Parry cross for the fourth on sixty four minutes, in what was a near replica of the first goal.

From then on, United continued to pressurise. Parry tested goalkeeper Danny Naisbitt, Michael Rose tried his luck from long range and, in the last minute, Ben Strevens' shot for a Barnet goal was stopped easily by Baker.

The change to 4-4-2 appeared to work well for United, as Parry was free to run the left flank and create three of Hereford's four goals. Everyone played well, to the extent that Barnet boss Shreeves labelled Tony James as the best defender in the Conference. Guinan's hatrick makes him top scorer this season with six goals, which really outlines Hereford's scoring difficultues.

There was no problem this afternoon though, as a first class performance swept aside Barnet.

Hereford United: Matt Baker, Matt Clarke, Michael Rose, Andrew Tretton, Tony James (captain), Ben Smith, Jamie Pitman, Mick Galloway, Steve Guinan, John Grant (off, 72 minutes), Paul Parry.
Subs: Rob Sawyers, Ken Griffiths, Rob Purdie (on, 72 minutes), Richard Teesdale, Ian Wright
Scorers:Steve Guinan (4, 31, 64 minutes) Ben Smith (24 minutes)
Man of the Match: Paul Parry
Attendance: 1471
Referee: Mr. S. Brand (Wirral)

Bates to Referee on Saturday

Tony Bates from Staffordshire will referee next Saturday's League Two match at Edgar Street where Barnet will be the visitors.

Bates is no stranger to Hereford United. Although the Bulls haven't met him this season, he took charge of two games last season.

The first was at Edgar Street in August 2009 when the Bulls defeated Charlton 1-0 in the Carling Cup. Jony Godsmark scored the only goal.

The second was at Bury in January 2010. The Bulls lost this one 1-0 and then manager John Trewick was far from happy after the game.

"I'm just very annoyed with the referee quite frankly," Trewick told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"It was clearly not a foul for the free kick from which they scored from.

"Their players said he just fell over.

"For me Craig King was fouled for a penalty when he was going through, Leon Constantine had his shirt pulled when he was having a headed attempt at goal from five or six yards out which has distracted him.

"I just feel hard done by again. I feel like I am having a moan again, which I guess I am."

To date this season Bates have refereed 30 games in which he has given out 81 yellow and 4 red cards.

Bulls Evens to take Three Points from Bees

A couple of bookmakers are offering evens on a Hereford United win over Barnet on Saturday but the general price is 10/11.

Latest Offer from SkyBet:

Hereford 10/11 Draw 5/2 Barnet 3/1.

Meanwhile punters who backed the Bulls to win at Stevenage on Tuesday evening and Joe Colbeck to score first would have netted a decent return.

The win returned 4/1 and a punt on Colbeck around 18/1.

HUISA – Southend

The coach for Southend on Friday 18th March will depart from Radford's at 1.00pm.

The fare will be £24 for members and £26 for non-members.

Seats can be booked in Radford's before the home game against Barnet on Saturday or through the club office (08442 761939).

Details of the Tuesday trip to Port Fail will follow shortly but it is expected that seats can also on Saturday.

HUISA members are reminded that their discount is only available on seats booked in Radford's.

Robins could move to Racecourse

Sometime ago Cheltenham Town Football Club revealed that they had talked to the managing director of Cheltenham Racecourse about a possible move from Whaddon Road, pictured, to Prestbury Park.

This evening Town chairman Paul Baker told a meeting of the club's shareholders that a move was still under discussion.

Whaddon Road is owned by the local council and the club has 94 years left on their current lease. It's thought there would be considerable 'asset value' if the club were to leave the ground.

"I like the idea and I think a new stadium always gives a boost to a club," said Baker.

"There are a number of things that would need to happen before we see any firm decisions but we're still in discussions with the racecourse, the Jockey Club and the Borough Council.

"If I was on the council I'd look at this as a good deal for the football club, the racecourse and the town.

"From our point of view we are limited in the amount we can re-develop the Abbey Business Stadium and a new ground could open up lots of possibilities. The Council is in need of land for housing and a move would deliver a large parcel for re-development. The key questions relate to the finances and we have to make sure they stack up."

Mathias Set For Hatters Job

Ray Mathias has been asked to take charge of Stockport by their shareholders.

Speaking to the press after the game, Mathias said that caretaker boss Peter Ward had been asked to step aside after a disasterous run that had left them rooted to the foot of the table. Mathias took charge of last night's game, telling the press:

"We went to a shareholders meeting on Monday and it was decided that Peter would be stepping down and I was asked to move up. I have taken charge at Accrington but me and Peter will have a good talk on Wednesday about the situation.

"Peter was shocked, but we are all in this for Stockport County and that's the main thing - trying to keep them up. We have 10 games left and we need 30 points. It is a big issue and I want to think about it.

"I was in charge of the performance and it wasn't very good and we`ve got to improve. We have a massive game on Saturday against Burton Albion and we are working to sort things out. My job is to try to keep Stockport in this division."

The 64 year old has had managerial experience with Wigan and Tranmere but has spent most of his time as a coach, most recently with Paul Ince at Macclesfield, MK Dons, and Blackburn. Stockport have earned just two wins in 13 games under Ward.

I'd like a Massive Following on Saturday says Pitman

After another away win last night Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman would love to see a large crowd really getting behind the Bulls next Saturday at Edgar Street when Barnet are the visitors. Last game 125 Hereford fans made the trip to Stevenage and their signing could be heard above that of the home fans on the H&W commentary.

"It's a massive game at the weekend," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"We're not getting those back to back wins and winning at home.

"I would love a massive following at home at the weekend.

"Give us an atmosphere to go and play in.

"If that happens hopefully we'll get a good result.

"We need everybody in the city to come out and get behind us because it makes such a massive difference.

"I've played at Edgar Street with 4,500 people that were really up for the game. I'd love to see loads of people come out and give us some support because it's a big game.

"Fingers crossed they'll come out in their droves and we'll get a good result from it."

News Round Up

Chesterfield have released veteran defender Rob Page by mutual consent. The 36 year old has played only twice this season and now intends to seek a coaching role elsewhere. Bradford temporary boss Peter Jackson has brought in Colin Cooper to act as his no.2. The former England international was last assistant to Gareth Southgate at Middlesboro in 2009.

Darlington chairman Raj Singh says he will guarantee to continue funding the club if fans buy 2,000 adult season tickets for next season. It is believed they sold less than half that figure this season. Rushden are reported to be under a transfer embargo after being late with a payment to the taxman. They were also unable to pay the players' wages on time last week, but say they will have resolved both matters by the end of this week.

Stafford Rangers are to cut their wage bill for a second time this season after gates slumped further. The Conf North side had been averaging 500 through the doors, but managed just 260 for last night's 4-0 loss after a 5-0 home loss on Saturday.

Tuesday, March 08, 2011

They're Off - Around the Grounds

The Around The Grounds quintet left Edgar Street at 4am this morning.

In their Sterling Motors car they soon reached Wales and arrived at Swansea City's ground. Later it was Cardiff and by 8am hoped to be outside Bristol Rovers.

Their aim is to visit every one of the 92 Premier and League grounds in 80 hours raising money for the Adam Stansfield Foundation.

Colbeck is a Great Athlete says Pitman

In his post match interview Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman had some words of praise for Joe Colbeck after the winger scored the only goal of the game at Stevenage last night.

"Joe has played very well in the last month or so," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"We said to the boys at half-time to get it to him as much as possible and he came up with an unbelievable cross/finish.

"He's a great athlete, he works very hard, he gets on the ball and he's got great delivery.

"And as much as possible we're asking him to get the ball in the box because we've got forwards who want to score.

"So as long as you get it in there you've got a chance of scoring."

Bulls win away again

Hereford United came away from Broadhall Way with all three points from a match that was, frankly, not one for the spectators. Joe Colbeck’s cross/shot crept in at the back post on 83 minutes for the only goal of the game.

Jamie Pitman made the only change forced on him by replacing Harry Pell with James McQuilkin while new signing Adrian Patulea took his place on the subs bench.

The hosts were the first to threaten when following a free kick on the halfway line Ashton pulled his shot wide from the edge of the box. Fleetwood cut in from the left but his effort was cleared and McQuilkin’s shot was deflected for a corner that came to nothing. The early exchanges provided little more than a glimpse of what was to come…Stevenage pumping balls into the box hoping for a winning header while The Bulls were little better as they tried the over-the-top route for Fleets and Fairhurst to run onto. Neither side met with a lot of success as Kovacs for The Bulls and Ashton for Stevenage met most attempts with thumping headers to clear. Ashton, however, had to leave the field on 15 minutes due to injury but on the whole, the hosts held firm. Colbeck managed to release Fleetwood on the left of the penalty area but the striker’s effort was blocked away by keeper Chris Day.

Veteran Ronnie Henry blazed wide and Wilson saw a header go off target before Fairhurst was taken out by Foster. From Kenny Lunt free kick, Townsend won the first header at the back post but the second ball was easily cleared. Fleetwood and Fairhurst combined to set McQuilkin scampering down the right but his final ball just failed to reach Fairhurst. Lunt was becoming more influential as he drifted infield from his wide left position to find Colbeck but the low cross was sliced away for a corner. A Lunt cross-field ball found Fleetwood deep on the right and The Bull’s hitman nutmegged his marker before firing across the six-yard box.

A poor first period finished with Kenny Lunt’s 25-yard free kick being charged down by the wall of defenders.

HT Stevenage 0 Bulls 0

Early in the second half, Kovacs misjudged the flight of the ball and missed his header but Bartlett sprinted out to clear with Harrison closing in. Play continued to be very scrappy and with thirty minutes remaining, Ryan Green made his first purposeful attempt to join the attack. Reid missed a decent chance when he headed over from five yards with the goal gaping and Bridges missed a similar opportunity when his header went wide.

Fleetwood’s shot was hoofed away by a defender before The Bull’s striker forced another hurried clearance from which Featherstone (on for Quilks) volleyed into the side netting. For Stevenage, Mousinho fired wide before The Bulls worked the ball out of defence with some neat football from Rose and Green which saw Joe Colbeck released down the right. Head down and charging for the bye-line, Colbeck drove a cross in without another Bulls player in the box but with keeper Day having come to his near post, the ball sailed over his head and settled in the back of the net for a slightly fortunate goal with just seven minutes remaining.

Stevenage continued to swing balls into the box but The Bulls saw out the match to claim the points in front of a reported 1670 including around 130 from The Shire.

FT Stevenage 0 Bulls 1

Hereford: Bartlett, Green, Kovacs, Townsend, Heath, Colbeck, Rose, McQuilkin (Featherstone 72), Lunt, Fleetwood, Fairhurst (Patulea 67). Subs unused: Hoult, Preston, Thomas, Purdie, Baheng.

Stevenage: Day, Henry, Ashton (Mousinho 16), Bostwick, Laird; Wilson, Bridges, Foster, Long (Winn 60); Reid (May 72), Harrison. Subs unused: Bayes, Charles, Beardsley, Sinclair.

Three points from our old Conference foes but unfortunately not a pretty sight for those watching although there was a promising cameo from Patulea who showed a decent turn of pace and a willingness to work.

A home win on Saturday would be nice.

Ex-Bull Watch

Harry Pell made a 23 minute appearance for Bristol Rovers as they won at Tranmere. Michael Rose was booked as Swindon lost at Plymouth. Lionel Ainsworth scored as Shrewsbury drew with Port Vale. Jamie Tolley scored for Wrexham as they beat Eastbourne.

Stats from Stevenage

Below are the main stats from Stevenage where Hereford United have come away with a 1-0 win.

Possession: Stevenage 50% Bulls 50%

Shots on Target: Stevenage 0 Bulls 1

Shots off Target: Stevenage 12 Bulls 2

Corners: Stevenage 6 Bulls 5

Fouls: Stevenage 11 Bulls 12

Scorer: Colbeck (83)

Cards: Yellows for Fairhurst, Colbeck.

Attendance: 1670 with 125 noisy Hereford United supporters.

Bottom of League Two:

15 Aldershot 35 -7 42
16 Lincoln City 34 -16 42
17 Northampton 35 -6 40
18 Hereford 33 -9 40
19 Morecambe 35 -10 40
20 Bradford 34 -12 40
21 Macclesfield 32 -9 38
22 Burton Albion 30 -6 35
23 Barnet 35 -21 31
24 Stockport 36 -43 31

Results Round Up

The Bulls are now nine points clear of the bottom two, with at least two games in hand, after tonight's results. While a slew of games struggled to get attendances over 2,000 the lowest was at Barnet. The Bees battered Wycombe for long periods but failed to find accuracy in front of just 1,040 home supporters and 480 visitors and ended up 1-0 losers. Stockport gave away two penalties in losing 3-0 at Accrington with their negative goal difference now double that of any other side in the division. Both those sides are on 31 points, with Burton next on 35 after they beat Lincoln 3-1. Macclesfield are on 38 after beating Crewe 1-0, with the Bulls one of four on 40 points. Bradford scored a late winner to beat Rotherham 2-1 to be 20th, Morecambe lost 1-0 at Bury to be 19th, the Bulls are 18th, and Northampton lost 2-1 at Chesterfield to be 17th.

At the top Chesterfield are now 11 points clear from Bury and Wycombe. Shrewsbury are four points short of the automatic spots after a 2-2 draw with sixth place Port Vale. The Valiants are a point behind but Rotherham are better off on goal difference. Gillingham round out the top seven on 53 points after a 2-2 draw with Southend, with the other play-off challengers now at least five points behind. Torquay lost 1-0 at Aldershot and are joined on 48 points by Southend. Oxford are on 47 but didn't play, with Accrington up to 46 points.

In the Conference Crawley go top after a goalless draw at Kidderminster. They are now level on points with Wimbledon but with five games in hand. Kiddy are two points inside the play-offs but York, Darlington, Rushden, and Grimsby can all catch them with their games in hand. Forest Green drew 2-2 at Rushden.

At the foot of League One Swindon now prop up the division after losing 1-0 at Plymouth. Both sides have played 35 games and have 32 points. Bristol Rovers (33 points, 35 games) won 1-0 at Tranmere, while Walsall (35 points, 36 games) slip into the bottom four after they lost 2-0 at home to Leyton Orient and Dagenham (35 points, 32 games) beat Colchester 1-0. Yeovil (37 points, 34 games) are getting dragged into the mire after losing 3-0 at Southampton.

Bulls Record Another Away Win

The Bulls recorded another away win with a 1-0 win over Stevenage at the very sleepy Lamex Stadium.

It took 83 minutes for either side to record a shot on target, with Joe Colbeck's cross/shot bamboozling the home keeper to maintain the Bulls' solid away record. 125 Bulls in the gate of 1,670 cheered the Bulls up to 40 points, nine clear of the bottom two.

Full report later.

More on Hereford and Stevenage from 1964

Following on yesterday's article about an away game at Stevenage in 1964, Hereford United historian Ron Parrott has give BN some more information from that season.

The home game v what was then Stevenage Town, is well worth a mention. I remember the game well as it was a very exciting match and our first ever in the Southern League 1st Division. It was played on 26th August 1964 and the attendance was 2,867 with United's line-up being: Jock Wallace, Rees Thomas, Selwyn Vale (sadly now deceased), Alan Attwood, Johnny Neville, Arthur Tyrer, Jackie Evans, Alan Rodgerson, Brian Punter, Albert Derrick & Ronnie Burbeck.

First-half goals from Tyrer (4), Derrick (31) & Evans (45) gave United an excellent 3-0 half-time lead but goals from Dowling (61 & 79) and a 64th minute effort from Ince dragged the score back to 3-3 with a Stevenage penalty hitting a post and being cleared as well. However, an 80th minute strike from Brian Punter quickly followed by another from Ronnie Burbeck with 4 minutes remaining sealed a memorable victory for United.

The game at Stevenage was played on 14th September and Hereford completed a quick-fire double with a 2-0 win in front of a crowd of 1,500. Man of the match Alan Attwood helped to make it an eight-game unbeaten start to the season in League and Cup. The stylish half-back was mainly responsible for the victory, scoring with a fine drive after 12 minutes, hitting the post in the second half and generally controlling the midfield. Ray Daniel sealed the victory with a well-struck penalty after 79 minutes.

The Hereford line-up was: Jock Wallace, Rees Thomas, Peter Timms, Alan Attwood, Ray Daniel, Arthur Tyrer, Brian Punter, Ian McIntosh, Dave Martin, Albert Derrick and Freddie Jones.

Stevenage Parking

There is a circus on the land normally used for Parking opposite the Lamex Stadium on Broadhall Way. SFC advises that there will still be some parking available on the site but early arrival is suggested. Otherwise, you are advised to try the retail park on the left heading towards the town centre.

News Round Up

Rotherham boss Ronnie Moore opted not to appeal against Tom Newey's red card at the weekend after seeing the BBC video of the incident. Moore, who claimed Newey hadn't punched a Barnet player after seeing the Millers' own video, says the player will be disciplined by the club. Shrewsbury have extended the loan of Wolves youngster Dave Davis until the end of the season.

Bristol Rovers are reported to have only given Dave Penney a six-month deal as manager when they appointed him in January. A report in the Evening Post says Penney held a pre-match press conference yesterday morning with no idea he would be ousted in the afternoon, suggesting he was the one to recall Harry Pell. New Swindon boss Paul Hart has denied a claim by The Sun that he is working for free in a bid to earn the job full-time.

Plymouth's Chief Operating Officer and General Manager were among the 15 staff made redundant yesterday. The Administrator has put Peter Ridsdale in charge of the day-to-day running of the club in order to concentrate on finding a buyer. Season Ticket holders have been asked to pay a voluntary £10 admission charge for tonight's home game in order to get some cash into the club. Anyone doing so will be entered into a draw to sit in the dugout for the final game of the season.

Rushden boss Justin Edinborough is reported to be the latest manager to turn down an approach from Grimsby, while he has also rebuffed a move by Cambridge. Edinborough says that Chairman Gary Calder was ousted at a board meeting after after 'under-hand tactics' that the local press suggest was a move to bring another manager in.

Gillingham have loaned midfielder Mark Bentley to Cambridge for a month. The 33 year old asked to go out on loan last week in a search for regular football. Northampton forward Billy McKay has been ruled out for several weeks after dislocating an elbow in Saturday's loss to Shrewsbury. The 22 year old has eight goals this season.

Grimsby say director Peter Furneaux will quit the board at the end of the season, the second of their six man board to leave since chairman John Fenty won a vote of confidence. Former Northampton boss Ian Sampson, Martin Foyle, and Martin Ling are all reported to have applied for the Mariners' managerial vacancy.

Barnet striker Steve Kabba will miss a month with a hamstring injury. The Bees will also be missing ex-Bulls pair Anwar Uddin and Glen Southam for the next couple of weeks due to injury. They have also loaned Danny Kelly to Eastbourne for a month. The Irishman only signed for the Bees three weeks ago. Burton have signed Nottm Forest striker Nialle Rodney on a months loan. The 20 year old has made two sub appearances for Forest.

Halesowen's chairman has told fans the club will fold in five days unless new funds are found after the club's benefactor - the chairman's brother - cut off funds after the local press reported that he was facing a lawsuit in the US. The press also reported that neither of the brothers had been seen at the club since September, with fans critical of their ownership.

Monday, March 07, 2011

Patulea unlikely to start at Stevenage

Hereford United's latest signing Adrian Patulea is unlikely to start at Stevenage this evening according to manager Jamie Pitman.

"He'll be involved in the squad," said Pitman.

"He needs to get a little bit sharper, a little bit fitter.

"But he's shown that he's capable of scoring goals at this level and hopefully he will be able to do that here.

"If he gets fit he might well be able to force his way in."

Pitman also mentioned the injury situation at Edgar Street in his latest interview on Bulls Player.

"Daniel Stratford has got a sore ankle from training last week, hopefully that won't be too long.

"Dan Connor has worked really hard along with Ryan Valentine and they are looking closer to fitness now."

Meanwhile there will be full match commentary from the game both on BBC Hereford and Worcester on 94.7FM around Herefordshire and also on Bulls Player who have a free offer on at present.

Predictions for Stevenage Match

Hereford United are back in action this evening with an away match at Stevenage.

To enter the Bulls News Prediction League, simply send in your score and attendance predictions to bullsnewspredictions@hotmail.co.uk . Please include your username.

The deadline for this evening's match is at 7.00pm. You can also send in your predictions for Saturday's home game against Barnet should you wish.

Lots of League Two Action This Evening

All but two of the teams in League Two have games this evening.

Full List of Fixtures:

Accrington v Stockport
Aldershot v Torquay
Barnet v Wycombe
Bradford v Rotherham
Burton Albion v Lincoln City
Bury v Morecambe
Chesterfield v Northampton
Macclesfield v Crewe
Shrewsbury v Port Vale
Southend v Gillingham
Stevenage v Hereford

With the Bulls still too close to the bottom of the league table and facing a tough game at Stevenage, supporters will be keeping a keen eye on what happens elsewhere this evening.

As can be seen by the table, should the Bulls win and Aldershot and Northampton lose, then they will move a couple of places up the table.

However should Stevenage defeat the Bulls and Macclesfield and Bradford win their games this evening then the Bulls could find themselves in 21st place by 10pm.
Bottom of League Two:

16 Northampton 34 -5 40
17 Morecambe 34 -9 40
18 Aldershot 34 -8 39
19 Hereford 32 -10 37
20 Bradford 33 -13 37
21 Macclesfield 31 -10 35
22 Burton Albion 29 -8 32
23 Barnet 34 -20 31
24 Stockport 35 -40 31