Bristol City are the visitors to Edgar Street this evening for the Bulls' third home friendly of this pre-season.
Last night City played Yeovil and defeated them 3-0. In their team were two players who have played for Hereford United, Chris Weale and Michael McIndoe but there was no sign of a third, Gavin Williams, who recently joined City from Ipswich.
Dele Adebola scored twice and a McIndoe penalty completed the scoring.
Williams may not play this evening. He is understood to be struggling to be match fit. Also missing will be Liam Fontaine.
"The lads who weren't here tonight will be the ones in Hereford. They will have seen that these lads have earned a decent result. They'll have to do the same at Hereford," said City manager Gary Johnson after last night's friendly.
As regards Hereford United, captain Karl Broadhurst misses out with his shoulder injury and Sam Gywnne is also a doubt after his injury sustained at Ledbury.
It seems likely that Graham Turner will have another couple of trialists in the squad. Hopefully one of them will be a striker.
"It is a challenge that the players should respond to," said Turner as reported by the WDP.
"The higher up the football ladder, the more a team is likely to get punished for mistakes.
"The most important thing is to see steady improvement through the coming weeks."
The game commences at 7.45pm and admission is £8 for adults and £4 for concessions.
Meanwhile Junior Bulls are reminded that they are invited into the sponsors lounge to collect their goody bags and have some refreshments before this evening's game.
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Monday, July 21, 2008
Bristol unlikely to include any former Bulls tonight
More Hereford Commentaries on H&W
BBC Hereford and Worcester's Sport on Saturday will be back on the air-waves on August 9th, the day Hereford United play their first League One away game, which is at Leyton Orient.
H&W are planning to cover a lot more Hereford United away games this coming season and are expected to have live coverage of the Orient game.
However, as in the past, many of these commentaries with only be broadcast on 94.7FM in Herefordshire.
Samson Signing Confirmed
The Bulls have confirmed the signing of Craig Samson (pictured) on a one year deal.
The 24 year old Scot played in the first three pre-season friendlies but was mysteriously absent on Saturday. However the former u-21 international and Scotland B squad member agreed terms for the coming season after impressing many over the past two weeks.
He has played just over 100 times for a selection of Scottish sides, including 35 appearances for Dundee last season. His signing effectively confirms Nick Jordan is no longer signing for the Bulls. Jordan was named by Graham Turner as joining on July 4th, but swiftly disappeared from the scene without any official word.
Samson's signing brings the squad to 19 including Luke Webb, who is yet to agree terms for the coming season after coming back from injury.
News Round Up
Cheltenham are expected to confirm the signing of Michael Boulding and his brother Rory after beating Bradford for their services, with Bantams boss Stuart McCall admitting defeat. The 32 year old, whose younger brother seemed destined to be part of any deal, has trained with four different sides this summer but chose Whaddon Road for League One football.
Huddersfield are reported to be lining up a £700,000 double swoop on Ipswich pair Alan Lee and Gary Roberts. Walsall are considering a move for ex-Bull Trevor Benjamin according to the Express and Star. Benjamin spent eight games on loan at the Bescot prior to his Edgar Street stay, scoring twice, but will play for Chester again tomorrow night on trial.
Rotherham's problems may not just be financial. The pitch at the Don Valley stadium was blasted by Derby boss Paul Jewell, who called the uneven surface 'turgid'. Cambridge's board has been criticised by the fans after accepting £350,000 for the sell on clause they held on Dave Kitson only a week before a £5.5million move for the player would have netted the club £800,000.
Brighton have signed Ipswich full back Matt Richards on a six month loan. The 23 year old played 33 times for the Seagulls on loan last season, and has over 150 Tractorboys appearances to his name. Ex-Bull (I guess that's now apt) Trent McClenahan played for Australia as they lost 1-0 to China in an Olympics warm up yesterday.
Leeds have had a £300,000 offer for Wolves striker Jay Bothroyd accepted, and have reputedly offered the player £4,000 a week. Ex-Bull Paul Parry has signed a new two year deal at Cardiff. Swindon have failed in a bid to take Gillingham midfielder Kevin Maher to the County Ground.
Carlisle expect striker Joe Garner to leave after Nottm Forest triggered a release clause with a £1.14million bid. The 20 year old is now expected to be targeted by several clubs, with Carlisle receiving only half the fee due to clauses in the contract due to the player and former club Blackburn.
Leicester have offloaded forward Louis Dodds to Port Vale on a free transfer. The 21 year old spent last season on loan at Lincoln, scoring nine times in 44 games. Bradford are the latest side linked to Anthony Elding, as Carlisle boss John Ward denies any interest in the former Stevenage man.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
An Alternative View of Hereford
It's Monday Morning and for no better reason that there isn't much Hereford United news about, Bulls News has been taking a look at Uncyclopedia and what it says about Hereford and Hereford United.
Uncyclopedia, "the content-free encyclopedia that anyone can edit", was founded in 2005 as an English-language wiki featuring satirically themed articles. It is formatted as a parody of Wikipedia and aims ultimately to parody all encyclopedic subjects.
Below are a few paragraphs from the Hereford section which has recently been updated.
It starts well:
Hereford is a fine and ancient city on the banks of the River Wye. Known nationally as the home of cider, and of reigning European football champions, Hereford United.
But doesn't get any better:
Hereford is also the only city in England which is forbidden by royal decree from ever having a bypass, lest travellers should accidentally pass through without experiencing the splendours of the world-renowned Belmont roundabout. This wonder of the modern world was completed in less than 10 years at a cost of only 150 million pounds, in order to bring the splendours of the George at Asda range of designer costumery to the grateful populous.
A little History:
After a long and proud history of independence, the county of Herefordshire was occupied by forces from Worcestershire in 1974. During the occupation, Herefordians were forbidden to use their native tongue, known as ‘Erefudian, and instead had to adopt the sub-Birmingham nasally drone of the occupying forces. Brave Herefordians repeatedly committed acts of resistance such as erecting signs for Herefordshire along the ancient boundaries, only to have them torn down by the enemy. They also bravely continued to consume vast quantities of local cider to show their defiance. Many were publicly executed by the Worcester government, and an unfortunate few were subjected to the cruel and inhumane torture of being taken to the Gay Meadow in Shrewsbury and forced to watch the local version of aerial ping-pong which took place there on Saturdays.
And some Politics:
Hereford is ruled by the Monster Raving Looney Party, whose leader, the mysterious Parkabull, lives in a north London squat with a number of rock stars. Although he is never seen in the city, Parkabull issues daily edicts on all issues from religion to season ticket sales. These are delivered through his personal website. The democratic process in the city consists of citizens rising to his bait until they go quietly mad.
The Edgar Street Grid scheme is a splendid project to re-develop the northern part of the city whilst simultaneously transferring large amounts of public and taxpayers cash into the pockets of mysterious private ‘investors’. It will certainly be a tremendous surprise if it later transpires that any corruption took place.
And then Sport:
Hereford is home to reigning European Champions Hereford United, who play at the 60,000 seater San Cowshedio stadium. Premier League champions for the last 3 years, United and their manager, Graham Turnip, are currently the subject of criticism from some supporters for their revolutionary plan to field only 7 players in games next season. Turnip has recently lashed out at these supporters, and it is widely anticipated that Ronaldinho will be unveiled as the club’s newest signing very shortly. Said Turnip, “Ronaldinho will bring the playing staff to 8, thus undermining the boo boys completely”.
David Beckham, who owns a villa in Bullinghope, has been constantly linked with a move to the Bulls, and Beckhams wife, Victoria, was recently seen shopping for jewellery in the cities’ upscale boutique, Primark. However, it is thought the Bulls would have trouble matching his current salary of 3 squillion pounds a year without a massive increase in sponsorship from local websites, which has been ruled out by Mr. Turnip. In a shock recent development however, the Bulls News website has offered 8 million pounds to fund Mr. Beckham's tracksuits, and a deal may now be on the cards. In the past, Hereford United have been sponsored by chicken and turkey behemoth Sun Valley, although there are rumours that the 2010-2011 season will be sponsored by local firm Telekomunikacja Polska.
We've no idea who has written this so we can't acknowledge the author/s. However there is a lot more on http://mirror.uncyc.org/wiki/Hereford if you, dear reader, really have nothing better to do.
The End of an Era for Sun Valley
Subtle changes are taking place at Hereford United where the logos of the main sponsors Sun Valley are slowly but surely being replaced by parent company Cargill. Sun Valley itself is to become part of Cargill Meats Europe.
Whilst Sun Valley is a name synonymous with Hereford United, as yet Cargill isn't.
In fact other than to those working in parts of the agricultural industry, Cargill is a name probably unknown to most Hereford United supporters.
The first noticable change inside the Edgar Street is that the Len Weston Stand, which has been known as the Floors-to-Go Stand for the past couple of seasons, has been rebranded the Cargill Stand.
So who are Cargill?
Cargill was started by W. W. Cargill who set-up a grain storage facility on the American frontier in 1865. The company has grown to become one of the largest, privately-owned businesses in the United States, providing food, agricultural and risk management products and services around the globe. It now has 158,000 employees in 66 countries.
Cargill has been active in the United Kingdom since 1955 and employs approximately 2,800 people in 16 locations: London, Cobham, Hereford, Hull, Liverpool (four locations), Manchester, Runcorn, York, Witham St Hughs, Wolverhampton and Worksop.
Like most big companies in the UK Cargill sometimes hits the headlines for the wrong reasons.
In April 2006, Cargill was criticised by Greenpeace for allegedly being involved with the deforestation of the Amazon. The report traced animal feed made from Amazonian soya to European food retailers who bought chicken and other meat raised on the feed. Greenpeace took its campaign to these major food retailers and quickly won agreement from McDonalds along with UK-retailers Asda, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer to stop buying meat raised on Amazonian soya. These retailers in turn put pressure on Cargill to prove their soya was not grown on recently deforested land in the Amazon.
Last January two so-called activists entered the Sun Valley plant in Hereford and walked past a security checkpoint using the side of a live chicken transport lorry as cover to investigate the conditions at the second biggest poultry slaughterhouse in the UK.
Whilst the aim of the activists was said to be to gather information an opportunity arose and a chicken was 'spontaneously rescued' by the activists.
The one activist managed to open a cage and capture a chicken with 4 security staff and a van chasing him on foot. The other stopped for a couple of seconds to lead the staff towards him and away from the activist with a 'rescued' chicken in his hands. The chicken and activist got away but one male was apprehended by security staff and arrested shortly after.
The rescued chicken was christened Rocky - named after the chicken in the 'Chicken Run' film.
More problems for Cargill earlier this year came when the Liverpool Echo reported that Cargill's supposed policy of only dealing with ethical companies had been called into question after its biggest UK Customer of Oils and Fats, KTC, was discovered to have had 34 illegal immigrants working for them and living in appalling conditions.
Then, not long after and close to Hereford, Sun Valley, the local Cargill company, was said to have an alledged Polish Mafia gang in its midst. The Sunday Mercury said the gang was terrorising the local chicken factory that supplies McDonald's. According to the paper three men were charged after one worker was abducted and others viciously beaten.
News Round Up
MK Dons are set to lose no.1 keeper Willy Gueret after he told fans he wanted out of Stadium:MK. The 35 year old is believed to want to follow Paul Ince to Blackburn, with the Dons already transfer listing skipper Keith Andrews with Ewood Park his expected destination. Carlisle are the latest side linked to Leeds striker Anthony Elding.
Bristol Rovers have rejected two bids from Plymouth for central defender Danny Coles. The 26 year old only joined Rovers in January from Hull. Yeovil are to sign Fisher Athletic striker Gavin Tomlin on a two year deal. He scored 24 times last season in the Ryman league.
Altrincham's home friendly with Man Utd's reserve side yesterday was abandoned five minutes before the end after a pitch invasion saw Alty player Greg Young assaulted by drunk Red Devils supporters. The club may cancel their next friendly, Tuesday's visit of FC United of Manchester.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Ex-Bulls Friendly Watch
Several ex-Bulls were in action today.
As reported earlier Wayne Brown turned out for his new club Bury in their 1-1 draw with Huddesfield.
Tim Sills scored for Torquay in their 1-1 draw with Bristol Rovers. Chris Hargraves also played for Torquay whilst Andy Williams, who was said to be unlucky not to score, played the second half for Rovers.
John Grant played the second half for League Two newcomers Aldershot in their 2-0 win at Staines but Craig Stanley, who is still at Morecambe, was on the losing side against Preston North End.
Tamika Mkandawire is still unfit and didn't feature for Leyton Orient in their 0-0 draw at Boston.
Gary Hooper was brought on at half time for Scunthorpe in their 1-1 draw at Doncaster.
Trevor Benjamin played much of the game for Chester at Vauxhall Motors. Some reports suggest he was instrumental in getting a penalty for his side but the general view on Deva Chat was that he looked unfit.
Meanwhile there was no sign of Alex Jeannin at Oxford.
Turner "away for the day"?
Bulls boss Graham Turner has been reported as missing from Edgar Street today. The suggestion is that he was "away" watching a striker.
One rumour circulating outside the ground following the game was that he had been to watch the Bury versus Huddersfield friendly at Gigg Lane. The game finished 1-1 with Wayne Brown being reported to have made several impressive saves.
Youthful Blues hold Bulls
A young Birmingham City side were unlucky to draw against Hereford this afternoon at Edgar Street. Steve Guinan opened the scoring for United, but quick-fire second half strikes from Stevens and Sammons put The Blues in front. A late Simon Johnson goal meant the game finished at 2-2.
The United team consisted of just one trialist in Phil Doughty, with the remainder signed on or on loan. There was no place for Craig Samson in the squad. Birmingham's only notable player was Franck Queudrue, with the rest of the squad made up of youth players.
The first-half was a poor affair, and the only notable action came nearly half-way through it. Firstly, a long shot by Ashley Sammons flew wide, whilst an abitious lob by the Blues' left-winger dropped over. Hereford's first chance came through a mistake, and resulted in a goal. Goalkeeper Arthur Krysiak was tackled in a repeat of Darren Randolph at Kiddy, and Guinan poached in to score. Just a minute later, Robbie Threlfall's long-range effort flew into the Blackfriars End.
Good link up between Clint Easton and Threlfall in the second-half saw the Scouser cut back for Bradley Hudson-Odoi, but a rising shot was caught. Toumani Diagouraga should have made it two when his powerful surge to meet an Easton pass saw him beat the defender with a step-over, but his shot hit the side-netting. Instead, it was Birmingham who finished their chances minutes later. Jarred Stevens beat Doughty with a turn and fired past Randolph to equalise, and Sammons followed that up four minutes later with a neat-finish after some good interplay.
Substitutions were made by Hereford through the second-half, which can be seen at the bottom of this report. Johnson was one of them as he dragged a shot wide, whilst at the other end, Randolph made a fine save from a Birmingham shot from 20 yards, before a follow-up effort was cleared off the line by Garry Breen. Pre-season so far was summed up by Johnson when he outmuscled a defender, and had a great opportunity running into the area, but a lack of options saw him place a ball harmlessly in the 'keepers arms. Krysiak made a fine diving catch to deny Guinan's half-volley and they were lucky to escape when their centre-half headed a cross against his own bar. The pressure paid off in the end, when a Ben Smith pass found Johnson, who set himself before curling into the top corner from 15 yards. Just before the full-time whistle, a turn and shot from Guinan went into the goalkeepers arms.
Overall though, Hereford were again slightly disappointing. Birmingham played some neat-football, and it was their fitness that let them down towards the end of the match. Defensively, Hereford look strong, but up-front, there is little to get excited about. Plenty of possession for United, but few chances, as too often, there was no killer pass or no threat from the front two. Robbie Threlfall and Toumani Diagouraga were impressive for Hereford, with both showing some fine touches in front of 553 fans.
Hereford: Randolph, Rose, Doughty (Breen), Beckwith, Threlfall (MacLeod), Webb (Taylor), Diagouraga (Jones), Smith, Easton (Done), Guinan, Hudson-Odoi (Johnson).
Bulls Held By Blues Youth
The Bulls drew today's friendly 2-2 against a Birmingham City XI.
Only Phil Doughty remained of the previously seen trialists, with even keeper Craig Samson missing today. There were no new faces on parade and even Graham Turner was missing from proceedings, as were most of the crowd that watched the midweek Wolves match with the gate reported at just 553.
Goals from Steve Guinan, robbing the keeper in a similar vein to Kidderminster's goal last Monday, and a superb effort from Simon Johnson gave the Bulls a draw but it was a fairly toothless performance against a side that was largely the under 19 side.
Misfit defender Frank Queudrue provided the only sprinkling of experience, while the only other name of note was that of James McPike. He received, as an end of season gift from Oliver Kapo, a £30,000 Mercedes.
Full report later.
Blues recognise Credit Crunch
Whilst clubs like Hereford United have a set admission price for all its home League One games, Birmingham City vary their charges from game to game.
In fact the Blues will be charging less money to watch their first game of the season than most other clubs in any of the four top leagues. The visitors are Sheffield United.
In many parts of the ground it will cost Adults £10 to watch this game, Students and Concessions £7, and Juniors (under 12's) £5.
The Blues board says that it 'has recognised that the credit crunch has affected our supporters'.
It should also be noted that this will be the first game in the Championship for the Blues after relegation from the Premiership.
Hereford United travel to Leyton Orient on the opening day. Prices are £20 for adults and £13 for Concessions including Juniors and Students with proof of status.
Harsh Decisions for Some Players
With just three weeks to go before the beginning of the new season some players will be forced to take harsh decisions about their futures.
The most difficult situations often arise when a player is told that he will not be a first choice for the main squad any longer, perhaps after several seasons.
Some will take the view to stay at the club and fight to get back in the squad, others might feel a move may be beneficial especially when they are desperate to play first team football every week even at a lower level.
No doubt Hereford United manager Graham Turner is watching with great interest to see if he can encourage someone who has played at a higher level to come to Hereford. But one stumbling block could be the difference in wages offered.
One such player who has a decision to make is Wolves striker Jay Bothroyd who has a year left on his contract.
He wasn't in the Wolves squad that played at Edgar Street last Wednesday and has not been included in their Scottish tour which started yesterday. Instead he was in the Wolves reserves who played at Chasetown last night.
Leeds United and Wolves have agreed a transfer for Bothroyd, but the player appears to be in two minds whether to move to Elland Road. He may think that whilst Leeds may be in the Championship next season, Wolves could be a Premiership club by that time.
And there is the expected drop in wages for Bothroyd to consider.
It is reported that he is currently on about £8,000 per week. A move to Leeds could see his wage cut in half.
Hereford United are in urgent need of at least one if not two strikers. No doubt the club can not afford the sort of wages Bothroyd would require but there will be more players in the same situation over the next few weeks.
Graham Turner could just strike lucky.
Meanwhile Leeds manager Gary McAlister is set to let Anthony Elding leave Elland Road. Crewe are understood to have offered £150,000 for the striker.
Elding is expected to have to agree to a pay cut wherever he moves to.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Fleetwood opens his account
Former Hereford United striker Stuart Fleetwood has opened his account for Charlton.
In a friendly against a Gibraltar XI played last night Fleetwood scored the Addicks third goal in a 5-0 victory.
Charlton increased their advantage before half-time through Fleetwood who killed a ball 25 yards from goal and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the far corner.
Sale of Hereford United Away Shirts Tomorrow
Hereford United have announced that they will reduce the price of away shirts purchased tomorrow (Saturday). The club says that these shirts will continue to be worn all through the coming season.
Sizes available are (as at earlier this afternoon):
Adult: L, XL, XXL
Children: M, L, XL
All shirts, whatever size, will cost just £14.99.
The club shop will be open from 12 noon for anyone interested.
Meanwhile the club says that the new home shirt will be available shortly. It is currently being printed with the required logos.
Two Youth Teamers Join Pegasus
Two more of last season's Youth team have joined local side Pegasus Juniors:
FTL Futbol Hellenic side Pegasus Juniors has signed two players who were with Hereford United under 18’s last season; forward Stephen Smith and midfielder Adam Bendall. Smith impressed when he made his debut in the pre season friendly against Presteigne St Andrews at Old School Lane last Tuesday.
The newcomers will resume their partnership with former team mate Nick Aldrich who joined the Hellenic side towards the end of last season.
Bulls News Guide to League One Ticket Prices
Below is a list of admission prices to League One clubs this coming season. For each club the 'away' seated supporters price on matchday is stated.
In some cases tickets can be purchased in advance often at a £2 discount.
Prices for concessions, students and juniors vary. At some clubs proof of age may be required. A student union card could be useful for those supporters able to obtain one or a letter from school or college to varify date of birth. For example at Northampton concessions apply to over 60's and students (with current NUS card, or letter from school).
For comparison someone under 18 can watch Carlisle for just £10, whereas at Brighton the price for any young supporter who is 16 or over is £23.50
As regards senior supporters, some clubs allow a concession price from age 60, others from age 65.
Again for comparison, assuming the away game at Leeds is a catagory C fixture, a supporter aged 60 should be able to watch this game for just £11, whereas at Leyton Orient, for example, you need to be 65 to obtain a £13 concession ticket.
Guide to Adult Ticket Prices (seated)
1 Brighton £23.50
2 Bristol Rovers £19.50
3 Carlisle £20
4 Cheltenham £20
5 Colchester £20
6 Crewe £19
7 Hartlepool £18
8 Hereford £16
9 Huddersfield £20
10 Leeds £16 (dependent on catagory of game)
11 Leicester £23
12 Leyton Orient £20
13 Millwall £20
14 Milton Keynes Dons £15
15 Northampton £18
16 Oldham £20
17 Peterborough £20
18 Scunthorpe £18
19 Southend £20
20 Stockport £16 (uncovered)
21 Swindon £20
22 Tranmere £17
23 Walsall £20
24 Yeovil £18
As ever Bulls News will publish up-to-date information about tickets prices several days in advance of every Hereford United away game.
News Round Up
Luton have sold striker Calvin Andrews to Crystal Palace for a fraction of his £400,000 price tag. Palace boss Neil Warnock admitted to the press the fee didn't even make six figures. Cheltenham are considering a move for striker Kevin Gall with Michael Boulding apparently opting for a move to Bradford after they also offered younger brother Rory a deal.
Tranmere have signed 17 year old defender Luke Waterfall on a one year deal following his release from Barnsley's Academy. MK Dons are giving a trial to veteran striker Tore Andre Flo. Now 35 Flo spent the second half of last season at Leeds, spending most of the time as a sub. They are also widening their pitch for the coming season.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Garry Breen "Pleased to be in Hereford"
Young Irish central defender Garry Breen has spoken to Bulls News about his move Edgar Street.
"I'm very pleased to be here and looking forward to the coming season. The defensive coaching has already impressed me and I'm sure my stay will help my career."
I asked Garry about his early playing days and, in particular, his time with Belvedere youth team.
"I started with my hometown team in Kilkenny but if you want to get noticed back home you need to be at one of the big Dublin youth sides. Belvedere have a tremendous record of producing players. It was quite normal to have four or five scouts from English clubs watching the games. Another team, Cherry Orchard, are similar...they've had a good number come through their ranks as well."
Broadhurst unlucky with injuries
Hereford United's captain Karl Broadhurst, who suffered a dislocated shoulder last night in the friendly against Wolves, has been unlucky with injuries throughout his career.
Whilst at Bournemouth he suffered a persistent ankle injury at the start of the 2000/01 season which kept him out for three months.
Then in early 2002 he sustained a broken nose sustained in training.
Worse was to come when in the 2002/03 season he first suffered a broken ankle, and then a dislocated shoulder, which ended his season.
In February 2005 he was sidelined with a recurring back problem which meant he missed an entire year of first team football, not playing for the first team again until February 2006.
After moving to Edgar Street, Broadhurst suffered an ankle injury in the FA Cup against Leeds United.
It is understood that the dislocated shoulder isn't the same one that caused Broadhurst problems five years ago.
Ainsworth awaits his chance
Last July Lionel Ainsworth first featured as a trialist for Hereford United after being released by Derby. This July he will be hoping that his move to Watford late last year will bring more opportunities to show off his skills than he's had so far.
This look at Ainsworth comes from the Watford Fanzine and was written by Chris Armstrong.
Lionel Ainsworth:
The quick winger signed from Hereford United last season and despite some promising outing for the Hornets, has yet to stamp his name on the team sheet. Came to the club as part a loan deal that sent Theo Robinson in the opposite direction, Ainsworth has loads of trickery and pace at his disposal. Bagged two hatricks for his former side last year before arriving at Vicarage Road where he has spent most of his time making late cameo apperances. Figured in the 0-1 loss at home to Plymouth where he was hauled off at half-time despite impressing and started the home-leg of the playoff loss to Hull City, again displaying his impressive wing play. For whatever reason it is clear that Aidy Boothroyd wasn't totally convinced by Ainsworth's performances last year and this resulted in the England under 19's few first team appearances. Has been compared by many to the frustrating Anthony McNamee who had bundles of talent but could never perform when it mattered. In the eyes of many Watford fans though, Ainsworth is more of a complete article than McNamee was and believe that excitement is merely a bonus in his game.
On of the biggest question marks over Ainsworth is whether he can fulfil his defensive duties. At just under 6-foot in height and only 9 stone in weight, Ainsworth resembles McNamee in more ways than one. His ability to get stuck in during midfield tussles is still very much in doubt but hopefully this is an element of his game that will develop with regular football. What he lacks in defense however, he makes up for in his swift attacking. With a low sense of gravity, Ainsworth regularly beats his man and and has shown that he is capable of a decent delivery. One of the biggest obstacles for the youngster to overcome in the coming season is that of Tommy Smith and Jobi McAnuff. With both players firmly establishing their place in the Hornets' lineup, Ainsworth must impress in order to give Aidy Boothroyd some selection problems. With a new style of play promised, and one that would suit Ainsworth well, the Nottingham-born man may well play a big part next season. The manager included Ainsworth in a 4-5-1 starting lineup against Hull City at home. With Tommy Smith playing a more central role and Ainsworth bombing down the right wing, the youngster and the team looked impressive. Passing is something which almost certainly benefits his style of play. When given the ball he is likely to run at the opposition defender, something which every fan likes to see from a winger.
This is by no means a make or break season for Lionel Ainsworth but making some waves would go a long way to convincing Aidy Boothroyd that he should be a regular first team player.
Wolves Supporters salute Turner
After last night's friendly several Wolves supporters have praised Hereford United manager Graham Turner and one would like to see him back at Molineux.
Below are a few of their comments to the Express and Star.
Cheers Graham - still a legend around these parts! Pleased to see him doing so well with Hereford, wonder if he can emulate with them what he achieved with us (ie two successive promotions) - would be very tough but he seems to know the lower leagues very well. And if Donny can do it, then maybe Hereford can as well - Greg Cooper
Top man and great manager! Imagine what he would achieve with this crop of players! Good luck to him and Hereford - scottwolf1
What this man did for us should never be forgotten or underestimated, thanks for the memories Graham! - Loffing Wolf
Total Legend, need to say no more, love the guy - halesowen wolf
Agreed - Graham did wonders for Wolverhampton Wanderers and lets be honest, we haven’t moved much further along the path to the premiership since ‘94 when he left. I wish him every success at Hereford and MM every success in the final year of his contract - I
I for 1 have always thought Turner was a great manager for us and echo his words and hope Hereford do well - Laura wolves
Turner tips Wolves for Premiership
Graham Turner was suitably impressed with Wolves last night that he has tipped them for the Premiership.
"Throughout the side they have that work ethic vital to be successful and that work ethic with the quality they have might just be enough for them to go up," said Turner as reported by the Express and Star.
"Reports coming from Wrexham last Saturday weren’t too complimentary, but first and foremost, Mick has some good players.
"You can see the quality they have up front in the boy Ward who came on in the second half and got a couple of goals.
"He caused us problems and took his goals extremely well, and all four centre-halves did well.
"Secondly, you could see what they had worked on in training – the players carried out what they had done on the training ground extremely well.
"They look sharp and bright. Mick has a lot of experience and will get the team organised, particularly defensively.
"That said, it was our second game in three days and our fourth so far.
"But it was hard work against a very good Wolves side which had so much good organisation and who pressed the ball.
"He’s taken a chance with one or two players from lower leagues and they have done well for him and I hope that continues.
"Mick is one of those characters in the game who you hope does well. He’s always been prepared to lend a hand to smaller clubs in terms of loaning players and that’s appreciated.
"I still watch Wolves with interest – they were my team as a kid and I supported them. So I hope it goes extremely well for him and Wolves."
Graham Turner managed Wolves from 1986 to 1994.
Doughty Confirmed As Trialist
Released Blackpool defender Phil Doughty has been confirmed as one of the three mystery trialists from last night.
The 21 year old had nine games in League Two during loan spells at Accrington and Macclesfield last season after he was told of his release by Blackpool, but failed to secure a deal at either club. He played for Blackpool as a 16 year old in the FA Cup in December 2002.
The other two trialists, who wore no.19 and no.20 last night, have not been named but all three are unlikely to resurface for the Bulls again with Graham Turner's response to a question from the official site of whether any of them taking his eye being a simple "No".
McCarthy happy with display at Hereford
Wolves Manager Mick McCarthy appeared very pleased with his players performance last night at Edgar Street.
“We have still got to punish teams because we shouldn’t have been coming in at half-time at 1-1.
“The grass was cut shorter and it had had a bit of rain on it just before kick-off which always helps," said McCarthy as reported by the Express and Star
“But we can play – we proved that last season. We’ve got good players. If you’re trying to play football and it doesn’t come off then it can look bad.
“When it comes off, it’s particularly nice on the eye. We went there last year and we had a really tough game.
“We got spanked first half, not in terms of the result. This time, we dominated them from start to finish and with the ball, which was most pleasing.”
Meanwhile Graham Turner wasn't so pleased.
"I thought Wolves were far too good for us. It was as simple as that," Turner told the Official Website
"In terms of fitness it was a good exercise, and we were playing against better players than we will be up against in the First Division.
"I was disappointed with some aspects of our play but parts of our game were OK and as a fitness exercise it was well worthwhile".
News Round Up
Chester have confirmed interest in taking Trevor Benjamin to the Deva Stadium. Kettering boss Mark Cooper has confirmed his interest in Benjamin has ended after they couldn't reach an agreement. Peterboro have announced that Aaron McLean has come off the transfer list at his own request.
One of Bournemouth's new owners is former Chester director Paul Baker. Baker, who was also their largest sponsor for several seasons, joined up with another former Chester bidder Alastair Saverimutto to provide the financial muscle for existing Cherries Chairman Jeff Mostyn to take control of the club. The Cherries have also had their transfer embargo lifted by the FA.
Ex-Bull Craig Mawson has agreed a one year deal with the reformed FC Halifax Town. The 29 year old keeper made 64 appearances in two years at The Shay for the original Halifax side. Another former Bull Dean Craven has joined Bromsgrove from Chasetown. The 30 year old midfielder managed only 13 appearances in the 2003/4 season at Edgar Street.
Turner confirms offer for striker
Hereford United manager Graham Turner has confirmed he is in the market for another striker.
"We have an offer out for a player and have increased that within the last ten days," Turner told the Hereford Times.
"We are now waiting for the club to make up their mind."
The need for one, perhaps two, strikers is perhaps the most pressing item on Turner's list. The lack of action by the Wolves goalkeeper at last night's friendly said it all.
Meanwhile Craig Samson is set to become a Hereford player. His confident display in goal both last night and at Kidderminster should ensure a contract for the Scottish born keeper.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Beckwith "Happy so far"
Speaking to Bulls News following this evening's game against Wolverhampton, defender Dean Beckwith said he was happy with the way things are progressing.
"Garry Breen is a big lad and has more than a bit about him. He'll be a good addition to the squad."
"It's probably a little early to make judgements on most of the trialists because it takes a while to learn each others play particularly up front."
"Tonight was a tough test...The Wolves were a very good team. They're all big, strong and were difficult to play against but we need this type of game in our preparation."
HUISA announce first two game travel plans.
For the opening encounter with Orient the Official Coaches will depart at 9.00 am and the fare will be £15. The game against Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup will require a 2.30 pm departure, again, with a fare of £15.
Bookings will be taken in Legends before the evening game against Bristol City on Tuesday 22nd July as well as through the Club office during normal hours.
Improving Bulls overpowered in second period.
Following the somewhat disappointing performance at Kidderminster on Monday evening, tonight was a big improvement as The Bulls, particularly in the first half, put on a much more purposeful performance against a very strong Wolverhampton team despite finishing on the receiving end of a 3-1 defeat.
Manager Turner again started with a mix of established players and newcomers. Early on, Richard Rose was alert to dispossess Kightly as the Wolves winger cut into the box. The game was played at a good tempo as both sides looked to established control. After just five minutes, Broadhurst left the field with what appeared to be an injury to his arm and was replaced shortly afterwards by new signing Garry Breen. On the quarter hour mark The Bulls took the lead from the penalty spot after Bradley Hudson-Odoi was bundled over. Steve Guinan calmly side-footed the ball home sending keeper Hennessey the wrong way.
There was plenty to admire from both sides as the teams played crisp passing football. Kightly had an opportunity but shot tamely at Craig Samson before a good Wolves move produced their equaliser. The play developed down the left flank and a cross found Kightly who hammered in on the volley giving Sansom little chance. Matty Done produced a couple of darting runs, one of which produced a half chance for Diagouraga but a timely interception prevented the Frenchman getting a shot on target. HT 1-1.
Mick McCarthey fielded a much-changed side in the second period while for The Bulls; Turner introduced the returning Robbie Threlfall along with trialist Paul Read and former Millwall youngster Jack MacLeod.
Wolves took the lead after just a few minutes when Stephen Ward created himself space with a neat drag-back before firing passed Sansom and into the bottom left of the net. Neat play down the Bulls right involving Read and MacLeod presented a chance for Guinan but the striker's effort was just wide before Hudson-Odoi crashed a goal-bound shot that was tipped over by the keeper. Meanwhile, Darren Randolph replaced Sansom in the United goal. The Wolves were looking the stronger outfit with Blake showing strength pace and skill up top. With about fifteen minutes to go, Wolves completed the scoring. Randolph did well to beat out a rasping effort from Jarvis but Ward was on hand to force home the final goal. Manager Turner gave late runs to a couple of unknown trialist and also short spells to Craig Jones and Luke Webb.
The game was watched by 1538 with 570 making the trip from Wolverhampton.
This was a proper test in which The Bulls gave a decent account of themselves as they gradually build up to the real business in August.
Final Score Hereford United 1 Wolves 3.
Starting Line-ups
Hereford United: Samson, Hunt, Rose, Diagouraga, Broadhurst, Johnson, Easton, Guinan, Hudson-Odoi, Done, Beckwith.
Wolves: Hennessy, Foley, Elokobi, Craddock, Stearman, Kightly, Jones, Henry, Edwards, Iwelumo, Keogh.