The 22 players Hereford have got ahead of the new season

Hereford will have 22 players at their disposal for the start of the new season.

The 2025/26 campaign kicks off tomorrow (Saturday) with the Bulls facing a daunting trip at Spennymoor. It will be the club's eighth year in National League North, although last season Paul Caddis' side narrowly missed out on the play-offs.

Going by what the bookies and fans alike are saying, the feeling seems to be that Hereford should be in the mix again, but it won't be easy especially when the club are competing against full-time teams. Below are the players that have signed on this season. 

1: Theo Richardson

Bulls fans were delighted when Richardson penned a permanent deal following a successful period on loan from AFC Fylde last season. His performances will be key to how Hereford will fare.

2: Aaron Skinner

A popular player among the Hereford faithful, the full-back was named player of the season in 2023/24. An ankle injury stalled his campaign last season though, so he will be hopeful that he will be fit for the duration of 2025/26.

3: Lewis Hudson

Hudson wore the captain's armband last season and in total has made 50 appearances after joining in 2023/24. However, the full-back has some stiff competition to stay in the side.

4: Gus Mufuta

The experienced central-midfielder joins the club and will be looking to add plenty of muscle in the middle of the park. 

5: Matt Preston

Preston's partnership with Kyle Howkins at the back was key to Hereford last season and fans will be hoping for the same this time around. They will also be hoping he can chip in with one or two goals too.

6: Lawson D'Ath

Another of last season's squad who penned a new deal quite early. The experienced midfielder made 36 appearances last season.

7: Sam Osborne

The attacking midfielder has joined Hereford on a season long deal from fellow National League North club, Alfreton. In 114 appearances in the league, he has scored 30 goals so Hereford fans will be hoping he can chip in on a regular basis this season.

8: Matt Richards

Following a successful trial period, Richards signed a deal with the club this week, adding competition to the midfield.

9: Remaye Campbell

Joining Hereford from lower-grade Matlock in February, Remaye had a successful stint, scoring eight goals in 16 appearances. How many goals he gets this season will be vital to where Caddis' side finishes.

10: Andy Williams

The experienced front-man will probably have to bide his time this season, starting some games and being on the bench for others. However, no one can deny the qualities he brings both on and off the pitch and will still play a key role.

11: Eno Nto

Another player who impressed in pre-season while being on trial, Hereford fans will be hoping that the winger will bring some excitement. 

12: Chris Wreh

The son of former Arsenal striker Christopher Wreh, the 29-year-old made his name at Banbury, where he scored 21 goals in 40 games in 2021-22. That earned him a move to Southend and he later played for Hartlepool. He then moved to Tamworth and played a key role in their National League North title-winning campaign, and in them being mid-table in the National League last season. Bulls fans will be hoping for at least 10 goals from him.

14 Keenan Quansah

The brother of former Liverpool defender Jarell, Quansah arrives from Southport. He will add competition to the Hereford defence. 

15: Mitchell Roberts

Another player who will bring competition to the back-line, Roberts joins the club following an injury-plagues season at Boston.

17: Adam Rooney

The Bulls number-two will no doubt only be called upon if needed. However, there's no doubt his experience will still be key up top.

18: Omari Sterling-James

A late addition to the Hereford squad last season, Sterling-James has extended his stay and has already looked good in pre-season. With Jaiden White, Alex Babos and Yusifu Ceesay departing the club, Bulls fans will be looking at him for the creative park, especially from set-pieces.

19: Madou Cisse

The midfielder has joined Hereford on a season-long loan from Notts County. Caddis speaks highly of him and will be another key player for the Bulls.

21: Ollie Lewis

Lewis is the back-up goalkeeper, who is understood to have been at Kidderminster last season.

23: Preston Bitemo

The young midfielder has a lot of potential, but a back injury curtailed his campaign last season. He'll be hoping for much better luck this time around.

27: I-Lani Edwards

The 'box-to-box' midfielder has joined the club on loan from Aston Villa. It is hoped he will quickly show his promise at Edgar Street.

28: Kyle Howkins

The first player from last season to pen a new deal, Howkins is an ever-dependable centre-back who will once again be key to Caddis' side.

30: Kai Williams

Caddis has described Williams as having 'blistering pace' so it is hoped he can show that in a Hereford shirt and terrify defences. 

Now It's Time To Get To Work Said Caddis

Hereford manager Paul Caddis has been speaking about pre-season, his new players and his hopes for the season which starts tomorrow at Spennymoor.

"I'm not going to sit here and say I've loved every moment of pre-season," Caddis told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"I always want to win, I want to win, win at all costs.

"We've brought in some good players whom we think can make an impact at our football club and we've retained a lot that if we had announced the ones retained as new signings people would be a lot more excited.

"I think we've built a decent squad. I know there's all the worry that we've lost some key players last year.

"But what I would say is hold opinion for the time being.

"I get that they were big players for us but this time last year they were not because no-one knew who they were and I guarantee a year forward there will be some players that we've brought into the building who, hopefully, will move onto the next level. 

"Pre-season can be one of three things.You can be absolutely buzzing with the results, everybody so excited. You can be so negative and worry about the results or you can just be of the mind set let's just get this out of the way.

"I'm sort of in the middle, I want to win as much as I possibly can, I want to build that mentality at the football club, I think I have in the last couple of years, both seasons I've been in charge we've taken it to the very last game of the season.

"I just advise everybody to be patient, we've got a really difficult start.

"It's going to be really difficult, we're up against some really big clubs in terms of their financial power that they've got, full-time, whatever it is.

"We've dealt with all that before, we excelled in it, we've over-achieved.

"I'm committed as I ever have been, I'm in Hereford a lot, I want to do the best I possibly can for my wife and kids.

"Pre-season is finished. Now it's time to get to work." 

Young Keeper Joins Hereford

Young goalkeeper Ollie Lewis has joined Hereford FC.

He tweeted:  'Delighted to be here, looking forward to the season ahead'

It's thought Lewis was with Kidderminster last season. 

More Excuses From Whittingham

Panjab Warriors have released a statement this afternoon which suggests that Jason Whittingham is continuing to find excuses not to sell Morecambe FC.

 

Hereford Squad Numbers

Here's a list of the numbers Hereford players will wear on their backs this season.

 1: Richardson

2: Skinner

3: Hudson

4: Mufula

5: Preston

6: D'Ath

7: Osborne

8: Richards

9: Campbell

10: Williams A

11: Nto

12: Wreh

14: Quansah

15: Roberts

17: Rooney

18: Sterling-James

19: Cisse

21: Lewis

23: Bitemo

27: Edwards

28: Howkins

30: Williams K 

 

News Round Up

Former Hereford striker Mo Faal has joined Port Vale on a season long loan deal from Wrexham.

Hereford supporter Jack Pugh has posted an interesting article on all 24 National North Clubs and how he thinks they will do this season. Well worth a read. https://medium.com/@pughjack10/national-league-north-25-26-predictions-82500927a28d 

Several MP's has written a letter asking Morecambe owner Jason Whittingham to sell the club to the Panjab Warriors.

Kidderminster have added to their squad with the signing of teenage defender Louis Francis. 

 

Who Needs Money When You’ve Got Soul?

Following a summer of parched Herefordshire fields and prayers for rain, the new season is upon us, and as has been the case for many of the last one hundred years a football club playing at HR4 9JU can’t compete financially with clubs at the same level.

However, money, even these days, still isn’t the whole story. The soul and the throbbing collective heart of a huge fanbase at this level is something every other club in this division and most in the one above would kill for, and isn’t something you can ever buy. It’s priceless.

When beautiful, impassioned noise envelopes the old and creaky Edgar Street Athletic Ground, noise that’s either imploring the team to score or reflecting the fact that they have done, it’s electric. AFC Fylde don’t get that, newly-minted Buxton don’t get that; we do, and it’s something to be treasured because it’s not a marketable commodity.

This summer’s approach to recruitment at Edgar Street (er, sorry, Edgar Street brought to you by MandM) has been to add new faces to a core group, rather than the club yet again embarking on another process of starting from scratch. This can only be a good thing, and may mean that the points dropped early last season at home to Radcliffe, Peterborough and Needham Market, as an entirely new squad hadn’t quite bedded in, won’t be dropped this season. That alone would reinforce play-off hopes.

Paul Caddis has, despite working to a budget that’s dwarfed by that of a number of other clubs in the National League North, been able to recruit new players from a level higher rather than a level lower, along with some very promising loanees.

Theo Richardson’s signing over the summer was a huge boost, and he’ll arguably earn the club more points than any other player this season, both through unlikely wonder-saves and pinpoint counterattacking distribution.

Caddis has the option of playing three central defenders and two marauding wing-backs this season, but with the Howkins-Preston partnership solid last time a 4-4-2 could be preferred.

In midfield Sam Osborne is a player I’ve mentioned many times here as a dangerous opponent, and for Caddis to have brought him in on a season-long loan is a shrewd move, if a slightly unusual arrangement.

Preston Bitemo looked like a superb prospect before long-term injury, and can now prove that he deserves a starting place in the side if he can stay fit.

Up front, Chris Wreh looks good for 15+ goals, a figure that’s proved elusive to Bulls players over the course of the NLN years to date, but a figure that’s nevertheless relatively modest for strikers in a side looking to get promoted.

Overall the squad looks stronger than last season and will click when it matters, which brings me on to this…

First up this season is a long trip to Spennymoor on Saturday, which may not be ideal but it’s better than a long trip to Spennymoor on a Tuesday in January.

For the hosts, striker Glen Taylor yet again finished as one of the top scorers in the NLN last season, and it says it all about his quality that ‘only’ scoring 18 goals hinted at a slowing down in the striker as he ages.

Graeme Lee took over as manager in January 2024 (making him ‘long-serving’ in NLN managerial terms), and has done a very good job at the club since then.

He’s brought in Gary Madine to partner Taylor, and the much-travelled 6’4” striker looks like an excellent signing if he still has any sort of mobility and appetite left after a long career in the Football League with the likes of Cardiff and the two Sheffield clubs.

He replaces Will Harris who left for Halifax in the summer, with Harris being ten years younger, so perhaps they’re actually weaker as a result. However, Madine will be a physical handful for the Bulls defenders, if nothing else.

There are perhaps two contrasting things to consider here.

On the plus side, Moors are notoriously slow starters. They’ve finished just a point short of the play-offs in the last two seasons, and on goal difference the season before that, which is all-in-all a bit unlucky, but those finishes have come as a result of finally waking up in spring and rocketing up the table from just above the relegation places.

This could therefore arguably be the best time to play them then, although the clubs have coincidentally met twice already on the opening day of an NLN season, both times at Edgar Street with both ending in draws.

On the minus side, however, Moors are staggeringly good at home. They lost just three of 23 games at The Brewery Field last season. They also boast a very strong record in this fixture going back to 2018, and took four points from the two matches against Hereford last season.

Not a straightforward opening assignment then, but a win at one of the league’s true fortresses would suggest that this 2025/26 HFC squad could finally get the club into those elusive play-offs, at the very least.

COYW

News Round Up

Former Hereford United striker Stuart Fleetwood is back at Newent Town where he started his career as a youngster.

AFC Telford have signed midfielder Khanya Leshabela who started his career with Leicester.

Bradford City young striker Harry Ibbitson has joined Chorley on an initial one month loan deal.

Ben Collins has joined Southport. The 21 year old left back was with Salford City last season. 

 

ARCHIVE | Hereford United 0-6 Manchester United - 4th August 2001

Footage of a pre season friendly between Hereford United and Manchester United has been uploaded to youtube recently. Press the play button below to view the action.

Saturday 4th August 2001 - (3pm) - Pre-season friendly match

Bulls let in six but fans happy

Hereford United 0 - 6 Manchester United

Hereford United: Matthew Baker, Leon Jackson, Scott Goodwin, Tony Collings, Tony James, Mark Williams, Jimmy Quiggin, John Snape (captain), Rob Elmes, Gavin Williams, Paul Parry.

Subs: Danny Davidson (on, 31 minutes) Ian Richards (on, half time) Christian James (on, 62 minutes) Steve Piearce (on, 74 minutes) Nick Plotnek (on, 84 minutes)

Manchester United: Raimond Van Der Gouw, Denis Irwin, Philip Neville, Wesley Brown,
Ronny Johnsen, Roy Keane (captain), Quinton Fortune, Nicky Butt, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Michael Stewart.

Subs: Paul Tierney (on, half time) Mark Lynch (on, 83 minutes)

Scorers: Nicky Butt (23), Quinton Fortune (45, 65), Dwight Yorke (69), Andy Cole (78, 87)

Man of the Match: Paul Parry
Attendance: 4,625
Referee: Andy Williams, Hereford

The report is from www.hufc.co.uk

Hereford United played their fourth pre season friendly this afternoon, at home against a very strong Manchester United side. Initially, Alex Ferguson confirmed that a reserve side would be travelling to Edgar Street, but yesterday a first team lineup was announced.

Hereford United had several injury worries going into the game. Captain Ian Wright, defender Matt Clarke, coach Phil Robinson and goalkeeper Scott Cooksey missed out on the starting lineup. Therefore, Matt Baker started in goal and Leon Jackson and Tony Collings were named in the starting eleven, both on trial. Rob Elmes partnered Gavin Williams in attack.

Ten Manchester United players in the squad has international experience. England internationals Phil Neville, Wes Brown, Nicky Butt and Andy Cole started, as did Roy Keane, Dwight Yorke, Denis Irwin and Quinton Fortune, much to the delight of the young Manchester United supporters. The squad was split in half and managed by Jim Ryan, whilst Alex Ferguson took Beckham, Giggs, Van Nistelrooy and Scholes to Wrexham.

There was a torrential downpour before the game but it wasn't enough to make the pitch over-wet or boggy. The rain continued throughout the game but failed to dampen the spirits of those coming to see the Premiership Champions in action.

For the opening fifteen minutes, Hereford did well to match Manchester in most areas, with the Red Devils failing to break into the Bulls half of the field within the opening two minutes. Paul Parry impressed, as did Gavin Williams, and Rob Elmes had a shot at Van Der Gouw. Youngster Jimmy Quiggin had an effort go wide, as did Tony James, Elmes and Williams.

However, it was not all Hereford! Wes Brown headed over from a corner, Dwight Yorke hit just wide of Baker's goal after good work from Keane and Butt, and Butt had a screaming thirty yard effort that just went over the crossbar. Phil Neville also came forward to hit across the goal, although no one could get the killer touch.

Dwight Yorke went close after twnety minutes, and seconds later at the other end, Jimmy Quiggin linked well to provide a cross for Elmes, who hit into the side netting. Had any of Hereford's early shots been scored, the game could have been a completely different story.

On twenty three minutes, the deadlock was broken. Nicky Butt had a good run into the box and as Matt Baker approached him, Butt chipped the ball over his head and into the net. Manchester had the lead. Three minutes later, Baker did well to punch away a corner and reacted well to the rebounding shot from Quinton Fortune.

Within a minute, Ronny Johnsen had clashed with Gavin Williams in a bad challenge by the Norweigan. Whilst Johnsen had a bad shoulder, he played on whilst Hereford's star man Williams was taken off for an ankle injury. He was replaced by Danny Davidson, a striker on trial.

Scott Goodwin showed up well in defence throughout the first period, going in hard but fairly, and doing well to prevent Dwight Yorke on one occasion. Baker did well to keep Manchester at bay, whilst Jackson had a good run at the other end, and Davidson had a header cleared off the line by Wes Brown.

Just as half time appeared on the horizon, Manchester doubled their advantage. Quinton Fortune had a good run into the box and unleashed a cracking shot which Matt Baker could do nothing about. Half time 2-0, but Hereford will have felt a little hard done by.

The second half started with two substitutions. Trialist Ian Richards came on for Collings, whilst Manchester swapped Paul Tierney for Ronny Johnsen. It started with an early Hereford effort from Richards, which went straight at the dominating Van Der Gouw, and a corner was cleared by Brown.

The extra fitness and skill of the Premiership side shone through as the game progressed and despite a Dwight Yorke miss and good work from Matt Baker, Manchester increased their lead on sixty five minutes. A cross from Michael Stewart was flicked in by Fortune who was on the Hereford goal line, with Matt Baker left helpless.

Four minutes later, it was 4-0 thanks to Dwight Yorke. The Trinidad and Tobagan international striker who cost £12,600,000, opened the Hereford defence before netting whilst one-on-one. However, Parry responded with a curling free-kick which just missed Van Der Gouw's post, and Danny Davidson had the physical presence but not the luck when in front of goal.

The introduction of Steve Piearce did little to inspire Hereford, who were tired and overwhelmed by Manchester, On seventy eight minutes, Andy Cole scored whilst one-on-one with Baker, but the former Hull goalkeeper did well to save later from Cole. Danny Davidson went close for Hereford, but Cole sealed the match at 6-0 with three minutes to go. Baker stood no chance as Andy Cole netted a scorcher from the right.

So, Manchester United won 6-0, but Hereford were not humiliated and the scoreline reveals the gap in fitness and skill, but not passion. The crowd of 4,625 included many Manchester supporters, and hopefully some will return to Edgar Street for future matches at their local club. The gate is anticipated to raise around £40,000 for the club - well needed cash for the Bulls.

Hereford's players impressed all over, including Gavin Williams until he had to come off. Paul Parry did very well, as did Scott Goodwin and John Snape for their commitment. Had the injured players been available for Hereford, who knows what a different game it could have been.

Spennymoor - Match Day Guide

 

Information for those travelling to Spennymoor on Saturday.

If you’re heading along to The Brewery Field for Saturday’s National League North opener against Hereford, then check out this handy guide to ensure your visit runs as smoothly as possible.

Tickets
Saturday’s game is not segregated. Both home and away supporters can buy their tickets in advance online now from the General Admission option.

Buying online is encouraged to help reduce matchday queuing at the turnstiles, with fans able to print their tickets at home or simply show the QR code direct from mobile devices upon entry.

Tickets will also be available to both sets of fans on the turnstiles ahead of kick-off, where we accept cash and card payments. Turnstiles will open from 1pm.

Click here for full ticket information and to buy online.

Parking
There is some street parking available, and the Club also has a deal with the nearby St Charles Primary School where free parking is on offer.

Pre-Match
Home and away supporters are welcome to join us in the Neil Adams Sports Bar before the game where we can guarantee a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all.

We boast multiple big screens and booming surround sound so that you can keep an eye on the other scores coming in from the day’s early kick-offs in the Championship.

Fans are also welcome to join us in the Jason Ainsley Fan Zone where we have upgraded our bar facilities to enhance the matchday experience. This is located at the far side of the Main Stand.

Food and Drink
We’re delighted to have extended our partnership with Caps-Off to bring their highly rated Chicken Ting offering to The Brewery Field for our supporters to enjoy on matchday.

The Cluck Truck proved extremely popular with fans during pre-season and they’re now ready to launch an even bigger and better menu this weekend – you’ll find them in the Fan Zone.

We’ve worked hard to freshen up the Jason Ainsley Fan Zone and you can sample a full range of draught drinks from our upgraded bar facilities.

The Club has also invested in two-pint plastics now, meaning that fans can spend less time at the bar and more time in the stand enjoying the match! Are you brave enough to try one?

Programmes
We’re continuing to offer a printed version of our popular Match Programme and this weekend it’s packed full of quality, including columns from Graeme Lee and Glen Taylor.

Pick up your copy from our Spennymoor Town Fans Group members just inside the turnstiles or from the Club Shop outlet based within the Fan Zone, while stocks last.

Teamsheets
We will be producing an official teamsheet for the game and supporters will be able to pick up copies of this in the Sports Bar around half an hour before kick-off. 

Caddis Talks About His Latest Signings

In an extended interview manager Paul Caddis has spoken about his latest additions to his Hereford squad.

Firstly Matt Richards: 

"Matt is someone we've had in pre-season, he's done really well," said Caddis.

"The guys at West Brom were really pleased with him.

"He's had two senior mens loans which is pleasing.

"He was at Alvechurch last season and did really well and moved on to Leamington.

"He played against us here and did really well.

"He's someone I've been really impressed with.

"We've thankful to have got Matt in."

Secondly I-Lani Edwards:

"This will be his first senior mens loan so we'll have to be patient with him.

"Aston Villa have been first class.

"They understand where we are in terms of the financial side of things.

"We are really grateful that they have allowed us to look after I-Lani for his first loan.

"We're pleased to get him in.

"Again we are going to have to be patient with him, he's a young lad.

"He trained last night and you could see he's got quality."

Listen to the full interview at: https://herefordfc.co.uk/2025/08/interview-caddis-ahead-of-season-opener/ 

Villa player joins Bulls on loan

New Hereford loan signing I-Lani Edwards. Picture: Hereford FC

A 'box-to-box' midfielder from Aston Villa has joined Hereford on loan until January.

A product of the Villa academy, I-Lani Edwards has been with the Premier League club since he was 10. He signed a scholarship in July 2022 and pennies his first professional contract two years later. Edwards made a handful of Premier League 2 appearances last season, with further game time in the Vertu Trophy.

Speaking to the official Hereford FC website, Bulls manager Paul Caddis said he had had an eye on Edwards for some time, describing him as a 'dynamic, forward-thinking player' who he believes can further his career by spending time in senior football.

 

"I want to start by thanking Tony Carrs, Adam Henshaw and all the football staff at Aston Villa for trusting us with I-Lani and his development, but most importantly understanding the financial restraint we have and making this deal possible for both I-Lani and us as a football club," said Caddis. 

"I-Lani is a dynamic, forward-thinking midfield player who I believe can further his football career by spending time in senior football. He is someone I have huge admiration and trust in to come in and make an impact for us, and I am really looking forward to working with him. Further to that, for those who are asking, yes, he is 'someone I’ve had my eye on for some time." 

Hereford 9/4 To Win At Spennymoor

Aaron Skinner With The Ball At Spennymoor Last Season

The bookmakers are offering prices of around 9/4 for a Hereford win at Spennymoor on Saturday.

Given it's the first game of the season, there is little that can be said about form. 

However last Saturday Spennymoor were away at York and lost 1-0.

Hereford were away at Chippenham and lost 3-2.

Spennymoor 15/13  Draw 12/5  Hereford 9/4. 

THROWBACK THURSDAY | The 1993/1994 season preview

Greg Downs spoke to Central News South ahead of the new season, which included the signings of Chris Pike, Howard Clark and Steve Clements.

Another Signing On The Way To Hereford?

There's speculation that Hereford manager Paul Caddis could announce another signing before the weekend.

Speaking at tonight's Fans Forum Caddis mentioned that he is hoping to do a deal with a Premiership Club to bring in a loan player.

That club is thought to be Aston Villa. 

Matt Richards Joins Hereford

Hereford manager Paul Caddis has added 20 year old midfielder Matt Richards to his squad.

Richards joined West Bromwich when just eleven years old. Since then he has been part of the club's youth system.

More recently he helped the U21s win the Premier League Cup in 2022 as well as earning the 21/22 Academy Player of the Year Award.

Richards has been out on loan at Stourbridge, Alvechurch and Leamington. He was released by West Brom last May.

"Matt will add competition in central midfield but will bring some calmness to our play with his passing and receiving ability in possession," said Caddis.

"After a successful trial period with us we were fortunate Matt chose to stay with us and continue his development at our club.

"I am looking forward to continuing to work with Matt and seeing him play in front of our supporters."

Later Richards tweeted: 'Delighted to join, can’t wait to get started.' 

News Round Up

Tom White, the Morecambe player who spoke about leaving the club in an article on BN yesterday, has joined Boreham Wood.

Radio Hereford FC are going back to 4G at Spennymoor on Saturday after trying 5G during pre-season. 

Carson Wishart will be at Spennymoor for BBC Hereford and Worcester.

Midfielder Nick Haughton has left AFC Fylde for Forest Green Rovers. 

Player sponsorship at Chester costs £200 plus VAT. 

Hereford Trialist Signs For Peterborough Sports

A Hereford trialist has signed for Peterborough Sports.

Charlie Hickingbottom played a part in two pre-season friendlies.

But he has decided on a move to Peterborough Sports.

Hickingbottom was released by Barnsley last May. 

News From Edgar Street

A few items of news have emerged from club chairman Chris Ammonds in his latest chat with Jamie Griffiths.

Squad Builder has reached £30K. The Golf Day last Friday helped increase the total.

Season tickets sales continue. Last year's total of 1268 has been passed with sales now just over 1300.

The grass is growing on the Edgar Street pitch at last. The few bare patches are looking better.

The chairman hinted that Paul Caddis might have another new face in the squad before the trip to Spennymoor on Saturday. 

Finally a reminder that the funeral of Ron Parrott, the club historian, takes place on Friday.

To listen to the chat: https://herefordfc.co.uk/2025/08/chris-ammonds-and-jamie-griffiths-provide-update-ahead-of-season-opener/ 

Meanwhile there are a few remaining opportunities to sponsor players. Details from:  mbrain@herefordfc.co.uk

Bond Group Investments Accounts

Bond Group Investments, whose sole director is Jason Whittingham, recently filed their annual accounts.

The Group which owns Morecambe FC have, reportedly, been trying to sell the club for several years.

It shows the group, as at May 2024, having net liabilities of £1,679,645. 

Total assets less current liabilities are minus £29,645.

Creditors amounts falling due after more than one year £1,650,000 

In the accounts for the previous year it is noted that the Bond Group has an 80% holding in Morecambe Football Club. They state that as of May 2003 the investment was worth £3,587,399. 

News Round Up

Chester have signed 18 year old goalkeeper George Barlow. Until recently he was with Bolton's B team.

 Ryley Reynolds is joining Kidderminster on loan from Notts County for a second season. The 19 year old midfielder scored six goals for the Harriers last season.

Fareham Town have offered to pay for a coach for Hungerford fans to help celebrate their first league game at step three.

 

 

Leaving Morecambe 'Most Difficult Decision' Said White

One of Morecambe players has posted that he is leaving the club for all the wrong reasons.

Tom White joined the club 13 months ago but has decided to leave. 

"I've had to make the most difficult decision of my career and I have decided to depart for reasons that should never occur in football,"he said as reported by the Carlisle News and Star.

"What has happened to Morecambe, Bury, Macclesfield, and many other clubs is a catastrophic failure and a failure caused by negligence, arrogance and a lack of knowledge.

 "From the gaffer and Danny [Grainger], to my team-mates, staff behind the scenes and the fans, the solidarity, heart and empathy you've all shown to one another, while trying to find positives in the most horrific situation, will stick with me forever.

"Morecambe Football Club is special; I’m aware that I’m at risk of using all the clichés under the sun. I can’t put into words how much you have all impacted my life and restored my faith in how I see the game.

"I’ve never played the sport for money or status, I play it to be able to represent my family and the people of the club. And I could not have picked a better set of people to represent. 

"This institution needs to survive, and I’m praying it does. Keep fighting and hopefully I will see you all soon.”  

News Round Up

National League Truro face long journeys this season. Their closest rival is Yeovil and that's 140 miles away.  In total, they will travel around 13,560 miles in the league, with their longest round-trip 914 miles to Gateshead and back at the end of October. 

Scarborough have confirmed they will be playing their home matches at the Mounting Systems Stadium Bridlington after the stadium was granted a grade two certificate. 

Morecambe supporters have been invited to watch Bury on Saturday free of charge. The gesture by Bury is note worthy especially since it's not long since Bury had financial problems. 

Caddis & Ammonds 'SportsTalk'

The Hereford Football Club manager Paul Caddis and chairman Chris Ammonds are the latest to hold an “Evening of Soccer” at the Rankin Club, Corn Square, Leominster on Wednesday 6th August, with the Q&A starting at 7:30pm.

Trevor Owens, the BBC Hereford & Worcester Sports Editor, will host the sports talk which will focus on Hereford FC, the pre-season build up, player signings, finances, etc, and will give fans an opportunity to air their thoughts, fears, and opinions ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 campaign in the Enterprise National League North.

Bulls fans have already snapped up over 120 seats for the fund raising event, and the remaining handful of tickets are now available to buy on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Sportstalk and fans forum is priced at £20 which includes a half-time buffet, and entry into the night’s raffle which will include Hereford memorabilia and match hospitality. 

All proceeds will go to Hereford FC Squad Builder.

Doors and bars will be open from 6:30pm.

Tickets can be reserved by contacting John Beaman on 01568 613613. 

Spennymoor boost squad with experienced defender ahead of Hereford's visit

Hereford supporters at Spennymoor last season

Spennymoor Town have confirmed the signing of experienced defender Dan Jones on a one-year deal for the 2025–26 season.

The 30-year-old, born in Bishop Auckland, offers the Moors versatility across defence, able to operate at centre-back or left-back.

Described as athletic, uncompromising in the air, and comfortable in possession, Jones brings a wealth of experience, having played in the EFL for the majority of his career.

A graduate of Hartlepool United’s Academy, he signed professional terms in 2013 and made 41 senior appearances there before spells at Grimsby, Barrow, Salford City, Harrogate Town and Port Vale. He also made 23 National League appearances for Gateshead last season.

He will wear squad number 3, with the move to The Brewery Field pending FA clearance.

Manager Graeme Lee welcomed Jones, saying he brings pedigree, high-level experience, and determination, dubbing the move “a real boost” for the squad as they prepare to open their National League North campaign hosting Hereford on Saturday.

He added: "“Overall, I am happy with the recruitment over the summer – we’ve been able to keep the core of our squad, and added some fresh faces, so we’re excited to get going now.”

Bulls News Prediction League returns again: how to play

The Bulls News Prediction League is back for a third consecutive season and you will need to re-register to play.

The full details are below, but all you have to do is email your score prediction and chosen username to bnpredictions@outlook.com at least one hour before kick-off at Spennymoor Town on Saturday.

No reminder emails will be sent out for Saturday. but once you have emailed your username and prediction to us, you will receive reminders for following matches.

The rules are the same as last season. The prediction league will cover all of Hereford's league and cup matches for the first team this season, with double points being awarded for FA Cup and FA Trophy games - and the final league match of the month.

The final game of the season will be triple points, and HFA County Challenge Cup (technically first team fixtures) will be half points.

There are also points on offer for predicting the correct number of Hereford goals when you don't get the right result.

To kick things off, the first home game of the season will also be double points.

We will endeavour, though cannot guarantee, to send reminder emails to those who have not yet predicted when there are less than 24 hours to go until kick-off. This, however, cannot be guaranteed and should not be relied upon. 

FULL RULES

The aim is very simple: Guess the score for each Hereford FC first-team game. 

SCORING

Points for an exact score: 10

Points for correct result (win/loss/draw) with correct goal difference: 6

Points for correct result (win/loss/draw): 4

Points for correct number of HFC goals: 2

Points for incorrect prediction: -1

Points are only awarded being within one range e.g. predicting the correct score is 10 points, you do not get an extra 6 for correct goal difference, 4 for correct result and 2 for correct number of goals.

For cup games which go to penalties, the points are determined by the score at the end of extra time, or full time if extra time is not played.

Double points will be awarded for FA Cup and FA Trophy matches and the final league games of each month. The first game of the season will be double points, and the final game of the season will be triple points.

In the event of a double points match being postponed or abandoned after the previous match has been played then the rescheduled match will still carry double points.

The first match of the season will also be double points.

Herefordshire Football Association County Challenge Cup games will be half points.

FULL RULES

The aim is very simple: Guess the score for each Hereford FC first-team game. 

SCORING

Points for an exact score: 10

Points for correct result (win/loss/draw) with correct goal difference: 6

Points for correct result (win/loss/draw): 4

Points for correct number of HFC goals: 2

Points for incorrect prediction: -1

Points are only awarded being within one range e.g. predicting the correct score is 10 points, you do not get an extra 6 for correct goal difference, 4 for correct result and 2 for correct number of goals.

For cup games which go to penalties, the points are determined by the score at the end of extra time, or full time if extra time is not played.

Double points will be awarded for FA Cup and FA Trophy matches and the final league games of each month. The final game of the season will be triple points.

In the event of a double points match being postponed or abandoned after the previous match has been played then the rescheduled match will still carry double points.

The first match of the season will also be double points.

Herefordshire Football Association County Challenge Cup games will be half points.

RULES

Submitting an entry

One entry per username per email address (unless specifically stated that more than one person is using the same email address e.g. family members).

Usernames and predictions cannot be amended after the first submission. *See postponements/ abandoned matches.

Try to ensure that your entry is clear for which result you are predicting.

You may predict for more than one game at a time should you so wish.

Entries are to be submitted, by email, no later than one hour before the scheduled kick-off time.

Postponements / abandoned matches

Predictions for the rearranged match can be submitted as normal. If a new prediction is not submitted then the original prediction will be deemed valid.

Ambiguity

In the event that the details of the submitted prediction are not clearly stated then interpretation is at the discretion of the the organiser.

An example being:

1-0: will assume a home win regardless of whether HFC are home or away.

Standings

League Positions will be decided by:

1. Total points
2. Least matches entered
3. Alphabetical

DATA

Your email address and associated information will be processed by Bulls News only for specific purposes relating to the Prediction League. We will not share your data with any other organisation.

Your data will be retained for the duration of the 2025/26 season and one month thereafter. Should you feel that your information is being handled incorrectly, please email us.

Hereford To Play Bath In Women's FA Cup

The draw has been made for the early rounds of the 2025/26 Adobe Women’s FA Cup.

Hereford will play Bath City in the 1st Qualifying Round. 

The tie will take place at Edgar Street on Sunday 7 September (ko 2pm).

Morecambe At Edgar Street In May 2006

With the future of Morecambe FC in real doubt, a look back to May 11th 2006 and a Conference Play-Off Semi-Final Second Leg game at Edgar Street.

Guy's the magic match winner

Finally! They've done it! It's taken three attempts, but Hereford United are through to the Conference play off final for the first time! But they made hard work of it and took the lead three times in total, in an enthrawling second leg encounter at Edgar Street, with Morecambe the visitors.

Unchanged from the first leg were The Bulls, and they began where they left off in the second half from the first leg, which finished 1-1. United were dominant from the start and with just six minutes on the clock Tamika Mkandawire sent the home crowd into raptures, with a fantastic header from Alex Jeannin's corner. The Frenchman though, turned from hero to villan in minutes as Morecambe went down the other end a minute later and Jeannin blatantly fouled in the area, and Wayne Curtis equalised from the penalty spot.

United, with the huge home vocal support behind them all the way, didn't dwell on it however, and continued to dominate, and just five minutes later local lad Andy Williams scored a fantastic goal. Adam Stansfield raced away down the left before nipping a ball inside to Rob Purdie. Purdie played the ball into the feet of Williams who, with his back to goal and a defender behind him, somehow managed to turn and fire, all in one motion, into the bottom corner of the net leaving 'keeper Steven Drench stranded.

Minutes later, the visitors were almost on level terms again when Mkandawire headed a long ball straight into the path of the oh-so-dangerous Michael Twiss, and his first time shot flew inches wide of Wayne Brown's post. Simon Travis then went close for Hereford, as he stung the hands of Drench with a drive from twenty-five yards, before he crossed for Williams, but his header was easy for the loanee 'keeper. Morecambe enjoyed a good spell of play for around ten minutes before half time, but they couldn't make anything of it. Hereford though, finished the half more brightly, and went in at the break 2-1 up.

The Shrimpers were to enjoy another good spell after the interval, not because of they're renewed approach after the restart, but because United gave them much more time on the ball in the middle. And Hereford paid the price for this. With eight minutes of the half gone Danny Carlton broke in behind the Bull's backline, forced a save from Brown at a tight angle, but the ball fell into the path of Twiss who netted from a central position.

Hereford should have equalised almost immediately, but first the tenacious Andy Ferrell was denied, following Williams' cross, by a great save at the far post and then, with Drench stranded but a crowd of players to avoid, Purdie struck the foot of the post from the edge of the box before the ball was put behind. Morecambe took control of the game once again for a period in a second half that they had the better of, and so Graham Turner made a double change, on seventy three minutes, with Stansfield and Jeannin - who had a poor game in all honesty - making way for Stuart Fleetwood and Jamie Pitman. Simon Travis went to left back.

Curtis almost grabbed an astonishing second, but his thunderbolt from thirty yards flashed just inches over the bar, and then the man of the moment, Guy Ipoua, was introduced with eight minutes remaining. However, he didn't make his impact until the game had gone into extra time, having finished 2-2 after ninety minutes.

The first half of extra time saw chances for both and Brown had to pull off a good low save from Gary Thompson while Purdie, at the other end, almost stole in as the Morecambe defence left a long ball go through to Drench. In the second half, Twiss forced Brown into another good low save, shooting from the left early on, before Ipoua produced the magic. He raced on to, yes actually ran, a long ball and managed to beat two defenders to the ball and knock it on for himself with his head, before it bounced at a perfect height for him to smash stunningly, from around twelve yards out to the right of the box, into the far top corner of the net, causing scenes of mayhem in the stands among the Hereford fans in a crowd of 6,278 (including 528 away fans).

Hereford played out the rest of the half with their backs to the wall, pretty much, but did it well with the full backing of the Hereford faithful. Fleetwood had a good chance on the break to double the advantage when Purdie played him through, but he failed in rounding the goalie, not that it really mattered. The final whistle was blown after two minutes of injury time - cue mass celebrations, including a pitch invasion from the Hereford fans. Once the pitch was cleared, the players came back out for a lap of honour, and the delight was there to see for everyone!

It was, all in all, a very entertaining game helped by two sides who went out to play football and win. The atmosphere from both sets of fans was a credit to their clubs, and must have been a huge help to both teams. Now we need to do it all again in Leicester!

HUFC: Brown, Green, Mkandawire, Beckwith, Jeannin, Purdie, Ferrell, Stanley, Travis, Williams, Stansfield. Subs: Mawson, Pitman, Carey-Bertram, Fleetwood, Ipoua. 

News Round Up

Ahead of their opening match against Hereford on Saturday, Spennymoor have signed experienced defender Dan Jones. Last season he played for Gateshead on loan from Port Vale.

Former Hereford defender Ollie Southern has signed for Warrington Rylands following his release from Warrington Town. 

Some staff continued to work at Morecambe FC today despite speculation that the club would be shut-down. 

Ticket News From Spennymoor

 

A look at the ticket news for Hereford's first game of the season at Spennymoor next Saturday.

'Here are all the ticket details you need if you want to be at The Brewery Field for our National League North fixture against Hereford on Saturday 9^th August (3pm kick-off).

Moors will kick-off their 2025/26 campaign when they welcome Hereford to The Brewery Field in National League North this weekend.

The fixture is not segregated, and both home and away fans can buy their tickets in advance online now – click here.

Buying online is easy and straightforward, and we encourage those who can buy in advance to do so in order to help us reduce queuing at the turnstiles on matchday.

Supporters can also pay by cash or card direct on the turnstiles prior to kick-off on Saturday. The gates will open from 1pm.

Click here to buy your tickets online in advance.

Prices
Adults – £16
Concessions (Over 60) – £10
Students – £11
Public Services – £11
Under 18s – £6

Disabled supporters will pay as per their relevant age category and will be granted a free carer’s ticket upon entry if required and on production of any relevant proof.'