Gills Set For Discrimination Case

The Bulls travel to Gillingham on Tuesday with the Gills rocked by revelations that they are to be sued by a former player.

Mark McCammon is taking the club to an employment tribunal claiming the club treated its black players differently over fines, medical treatment, and wage reductions following relegation. The club has issued a brief statement denying the claims.

Striker McCammon, 33 and now at Lincoln, is claiming racial discrimination and unfair dismissal after being released at the end of his three year deal in 2011 after an injury-plagued time at the club. He claimed in 2010 that then manager Mark Stimson "may be trying to force me out" and that teammates had remarked to him that the treatment he was receiving "appears to be personal".

The final year of his deal, last season, he made just five sub appearances in the League and one JPT start for Andy Hessenthaler's side, and failed to make a first team appearance in the final six months of the season.

The PFA have already tried to mediate in the matter with chief Gordon Taylor telling the press it was a 'very unusual case'.

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News Round-Up

Shrewsbury have extended the loan of Romaine Sawyers from West Brom until the end of the season. The 20 year old midfielder has started one game and made three sub appearances since signing on deadline day. Cheltenham are to loan Yeovil forward Steve MacLean for an initial month. The 29 year old is out of favour at Huish Park after allegedly aiming an insulting gesture at the bench in a recent game.

Bournemouth chairman Eddie Mitchell has hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons again after swearing three times while being interviewed live on 5live last night. Mitchell, who last season was filmed confronting fans whilst apparently the worse for wear, admitted during the interview that the wife of the new Russian investor had gone into the dressing rooms at half time but that she neither spoke much English nor knew anything about football.

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Gillingham Travel – Tuesday

Gillingham v Hereford United

Football League 2

Tuesday 28^th February 2012 KO 7.45pm

Priestfield Stadium

Redfern Avenue

Gillingham

Kent

ME7 4DD

Phone 01634 300000

Gillingham trace their history back to 1893 with the formation of New Brompton FC. Share capital was issued at £1500 and a plot of land purchased for £600 that was to become known as Priestfield Stadium. They became a professional Club the following year at the same time as becoming founder members of The Southern League. The name was changed to Gillingham in 1913 and in 1920, they joined the Football League. A further spell outside the League between 1938 and 1950 preceded a promotion in 1964 to the then Division 3 where they stayed until 1989. Financial problems followed and The Club eventually fell into administration in 1995. With total extinction looming, it was the eleventh hour takeover by Paul Scally that ensured the continuance.

They are currently managed by former player Andy Hessenthaler who is in his second spell as The Gills boss.

Priestfield is barely recognisable from the stadium that was taken over by Scally and boasts three newish stands at the only League ground in Kent. The old Town End terrace was demolished in 2004 to make way for the proposed Brian Moore Stand but, so far, only a temporary seated but uncovered structure accommodates the visiting fans. Admission is £20 for adults, Over 65’s £19, 16-21 £16, U16’s £11 and U12’s £7. It is assumed that the tickets sold for the earlier postponed match will be valid.

BY CAR – Travel to Gloucester then follow the signs for Cirencester and Swindon to join the M4 east (sign London). Continue on the M4 before joining the M25 anti-clockwise at Junction 4A (sign South, Gatwick). At junction 5 of the M25, take the M26 and then continue onto the M20. At M20 J6, take the A229 north to connect with the M2 at J3. Follow the M2 eastwards to leave at J4 where you take the A278 for Gillingham. At the third roundabout, take the first exit onto the A2. At the Premier Inn roundabout on the A2, take the third exit onto the A289 then at the next roundabout take the first exit onto Cornwallis Avenue. Cross the traffic lights before turning right onto Toronto Road then second left into Redfern Avenue. Priestfield Stadium will be on your left. Postcode is ME7 4DD, mileage approximately 190 miles and you should allow at least 4 hours. Parking is mainly in the streets but you should note that many streets are “permit only” and the local traffic wardens relish match-days at Priestfield. Fortunately, the town centre is close enough to provide parking and to walk to the stadium.

TRAIN – Hereford to London Paddington then either Victoria or Charing Cross to Gillingham station, which is a ten-minute walk to the stadium.

REFRESHMENTS – The Dog and Bone on Jeffrey Street is close to the train station and offers a decent range but no food. The Frog and Toad on Burnt Oak Terrace and the Will Adams on Saxton Street are both worth a visit. The Livingstone Arms, which is about a hundred yards from the visitor’s turnstile on Gillingham Road is a recognised away fans Pub. There are two chip shops on Gillingham Road just a few minutes from the ground.

Enjoy.

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17/4 - Bulls to win at Gillingham

A price of 17/4 is available for a Hereford United win over Gillingham in Kent on this coming Tuesday evening. At present this price is being offered by 188Bet.

Top price for a draw is 14/5 from Boylesports.

Latest Offer from SkyBet:

Gills 8/13 Draw 13/5 Hereford 7/2.

Yesterday Gillingham defeated Torquay 2-0. It was the Gills first win in eight.

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Nibbo's London Marathon Run 2012

Hereford United photographer Steve Niblett is running the London Marathon on April 22nd and he hoping to raise funds for two charities.

They are the Adam Stansfield Foundation and the Herefordshire Carers Support charities.

A few words from Nibbo:

For those who are Hereford United fans will know of Adam Stansfield, Hereford's centre forward for 2004-5 and 2005-6 seasons and was a integral member of the Promotion squad. Sadly Adam died nearly 2 years ago of bowel cancer aged just 29 leaving Marie and 3 children behind. Adam's family have set up the foundation to perpetuate his memory and support local under 16's football teams. It's poignant for me as I had bowel cancer at 25 but have been lucky to have a 2nd chance.

The second charity is the Herefordshire Carers Support charity based in Canal Road Hereford. There's around 30,000 unpaid carers in Herefordshire and they need support, and that is just what this charity does. Providing advice, practical help, equipment, social clubs for the younger carers are just a few ways they contribute to and support the local community. A really admirable cause.

It will be Nibbo's 3rd London Marathon after competing in the 2000 & 2001 events. He's already lost several stone in weight to, as he says, give him a good chance of getting to the end of the marathon.

Please consider giving Nibbo a donation (www.virginmoneygiving.com/nibbo) and if you specify gift aid then the charities will receive 25% extra. Well over £1200 has already been promised, his target is £2000.

Meanwhile Steve's wig was given to him by the Tupsley Bulls at the photographer's birthday bash last weekend.

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Sly shove denies Bulls three points

A dubious late equaliser cancelled out Byron Anthony’s first goal for The Bulls as Hereford claimed a point at Bradford City this afternoon.

Manager Pitman named a side that saw the return of Dave Cornell and a move to central defence for Will Evans following the withdrawal of virus-stricken Ryan Green.  Tom Barkhuizen started wide right with Delroy Facey up to in a 4-5-1 that had Lyle Taylor on the opposite flank.

The Bulls started brightly and Rob Purdie tested the home keeper in the first minute following good work by Purkiss and Facey.  An early cross from Kyel Reid was headed away for a corner by Evans which was easily cleared.  Home striker Nahki Wells demonstrated his ability to fall over whenever he was in or around the box but found his match when captain Purdie whipped the ball off his toe as he shaped to shoot.  Kenny Lunt’s quick throw was crossed by Barkhuizen but Facey’s header went just wide of the goal.  Taylor’s clever ball from the right was cleared as Featherstone advanced and a Lunt through ball was only just short of putting Facey in on goal.

At the other end, Reid’s cross-shot was tipped over the bar by Cornell before Taylor again showed good skill to create a chance for Featherstone but the Bull’s midfielder saw his effort from a narrow angle smothered on the line by keeper McLaughlin.  Barkhuizen lined up a long throw but Lunt made a short run and turned his marker before clipping a cross which was scrambled away for another fruitless corner.  As the half closed, Taylor launched a shot from 40 yards that flew high into Row Z of the home end.

HT  Bradford 0  Bulls 0

The Bulls had a penalty claim waived aside when a home defender clearly punched away when a cross swung dangerously into the home area.  One can only assume that the referee was unsighted.  Andrew Davies headed over for The Bantams when well placed before the inspirational Rob Purdie went on a 60-yard run that ended with Barkhuizen’s shot being blocked for a corner.  Simon Clist was outpaced by Wells and the striker, predictably, went to ground to win a free kick just outside the box but The Bulls defence cleared up field.  As the hosts came forward again Purdie dispossessed Reid and broke forward at pace to deliver a driven cross which Facey flicked goalward but his effort was blocked for a corner. 

The initial second period of footballing thrusts soon degenerated into a period of poor quality with the ball careering from one end to the other.  A loose ball from Barks led to a Bantam’s break was Evans was on hand to clear at the expense of a corner, which Facey met with a thumping clearance.  Bradford threw on a couple of substitutes in an attempt to take the initiative but it was The Bulls who found the net with just eight minutes remaining.  Barkhuizen’s throw found Facey and he held off a challenge before turning and crossing for Byron Anthony to head home from 8 yards with the keeper flat-footed.

Bradford pressed forward in search of the equaliser and when Clist’s clearance off the line went for a corner, The Bulls chose to take off Kenny Lunt and add height to the team in the form of Harry Pell.  As the corner came in from the far side, Pell was shoved in the back by a Bradford player to leave the way clear for Syers who placed his header in at the far post.  The Bantams pushed for the winner and Ben Purkiss collected his second yellow of the match to leave The Bulls to hang on with ten men for the final few minutes.

FT  Bradford 1  Bulls 1

Hereford: Cornell, Purkiss, Anthony, Evans, Clist, Barkhuizen, Lunt (Pell 87), Purdie, Featherstone, Taylor (Colbeck 71), Facey. Subs not used: Bartlett, Arquin, Elder.

Bradford: McLaughlin, Seip, Davies, Bullock, Kozluk, Reid, Ravenhill, Jones, Smalley (Atkinson 81), Flynn (Syers 65), Wells (Hannah 89). Subs not used: Annerson, Fry, Hannah.

Attendance 17014 (largely at £1 each) with 111 from The Shire (at £20).

Most would have taken a point before kick-off but taking the lead with just seven or eight minutes remaining and then conceding makes this a slightly disappointing result.  In the first half, The Bulls gave a good as they got.  The second period was less even but the goal was, nonetheless deserved and it does chew on the patience when a referee who, in general, had been fairly fussy failed to spot both the shove on HP and the clear handball.

Gillingham won’t be any easier.

See you there on Tuesday.

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Players Reaction After Draw At Bradford

Here are a few of the reactions from Hereford United players after this afternoon's 1-1 draw at Bradford.

Goalscorer Byron Anthony: Thanks for the messages tweeps, delighted with the goal but gutted not to come away with 3pts. On to tuesdays game we go.

Nicky Featherstone: Got to stop throwing leads away 2 points dropped after getting in front with not long to go.

Rob Purdie: Gonna be a case of 2 ice baths for me tomorrow! Frustrating long weekend but gotta get ready for another long tough trip to gillingham

Nathan Elder: Feels like a loss to me

Dave Cornell: Gutted with the result felt like a defeat, nice to be back playing games though!

However Cornell was very pleased with the result of the Rugby: Buzzing Wales won but none of the english lads on the bus follow the rugby

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Parkinson thought the Bantams should have won

Bradford City manager Phil Parkinson spoke to BBC Radio Leeds after this afternoon's drawn game against Hereford United

"I think we did enough to win the game really," said Parkinson.

"Once again we've responded in good fashion and got the equaliser.

"Every game is a scrap for every ball. It's not going to be easy and free flowing as we'd all like but we've got to make sure that we compete and when the balls goes in the box we've got to show that desire that Syers showed today."

Parkinson also spoke to the Bradford OS:

"We have given a sloppy goal away from a long throw-in - something we had practised against and gone through yesterday.

"We switched off to let them score with their only real chance of the second half - we got punished with that certainly.

"But, not for the first time this season, we have responded well and we have done well to come back and get the equaliser.

"As I expected it would be, it was a tight game today. They made it difficult for us, but I thought we created the better chances out of the two sides."

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Stats from Bradford

Here are the main stats from this afternoon's game at the Valley Parade where Bradford drew 1-1 with Hereford United in front a crowd of over 17,000, probably the largest League Two gate the Bulls have ever played in front of.

Possession: Bantams 62% Bulls 38% (that stat takes some believing)

Shots on Target: Bantams 3 Bulls 3

Shots off Target: Bantams 5 Bulls 1

Corners: Bantams 9 Bulls 8

Fouls: Bantams 12 Bulls 8

Scorer: Bryon Anthony - his first for the Bulls

Cards: Two yellows equals a red for Ben Purkiss, yellow for Joe Colbeck

There were roughly 160 Bantams Fans for every Hereford Fan at the game

Attendance: 17014 including 111 in the away area

Stewards: Very helpful

Referee: Andy Haines who had a good game.

Bottom of League Two:

Hereford remain in 22nd position

18 Barnet 31 -16 33
19 Bradford 30 -5 32
20 Macclesfield 32 -11 31
21 Plymouth 32 -17 28
22 Hereford 32 -20 28
23 Northampton 31 -23 27
24 Dag & Red 31 -26 25

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Pitman Pleased But Disappointed

Bulls boss Jamie Pitman, pictured during the warm-up this afternoon, spoke to BBC Hereford and Worcester's Keith Hall and gave his post match reaction:

"They taken onto another level again. I'm absolutely delighted that they've worked so hard but disappointed for them, myself, and the club that we didn't take the three points. Having performed so well and worked so hard it's good to be disappointed but we need to pick up some wins but we just lacked that little bit just at the end there."

When Keith Hall mentioned that he thought Byron Anthony was 'absolutely rock solid' today, he added: "We could go through the majority of them. I though Clisty dealt with Smalley very well second half. He was a handful through the course of the first half. Byron, Will, we had to patch a team together again today because Greeny's out injured, Towner's suspended, Bruno's injured, Stefan's injured, we've patched a team together and they've competed against a side that put us under a lot of pressure at times."

Asked about the size of the gate, he continued: "We were talking about it. If you don't want to play in games like this where there's a crowd there's a massive problem. We're used to 2-2,500 people. These are what you're in football for. The lads showed really good character."

Asked about the game plan to sit back and wait, he added: "It's very much been like that, counter-attack football, because of what we've had in the squad. It's so hard to get a consistent team out."

Talking about the equaliser: "Kenny (Lunt) was so tired, putting Harry (Pell) on. He's 6ft 4in. You don't like to change things at corners but you hope that might just help us. Unfortunately we conceded from that. On another day the ref might have given a foul on Dave (Cornell). You've got to accept it's a good point, but disappointed you haven't taken three."

After praising David Cornell's performance today, and accepting the dismissal of Purkiss noting 'he'll just have to be a little quicker next time', he looked towards the trip to Gillingham on Tuesday. Pitman concluded: "We'll have a few aches and sprains. We'll have a look Monday morning and get a little patchwork quilt together and patch the team together again."

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Results Round-Up

The Bulls move a point clear of the drop zone on today's results. Dagenham (24th, 25pts) drew 0-0 at Plymouth (21st, 28pts), while Northampton (23rd, 27pts) lost 2-1 at home to Port Vale. Macclesfield (20th, 31pts) withstood a battering at Oxford to escape with a 1-1 draw thanks to another Michael Duberry own goal, while Barnet (18th, 33pts) lost 4-1 at Aldershot. There is now a five point gap to Wimbledon, who drew 3-3 at Crewe after being 3-1 down.

At the top, Swindon lead by a point after beating Accrington 2-0. Stanley now have conceded eight without reply in three games under Paul Cook. Cheltenham are second after beating Burton 2-0, with Southend slipping four points behind after they lost 1-0 to Morecambe. Fourth and fifth, Shrewsbury and Crawley, play each other on Monday, with sixth placed Torquay going down 2-0 at Gillingham. Oxford are three points clear in seventh from Port Vale after their draw, with Rotherham's play off hopes dented after losing 1-0 at home to Bristol Rovers.

In the Conference, Fleetwood's lead is five points after they beat Alfreton 4-0 and Wrexham lost 1-0 at Stockport. Kidderminster beat Bath 2-1 with Sean Canham scoring a late consolation, while Forest Green drew 1-1 with Barrow.

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Bulls Scrap For Point

The Bulls took away a point from their game with Bradford City this afternoon.

The Bulls weathered heavy pressure from a 17,000 crowd and an industrial Bantams attacking line before taking a surprise late lead through Byron Anthony. However the joy was shortlived as first the Bantams equalised, then defender Ben Purkiss was dismissed for a second booking leaving the Bulls scrambling to retain parity.

Full report later.

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Port Vale Get Transfer Embargo

Port Vale have been blocked from signing free agent midfielder Chris Birchall due to a transfer embargo.

The Valiants are reported to have failed to pay their latest tax bill leading to the Football League blocking all further transfer activity at Vale Park. Acting Chairman Mike Lloyd confirmed to the press that the club had suffered losses this season of around £200,000 due to falling gates and anti-board protests.

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Full Commentary from Bradford

This afternoon BBC Hereford and Worcester will have full commentary from the Valley Parade on the game between Bradford City and Hereford United. It can be heard on the 94.7FM frequency around Herefordshire.

Before the commentary there will be a preview and afterwards reports and interviews. These will be on all their frequencies and the internet.

As ever Keith Hall will be behind the microphone.

Meanwhile Hereford United's Youth team are at home to Swansea this morning.

The game is at the Leisure Centre and starts at 11am.

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Bulls 4/1 to defeat Bantams

4/1 appears to be the best price currently available for a Hereford United win at Bradford tomorrow. That price is with BlueSq and 888sport.

Top price for a draw is 27/10 with BetVictor.

Latest offer from SkyBet:

Bradford 8/11 Draw 13/5 Hereford 15/4

Prices from oddchecker.com and are subject to change.

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Manset Move Confirmed

Reading have today confirmed that former Bulls striker Mathieu Manset has moved to Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua until the end of June.

The side, managed by French legend Jean Tigana, will likely pair Manset with Nicolas Anelka. Reading boss Brian McDermott told their official site:

"I don't necessarily want him to go but he was adamant, he wants to play games and I understand that. He'll come back ready for pre-season. I've played in Hong Kong and it was a massive club in Asia, it'll be different for him, but also a good experience."

Manset told the site: "I'm excited to be going to a new country, I'll learn new things about football and play with a big striker. I think I'll learn a lot with Nicolas Anelka. He's a French international, he's played for Chelsea and when I come back I'll be ready to play here and score goals."

No confirmed fee for the loan has been disclosed, but the Bulls would be entitled to a share if it is the previously claimed $1.2million (around £750,000) as it would be in excess of the fee the Royals originally paid for the forward.

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Edgar Street Grid in Trouble say Political Grouping

The plans to revamp the centre of Hereford including the area close to Hereford United's Edgar Street ground are in trouble according to It's Our County.

The political group say that the deal to sell the old livestock market site for £30M may not go ahead as British Land now believes that price to be much too high.

The Hereford Council were expected to use the £30M to build a new library and other public assets.

It’s Our County understands that British Land now believes the centre is worth about one-third less than they thought last year.

If the scheme looses value then British Land/Stanhope will find it impossible to pay Herefordshire Council the £30m estimated value of the land at Edgar Street.

It’s Our County fears, on the basis of it’s information, is that political leaders will either sell the land for substantially less than £30m – meaning £m losses and jeopardising plans for the library – or contribute the land to the development for nothing in return for a share in notional profits, if there are any – just to keep British Land on board. This would be a disaster.

It’s Our County estimate that the Edgar Street Grid plans has so far cost tax payers £24m, excluding the cost of the new cattle market. £20m was given to ESG from AWM in March 2007 which they used for property acquisition £6m, flood alleviation of Yazor Brook £4m and operating costs and fees £4m2 with a further £1m in October 2008 for operating costs and £739,000 in the last three years. Herefordshire Council have funded Hereford Futures operating costs between 2006 and 2011 £1.9m which includes £452,000 this year, when cuts are being made elsewhere in the Council. This means at least £24m has been spent, not including the Cattle Market costs, on preparation work for something that will not happen.

To read the full article go to: http://www.itsourcounty.org/blog/1744-esg-close-to-collapse/

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Bulls to Train at Forest

Hereford United are due to set off for Bradford later this morning in advance of tomorrow's game. On route they will stop off at Nottingham Forest for a training session.

Manager Jamie Pitman will be without several players for the trip.

Still out injured are Stefan Stam, Joe Heath, Richard Peniket and Benoit Dalibard whilst Michael Townsend will serve the second of his two match suspension after being sent off at Aldershot last Tuesday week.

However Tom Barkhuizen is expected to travel. He missed last Saturday's game against Swindon but is reported to be back in training. UPDATE - he has travelled with the squad.

As reported yesterday, Pitman has one big decision to make ahead of the game. That is who will be in goal. Adam Bartlett has made a couple of errors recently, but whether Pitman will drop him for Dave Cornell isn't certain.

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News Round-Up

Macclesfield have resigned keeper Steve Collis on a deal until the end of the season. The 30 year old was released by the Silkmen in January after his short term deal expired without a League appearance, but he remained training with them and signs due to an injury to former Bulls stopper Jose Veiga. The Silkmen have also signed defender Mark Connolly on loan for an initial month. The Irish u21 man cost Bolton £1million from Wolves two years ago, but his only senior appearance has been just 45 minutes on loan at St Johnstone.

Northampton have extended the loan of midfielder Paul Turnbull to Stockport for a further month. Plymouth have extended the loan of young keeper Ollie Chenoweth to Truro until the end of the season. Accrington have signed goalkeeper Lee Nicholls on loan from Wigan until the end of the season. The teenager has had three other loan spells but is yet to make his first team debut.

Macclesfield have signed keeper Richard O'Donnell on loan after earlier signing Steve Collis damaged a shoulder in today's training session. O'Donnell, 23, has played 11 times for Sheff Weds this season and has to remain with the Silkmen for a month due to loan rules. Accrington have had loan defender Tom Bender recalled by parent club Colchester. The teenager made only two sub appearances after the head injury in October that caused a match to be abandoned.

Darlington defender Exodus Geohagon has signed for Mansfield on loan after refusing to play for the crisis club. He has just completed a three month loan with Dagenham. Accrington have signed defender Michael Liddle on loan for an initial month. The 22 year old Irish u21 international has played 23 times in League One on loan but spent the second half of last season at Gateshead.

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Parkinson Expects Tough Game

Bradford boss Phil Parkinson has warned his team, and the expected bumper crowd, to be patient during tomorrow's match.

Parkinson told the Telegraph and Argus: “It’s going to be a real battle. I can’t envisage it being any other type of game. It will be tough and we’ll have to scrap for every single ball all over the pitch.

“I don’t think for one minute that Hereford are going to come here and play an open and expansive game. I’ve stressed to the players to be patient, do your jobs and be disciplined in everything you do."

Parkinson is waiting on the fitness of striker Craig Fagan and defender Luke Oliver before deciding on his team. The former Charlton boss expects a heavy pitch and will pick his team based on those the he feels can last the pace:

"Neither of the injuries are anything too serious but we have to be sure that they can go the distance before we pick them in our starting eleven.

"The pitch is likely to be heavy again, it could be a real battle out there, and we need to pick a side that is able to match their (Hereford) effort and commitment."

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Bantams Hoping Horror Pitch Forces Errors

Bradford are hoping their dreadful pitch can be to their advantage against the Bulls on Saturday.

The Bantams have resorted to long ball tactics with their balding and rutted pitch preventing passing football, but they hope to use it to their advantage against the Bulls by forcing errors from the ball playing side.

Keeper Jon McLaughlin told the Telegraph and Argus:

“We’ve got to use it to our advantage really. We’re going to see it far more than the teams coming here. The gaffer has been good. He knows what the pitch is like and tells us to take care and press the opposition. Do that and they are going to make more mistakes, so we can use it in our favour.

”As long as you know in your mind that there are going to be unexpected bounces, you can prepare for it, The pitch was in better condition in the first half against Port Vale so I was more tempted to commit to hitting the ball from back passes and being brave.

“Then I kicked one in the second straight out of play – but sometimes you have to do that. It’s better to play safe rather than risk the ball bouncing over your foot."

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Former Bull Jailed For Helping Burglars

A former Hereford United player, Andy Llewellyn, has been jailed for telling burglars about empty homes. Over £100,000 of goods were then stolen from certain premises.

"The defendant was employed as a postman in Bristol," said Edward Burgess, prosecuting.

"He had access to information as to which householders had subscribed to the Keep Safe scheme.

"That information was provided on a frequent basis, enabling others to commit burglaries. They were sophisticated and premises were targeted."

Llewellyn, who was said to have debt problems, was jailed for three years.

Whilst with Hereford United Llewellyn only played in five games, one of which was the 7-1 defeat at Mansfield on Boxing Day 1994. He had been a regular at Bristol City for nearly ten seasons, before a move to Bristol Rovers and then Edgar Street in October 1994. He moved to Yeovil in January 1995.

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Pitman Undecided about Keeper on Saturday

Hereford United manager Jamie Pitman hasn't decided which goalkeeper will start this coming Saturday's match at Bradford.

Adam Bartlett has keep goal in every match since returning from injury in December but has made a couple of errors recently.

David Cornell, who is on loan from Swansea, is available to play and could get the nod.

"Everyone is waiting for their chance to get back in," Pitman told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"I have to evaluate what's happened over the course of that period.

"The other side of it is that goalkeepers are highlighted significently with the mistakes they make.

"I can remember back to Burton away when Adam has made a fantastic save to keep us in the game. We always forget about those.

"Over the course of his 150 games Adam has been very consistent.

"I think in his own admissions I'm sure he feels he's made more mistakes in this little period than he has in those 150 games.

"With goalkeepers you can't just keep on taking them in and out, you need to give them a run of games.

"Adam has had a run of games and I'll have to look at that run of games to see whether he keeps his place."

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Arquin's Sponsor Arrested

MEP Nikki Sinclaire, who sponsors Hereford United striker Yoann Arquin, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud the European Parliament.

The arrest of Sinclaire and three other people is part of an inquiry following an allegation made in 2010 into allowances and expenses.

In a statement reported by the BBC, Sinclaire said that 'The allegations at hand are old allegations from a disgruntled ex-employee'

She went on to say that she is 'eager to clear her name and has nothing to hide'.

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Parkinson Banking On Intimidation Factor

Bradford boss Phil Parkinson is hoping the Bulls get stage fright when they face the Bantams on Saturday.

With the home side allowing entry to the bulk of their 15,000 empty seats for £1, Parkinson hopes the bolstered crowd will intimidate the Bulls. He told the local press: “We keep saying it’s about making Valley Parade an uncomfortable place for the visiting team and the crowd can play their part in that. This ticket idea is great and what we want to bring more supporters into the ground.

“We’ve had a good result down at Torquay and now there’s a big week coming up, starting with an important game against Hereford.

“It’s one we are relishing and when the ground gets a good atmosphere in there, it can make a difference. When the crowd are off their seats behind us, that can really lift the players.”

Parkinson obviously didn't pay too much attention earlier in the season when the Bulls put in an admirable performance at Villa Park in front of over 21,000 supporters, while they are yet to show any nerves in three recent visits to Valley Parade with the Bulls winning 3-1 in 07/08 in front of 13,640 - more than any of the Bantams' home gates this season.

Bradford have confirmed the signing of keeper Jamie Annerson from Rotherham on an initial months loan. The 23 year old will be on the bench on Saturday as cover with Matt Duke loaned out.

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Preview: Bradford vs Bulls

The Bulls travel to Valley Parade on Saturday for a crucial match with Bradford City.

The two sides rarely met until the past five years, when they have been paired in the same basement division four times. The Bulls have had the better of those encounters, winning four and drawing one of the seven games in the recent seasons. The Bulls will be looking to complete a rare double having beaten the Bantams 2-0 at Edgar Street in October, with late goals from Steven Leslie and Tom Barkhuisen providing some rare cheer at home.

The Bantams' change of manager hasn't entirely improved their season. Phil Parkinson has won eight of 31 games in charge so far, lifting the Yorkshire club only a couple of places in the table. Their home record is far better than their away form, having won five, drawn five, and lost five at Valley Parade. They have also scored twice the goals at home as they have on their travels. They are currently six games unbeaten on home soil, but their overall form shows only one win from their last six matches. Top scorer James Hanson will miss the game with a groin tear, leaving forward Craig Fagan and midfielder Michael Flynn their top netters with four goals each.

The Bulls travel North in desperate need of a result over a side only four points ahead of them. Boss Jamie Pitman will again travel without Joe Heath, Stefan Stam, Benoit Dalibard, and Richard Peniket with none of them expected to be fit until mid-March. New arrivial Byron Anthony slotted into the defence last week to good effect alongside the rejuvenated Michael Townsend, but the Bulls still have to cut out the silly errors that are still costing them deal. Up front, Nathan Elder's substitution was loudly booed against Swindon with the tireless effort appreciated by the crowd, but a fit again Delroy Facey is an option to start against one of his many former sides. The 31 year old played six times for the Bantams on loan from Bolton nine years ago.

Bradford City vs Hereford United, Valley Parade, Saturday 25th February, 3.00pm.

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News Round-Up

Portsmouth have axed 33 members of staff after Administrator Trevor Birch completed his first review of the business. The Chief Executive and two directors are amongst those to go, with several other staff asked to take reductions in hours. Birch has warned fans that, even after the cuts, the club may not be able to survive the season. Dagenham have made their first of three claimed signings with the arrival of Southampton forward Ben Reeves. The 20 year old can play a forward midfield role or as a striker.

Burton have signed defender Patrick Ada until the end of the season. The 27 year old was most recently playing in the SPL with Kilmarnock on a short term deal after spending two years to last summer at Crewe. Southend chairman Ron Martin launched a verbal outburst at the club's players after entering the dressing room following Tuesday's loss to Aldershot. Martin was also seen in the dugout during the game.

Crawley drew 1-1 with Morecambe in last night's only League Two match. The promotion favourites played the match in front of just 2,184 spectators. Dagenham's second signing of the day is that of Watford keeper Jonathan Bond. The 18 year old Welshman made his debut for the Hornets as a sub last month, but his only other first team action has been for Brackley Town.

Southend are to sell 650 tickets for their home game with Crawley on March 5th for just £5. The game is being televised, with the Shrimpers receiving £30,000 as a result.

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Bulls Confirm Two New Directors

The Bulls have confirmed the news that Nick Nenaditch and Dave Preedy have joined the Bulls board.

Speaking to the club's official site, David Keyte said: "Dave and Nick have shown that they are not afraid of hard work and willing to tackle a number of duties. They both contributed considerably to the recently refurbished Supporters Club project and will now be able to continue the task of taking the Club back to the local Hereford community. "

Preedy was previously a director of the Bulls in 2005-7, assisting greatly on the project to build the new changing rooms. He was unceremoniously dumped by Graham Turner with the then Chairman claiming Preedy did not have the shares to be a Director despite having purchased them well in advance of his departure.

It is understood that the pair will be involved in a project to further extend the Starlite Rooms facilities after the roaring success of the refurbished site.

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From The Archive: Twelve Shrimps At Edgar Street

On February 23 1999 just twelve Morecambe supporters made the long trip to Edgar Street to watch their side put Hereford United out of the Endsleigh Challenge Trophy.

Here's a report on the game written by Peter Povall:

Hereford United 2 Morecambe 3

United have taken the exit from their last Cup Match this season after giving away a 2-0 lead tonight at Edgar Street against Morecambe.

The 12 strong band of travelling Morecambe fans must have been delighted to see United cave yet again and gift them through to the semi-finals of the Endsleigh Challenge Trophy.

United had started the much better side. The first 45 minutes were dominated by the black and white shirts as Morecambe we outclassed by Mark Taylor in midfield. The 4-4-2 formation gave good width to the match as United continually broke through the Morecambe defences.

United's break came after 17 minutes when Matthew Cross played a first touch ball through the defence with power. Steve Cowe merely had to direct the ball past Banks with his head.

It was then plain sailing. Morecambe's Kenny Mayers was booked for a foul a couple of minutes later after being beaten yet again.

The second goal from Garry Cook was one for the albums. Matthew Cross again supplied the ball which Cook took at the near-post. Cook then turned and dropped to the ground as he sent his shot across the goal and into the far bottom corner.

Morecambe did manage a few attempts on goal but United's back four were guarding well and only once was Andy Quy really tested.

The second half was a completely difference story. Thoughts of Newport IOW came flooding back as United seemed to sit back, as they so often do, and let Morecambe come at them.

The obvious was on its way when Robbie Dennison was booked for a late-tackle. Within a minute of the free-kick, Morecambe moved the ball down the left wing, before sending in a quick cross. Darren Lyons connected a half-volley to it speeding it past Quy.

Morecambes equaliser was just 7 minutes later. John Norman was gifted an open goal when Stuart Evans failed to clear from the edge of the 6-yard box. The ball came out sideways and fell perfectly for Norman to smash.

United did manage to buck their ideas a little towards the end as the play changed ends regularly. Neither side managed to gain the upper hand and avoid the extra-time but both teams came close a couple of times.

Extra time was still to be the domain of Morecambe. They provided the most imaginative play and deserved to win. Darren Lyons claimed his second of the match when he slotted a square ball neatly past Quy.

Robbie Dennison was perhaps the most guilty man in the dressing room tonight though. At one stage he found himself in front of an open goal, with no defenders and a ball was floated to him. His header, from inside the 6 yard box was at least 2 yards over the bar. He tried to make amends a moment later as a curling shot was tipped past the post by Banks but the first effort should have been in the net. Ian Wright would probably have broke the net with it.

Hereford United: Quy, Lane, Parry, Evans, Cross, James, Williams, Taylor, Cook, Cowe, Dennison.

Subs: Dyer, Shirley, Rodgerson.

Att: 567

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Bradford Travel – Saturday

Bradford City v Hereford United

Football League 2

Saturday 25^th February 2012 KO 3.00 pm

Coral Windows Stadium (Valley Parade)

Bradford

West Yorkshire

BD8 7DY

Phone 01274 773355

Visiting fans are accommodated in part of the Betrescue (Midland Road) Stand to one side of the pitch.  Turnstiles for this area are situated on Midland Road and numbered E9 to E12.  Admission is believed to be £20 for adults, OAP’s £14 and U16’s £12.  The Bradford student concession scheme is for members only and therefore effectively rules out that option for visitors.  Yep, it’s not cheap.

By Car - Bradford is off the M62 so you have a choice of going via the M6, or the M42/M1 route. In either case, leave the M62 at J26 and take the M606 towards Bradford. At the end of the M606 take the centre or right hand lanes and follow signs for Ring Road East (under tunnel) onto Rooley Lane (sign Leeds/Bradford Airport). Pass McDonalds on your left and then over a set of lights by an Asda store then turn left at the roundabout into Wakefield Road. Stay in the middle lane, over two roundabouts and onto Shipley Airedale Road (A6037), which then becomes Canal Road. Just after a Tesco store, turn left into Station Road (A6177) and left again into Queens Road. At the third set of lights, turn left into Manningham Lane then after the Gulf filling station turn left into Valley Parade. There is no public parking at the stadium and limited street parking. Distance approx 180 miles. Allow three and a half hours. Postcode BD8 7DY. 

HUISA – Coach leaves Radford’s at 8.30 am with a fare of £23 (£25 non-members).  Seats can still be booked through the Club office on 08442 761939.

Refreshments – There is a well stocked café in the “away” area that includes overpriced bottles of Carlsberg (yuk).  Proper Pubs include The Castle at 22 Grattan Road (BD1 2LU), The Cock and Bottle at 93 Barkerend Road (BD3 9AA) and The Corn Dolly at 110 Bolton Road (BD1 4DE).  Near to the ground is The Bradford Arms on Manningham Lane and one which we visited on our last visit, The New Beehive on Westgate (BD1 3AA).  In the centre of town you’ll find both a Lloyds and a ‘Spoons in Centenary Square.  The nearest chippy to the ground is probably the one just off the Manningham Road at 1A Bowland Street. Otherwise, for those in the centre, there is The In Plaice at 1 Sunbridge Road (near Centenary Square). 

Enjoy.

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