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Next Game: Home Against Farsley Celtic On Saturday March 23rd Kick-Off 3.00pm

Thursday, October 31, 2002

Another Chelverton company in trouble

More details of the Chelverton Group Limited liquidation and its effects have emerged from several sources today.

Richmond Land UK Limited a subsidiary company of Chelverton has been put into 'solvent liquidation'. This is believed to suggest that although this company is solvent at present it may be subject to problems at Chelverton.

Richmond Land UK Limited is a partner in the ownership of Formsole, the company to whom Hereford United owe £1.3m.

Meanwhile, Chelverton’s creditors are unlikely to have more than a few pence in the pound payout. Its assets are estimated to be £665,700 and it has a deficiency of nearly £21 million. Most of the debt is described as 'inter-company debt'. It is uncertain if some of this debt is to do with Richmond Land UK.

The same director, Matthew Grant Cartisser, has signed the details for both companies. He suggests that Richmond will be able to continue trading in twelve months. “I have formed the opinion that this company will be able to pay its debts in full within a period of twelve months,” he said.

There seems little point in paying a liquidator a fee estimated to be £412,500 if one expects this company to continue.

Also, Ernst & Young, one of the liquidators of Chelverton Group Limited told HU-FC.co.uk this afternoon that 50% of Formsole was an asset of Chelverton and as such was for sale.

Hereford football fans are not the only ones watching the Chelverton situation. It seems that Simon Morgan and Chelverton are being accused of planning changes to the city of Lancaster (partly to do with the building of a new supermarket). A group of residents opposed to their plans travelled to Bristol to meet Mr Morgan at his offices last Monday but he sent his personal assistant to talk to the group whilst he allegedly stayed out of sight.

Max Hessler of Lancaster's 'Stop Chelverton' campaign said: “We have to ask questions about CR Chelverton’s ability to do this project (in Lancaster). It looks like CR Chelverton have the same people in the driving seat as the company that has gone bankrupt."

Sources close to Chelverton say that they went into liquidation after Polish projects, similar to those proposed for Lancaster, failed to meet profit targets.


Rovers Return for United duo

Hereford United have been boosted by the news that two players are set to make the squad after injury for Saturday's Nationwide Conference clash at Doncaster Rovers, kick off 3pm.

Wing-back Matt Clarke and midfielder Ben Smith should feature in the side as United travel to Belle Vue with a good away record.

Bulls boss Graham Turner told the Hereford Times: "They have spent a lot of money and are unbeaten at home, but our away record gives us confidence and we expect to get something out of the game."

Jamie Pitman will play his last game before suspension after picking up five yellow cards, and the match is Mick Galloway's last in his month-long loan spell from Carlisle United. Whether Galloway's deal will be extended or made permanent is yet to be seen.

Last season, Hereford drew 0-0 at Edgar Street against Rovers but in the return tie, crashed to a 4-0 defeat in the worst result of the campaign.


Wednesday, October 30, 2002

Guess the Donny score

The HU-FC.co.uk Prediction League is open for business once again. You have until 2pm on Saturday to get your predictions in for the Doncaster game, via the 'Interactive!' button on the left menu.


Richardsons move to gain control

Formsole Limited, the company to whom Hereford United owe £1.3 million, could soon be controlled by the Richardson Group through their development companies.

Sources at Chelverton West Limited have told HU-FC.co.uk that negotiations are taking between the parties in the joint venture company known as CR Chelverton Properties.

The parties are also currently talking to the liquidators of Chelverton Group Limited, Ernst & Young and Robson Rhodes.

The negotiations are centered around the value of the Chelverton share in the partnership.

A spokesman at Richardsons confirmed that their company was involved and would comment further shortly.

Meanwhile, Simon Morgan is understood to have resigned from most of his directorships with the Chelverton Group; in particular Formsole in August 2002. However he is still working for CR Chelverton Properties.

Some assets of Chelverton West Limited, a subsidiary company of Chelverton Group Limited, have been offered for sale and more sales seem likely.


Draft plans released

The public can now view the possible changes and make comments on the Herefordshire Unitary Development Plan.

Edgar Street stadium is included in the plans which will shape the county over the next ten years.

The draft plans can be viewed at council offices and libraries, and people can record their thoughts.


Tuesday, October 29, 2002

Formsole Limited

Formsole was established in March 1998 as a joint venture between Chelverton Properties Limited (subsequently renamed Chelverton Group Limited) and BS Group PLC (subsequently renamed Gaming International PLC). The principal activity of the company is the development of a site of land in Hereford.

On 15th December 2000 and under a separate partnership agreement, Chelverton Group Limited in substance transferred the beneficial interests in its shareholding in the company into CR Chelverton Properties, a joint venture partnership between Richmond UK Limited (a subsidiary of Chelverton Group Limited), Carillion Group Limited and Foxborough Developments Limited.

On 12th September 2001, Gaming International plc sold its’ entire shareholding in the company to Chelverton Group Limited and, at that date, terminated the joint venture agreement. So at this time it appears that Formsole was 50% owned by Chelverton Group Limited and 50% by CR Chelverton Properties.

According to its latest accounts, Formsole has two directors, M.G. Cartisser and Simon Morgan (who has spoken at Hereford supporters meetings).

Its income and expenditure were equal and it has assets of £970. This is arrived at as its creditors and debtors are virtually the same. The debt mainly represents amounts receivable from Hereford United. It states that the loans are repayable at 19 May 2003 and these “loans are guaranteed by Hereford United Football Club (1939) Limited”.

Formsole, Hereford 1982 and Hereford 1939 are also party to a joint venture agreement to manage the acquisition of the site of land at Edgar Street, Hereford, to submit and complete planning applications and agreements and to subsequently dispose of the site.

And later it states “the directors believe the amounts(the debts) to be fully recoverable, although there is some uncertainty as to the timing of the recoverability”.

As regards its creditors it has loans from related parties such as Chelverton Group Limited of at least £500,000 and that company is now in Creditors Voluntary Liquidation. Other loans make up the rest of the credit.

The future funding of Formsole is uncertain but it is thought that CR Chelverton Properties will step in. This joint venture partnership (as detailed above) has five directors including Donald Barrie Richardson, one of the Richardson Brothers who are developers based in the West Midlands. Hereford council leader, Terry James, has spoken well of them.


Brilliant news

Hereford United will be £100,000 richer after Sky Sports' decision to broadcast live coverage of their FA Cup first round clash with Second Division leaders Wigan reports the Evening News.

Edgar Street director Joan Fennessy described it as brilliant news and said the money was a real lifeline for the club who are more than £1million in debt.

The tie will be screened at 5.35pm on Saturday, November 16, and the club are hoping for a crowd of more than 4,000 to further boost their funds.

"It's great news and an absolute lifeline for the club," said Fennessy.

"£100,000 sounds a lot of money but when we are battling to keep the club afloat it really is a huge boost.

"We've got no-one to put money into the club and we have to survive on what we've got."

It is the second year in succession that Hereford's FA Cup first round match has been shown live on television after the BBC broadcast the Bulls' tie with Wrexham.


Monday, October 28, 2002

Bulls on telly - again!

Hereford United's FA Cup first round game against Wigan Athletic is to be featured live on Sky Sports.

The match will now kick off at 5.35pm on Saturday 16th November to accommodate the television coverage.

It will be the second year running that United's first round tie has been televised, after the BBC broadcast Hereford vs Wrexham last season.

As well as the national TV exposure, Hereford will receive £100,000 for the coverage - which will go a long way to breaking even for the season.

On the Sunday, the BBC will show Forest Green Rovers vs Exeter City as their live match.


Sunday, October 27, 2002

United given hardest tie

Hereford United couldn't face a tougher task in the FA Cup first round as they will play the highest-placed team in the competition.

As Premiership and Division One sides don't enter until the third round stage, Wigan Athletic, top of Division Two, will provide the toughest test for United.

Managed by Paul Jewell, the Latics will make the trip to Edgar Street on Saturday 16th November at 3pm, unless the match is moved for television coverage or on police advice.

The last time the two teams met was in 1996/97 when they met contrasting fortunes. Hereford were relegated from Division Three whilst Wigan were promoted as champions with 84 points. The league matches that season saw Wigan win 4-1 at their old Springfield Park ground (they now play at the JJB Stadium), but in February 1997, United were shock 3-1 victors at Edgar Street.

In the FA Cup, the sides have met once before. The Latics emerged 4-1 winners in the second round of the 1953/54 competition, and the game drew a club record 27,500 spectators to Springfield Park for the game. The game then was an all non-league tie, as Wigan were not elected to the Football League until 1978, some six years after Hereford.


No October winner

Yet again, the Arlesey predictions were inconclusive to split the three players at the top of the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League. Consequently, BeauBrummie, Cheesy and riverswye will share the October title and no prize will be awarded. The slate is wiped clean, and you can start entering for the Doncaster Rovers match next Saturday in the first of our November prediction matches.


Saturday, October 26, 2002

Bizarre decision, says Turner

Writing in today's programme, Graham Turner went to some length to explain his version of the so-called penalty decision which cost the Bulls the possibility of progressing in the LDV Trophy last Tuesday.

"Tuesday evening's match against Northampton was a cracking game, it was just a pity that it was watched by such a small crowd. Our dressing room had an air of despondency about it after the match, we felt that we had outplayed our 2nd Division opponents for long periods and derserved to progress to the next round of the LDV Trophy.

"We paid the penalty of losing concentration in the final minute and allowed Northampton to equalise from a long free kick, which we failed to clear.

"The winner for them came via the penalty spot to give them the Golden Goal but I have to say that it would rank amongst the worst refereeing decisions I have seen in my time in football in awarding the penalty in the first place. It was a bizarre decision against Andy Tretton who was the last defender, he failed to take any further action, no yellow or red card.

"If I was a cynical old sod I'd suggest that he didn't fancy another twenty four minutes of extra time and the time taken up by penalties, he just wanted to get back on the road to his north-west home, so he took the first possible opportunity to bring the game to a conclusion.

"Having viewed it twenty times on video, if it was a genuine mistake mistake it may well rank as one of the worst in his career. Whichever, he possibly cost us a place in the next round of the LDV Trophy and much needed revenue."


Pitman to miss important game

Jamie Pitman collected his fifth yellow card this afternoon for a rash challenge. He is likely to miss the game against Southport on November 9th.

By then, Ben Smith should be match fit and, with Rob Purdie also challenging for a team position, Pitman's suspension should be coped with.


Guinan happy with win

Steve Guinan told reporters that he was happy with the 1-0 result this afternoon.

"They came here with the game plan to rough us up and get long balls to Wayne Cort and they caused us some difficult moments. It would have been nice to have got a few more goals but at the end of the day we are in the next round.

"We did not expect to start that well but it made them more determined. The result is the most important thing."

Asked about the next round tie with Wigan Athletic, Guinan said: "We have got to go out there and give a good preformance. We are at home and hopefully we will get a good crowd here who will give us 100% backing. We have got to go at them with all guns blazing. We were unlucky with Northampton and we have just got to cope with them."


Wigan next
The Bulls have been drawn against Wigan at home in the first round proper of the FA Cup. The game will take place on the weekend of November 15/16/17.

In today's fourth qualifying round tie, Hereford scored early in the first half against Arlesey with Richard Teesdale finding Paul Parry, who shot from fifteen yards. Afterwards the game was one of missed chances for both sides.


Parry goal puts United through
Hereford United 1 - 0 Arlesey Town
Hereford United went through to the first round of the FA Cup but lady luck played a major part as the Bulls beat off Arlesey Town 1-0.

The Ryman League Division One North side went down to a fifth minute goal, but from then on matched Hereford and probably deserved a goal.

United, without Matt Clarke, went into an early lead when a Richard Teedale cross-field ball found Paul Parry in acres of space on the left channel. He ran inside and from fifteen yards, fired a low drive past Martyn Patching to open the scoring.

From then on, attacking play swayed from end to end. With seven minutes of the half remaining, Arlesey's Dean Harding fired over a corner from the far side for Dave Hatchett to nod into the net on the far post. However, the goal was ruled out by the referee for pushing in the box.

The second half saw the woodwork play a major part both sides searched for goals. Steve Guinan hit a shot from the edge of the box onto the bar five minutes into the period, but that ball bounced down onto the line and was swept away. At the other end, Matt Baker was tested by Wayne Cort and Justin Griffiths as the half came to a close.

With eight minutes left, Marvin Samuel fired a low shot onto the base of the post after beating Baker, but Jamie Pitman had scampered back to block the line. The loose ball was then fired wide by Griffiths as Arlesey seached for a replay.

A moment later, Chukki Eribenne should have made it safe for United but his rising effort rebounded off the upright. All credit to Arlesey, they gave Hereford a good game and nerves were jangling at the end. However, it's Hereford who go through into the first round, where they face a home tie against Wigan Athletic.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 26th October 2002.
Hereford United Arlesey Town
Matt Baker Martyn Patching
Jamie Pitman Marvin Samuel
Michael Rose Steve Magona
Andrew Tretton Dave Hatchett
Richard Teesdale Matt Corbould (captain)
Tony James (captain) Neil Trebble
Paul Parry Scott Houghton
Danny Williams Craig Reynolds
Steve Guinan (off, 75 minutes) Wayne Cort
Mick Galloway Phil Dean
Chukki Eribenne Dean Harding
Subs Subs
Ian Wright (on, 75 minutes) Jamie Richards (on, 45 minutes)
Ken Griffiths Justin Griffiths (on, 71 minutes)
Rob Purdie Matthew Turnbull (on, 49 minutes)
James Fox James Ougham
Ben Smith Matthew Cope
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Jamie Pitman (foul, 23 minutes) Matthew Turnbull (foul, 56 minutes)
  Matt Corbould (foul, 89 minutes)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Paul Parry (5 minutes) -
   
Man of the Match Paul Parry
Attendance 1718
Referee Mr. R. Desmond (Swindon)

Friday, October 25, 2002

Entries needed!

BeauBrummie, Cheesy and riverswye are all tied at the top of the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League for October. Could each of the three players make their predictions for the FA Cup tie on Saturday as we attempt to find a monthly winner, as NONE of them picked up a point from their Northampton prediction! Each player must EMAIL predictions to predictions@hu-fc.co.uk - no predictions from the above three players have yet been received.


Teesdale set to drop to bench

Ian Wright is very likely to start in tomorrow's FA Cup fourth qualifying round game against Arlesey Town, kick off 3pm.

The Hereford United captain will play with his wrist in a cast and the move will result in Richard Teesdale dropping to the bench.

United boss Graham Turner told the Evening News: "You see it so often with cup upsets that if you don't approach it right you can come unstuck. We've every right to expect to beat them but we need to put in a similar display to the one against Northampton."

Wing-back Matt Clarke could miss out with a dead leg but Ben Smith, the midfielder yet to feature this season, could play having successfully progressed through a friendly against Studley.

The winning side will be allocated ball number 72 in tomorrow's first round draw, which will be televised live on BBC1 at 5.15pm tomorrow.

On the betting front, skybet.com quote a United win at 2/7, an Arlesey victory at 7/1 and the draw is 7/2. In the Conference, Hereford are joint fourth favourites to win the title, alongside Dagenham & Redbridge and Morecambe.


Thursday, October 24, 2002

Captain set for cup return

Hereford United skipper Ian Wright could make his comeback from injury on Saturday as Arlesey Town visit Edgar Street in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round, kick off 3pm.

Wright has broken bones in his hand and wrist but could feature sporting a plaster cast if it has recovered sufficiently. He has missed the last two matches.

Speaking to the Hereford Times, Wright said: "My arm has been a bit sore, but it's a lot better than we initially thought. I am wearing a plaster cast and, all being well, I could be available and part of the squad."

Arlesey will provide a stern test for United despite playing in the Ryman League Division One North, some two leagues below the Conference.

The winners of the match receive £20,000 which would be great boost to Hereford, according to boss Graham Turner.

"We shall show Arlesey every respect," he commented. "It was not too long ago that we lost at home to Newport Isle of Wight after taking a two-goal lead. This is a must win game for us. Financially, a run in the FA Cup is vital but so too is the prestige and interest created among supporters."

Arlesey's squad includes former Hereford defender Andy Theodosiou, striker Wayne Cort, brother of Newcastle's Carl Cort, ex-Peterborough and Walsall midfielder Scott Houghton and former Stevenage player Neill Trebble.

Theodosiou, who watched Hereford's thrilling 4-3 defeat to Northampton on Tuesday, told the Hereford Times: "We are all looking forward to the game and we should be bringing about 200 fans."


Wednesday, October 23, 2002

Bulls disappointed at unlucky defeat

Hereford United were disappointed with yesterday's 4-3 extra time defeat to Northampton Town in the LDV Vans Trophy.

United's two-goal hero Chukki Eribenne, on loan from Bournemouth, told the Evening News: "There's always going to be physical contact, football is a contact sport, but I thought it was a very rough decision."

Midfielder Mick Galloway, who's late deflection resulted in Northampton's third goal, said of the penalty decision: "The player had clearly over-run the ball and it was in Baker's hands when the referee gave the penalty. It was a shocking decision."

United boss Graham Turner backed-up that assessment. “I thought the penalty was an awful decision," he said. “The ball was almost in the goalkeeper’s hands, the lad had knocked it too far, and I don’t think the central defender did anything other than try and get across and stop, but these things happen in cup ties.”

Northampton's Jamie Forrester opened the scoring after just 24 seconds and, as he told the Chronicle & Echo, he was delighted. “The move for the goal was a lovely move, we put plenty of passes together and it was a great start to the game for us, but all credit to Hereford they came back into it and on another day they may have won.”

Cobblers boss Kevan Broadhurst commented: "It was a cracking cup tie. There was plenty of good forward play from both teams and although at 4-3 it was a bit close, we are through to the next round.

“This was a big game for Hereford and they were a good side, they were a credit to the Conference.”


Tuesday, October 22, 2002

Repeat

BeauBrummie, Cheesy and riverswye are all tied at the top of the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League for October. Could each of the three players make their predictions for the FA Cup tie on Saturday as we attempt to find a monthly winner, as NONE of them picked up a point from their Northampton prediction!


Steward hit by missile

Just after the end of tonight's game, a Hereford steward was hit by a missile thrown by a departing "fan".

The incident took close to the Meadow End goal. It is believed that the fan throw a bottle of Coca Cola which hit the steward close to his eye. Other stewards rushed to his aid.

Witnesses suggested that the missile was thrown by a middle-aged white male. He is thought either to have a shaven head or very short hair and a moustache.


Bulls robbed by fortunate Cobblers
It was a night of high drama at Edgar Street, where Hereford United's Chucki Eribenne (two) and Paul Parry held Northampton Town to a 3-3 draw in the LDV Vans Trophy. In the golden goal extra time that followed, a dubious Northampton penalty saw the second division side through, 4-3.


Bulls robbed by dubious spot-kick
Hereford United 3 - 4 Northampton Town (after extra time)
A penalty in golden goal extra time was the deciding factor between Hereford and Northampton Town in the LDV Vans Trophy first round encounter at Edgar Street, in front of 1,087. But Hereford showed up the Second Division side a lot during the match and can be proud of the performance they gave.

The match got off to the perfect start for the visitors as a cross from Gill found its way to Jamie Forrester, who lashed the ball home from 14 yards after 30 seconds. They could have even been two-nil to the good as a shot by Marco Gabbiadini flew past Baker’s post.

But with their first attack of the game the Bulls drew level as Nathan Abbey dropped what looked like a simple cross by Danny Williams to the feet of Chukki Eribenne, who forced the ball home in the fifth minute. Only five minutes later and Northampton found themselves 2-1 up as Paul Rickers fired home from the edge of the area after United’s defence had failed to clear.

The next twenty minutes saw the game swing in an exciting match between two sides willing to attack. Hereford forced Abbey to spill another ball as Tony James fired in a thirty yard shot. Mick Galloway and Paul Parry had a couple of chances each, with Derek Asamoah and Ian Sampson having efforts for Northampton. But it was Hereford who next scored as a lovely pass by Paul Parry sent Michael Rose down the wing, who cut inside Asamoah and crossed to Eribenne who stabbed the ball home to bring the scores level again on the half hour.

Hereford kept up the momentum going as John Frain almost headed into his own net, Matt Clarke had a header on target and Paul Parry had a shot go wide of the post. It should have been 3-2 to Hereford at the break as Abbey yet again spilled a thirty yard shot, this time from Pitman, into Eribenne's path who fired home, but the offside flag was raised and the goal not given. He also had another chance before the half was out as he made a powerful run at the Northampton defence, only to put his shot just wide.
The second half took a little longer to get going as Marco Gabbiadini headed a free kick into Baker’s arms five minutes into the half. Then Hereford should have taken the lead as Andy Tretton headed over a Jamie Pitman cross when well placed and unmarked in the area. It was Pitman himself who had the next shot firing straight into Abbey’s arms.

Then Northampton forced a corner after Paul Harsley had made Baker pull off a good save. The resulting corner came in and was cleared to the edge of the area where Asamoah fired at goal only for Baker to pull of another save and the rebound fell to Forrester, and with an open goal, fired onto the bar, before it was finally cleared.

Hereford then took the lead as Parry fired home a eighteen yarder, after being played in by Galloway, past Abbey. It could have so easily been four as Galloway had a shot just scrapped the outside of the Northampton post. Then with five minutes remaining Hereford took off Parry for Guinan and Northampton threw on extra attackers in search of an equaliser which they got. Paul Trollope floated a freekick, from the centre circle, into the Hereford area where Asamoah managed to steer the ball over Baker for three apiece.

The extra time period saw the end to end action continue as first Morrison fired wide for Northampton and then Hope almost turned a Guinan cross into his own net, before the penalty was given. It is not clear what it was given for, but Forrester stepped up, and even though Baker got a hand to the ball, it scrapped home.

This was a good open match and with Hereford doing themselves no disgrace at all; let's hope United can keep the momentum going for the Arlesey game on Saturday which is going to be a totally different encounter.
Written by Tim Ward - 22nd October 2002.
Hereford United Northampton Town
Matt Baker Nathan Abbey
Matt Clarke (off, 90 minutes) Ian Sampson
Michael Rose Richard Hope
Andrew Tretton John Frain (off, 88 minutes)
Richard Teesdale Marco Gabbiadini (off, 85 minutes)
Tony James Paul Rickers
Jamie Pitman Paul Trollope (captain)
Paul Parry (off, 85 minutes) Jamie Forrester
Danny Williams Derek Asamoah
Mick Galloway Chris Hargreaves
Chukki Eribenne Jerry Gill (off, half time)
Subs Subs
Steve Guinan (on, 85 minutes) Paul Harsley (on, half time)
Ken Griffiths Chris Carruthers (on, 85 minutes)
Rob Sawyers (on, 90 minutes) Greg Lincoln
Rob Purdie Steve Morison (on, 88 minutes)
Ben Smith Mark Bunn
Yellow cards Yellow cards
- -
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Chukki Eribenne (6, 31 minutes) Jamie Forrester (1 minutes, 95 minutes (pen))
Paul Parry (82 minutes) Paul Rickers (10 minutes)
  Derek Asamoah (89 minutes)
   
Man of the Match Paul Parry and Chukki Eribenne shared
Attendance 1087
Referee Mr. S. Mattieson

Sawyers and Guinan set for comebacks

Steve Guinan faces a late ahead of tonight's LDV Vans Trophy match against Northampton Town at Edgar Street, kick off 7.45pm.

The Hereford United attacker missed Saturday's 1-1 draw with Halifax Town with an injury which he picked up against Northwich Victoria a week ago.

"They've had us watched four times so I think they are taking it very seriously," said United boss Graham Turner in the Evening New. "Lower league clubs realise what an important competition the LDV Vans Trophy is, especially from a financial situation because there is a lot of money for those that make progress."

"The positive thing about Saturday's match is that we didn't lose which is what we have been prone to do. Chukki (Eribenne) is available for both the FA Cup and LDV Vans and was one of the conditions that we took him. He did okay but we didn't create an awful lot as a side. We had them under quite a lot of pressure but did not make it count.

"Tonight will be a different sort of game but one we are looking forward to. We're going to be the underdogs but it is one where we can go out and enjoy it."

Rob Sawyers who picked up a toe injury that ruled him out of the Halifax match, is fit again but Ben Smith will not feature.


Monday, October 21, 2002

Bulls set for LDV battle

Hereford United are one of twelve Nationwide Conference sides participating in the first round of this season's LDV Vans Trophy.

The Bulls, who didn't qualify for the competition last year, will host Northampton Town at Edgar Street tomorrow night, kick off 7.45pm.

The competition is split into the northern and southern sections and the winners of the two areas meet in a final, set to be staged at the Millennium Stadium, with £50,000 on offer to the eventual winners, which last season weer Blackpool.

All games will be decided on the day, with a golden goal extra time period and penalities if neccessary, and should Hereford progress, they will feature in the FA Cup draw, live on Sky Sports' Soccer AM next Saturday.

Opponents Northampton are sixteenth in Division Two after flirting with relegation last season. Their main threat is Marco Gabbiadini in attack, who has seven league goals already this season, but no-one else has scored more than two goals for the Cobblers this season. On Saturday, they went down to a 2-1 defeat at Notts County and have won just once in their last six away matches.

Town will miss Darryn Stamp with a knee injury, because the risk of bringing him back too quickly was too large. Otherwise, Kevin Broadhurst, the Northampton boss, could hand a start to Richard Hope. Fringe players John Frain, Jamie Forrester, Nathan Abbey and Greg Lincoln may also see some action, but striker Armand One will not feature as he has returned to Cambridge after having his loan deal terminated.

Hereford will again be without attacker Steve Guinan and captain Ian Wright for the game. Ben Smith, though, is set to continue on the bench and could make his debut later in the match.

Cobblers' boss Kevan Broadhurst said: "It's another game and I want to win every game. If it's a cup game or a league game, it doesn't matter, so long as we are winning games then we are making progress."

On Northampton Town's own cobbersbet, a Hereford 1-0 win is 7/1, and 3-0 home victory is 28/1. A goalless draw is 10/1, whilst Northampton could scrape a narrow 2-1 victory at 7/1.


Sunday, October 20, 2002

Arlesey to field ex-pro

Arlesey Town, Hereford United's FA Cup opponents next Saturday, are set to name ex-professional Scott Houghton in their starting eleven.

Houghton, who has experience with Walsall, Peterborough United and Stevenage Borough, has joined the village side because his parents live a stone-throw away from the ground.

The game has been billed as Arlesey's biggest since their FA Vase triumph at Wembley several years ago.


Saturday, October 19, 2002

Man of the match

Opinions can often differ about who should be 'man of the match' but for the BBC Sport report on their national website to suggest that new on-loan player Chukkie Ebribenne should take this honour was surprising.

Although he had several useful touches, especially in the first ten minutes, some thought he was not match fit and to be fair he has not had much time to blend in with the rest of the team. He looks powerful and should come better after another game or two.

Galloway was our reporter's choice for MOTM. He appears to have settled in well and it will be no surprise if Graham Turner offers him terms before the end of his loan spell.

Meanwhile where was Rob Sawyers today? There have been no reports of any injury to him, but it seemed odd to have both Fox and Voice, two strikers, who seemed unlikely to feature, on the bench. With the return of Ben Smith to the squad and Rob Purdie showing some promise, what is the future for Sawyers? Also when Grant and Guinan (and possibly Eribenne) are all available, Parry will surely revert back to his usual role meaning even more competition in midfield.

Before the start of the game, Cyrille Regis, the ex-England international, presented Welshmen Tony James and Paul Parry with caps for their inclusion in the semi-professional tournament which Wales won last spring. Regis attended the match as part of Hereford United's 'Kick Racism Out Of Football' Day.


Play-off required

BeauBrummie, Cheesy and riverswye are all tied at the top of the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League for October. Could each of the three players make their predictions for the LDV tie on Tuesday night as we attempt to find a monthly winner!


Teesdale hopes to impress

After this afternoon's game Richard Teesdale spoke to BBC Hereford & Worcester.

He did not think that 1-1 was a fair reflection of the game. " I thought we played really well, second half more so, but we do need to get results at home. I think we will be there or thereabouts at the end because our away form is so good. It's a shame we are not getting the points at home.

With Ian Wright currently out, Teesdale reflected on his games so far. "I came in a couple weeks ago and tried to impress. Ian's injury the other night has given me another chance". He continued that he was "happy with the way the fans have treated me, obviously being a youngster I need to impress the manager."

Halifax boss Chris Wilder also thought his side may have won through. "With the injuries and suspensions we've got we thought that anything we picked up here would be a bonus," he said. "But in the end I'm a bit disappointed as I thought we might nick it in the second half."


Hereford unlucky
Hereford United were unlucky to only draw against Halifax this afternoon. A Matt Baker mistake saw Halifax take an early lead but Jamie Pitman levelled before half time.


Hereford forced to settle for point
Hereford United 1 - 1 Halifax Town
Without skipper Ian Wright, Hereford United could only seal a point at Edgar Street against newly-relegated Halifax Town, as the two tied 1-1.

Graham Turner was without Wright, who has broken bones in his hand and wrist, and attackers John Grant and Steve Guinan, for the game but Ben Smith made the bench. Chukki Eribenne made his debut on-loan from AFC Bournemouth.

United opened the brighter of the two sides, with an attack scrambled away from Eribenne in the second minute and a goalmouth confusion resulting in a Paul Parry shot at Halifax goalkeeper Lee Butler, using a Hereford shirt, two minutes later. In the sixth minute, though, an awful clearance from Hereford's Matt Baker saw the ball picked up on the right flank by Ryan Mallan, who cut inside and hit a curling effort past the statuesque Baker from twenty yards. The away side had the lead, against the run of play.

Searching for an equaliser, the Bulls looked to Eribenne who hit a weak header wide from a Danny Williams deep free-kick, but the goal swiftly arrived on twenty six minutes. A Mick Galloway cross from the left did not reach Eribenne, and it ran to Matt Clarke near the right flank corner flag. He swept the ball back into the centre and Jamie Pitman, some twenty five yards out, fired a low ball into the bottom corner to notch his fifth goal of the season.

The remainder of the half saw pressure from both sides, as Brian Quailey attempted to beat Richard Teesdale at one end, and Matt Clarke smashed over from sixteen yards at the other.

After the break, Halifax came out brighter and Ian Fitzpatrick had a couple of openings which tested Baker, but Michael Rose kept United's attack alive with a twenty yard free-kick which went over the top. On the hour mark, Paul Parry's deflected cross-cum-shot found the side netting, and Parry beat off the challenge of Halifax full-back Alistair Asher on sixty eight minutes but again found the side netting.

Paul Stoneman, who was stretchered off late in the match with suspected knee ligament trouble, ensured Hereford's Eribenne did not have a scoring debut as he blocked a volley, and with thirteen minutes left, a Halifax corner from Craig Midgley was hit narrowly wide of Baker's far post.

The crowd of 1699 was an increase of almost 300 from Tuesday's defeat, but it will be the 82 from Halifax who will be the more plased with the result. Hereford stay fifth, and are in LDV Vans Trophy action against Northampton Town on Tuesday night.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 19th October 2002.
Hereford United Halifax Town
Matt Baker Lee Butler
Matt Clarke Alistair Asher
Michael Rose Sean McCauley
Andrew Tretton Paul Stoneman (captain, off, 84 minutes)
Richard Teesdale Neil Grayston
Tony James Ryan Mallan
Jamie Pitman Ian Fitzpatrick (off, 62 minutes)
Paul Parry Phil Clarkson
Danny Williams Craig Midgley
Mick Galloway Adam Quinn
Chucki Eribenne Brian Quailey (off, 90 minutes)
Subs Subs
Scott Voice Tom Morgan
Ken Griffiths Phil Haigh (on, 84 minutes)
James Fox Andy Farrell (on, 62 minutes)
Rob Purdie Robert Herbert
Ben Smith Leon Ryan (on, 90 minutes)
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Michael Rose (44 minutes, foul) Adam Quinn (36 minutes, foul)
  Sean McCauley (52 minutes, foul)
  Neil Grayston (90 minutes, foul)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Jamie Pitman (26 minutes) Ryan Mallan (6 minutes)
   
Man of the Match Mick Galloway
Attendance 1699
Referee Mr. G. Lewis

Skipper back in two weeks?

Ian Wright could be back within two weeks, according to the Evening News.

The Hereford United captain broke bones in his hand and wrist after being struck by a fierce shot from Greg Rioch in Tuesday's 2-1 defeat against Northwich Victoria at Edgar Street.

However, the injury is not as bad as first thought, according to Wright. "It's pretty sore and swollen but I would hope to be involved sooner rather than later," he said. "It was a bit of a freak injury and the ball just caught me awkwardly as I blocked it."

Today, United host Halifax Town hoping to improve their home form. "We haven't had the results at home but we've actually been playing quite well," Wright commented. "We just need to keep going, do what we are doing, keep creating chances, and the law of averages says we will score some goals."

Next Saturday, the Bulls play Arlesey Town in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round and the winner receives £20,000 in prize money.

"We cannot afford any complacency but it gives us a great chance to progress," said boss Graham Turner.

Meanwhile, recent Hereford trialist Ian Hamilton has linked up with Woking.


Friday, October 18, 2002

Chukki Eribenne

Chukki Eribenne has joined Conference promotion pushers Hereford United in a one months loan deal and he’s been given the all clear by Sean O’Driscoll, the Bournemouth manager, to appear in the FA Cup and LDV Vans Trophy for the Bulls, reports the official Bournemouth website.

An attacker born in 1980, Eribenne has struggled to maintain a first team place at Bournemouth since joining the club just over two years ago and has not scored a senior goal since his debut against Bristol Rovers in August 2000. His scoring record in the reserves has been reasonable and the chance of some regular first team football could give him the confidence boost he needs to start scoring in the first team.

Coming on as a substitute against Carlisle, the striker put on a decent show in playing a part in all three goals, but the management and the player himself believe that the move is best for him at the current time. Eribenne’s contract is up at the end of the season and he could face being put further down the pecking order at Bournemouth . It is reported that Hereford have been after Eribenne for a while now and could make a debut against Halifax tomorrow.


BOLSA set for Red Card game

We have another sweepstake starting up in December, writes BOLSA secretary John Perkins, and the game is based on all 156 Premier League, Football League, Conference and Scottish League clubs. On the designated dates (December 21 2002, January 11 2003, February 22 2003, March 15 2003 and April 19 2003) the earliest player (in minutes after kick off) to be sent off from the above leagues (for the Friday through to the Monday of the weekend) will win for the person who's team he plays for.

The entry fee per game is two pounds ($3.20) or 10 pounds ($16) for all five designated games. Payment can be made via the Netsounds link on the BOLSA website or by sending a cheque to BOLSA, c/o MWPC, 98 Widemarsh Street, Hereford, HR4 9PG. If you want to reserve a team with payment to follow email me at jperkin4@twcny.rr.com. So far Reading, Carlisle United, Gillingham, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Norwich City and Sheffield United are taken. The prize for each game will be 100 pounds - if the winning team has not been chosen then half of the prize will roll over to the next game.

While the rules have been formulated over the last few weeks the winners would have been Torquay United, Halifax Town and this weekend Yeovil very impressively managed a sending off within 15 minutes of the start.

Please join us in making this sweepstakes a success. As with other BOLSA fundraisiers all money will go to the organization for use in funding other schemes or in donations to the club.


Just a note...

Please note that the HU-FC.co.uk Predictions League competition runs for Nationwide Conference matches only, and not LDV Vans Trophy or FA Cup matches. Therefore, after the Halifax Town match, the next entry should be for the Doncaster Rovers (away) match on November 2nd.


Eribenne joins Hereford

Hereford United boss Graham Turner has dipped into the transfer market to bolster his attack.

Bournemouth striker Chukki Eribenne has joined the Edgar Street side on a month's loan in an attempt to gain some first team experience.

Eribenne was a trainee with Coventry City and has scored one league goal for Bournemouth in twelve starts, and is expected to gain clearance to play in United's FA Cup and LDV Vans Trophy matches over the next week or so.

The 23-year old has featured in four of the Cherry's matches this season, but has yet to find the scoresheet

The attacker will go straight into the Hereford squad for tomorrow's home match against Halifax Town in the Conference, with Steve Guinan and John Grant sidelined through injury.

Midfielder Ben Smith could make his United league debut if fit enough, according to boss Graham Turner. "Ben has returned to training full of enthusiasm and as well as somebody who can create chances, he can also score as well, though tomorrow's match might be a bit early for him," he told the Evening News.

Captain Ian Wright may return quicker than originally thought. "The bone is broken but it is not as bad as first feared," said Turner. "He's in some pain and discomfort but he could be back playing sooner rather than later, with a plaster cast on."

Danny Williams should feature after an ankle injury against Halifax, who welcome back Sean McAuley after he fell out of favour. The injury problems for the Yorkshire-based club are mounting up, according to the boss Chris Wilder.

He said: "Anything we get from tomorrow's game will be a bonus and that's not looking at it negatively, it is being realistic. The lads have nothing to lose and hopefully the character of the players will come through.

"I know now that the lads won't just turn it in. They have too much about them to do that."

"Hereford are going into the game on the back of two losses so they will be fired up. They are under pressure because they are an established Conference club so it is up to them to force the issue."

Meanwhile, former Hereford defender Paul Sturgess has made his loan move from Stevenage Borough to Gravesend & Northfleet a permanent deal.


Thursday, October 17, 2002

Guinan doubt for Halifax tie

Hereford United have a doubt of the fitness of attacker Steve Guinan for Saturday's home Nationwide Conference match against Halifax Town, kick off 3pm.

Guinan picked a knee injury in Tuesday's 2-1 defeat to Northwich Victoria and could miss Saturday's game, along with John Grant and Ian Wright, who has broken bones in both his hand and wrist. Defender Richard Teesdale is set to start alongside Tony James and Andy Tretton in defence. Ben Smith could also make his full league debut after returning to training following his dislocated shoulder.

Graham Turner, the United boss, told the Hereford Times: "We need the boost of achieving a home win. We are creating chances and we need to start putting them away."

Halifax captain Steve Bushell, and defensive rock Shaun Garnett will both be banned for the match, whilst attacker Simon Parke has a groin strain and is unlikely to start. However, Town boss Chris Wilder expects striker Brian Quailey to start up-front after a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Hereford's FA Cup opponents Arlesey Town are treating the game very professionally. Club spokesman Jim Anderson said: "We will be staying overnight and treating the game as our cup final. There is a lot of interest in the village and we will be bringing at least two supporters' coaches."


Wednesday, October 16, 2002

Predictions League unchanged

Cheesy still tops both of the HU-FC.co.uk Prediction Leagues. Click 'Interactive!' for more details.


Striker urgently required

Last night's defeat showed how badly Hereford United require a striker.

Neither Paul Parry nor Steve Guinan are natural strikers. Whilst both made good contributions to the game, their finishing is just not good enough. Fox has not impressed and Voice is unlikely to feature for sometime.

There does not appear to be anyone lined up to come on trial.

Although Northwich won the game, it was Hereford who created the most chances.

Graham Turner speaking after the game said that he thought supporters would be disappointed with the result, although the team played good football in the first half. He again commented on how young the squad is.

The problem Turner faces is simple. Any more games lost at home especially to opposition lower in the league will result in lower attendances. The gate last night was only 1400. Perhaps the weather slightly affected the numbers, and in any case after the defeat at Burton a drop was expected. But 1400 is perhaps 400 less than it might have been. That's easily £2,500 less income.

It must be hoped that on Saturday the team return to winning ways. After the only other away defeat this season at Gravesend, the Bulls then lost at home to Morecambe. Then they went six games without defeat!


Broken arm for Wright

Ian Wright's injury is suspected to be a badly broken arm, according to boss Graham Turner.

The Hereford United skipper picked up the injury in last night's 2-1 defeat against Northwich Victoria, as he blocked a free-kick.

Turner told the Evening News: "It looks like Ian has badly broken his arm. It looks like he could be out for months rather than weeks."


Tuesday, October 15, 2002

Street nets twice
Former Hereford United trailist Kevin Street scored twice to see Northwich Victoria through tonight's match at Edgar Street, which finished 2-1 in the away team's favour. Paul Parry netted Hereford's goal.


United loss is right up Vics' Street
Hereford United 1 - 2 Northwich Victoria
Two goals from former Hereford United trialist Kevin Street condemned the Bulls to a second consecutive Nationwide Conference defeat.
Northwich Victoria, managed by another ex-Bull, Jimmy Quinn, arrived late for the match because of a motorway jam and therefore, kick-off was put back until 8pm.

Hereford made the early running with Danny Williams firing two shots off target and Paul Parry having a shot blocked by Jake Sedgemore, who moved from Edgar Street to Cheshire last season. However, after just eight minutes, a Greg Rioch cross was controlled well by Street, who rounded a couple of defenders before firing home.

A minute or so later, Steve Guinan found the side netting in a goalmouth scramble as Hereford were eager to get back on level terms. Michael Rose and Matt Clarke also narrowly missed the target, and Rose tested Vics 'keeper Matthew Perry after twenty seven minutes with a testing free-kick from the right flank. Then, Andy Tretton should have scored after a through ball from Rose but fired at the 'keeper. At the time, United were simply camping out in the away half of the field and it appeared only a matter of time before they found a goal.

But that's not Hereford's style. At the back, the defence were asleep with several mix-ups and a generally bad half for the trio of Tretton, Ian Wright and Tony James.

With four minutes to go before the break, Paul Parry levelled the scores. Steve Guinan's effort at the far post was pushed away by goalkeeper Perry, for Paul Parry to volley the ball into an empty net from close range.

After the break, Hereford were lucky to stay on equal terms when Greg Rioch broke through the United defence and only a last-ditch Tony James tackle ensured a goal was not the result. At the other end, a Paul Parry shot forced the 'keeper into a save after the Welshman had cut in from the right.

Northwich should have gone 2-1 up with twenty minutes to go as John Allan beat Matt Baker when one-on-one, but an excellent piece of defending saw Andy Tretton scoop the ball off the line. As the match progressed, Gregg Blundell fired wide whilst Rob Purdie lifted a shot over the bar after shaking off a defensive challenge at the other end. With eight minutes remaining, Street was up to his tricks again. From the edge of the box, Blundell headed a ball to Street who was in the right channel, and he knocked an angled drive under Baker.

In the seven minutes of added time that ensued, United captain Ian Wright was taken off with a suspected chest injury, and Hereford pushed everything forward but couldn't find that crucial equaliser.
Written by Terry Goodwin - 15th October 2002.
Hereford United Northwich Victoria
Matt Baker Matthew Perry
Matt Clarke Denny Ingram
Michael Rose Jake Sedgemore
Andrew Tretton Greg Rioch
Ian Wright (captain, off 90 minutes) Chris Royle
Tony James Val Owen (captain)
Jamie Pitman Mark Devlin
Paul Parry Andrew Taylor
Danny Williams (off, 74 minutes) Kevin Street (off, 90 minutes)
Mick Galloway Greg Blundell
Steve Guinan (off, 84 minutes) John Allan (off, 74 minutes)
Subs Subs
Richard Teesdale (on, 90 minutes) Richard Norris (on, 74 minutes)
Ken Griffiths Steve Garvey (on, 90 minutes)
James Fox (on, 84 minutes) Paul Gibson
Rob Purdie (on, 74 minutes) Jimmy Quinn
Rob Sawyers Danny Griggs
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Tony James (16 minutes, foul) Andrew Taylor (27 minutes, foul)
  Kevin Street (45 minutes, dissent)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Paul Parry (41 minutes) Kevin Street (8, 82 minutes)
   
Man of the Match Danny Williams
Attendance 1400
Referee Mr. M. Mullarkey (Exeter)
www.HU-FC.co.uk - The Independent Hereford United Online Resource © Terry Goodwin since 1999

Liquidation meeting in progress

The meeting in London to confirm the appointment of a liquidator for Chelverton Group Limited was still in progress late this afternoon. It is believed that Robson Rhodes will be appointed to the task.

Meanwhile Hereford United confirmed at 5pm that tonight's game with Northwich is on. The heavy rain in the area is slowly moving out of Herefordshire and the strong winds have eased.


Turner warns of home form

Hereford United boss Graham Turner has said that the Bulls' form at Edgar Street must improve, starting tonight against Northwich Victoria, kick off 7.45pm.

After losing at Burton Albion on Friday, Turner told the Evening News: "We have got to bounce back it's as simple as that and we have to get some sort of home record going. If we are to have any kind of success we have got to win our home games and so far we have not been over dominant in matches at Edgar Street.

"Tonight's match is our game in hand on the rest of the league from earlier in the season and as such is very important. It will be a true reflection of our standing and the start we have had in the Conference so victory is vital for us."

Matt Clarke, who suffered a cut eye, is expected to be fit as is Danny Williams who suffered a heavy challenge.


Wet conditions likely

With both heavy rain and strong winds forecast, conditions at Edgar Street could be difficult tonight for the Conference fixture with Northwich. The Bulls have only experienced these conditions once this season at Woking, but coped well.


Monday, October 14, 2002

Background to Chelverton's liquidation

The creditors of the Chelverton Group Limited are likely to confirm the appointment of a Liquidator tomorrow (Tuesday).

The directors of the company recently decided to initiate the procedure by calling a meeting of their shareholders. They passed a resolution to wind up the company.

A liquidator should conduct a relatively quick investigation into the affairs of Chelverton Group Limited. He will then call a meeting of the creditors. No other 'Chelverton' company is believed to be involved.

The liquidator has four main tasks:
- To convert the assets of the business into cash.
- To adjudicate the claims of the creditors.
- To investigate and report upon the conduct of the officers of the company.
- To make payments to creditors in order of priority.

In many cases the liquidators is asked to sell the assets of the business to another party. This can include the former directors or shareholders. This is known as a Phoenix.

Phoenixism is legal provided the rules are observed and the liquidator maximises the interests of creditors. He can sell the business to a 'connected party' provided he obtains the best possible value for the assets having advertised the assets for sale.

All the above may seem a long way from Edgar Street, but this liquidation could have a bearing on the future of the club.

Chelverton Group Limited owns Formsole to whom the debts of Hereford United are owed. Formsole has no employees and its sole interest is in Hereford United. Formsole is not in liquidation but is one of the assets of Chelverton and so could be sold to raise money for the liquidator. Much could depend on whether the liquidator decides to sell Chelverton as a whole or split the company.

Chelverton lost £13,337,776 last year according to their accounts. It is believed that a deal to sell part of the company fell through recently and there have been financial problems in parts of Europe, particularly in Poland. One of their bankers is understood to be concerned.


Minnows delighted

Arlesey Town are exstatic with today's FA Cup draw, which pits them against Hereford United in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.

The town has a population of just 4,000 and the team has a part-time squad including Wayne Cort, brother of Newcastle United's Carl, and Andy Theodosiou. 'Theo' played for Hereford in the mid-1990s and has also featured for Tottenham Hotspur, Norwich City and Brighton & Hove Albion.

Arlesey, in Bedfordshire, class the game as the biggest in the club's history apart from their FA Vase triumph at Wembley in 1995.


Williams and Clarke to play

Hereford United's midfielder Danny Williams and wing-back Matt Clarke should feature in tomorrow's match against Northwich Victoria at Edgar Street, kick off 7.45pm.

Williams (ankle) and Clarke (head) both picked up injuries in Friday's 2-0 defeat at Burton Albion but are likely to remain in the starting eleven, leaving just Ben Smith and John Grant sidelined.

Northwich, managed by former Bulls attacker Jimmy Quinn, welcome back defender Greg Rioch and forward Jonathan Allan to the squad after they both missed Sunday's 4-1 crushing at Scarborough.

Rioch was banned for the match and Allan was suffering from an ankle injury. Andy Woodward, though, will miss the match wth a calf strain.

Meanwhile, Scarborough defender Shaun Rennison, who injured his medial knee ligament at Edgar Street a couple of weeks ago, will miss the rest of the season.

"We knew it was bad," said Scarborough manage Russell Slade. "It hasn't come as a big surprise, but it's still a big blow."


United at home in cup draw

Hereford United have a home draw in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup.

The Bulls host Bedfordshire-based Arlesey Town of the Ryman League Division One North on Saturday, 26th October, kick off 3pm.

Arlesey are currently seventh in the league, which is at the equivalant level of the Dr. Martens Western Division.


Sunday, October 13, 2002

LTS Update

The results for the remaining teams in the Last Team Standing were:-
- Dunston Federation Brewery (Jane Griffiths) 0 Marine 1
- Flackwell Heath (Graham Johnson) 1 Purfleet 0
- Slough Town (Jamie Griffiths) 4 Hampton & Richmond Borough 2
- Newport County 0 Team Bath (Richard Price) 3

So its down to three now. The draw for the 4th Qualifying round is tomorrow. Of the original 198 teams, 15 have survived with two more in replays. Those left are Harrogate Railway, Bridlington Town, Radcliffe Borough, Guiseley, Arnold Town, Wisbech Town, Arlesey Town, Molesey, Flackwell Heath, AFC Sudbury, Slough Town, Horsham, Bideford, Team Bath and Tiverton Town, whilst Spennymoor United and Durham City have replays.


Bulls stay fifth

Sunday's results in the Conference mean that Hereford United stay in fifth place with 26 points from 14 games. Yeovil are now four points ahead of Chester with Doncaster in third spot. Southport are fourth with one point more than the Bulls.

Other than Hereford and Northwich, all clubs have played 15 games. So after Tuesday's match at Edgar Street, the only mid-week game in the conference, there should be an indication of Hereford's chances of finishing in the top five for a play off place.

Should the Bulls win they will move to joint third with Donny. A draw will leave them in fifth, three points ahead of Morecambe.

Caution will be needed before reading too much into the position as the Bulls good away record has been obtained against clubs further down the league. On the other hand home form has included draws against both Yeovil and Chester.

If home form improves, and that must mean beating sides like Northwich, then there must be some goals scored. Five goals in six starts is not very impressive. The strike rate has to improve.

Graham Turner was quoted after the Burton game as saying: "We must get our home record right if we have any aspirations of being in the top five. We have to make our ground a bit of a fortress starting with Northwich on Tuesday."

After Friday's game there are doubts about Matt Clarke, who had six stiches in a head wound, and Danny Williams with an ankle injury. So Rob Purdie could start in midfield.

Another problem the Bulls face is a number of players with yellow cards. Although in total they have only 21, the lowest except Telford in the league, Pitman has four and Guinan, Williams,and Rose have three. With a small squad Hereford do not want players off with suspensions.

Northwich lost 4-1 at Scarborough this afternoon and having to play again on Tuesday may affect their form, although they have only lost two away games in eight outings.


Club aided by BOLSA

BOLSA have released £1,000 to Hereford United after a request for financial help.

The club had received some unexpected bills, believed to include a large water bill after a leak was discovered at the ground.

The committee agreed to give the club the money but the request came before BOLSA had built up reasonable reserves and so will need to look for additional fundraising ideas.

Thanks to a generous donation from BerksBull, BOLSA have a comprehensive list of Hereford United programmes from the early to mid 70's for sale. These can be accessed on the merchandise page of www.bolsa-hufc.com. If you are interested in purchasing any of the programmes then contact BOLSA at jperkin4@twcny.rr.com to reserve them or order them via the Netsounds secure server. The programmes will be sold on the BOLSA website until early December when BOLSA will start auctioning them on Ebay. As they were donated by a Hereford fan, BOLSA thought it only fair that Hereford fans have first access to them.


Your articles needed

The next issue of Talking Bull will be on sale from Saturday 19th October 2002 (next Saturday).

Articles are now being compiled for the next edition, so please send yours to 'Talking Bull, PO Box 2000, Hereford, HR2 7WA' or 'talkingbull@hufc.com'.


United in cup draw

Hereford United enter the FA tomorrow as the fourth qualifying round draw is made.

The Bulls will discover their opponents in the draw at 10.30am tomorrow.

Hopes of a local derby have been dimished though, after Worcester City, Evesham United, Redditch United and Newport County all went out, with County losing to the University of Bath.

You can hear the draw live at 10.30am on Monday, and repeated throughout the day, on Clubcall's FA Competition Line - 09066 555888. Calls cost 60p/minute from BT land lines.


No change

Cheesy is still top of both the monthly and overall HU-FC.co.uk Prediction Leagues. More under 'Interactive!'.


Saturday, October 12, 2002

Turner disappointed with defeat

Hereford United manager Graham Turner was not a happy man after the 2-0 defeat at Burton Albion last night.

He said: "We opened promisingly but they looked a bit sharper and brighter after they got the early goal. We got the ball into good areas but we did not pass the ball very well.

"We did not create many clear goal-scoring opportunities and we were caught out twice when we could have cleared."

Turner added: "Our impressive away run has now come to an end and the players are very disappointed with the result and the performance. We have to pick ourselves up for Tuesday's important home game with Northwich."


Friday, October 11, 2002

Poor result for the Bulls
Hereford United lost 2 - 0 to Burton this evening in a lacklustre performance from the Bulls.


Burton break home duck
Burton Albion 2 - 0 Hereford United
Hereford United went down to a two goal defeat at Burton Albion, which ended a five game winning streak away from home and ensured Nigel Clough's men collected their first victory at Eton Park this season.

Graham Turner welcomed back captain Ian Wright in place of Richard Teesdale in the only change to the side that won at Leigh RMI on Tuesday.

It was a lively start with openings at both ends. On twelve minutes, Paul Parry had two blocked shots after a Mick Galloway corner. A minute later Burton took the lead. A cross from Craig Dudley was headed on by defender Andy Tretton in an attempt to clear, and Christian Moore nodded back over Baker from an acute angle.

Ten minutes later Albion could of doubled their advantage when Stuart Reddington forced a double save from Matt Baker after a corner from Moore. They kept up the pressure and it came as no surprise when went to two up with three minutes remaining. Matt Baker rolled the ball out to Tony James, who was closed down by Christian Moore, he intercepted a pass and chipped over a stranded Matt Baker.

The Bulls looked sharper after the break, but heavy rain continued to hamper proceedings. Sixty one minutes in, Reddington headed onto the foot of the post from a corner as United were forced to soak up the pressure again. Five minutes later Mick Galloway was fouled on the edge of the area. Paul Parry stepped up to have his powerful freekick deflected through the wall to end up in the 'keeper Matt Duke's arms.

United continued to press forward and Rob Purdie replaced Danny Williams. Ten minutes from time United wing-back Matt Clarke had to receive six stitches to his head when he clashed with Burton captain Darren Stride. Hereford should have pulled a goal back late on, Purdie shooting just wide after the goalkeeper failed to collected an earlier effort.

The 300 or so Hereford following were less than happy with their team's performance, in an attendence of 2149.
Written by Brianbull - 11th October 2002.
Burton Albion Hereford United
Matt Duke Matt Baker
Terry Henshaw Matt Clarke (off, 80 minutes)
Paul Talbot Michael Rose
Darren Stride (captain) Andrew Tretton
Christian Moore Ian Wright (captain)
Aaron Webster Tony James
Colin Hoyle Jamie Pitman
Craig Dudley (off, 73 minutes) Danny Williams (off, 71 minutes)
Nigel Clough Steve Guinan
Lee Glover (off, 86 minutes) Mick Galloway
Stuart Reddington Paul Parry
Subs Subs
Dan Robinson Richard Teesdale
Steve Evans (on, 86 minutes) Ken Griffiths
Sean Gummer Rob Sawyers
Andy Sinton Rob Purdie (on, 71 minutes)
Steven Gough (on, 73 minutes) James Fox (on,. 80 minutes)
Yellow cards Yellow cards
Steven Gough (unsporting behaviour, 89 minutes) Danny Williams (foul, 30 minutes)
  Jamie Pitman (unsporting behaviour, 90 minutes)
Red cards Red cards
- -
Scorers Scorers
Christian Moore (13, 42 minutes) -
   
Man of the Match Matt Clarke
Attendance 2149
Referee Mr. G. Lewis (Cambridge)

Burton injuries hamper progress

Burton Albion have several injury worries which are hampering preparations for tonight's match at Eton Park against Hereford United, kick off 7.45pm.

Nigel Clough's side, who have yet to win a home match this season, could see the return of ex-Tottenham Hotspur and England international Andy Sinton but defender Jason Kavanagh (calf), midfielder Neil Glasser (hamstring) and striker Glen Kirkwood (eye) are likely to miss out.

Hereford could welcome back Ian Wright to the centre of the defence, but John Grant and Ben Smith remain sidelined through injury.


Thursday, October 10, 2002

BOLSA's Last Team Standing update

The revised results for the 2nd Qualifying round of the FA Cup are as follows:-
- Peterlee Newtown (Katy Jaekel) lost 3-0 away to Durham City
- Dunston Federation Brewery (Jane Griffiths) beat Burscough and they will play at home to the winner of Marine in the 3rd Qualifying Round.
- Pelsall Villa (Katy Jaekel) lost 6-1 away to Bedford City
- Bromsgrove Rovers (Richard Price) lost 2-1 at home to Tamworth
- Nantwich Town (John Perkins) lost 3-0 at home to Arnold Town
- Harefield United (Niki Munn) drew 4-4 at home to AFC Sudbury. AFC Sudbury won the Replay 5-0
- Bromley (John Perkins) drew 1-1 away to Leatherhead. Leatherhead won the replay 4-2
- AFC Wallingford (Martin Watson) lost 1-0 at home to Eastbourne Borough
- Slough Town (Jamie Griffiths) drew 2-2 away to AFC Totton. Slough Town won the replay 2-0 and will play at home to Hampton & Richmond Borough.
- Selsey (Graham Johnson) lost 4-1 away to Hastings United
- Flackwell Heath (Graham Johnson) drew 2-2 with Royston Town (Elaine Harrison). The replay resulted in a 0-0 draw and Flackwell Heath (Graham Johnson) won the resulting penalty shootout 5-3. Flackwell Heath will play at home ot Purfleet in the next round.
- Burnham (Tony Oleksy) lost 1-0 at home to Herne Bay
- Wingate & Finchley (Mitch Stansbury) lost 2-0 away to St. Albans City
- Clevedon Town (Martin Watson) lost 2-0 away to Weston Super Mare
- Gloucester City (Mitch Stansbury) drew 1-1 at home to Newport County but lost the replay 4-0
- Team Bath (Richard Price) won 6-1 at home to Bemerton Heath Harlequins and will be away to Newport County in the next round.
- Cinderford Town (Richard Price) drew 1-1 away to Evesham United. Evesham United won the replay 5-0.

Therefore our only survivors from 42 original teams are:-

Dunston Federation Brewery - Jane Griffiths
Slough Town - Jamie Griffiths
Flackwell Heath - Graham Johnson
Team Bath - Richard Price

The third qualifying round is this Saturday (October 12). Of the 198 teams in the first qualifying round 33 have survived so far and 6 teams are guaranteed to progress to the next round. Will anyone draw Hereford United in the 4th Qualifying round?

The results for Win A Match Sponsorship to date are:-
1st Qualifying Round
- Tow Law Town (Graham Johnson) 5 Matlock Town 4
- Peterlee Newtown 4 Louth United (The Comet Inn, Madley) 0
- Eastwood Town 1 Redditch United 2 (Chelgames)
- Arnold Town (Sun Valley) 1 Biddulph Victoria 1, Arnold Town (Sun Valley) won the Replay 2-1
- Hemel Hempstead Town (Advion BioSciences) 7 St. Neots Town 1
- Staines Town 1 Uxbridge (Jamie Griffiths) 2
- Horsham 3 Slade Green (Advion BioSciences) 0
- Ringmer 1 Chertsey Town (MWPC) 2
- Torrington (M&M Sports) 0 Hungerford Town 1
- Highworth Town (Truetype Web Solutions) 2 Cinderford Town 3

2nd Qualifying Round
- Hyde United 7 Tow Law Town (Graham Johnson) 3
- Redditch United (Chelgames) 1 Leek Town 1 – Redditch United (Chelgames) won the Replay 2-1
- Nantwich Town 0 Arnold Town (Sun Valley) 3
- Diss Town 2 Chertsey Town (MWPC) 3
- Uxbridge Town (Jamie Griffiths) 1 Braintree Town 2
- Hemel Hempstead Town (Advion BioSciences) 3 Cray Wanderers 1

The draw for the teams through to the 3rd Qualifying Round is as follows:
- Redditch United (Chelgames) v Arnold Town (Sun Valley)
- Hemel Hempstead Town (Advion BioSciences) v Arlesey Town
- Molesey v Chertsey Town (MWPC)

Games to be played on Saturday October 12, 2002

Again, Thank you to everyone for donating prizes to help make the raffle a success.