Fresh from their excellent showing in the recent Welsh Football Tournament at Aberystwyth the Hereford Youth team turned in a workmanlike performance against a strong Monmouth side this evening. The early exchanges were keenly contested but goal opportunities were limited. However, the young Bulls took the lead on the 25 minute mark when Craig Jones picked up the ball in the centre circle and advanced towards the Monmouth goal before releasing Bobby Terret who finished with a low hard drive from the left side of the penalty area. Johnny Roberts and Kai Bond the respective home and visiting keepers were both tested on several occasions before Monmouth scored a well-taken equaliser. Right sided Elliot Ford found Michael Cleaves on the edge of the box and his first time shot, struck with the outside of his foot, curled into the top corner of the net. Monmouth took the lead just five minutes after the break through an unfortunate own goal but this just served to galvanise the young Hereford outfit. On 75 minutes Bobby Terret returned the favour owed from the first half by providing the opportunity for Craig Jones to finish from 20 yards. Jones went on to score his second and the winning goal in the final minute of a match, which Garry Stevens described as a very useful workout. Not having watched the youngsters since Christmas time last year I have to say that there looked to be a better balance and purpose about this evening's performance in all the key areas. The full backs were quick and eager despite needing to put on a few inches while the central defensive pairing were both strong and won almost all of the aerial battles. Midfield showed both tenacity and creativity while the strikers worked tirelessly for each other.
The Bulls News sponsored team open their Youth Alliance campaign on August 25th when they entertain Bristol Rovers
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