Test

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Railwaymen On Track Against Bulls

The Bulls slumped to a 1-0 loss at Gresty Road in today's League Two match against Crewe.

Boss John Trewick gave a start to Tristan Plummer, with fellow newboys Marlon Jackson and Gavin McCullum coming off the bench in the second half, and surprisingly included Craig Jones in place of Matt Done but the Bulls failed to find the net to leave Gudjon Thordarson's prophecy of a 1-0 win being sufficient to come true. Billy Jones' penalty was initially saved by Adam Bartlett, but he converted the rebound to seperate the two sides.

Full report later.

On Loan to the Conference

Twelve years ago this month Hereford United started life in the Conference after 25 years of League football.

The Bulls lost the first match at home to Welling and a couple of days later the Independent published an article which looked at how manager Graham Turner was coping.

Two framed photos adorn Graham Turner's spartan office. Far from celebrating the day fate and romance conspired in Hereford United's favour, when Ronnie Radford's shot found the Newcastle net like a heat-seeking missile to launch the invasion of the parka coats, they are a constant reminder of the club's darkest hour and a half.

One shows Turner striving to control his emotions as he leaves the manager's touchline post - and the Football League - after the draw with Brighton which saw the Sussex club survive and Hereford relegated in May. In the other, his half-stripped players bow their heads and weep.

Similar shots hang in the dressing-room, their presence designed to inspire a "never again" determination rather than self-pity. But on Saturday, when Hereford made a fresh start in the Vauxhall Conference, the picture remained sadly familiar for Turner's team, who opened with a 2-1 home defeat by Welling United.

The Hereford faithful comprised all bar 39 of what Turner described as an "incredible" crowd of more than 3,000. Such loyalty made it all the more galling that his defence seemed determined to accommodate opponents who were robust and resolute yet otherwise as mundane as last season's 18th place would suggest. Two crosses, two soft goals and with half an hour gone, a summer of goodwill was all but betrayed.

One of the ex-League players in whom Turner is trusting, Tony Agana, halved the deficit against his first club. Hereford's full-time status was expected to tell, but Welling, whose edge in strength and size might force a reappraisal of the "seasoned pro" strategy should it prove typical of the Conference, held out comfortably.

Agana was not the only one coming full circle. Hereford went into their first non-League fixture in a quarter of a century - since they were voted in as Southern League runners-up on the back of their FA Cup heroics - encouraged by the fact that Lincoln, Darlington and Colchester all secured a swift return to the senior ranks.

Turner, who works under the title of director of football, admits he took several weeks to get over the trauma of Brighton; or as he refers to it, apocalyptically, "the last day". He was helped by Sir Jack Hayward, who called from Wolves within 24 hours to offer his former manager a family holiday in the Bahamas.

Further heartened by the refusal of his chairman, Peter Hill, to accept his resignation, Turner set about rebuilding. The £110,000 Hereford received from the League, half the sponsorship payment made to members of the Third Division, enabled them to avoid going part-time. It did not ease a long-running financial crisis at Edgar Street, encapsulated by Hill as "living hand to mouth".

"For a long time we couldn't sign anyone, let alone buy them, because of a transfer embargo," Turner explained. "I've just paid my first fee, £20,000 for Neil Grayson from Northampton, but I've been surprised at the money clubs like Rushden & Diamonds and Hednesford are offering players. It's much more than a lot of Third Division teams, and I've missed out on people because we can't compete."

Turner has also had to make staff cuts, behind the scenes and on the playing side. He now doubles as club coach and even mucks in on commercial chores. Only by pulling together, he argues, can Hereford stop the rot.

"There's a lot at stake for everybody, not least me. You're working now to salvage your career. I don't think I've ever worked harder."

Since the Last Day, Turner has made a point of meeting Hereford fans, attending forums and chairing meetings. He detected "a real buzz" in the city, a feeling that the Conference need not be a disaster. After all, they still had their own ground, and no one has to trek 150 miles for home matches.

"The Brighton game showed you should never underestimate the depth of feeling for a small club like this," Turner said. "I've never seen so many grown men crying. But once the public accepted our plight, they rallied round magnificently. We've sold loads of T-shirts saying `Hereford: On Loan to the Vauxhall Conference'. After 20 years in the bottom division, I think people are looking forward to seeing new teams and visiting new grounds."

The more resilient will make a start tonight at Hednesford, deep in his old Molineux constituency, although the sardonic laughter which greeted the injury-time announcement of travel details suggest that Turner will need to turn the tide soon to keep Hereford united.

Friday, August 21, 2009

Live Commentary from Crewe

For those unable to be there in person, BBC Hereford and Worcester will have live commentary of this afternoon's Crewe versus Hereford United League Two game as part of their Sport on Saturday programme which starts at 2pm.

Keith Hall will be behind the microphone at Gresty Road and his commentary can be heard on 94.7FM around Herefordshire.

There will be updates on their other frequencies however on-line will carry Kidderminster's away game at Grays Athletic.

Meanwhile for those exiles in the Stoke area there will also be full commentary on BBC Radio Stoke DAB.

Finally last season the Bulls took over 700 supporters to the game at Crewe which was in early March. Just how many will be there today is difficult to estimate, but with three new signings and a sunny day in prospect it has to be hoped that the fans will get behind the team and encourage them to their first victory of this League campaign.

Godsmark and Bartlett praised by Trewick

Hereford United manager John Trewick has said that whilst it is how the team fares that counts, he has mentioned two players in particular for their contributions to date.

"Godsmark has got a good attitude. He's a busy player, he wants to run in behind people and get into the box," Trewick told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"He's already got two goals and done a lot of effective work down the right flank.

"He can be pleased with his contribution so far. He's just needs to keep it going.

"I think Adam Bartlett amongst the rest can be very happy with his start to the season.

"He saved a penalty in one of the games and that's done his confidence the world of good and he's looked a very sound goalkeeper in the matches that we have played so far.

"I don't really like talking about individuals but those two lads stand out a little."

D'Urso to referee Portsmouth Cup-tie

Andy D'Urso has been appointed to referee next Tuesday evening's Carling Cup-tie at Fratton Park.

Meanwhile Karl Evans will be in charge of tomorrow's game at Crewe.

Threlfall joins Guinan at the Cobblers

Former Hereford United loanee Robbie Threlfall has joined Northampton on an initial months loan.

Liverpool left back Threlfall will be reunited with other two former Hereford United players, Steve Guinan and Dean Beckwith.

In other news this afternoon the Football League has announced that clubs will have an extra day to make any additions to their squads, this season, with last day of August falling on a Bank Holiday Monday. Therefore the deadline will be extended and close at 5.00pm on Tuesday 1st September 2009.

FGR Belatedly Sack Harvey

Forest Green have announced that they have sacked Bulls legend Jimmy Harvey, three weeks after he says they did the deed.

Harvey says he was dismissed on July 29th and is seeking compensation for the 'procedural failings' of his dismissal. Now Forest Green have, apparently, completed those steps - and have formally sacked Harvey for breach of contract after he refused to attend an August 10th meeting to discuss the allegations.

They say Harvey had previously spoke to another club without permission, and signed a new contract afterwards with a specific clause relating to future approaches. They then say Harvey chased another job and 'was prepared not to properly attend to his duties at a match involving Forest Green Rovers FC so he could make himself available for interview at this other club.'

FGR have extended ex-Bull David Brown's tenure as caretaker boss at the club, and have brought in former York manager Colin Walker to assist him.

Pugh And Morris To Miss Crewe Game

Bulls boss John Trewick has told the official site that both Marc Pugh and Lee Morris will be missing for tomorrow's game with Crewe.

Pugh has a groin problem that caused him problems on Tuesday, while Morris was forced off at half time and will not feature. Leon Constantine is also a doubt, while Ryan Valentine is definitely out after his dismissal on Tuesday.

Crewe will not be getting in a new loan keeper ahead of tomorrow's game, preferring to wait on the diagnosis on Spurs keeper Gomes before they know whether David Button will be allowed back to Gresty Road sooner rather than later. The main decision for manager Gudjon Thordarson is whether to stick with their original 4-3-3 formation, or use the 3-4-3 set up that has given them two clean sheets in their last two away games.

Bulls Sign Forward Trio

The Bulls have signed three new attacking players ahead of tomorrow's game with Crewe.

Marlon Jackson and Tristan Plummer have signed on one month loans from Bristol City, while Gavin McCullum has joined on a short term deal. Both Jackson and Plummer played at Edgar Street for the Robins in pre-season.

Plummer, 19, had a seven game spell on loan at Luton 12 months ago and is an England u17 and u19 international who can play both up front and on the wing. Forward Jackson is a first year pro for the Robins.

McCullum, 21, is a Canadian winger who started his English career with Yeovil before spells at Weymouth and Sutton United. He has represented the Canadian u20 side four times.

Both Jackson and Plumber have been given permission by Bristol City to play for Hereford United against Portsmouth in the Carling Cup tie next Tuesday.

Bristol City have also revealed that the their deals are 'initially for one month'.

No Show From Thordarson

Crewe boss Gudjon Thordarson will not be putting on a show for the home fans tomorrow.

He wants another no-nonsense display from his side, telling the local press: "If people think we are going to put on a show on Saturday, then they are wrong. My methods will be straightforward and we will try and build on what we have done over the last two games. We have to approach it in a professional manner with only one thing on our mind – to win the game.

"There is a long season ahead, but if you keep a clean sheet you only need the one goal. A lot of people don't see it that way. But a 1-0 win gives you three points."

Bulls captain Kenny Lunt has also spoken about his return to Gresty Road: "I've probably trodden every blade of grass at Gresty road. I am looking forward to going back as I've got many happy memories of being on a winning side there. But on Saturday I want to go there and win as a Hereford player and help us get our first League win of the season."

News Round Up

Stoke-on-Trent council have denied claims that a scheme to allow businesses to defer payments to the council was designed to help Port Vale after the club was the only business to benefit. The club owes the council a £2.25million loan. Rochdale have signed Oldham striker Chris O'Grady on loan until January. The former Rotherham man has started only three League games for the Latics in 12 months, spending most of the time out on loan.

Accrington midfielder John Mullin is to see a specialist over an ankle injury that may force him to retire. Notts County are talking to Sol Campbell, after the local press photographed the player entering a restaurant in the city followed by Sven Goran Ericsson and director Peter Trembling. The Football League approved Munto Finance's takeover of the club yesterday.

Unibond side Durham have made all their players available for transfer after the Conference denied them future promotion due to their artificial pitch. The decision led to the club's major backer walking away. Morecambe's injury problems continue with recent signing Will Haining now likely to miss two months with a knee injury. Cheltenham have extended Julian Alsop's short term contract for another month.

Macclesfield have loaned winger Tyrone Kirk to Rhyl after the player struggled to adapt to full time football. Dagenham are reported to have turned down a £140,000 offer from Gillingham for striker Paul Benson. Stockport have been refused permission to sign a loan player as they cannot sign more than 20 professionals while they remain in Administration, even though one of those has been ruled out with a broken leg.

Preview: Crewe vs Bulls

The Bulls travel to Crewe on Saturday for a League Two match at Gresty Road.

The pair had a win each last season, winning their respective home games. In March Crewe beat the 10 man Bulls 2-1, with Sam Hewson conceding a penalty in getting himself sent off, while last August the Bulls won 2-0 at Edgar Street with Stephen O'Leary and Bradley Hudson-Odoi getting the goals. Overall the Bulls haven't won at Crewe in six years.

Crewe will be without keeper David Button after he was recalled by Spurs due to their own injury problems. With Steve Collis on the transfer list, the Railwaymen will likely start with Adam Legzdins in goal. The former Birmingham trainee frustrated the Bulls in a loan spell at Alfreton four years ago, helping the Notts side to a FA Cup goalless draw at Edgar Street before taking them all the way to penalties in the replay. He joined Crewe on a permanent deal last summer, but his debut came last week in the Carling Cup. Up front, Calvin Zola has scored four times in four games this season, with former trainee Byron Moore scoring twice.

Goals are something the Bulls are struggling with. Despite scoring in every game, a lack of fitness up front could severely hamper the Bulls early progression. With Lee Morris, Leon Constantine, and Marc Pugh all reporting injuries after Tuesday, the Bulls could be desperately short up front without either Jamie Pitman working wonders, or John Trewick taking the plunge with a new signing. With Ryan Valentine missing, a shuffle at the back will also be required with Richard Rose likely to fill in for the full back.

Crewe Alexandra vs Hereford United, Gresty Road, Saturday 22nd August, 3.00pm.

Gills Want Gowling Deal

Gillingham have offered former Bulls loanee Josh Gowling a permanent deal as he nears the end of his current loan from Carlisle.

The 25 year old has played four times for Gillingham at the start of the season, but tomorrow's match with Hartlepool will be his last of the loan spell. Manager Mark Stimson told the BBC: "We're talking and we're trying to get something done, so hopefully we can take him permanently. I think there's a really good chance of getting him, the kid's really interested in coming. He's enjoyed his time here. Now we're trying our hardest to make things happen."

Gowling played 13 times for the Bulls last season, and was touted as a summer signing before joining Gillingham on loan.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

4-1 looks good value for Bulls

Mike Holden thinks the Bulls could react positively tomorrow at Crewe after that poor second-half against Bury last Tuesday.

The four sides relegated from League One last season have had varying fortunes since their return to the basement and it should perhaps come as no great surprise that the bookies make Crewe firm favourites to beat Hereford at Gresty Road on Saturday.

After losing a difficult opener against Dagenham & Redbridge, the Railwaymen now appear to be settling down nicely following back to back away wins at Grimsby and Darlington.

Meanwhile, the picture looks much gloomier for the Bulls with just two points from the opening three matches in the wake of Tuesday's defeat against Bury.

However, we're still at the stage of the season where it pays not to read too much into the form book and there's enough uncertainty surrounding these two sides to suggest the away win should be played for a modest stake at 4/1.

Prior to their second-half collapse against the Shakers in midweek, Hereford hadn't done a great deal wrong in the opening 345 minutes of the campaign.

The Bulls had been inseparable over 90 minutes of three tricky matches against Morecambe, Charlton and Cheltenham, an extra-time victory over the Addicks providing the only matter that was settled one way or the other.

And it appeared to be going much the same way in a tight opening period against Alan Knill's men but a sluggishness infiltrated their play after the interval, allowing the Shakers to seize the initiative and wrap up the points.

It was a sudden shift in behaviour that mystified manager John Trewick and his displeasure was evident in the post-match interviews, so we might just see a reaction from the Bulls on Saturday as his newly-assembled outfit reach a crossroads in terms of self-perception.

Trewick has introduced 13 new faces since his summer appointment - all but two of them on permanent deals - and with wholesale change comes uncertainty about where the Bulls belong in the overall scheme of things.

So while the prolonged parity of the first fortnight could be construed positively - a reason to stick rather than twist, perhaps - the defeat in midweek might now force them into action as they seek to nip the emergence of any self-doubt in the bud.

(This article originally appeared on www.bettingzone.co.uk)

Spurs recall Crewe Keeper

Spurs have recalled goalkeeper David Button from Crewe as Heurelho Gomes has injured his thigh.

Button, 20, joined Crewe in July on a six-month deal and has played three games for the League Two side.

Either Adam Legzdins or Steve Collis will be in goal for the visit of Hereford United on Saturday.

Mkandawire linked to Swansea

Former Hereford United defender Tamika Mkandawire has been linked with a move to Swansea City from his current club Leyton Orient.

The Daily Mail says that he could move for a fee of about £350,000.

Meanwhile another former player Josh Gowling could sign for Gillingham. He comes to the end of a month loan spell at the weekend and the Gillingham manager has been in touch with Carlisle to see if a permanent deal can be agreed.

No Money for Agents from Bulls

Hereford United haven't paid out any money to agents according to the latest figures released by the Football League.

The latest publication of Football League clubs spending on agents' fees has revealed that the amount of money committed to agents has fallen by more than £2 million in the last twelve months.

League clubs committed £8.8m to agents between July 2008 and June 2009 compared to £11.1m for the same period in 2007/08.

In announcing the latest agents' fees figures Football League Chairman Lord Mawhinney said: "Given the current financial outlook, it is encouraging that clubs are being more circumspect in terms of their payments to agents"In fact, clubs only committed to pay an agent in 6% of the 3,700 player transactions that took place during the course of the season. This is the lowest figure recorded in the five seasons since the publication of agents' fees began.

"I would like to think that in pioneering the publication of agents' fees, The Football League has helped bring this about."

During the 2008/09 season clubs committed to pay agents in 229 (6.1%) of the 3,727 player transactions that took place, collectively committing the sum of £8,809,501. Championship clubs accounted for £7.5m (86%) of this total, with League One and League Two clubs accounting for £1.1m (12%) and £0.2m (2%) respectively.

Nineteen clubs did not commit any money to agents during the 12 months covered by this report. They were Accrington Stanley, AFC Bournemouth, Barnet, Chester City, Chesterfield, Crewe Alexandra, Dagenham & Redbridge, Darlington, Exeter City, Gillingham, Grimsby Town, Hartlepool United, Hereford United, Macclesfield Town, Northampton Town, Port Vale, Rochdale, Scunthorpe United and Tranmere Rovers. A further ten clubs paid less than £10,000.

OVERALL 2008/09 FIGURES (2007/08 figures in brackets)
o Between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 Football League clubs engaged in 3,727 (3,399) player transactions (new registrations/player transfers, contract updates, contract cancellations and loans);
o Clubs committed to pay an agent in 229 (283) of these transactions;
o Therefore, no agent was used in 3,498 transactions;
o League clubs committed to spend £8,809,501 (£11,066,083) on agents' fees during the period of this report;
o 19 clubs (18) did not commit any money to agents during the 12 months covered by this report;
o 29 clubs (23) committed to pay less than £10,000 to agents in the same period.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP: In The Championship there were 1,227 (1,129) player transactions, 142 (199) involved the use of agents;
o Clubs committed to spend a total of £7,541,379 (£9,302,060) on agents' fees during this period;
o All 24 clubs (23) committed to paying for the services of a licensed agent.

LEAGUE ONE: In League One there were 1,259 (1,082) player transactions, 62 (124) involved the use of an agent;
o Clubs committed to spend a total of £1,078,955 (£1,531,337) on agents' fees during this period;
o 18 clubs (21) committed to paying for the services of a licensed agent;
o 6 clubs (3) did not pay for the services of a licensed agent.

LEAGUE TWO: In League Two there were 1,241 (1,188) player transactions, 45 (38) involved the use of an agent;
o Clubs committed to spend a total of £189,167 (£227,686) on agents' fees during this period;
o 11 clubs (10) committed to paying for the services of a licensed agent;
o 13 clubs (14) did not pay for the services of a licensed agent.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Hereford United Squad Details

Just for reference here are the current squad details for Hereford United:

1 - Adam Bartlett Goalkeeper 27 Feb 1986
2 - Ryan Green Defender 20 Oct 1980
3 - Ryan Valentine Defender 19 Aug 1982
4 - Richard Rose Defender 08 Sep 1982
5 - Keith Lowe Defender 13 Sep 1985
6 - Kenny Lunt Midfielder 20 Nov 1979
7 - Marc Pugh Midfielder 02 Apr 1987
8 - Glen Southam Midfielder 10 Jun 1980
9 - Lee Morris Forward 30 Apr 1980
10 - Leon Constantine Forward 24 Feb 1978
11 - Jamie Tolley Midfielder 12 May 1983
14 - James McQuilkin Midfielder 09 Jan 1989
15 - Sam Gwynne Midfielder 17 Dec 1987
16 - Jonny Godsmark Midfielder 03 Sep 1989
17 - Darren Dennehy Defender 21 Sep 1988
18 - Joel Edwards Defender 18 Aug 1991
19 - Craig Jones Midfielder 12 Dec 1989
20 - Darren Jones Defender 28 Aug 1983
21 - Tyler Weir Midfielder 21 Dec 1990
23 - Matt Done Midfielder 22 Jul 1988
30 - Chris Adamson Goalkeeper 04 Nov 1978

Crewe Travel on Saturday

Crewe Alexandra v Hereford United
Football League 2
Saturday August 22nd 2009 KO 3.00 pm.
Alexandra Stadium
Gresty Road
Crewe
Cheshire
CW2 6EB
Phone 01270 213 014

The Alexandra Stadium is a 10,000 plus all-seater ground dominated by the 7000-seat Air Products Stand on one side of the pitch. Visiting fans are given the Blue Bell BMW Stand opposite the towering Air Products. Admission prices are Adult £19, Seniors/Disabled £15, 12-16 £8.50 and U11's £4.50. Fans are required to buy a ticket from the Away Ticket Office near the visitor’s entrances before going to the turnstiles. Credit/debit cards are accepted, as, of course, is hard cash.

Coaches - HUISA Departs Radford's at 10.00 am with a fare of £15 (members £14) Bookings can be made through the HUFC office (08442 761939).
FUNBUS not running (going on the choo choo).

Trains depart Hereford at five to every hour with a journey time of ninety minutes. There are suggestions that the best fare price is to be obtained by buying group savers to Leominster then onward to Crewe returns rather than Hereford to Crewe direct. As you leave Crewe Station, turn left and Gresty Road is just a short walk. Return trains leave Crewe at twelve minutes past the hour every hour until 08.12 pm.

BY CAR - from Hereford, travel to Worcester and join the M5 north. Continue on to the M6 north then (from Footballgroundguide.com) "Leave the M6 at Junction 16 and take the A5020 towards Crewe. Follow this road right into Crewe. At the roundabout junction with the A534, Nantwich Road, turn left. Gresty Road is down past the Railway Station on the left. Just before you reach this island on Weston Road, you will see a sign pointing to the right, which displays; 'Away Supporters On Street Parking'. This directs you to an industrial estate on the right of the road (you will also see the Volkswagen dealership, L C Charles on the front of it). It takes about 15 minutes to walk to the ground from here. Otherwise at the ground behind the Air Products Stand is a pay and display car park which costs £2.50 for the day. Obviously this fills up quite quickly on matchdays." Distance is about 107 miles and you should allow two hours and twenty minutes. Postcode is CW2 6EB.

Alternatively, and with due deference to Corfu's comments last season, you may care to follow the A49 via Lemner, Slopland and Whitchurch. From Whitchurch, take the A535 (sign Newcastle, Nantwich A530) then after about three miles join the A530 to Nantwich. At Nantwich, join the A534 (sign Crewe). As you enter Crewe, you will pass the Shell Crewe Road Service Station. At the lights, turn right onto South Street then left into Gresty Road. This route is around 88 miles but you should allow at least two hours and ten minutes. Postcode is CW2 6EB.

ALEHOUSES - The Supporters Club at the ground does usually allow visitors but you will need to arrive early. The Royal Hotel is between the Station and the ground and has an "away fans" bar with a Sky screen. A fifteen minute walk will take you to The Borough Arms at 33 Earle Street where you will find up to nine Real Ales and maybe a draught cider while The British Lion is just a stroll from the Stadium and offers Tetley's Bitter and Mild along with several others. For the convenience drinkers (fizzy) you could do worse than try The Earl, which can be found on the Nantwich Road or The Rookery Wood at Weston Gate, which is the other side of the railway line. Both provide the usual keg varieties (including 'Bow) together with food and Sky screens. The local 'Spoons is a goldfish bowl type premises in the shopping area (Victoria Street) called The Gaffers Row. Finally, be prepared to be eyeballed by some hefty "door mafia" at locations near to Gresty Road.

Enjoy

Wayne Brown says “Thanks”

Bulls News has received a note from Brownie asking for his thanks to be passed on to Bulls fans.

“Could you tell all the ‘ford fans thanks for a wicked reception. Totally unexpected but I enjoyed it. Great banter and it will always be remembered.”

Brown also admitted to having had a go at his left back regarding the "deflection" for the goal.

News Round Up

Notts County's latest link is to Rwandan captain Olivier Karekezi. He has recently been playing in Norway. Darlington have signed a third Sunderland player on loan in forward Jordan Cook. He played the first hour of last night's loss to Crewe. Cheltenham boss Martin Allen is one of a number of people to be linked to the vacant job at Colchester. Allen has told the local press he won't be making new signings despite injuries in his camp.

FSF Membership is Now Free

Hereford United supporters can now join the The Football Supporters’ Federation for free.

Below is their latest press release:

The FSF is now offering free membership to all fans from across the UK and beyond. We’re offering free membership because we’re geared to creating a larger, more vocal campaigning force for fans of all clubs up and down the country

There has never been a more important time to ensure your voice is heard, and it’s never been easier to get involved. All you need to do to become a member is give us your name and email address – it’s that simple. Sign up today via our join page at http://www.fsf.org.uk/join.php.

All newly joining members are entitled to a free issue of The Football Supporter magazine delivered straight to your door, absolutely free of charge, as well as receiving a £5 discount from TOFFS, the UK’s largest retailer of retro football shirts, just as our thank you to you for getting involved. You can use the code as many times as you like between now and the end of the year, too. You can’t say fairer than that, surely?

Everyone who signs up before 31st August will also be entered into a free prize draw to win a retro shirt of their choice, so you’ve really got nothing to lose.

Get involved today – visit www.fsf.org.uk/join.php and give us 30 seconds of your time, and become part of something. Feel free to pass this on to family, friends, colleagues or any messageboards, blogs or email lists you frequent.

If you've got any questions about free membership, then get in touch with us at info@fsf.org.uk.

A Game of Two Halves - Trewick

Last night wasn't the easiest interview for John Trewick after the disappointment of a 3-1 defeat by Bury and the Hereford United manager appeared annoyed at some of the questions put to him by BBC Hereford and Worcester's Keith Hall.

"You are very negative with everything you are saying to me," said Trewick.

"I know I've been beaten. There was nothing at all wrong with the first half performance. There were defensive frailties in the second half no question and we put on a disappointing performance in the second half.

"But every question you are putting to me is very very negative."

Hall then asked Trewick if he could 'give us some positives from that then'?

"The first half performance, I've just given it.

"We were much better than them, simple as that."

Finally Hall asked Trewick about extra players.

"We've been trying to get people in for a matter of weeks. It is not as easy as you might think.

"A lot of the targets have gone to championship and first division sides.

"We are looking continually and I've got two or three strikers coming in at the end of this week. We obviously need to build up the squad. It's as simple as that.

"We know what we have to do. It's just doing it. That's the difficult part."

Paint Trophy Prices

Kids for a quid when accompanied by an 'full price paying' adult is the 'special' offer for the Paint Trophy game against Bristol Rovers at Edgar Street on Septenmber 1st.

However, according to Bristol Rovers, these tickets must be purchased in advance.

Adults £10
Concessions £5

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Reality Check for Trewick

Last night's 3-1 defeat of Hereford United by Bury Town showed how thin the Bulls attack really is.

Whilst to have two strikers leave the pitch with an injury is unlikely, to have no striker on the bench to take either's place is not realistic.

Lee Morris didn't appear for the second half so Marc Pugh joined Leon Constantine, pictured at Morecambe, up front. When Constantine came off after 70 minutes Jonny Godsmark joined Pugh in attack.

Whilst this tactic just might have worked had the rest of the side tried to play the ball to them, it was never going to work with continual high balls.

To expect two players of around 5ft 8in and 5ft 6in to beat two relatively tall defenders in the air was hoping against hope.

One would have thought captain Lunt might have had more influence over the way his side were playing at this stage of the game.

Trewick has continually said that he needs more strikers. Apparantly there have been several on trial at various times over the past few weeks, but for whatever reason he has not signed any of them to date.

If they are not good enough then fair enough. If they are good enough and he hasn't the money in the budget to pay them what they want, then also fair enough.

Chairman Graham Turner will, no doubt, have noted the situation. If the problem is that Trewick can not sign a striker within budget, perhaps Turner should dig a little deeper. There will be little point in spending money rebuilding the Blackfriars End if Hereford are playing in the Conference next season.

Two points out of a possible nine isn't the best start to the season. Trewick needs a league win under his belt just like the rest of the team.

Defeat at Crewe on Saturday, could mean a disappointing gate for the following home game against Port Vale on August 29th.

Speculate to accumulate.

Good result for us - Bury Manager

Bury manager, Alan Knill, gave these quotes to the press after last night's game at Edgar Street.

“We were excellent, especially in the second half,” said Knill. “There were a few things we weren't happy with at half-time, but we did everything right in the second period and it was a good result for us.

“I know I have got players that, if you give them the ball, they look dangerous. Everyone thought it was a disaster when we lost 3-0 on the opening day, but the players have put it right with two away victories.

“Ryan is a natural goalscorer, who has got great technique, and we saw that last season when he scored 18 goals in a Chester team that struggled. If we can supply him, he will score goals.”

Ex-Bull Watch

Paul Parry scored Preston's opener as they won 3-0 at Barnsley. Theo Robinson, on the pitch for 32 minutes, scored twice as Huddersfield spanked Brighton 7-1. Tamika Mkandawire opened the scoring, but then was guilty for a short back-pass that led to the winner, as Leyton Orient lost to Charlton. Joe Anyinsah scored the winner as Carlisle won 2-1 at Stockport.

Chris Hargreaves was booked as Torquay won at Burton, with Tony James still waiting on his League debut. Steve Guinan scored his first Northampton goal, and their first of the season, as they won 3-0 at Accrington.

Results Round Up

Dagenham and Bournemouth lead the table with maximum points after the Dagger hammered Shrewsbury 5-0, with Paul Benson scoring four, and the Cherries won 1-0 at home to Aldershot. Cheltenham are third on seven points after a Banana Alsop late effort gave them a 1-0 win over Rochdale. Notts County can go top with a win over Chesterfield on Wednesday night, but are currently one of six sides on six points. Crewe head that pile after a 1-0 win at Darlington, with Torquay and Lincoln winning 2-0 away at Burton and Bradford respectively. Rotherham won 2-1 at bottom side Grimsby.

At the bottom of the early table, with the Mariners, are Darlington with the two sides pointless. Morecambe lost 2-0 at Barnet to leave them with the only point coming from the opening day against the Bulls, and Port Vale's 2-0 loss at Macclesfield keeps up their poor start to the season. Northampton picked up their first win, and goals, in beating Accrington 3-0.

In the Conference Chester's season goes from bad to worse with their second four goal pummelling in a week, this time without reply in a 4-0 loss at leaders Oxford. Altrincham continue their unlikely march towards early safety with a 2-1 win over Histon to keep them second. Kidderminster's goalscoring problems continue as they lose 1-0 at home to Kettering, while Luton win 1-0 at Forest Green.

Bury take spoils with second period dominance

The Bulls fell to a pair of Ryan Lowe second half goals after a first half that was evenly contested and had seen strikes from both sides. The late sending off of defender Ryan Valentine added to a sorry evening for the home side.

Manager Trewick made changes from the Cheltenham line-up with Marc Pugh making a welcome return from illness while Keith Lowe started alongside Dennehy and Glen Southam replacing McQuilkin in midfield. For Bury, former Bulls stopper Wayne Brown received generous applause on his return to Edgar Street.

Hereford started brightly attacking the Meadowend with Brown brought into action just seconds after the kick-off. Lunt fed Constantine whose crisp effort was gathered safely. Shortly afterwards, Pugh burst down the left before crossing to Constantine. The big striker laid it off to Godsmark whose snap shot was parried wide by Brown for a corner.

At the other end, Worrall made a run into the danger area but his dinked ball into the box only found Bartlett who was quickly out to gather. A Morris, Constantine combination almost produced a chance for Pugh but the ball skidded through to Brown.

Then with the game just over ten minutes old, Dennehy was penalised for what seemed a high boot on the edge of the area. Michael Jones stepped up to curl a shot over the wall and into the top corner of the net to give Bury a flattering early lead.

Undeterred, The Bulls immediately went back on the attack with Green and Southam prominent in several neat moves down the right flank. One such interchange producing an opportunity for Godsmark whose low strike was deflected for a corner. Then another sweet move from Green and Southam found Constantine on the edge of the box and the striker found the net with a low shot that cannoned in off the upright. A similar move saw Green’s shot scrambled clear before a let-off when Bury fullback Buchanan headed wide when well placed at the back post.

Just after the half hour mark, a much-improved Constantine released Pugh whose early cross was cleared by Futcher with Morris waiting inside the six-yard box. Morris again came close when Ryan Green's clipped through ball found the striker but his shot missed the post by inches with Brown at full stretch. As the half-time break approached, Constantine was on the receiving end of a robust Sodje challenge but the resulting free kick was cleared up field.

HT HUFC 1 BURY 1

While the first half had produced plenty of decent play with The Bulls looking the most likely to go on to win, the half-time dressing room talks clearly had more effect on the Lancashire side. The second period saw the Shakers produce a far more workmanlike performance as they quickly closed down the Hereford possession and grabbed control of the game. Trewick had withdrawn Morris at the break moving Marc Pugh to a central striking role while Matty Done joined in his customary wide left position. Whilst there seemed logic to adding pace to the strike partnership, the change failed to produce anything like a positive response. Constantine, who had caused problems in the first period appeared to go back into his shell and Matty Done didn’t have the space afforded earlier to Pugh. In midfield, Bury showed more urgency going down the slope. Ryan Lowe's movement created space for him to test Bartlett who held a sharp drive but soon after, Lowe came off his marker to play a wall pass on the edge of the box. The return ball found him unmarked 12 yards out and he calmly fired passed Bartlett to give Bury a deserved lead.

Although The Bulls continued graft away, the swift pressure of the Bury unit restricted the home side to far too much sideways and backwards passing. The increasingly desperate Bulls collected bookings for Southam and Valentine as Bury continued to attack. Lowe was lucky when his gift to Lowe was lifted over the bar but the striker made no mistake when cleverly beating the offside trap and firing home from inside the box.

Constantine had been replaced by Jamie Tolley in a reshuffle that saw Southam move to the right, and Jonny Godsmark join Pugh up front but Futcher and Sodje were not undone as they continued to lap up Hereford’s lofted forward balls. The one real chance to fall to The Bulls in the second came when a lapse of concentration saw Southam ghost in from the right but Brown was alert to the danger and was quickly out to clear. Valentine received his second yellow and a swiftly followed red for a needless tug on his wingman to bring the final woe to a poor result.

FT HUFC 1 BURY 3

After a first half that promised much, the second period display did little more than emphasise the lack of attacking options available and The Shakers ran out comfortable winners in front of 2321 including 217 from the north.

HUFC: - Bartlett; Green, Lowe, Dennehy, Valentine; Godsmark, Southam, Lunt, Pugh; Constantine (Tolley, 70 min), Morris (Done, 46 min).
Subs not used: Adamson, Rose, D Jones, Gwynne, McQuilkin.

BURY: - Brown; Scott, Futcher, Sodje, Buchanan; Worrall, Dawson, Barry-Murphy, Jones (Racchi, 84 min); Lowe (Johnson, 88 min), Rouse (Morrell, 73 min).
Subs not used: Cresswell, Baker, Belford.

Both Strikers had Injuries said Trewick

Both Hereford United strikers had knocks during this evening's game against Bury and had to come off revealed manager John Trewick.

"There was nothing wrong with the first half performance apart from their goal," said Trewick.

"We really should have been going in two or three ahead at the break, there's no question about that.

"But we gave away a couple of really poor goals in the second half and we can't continue to do that.

"The turnaround in the second half baffled me.

"Obviously the loss of Lee Morris with an injury, Leon was complaining about an injury as well, Marc Pugh has come off with a knock, so we suffered with a few problems like that.

"It was very disappointing."

Trewick's comments are from his post-match interview with the Official Website.