From The Archives - Two In At Hereford

Exactly ten years ago today, August 31st 2010, two new signings were announced by Hereford United.

Two in at Edgar Street

Simon Davey has made two signings today according to the Worcester News.

They are German defender Dominik Werling and Cameroon striker Amadou Rabihou

Werling, 27, (pic on right) has signed a two-year deal after buying himself out of his contract at Davey’s former club Darlington, while Rabihou (pic on left) has put pen to paper until December 31.

The 25-year-old, a free agent who started his career at AC Milan, had been training with the Bulls and scored in a friendly against Coventry last week

Werling played for several clubs in Germany before moving to Turkey. In July 2007, he joined Barnsley from Turkish side Sakaryaspor. On 3 September, it was announced his contract had been terminated by FC Erzgebirge Aue and that he could leave the team.

Following a trial spell, which saw him score a goal in a friendly match against Blackburn Rovers, he joined Football League One side Huddersfield Town on 20 January 2009. He made his debut as a substitute for Lionel Ainsworth in the 1–0 win over Peterborough United on 31 January 2009. At the end of the season, he was not offered a new contract and was released.

On 28 April 2010, it was confirmed that Werling would be rejoining former manager Simon Davey at Darlington for the 2010–11 season.

Rabihou began his career with AC Milan. In 2002 he moved to Austrian side SK Sturm Graz, where he made 65 appearances and scored 12 goals.

In 2007 he moved to French second league team Amiens SC but couldn't settle and went on to Slovakian team FK DAC 1904 Dunajská Streda. He left them in January 2009, returning to Austria and signed for Austria Lustenau. He contract with them ended last June.

O'Shea In Ireland Senior Squad

 

Former Hereford FC loanee Dara O'Shea has been drafted into the Ireland senior squad ahead of Thursday's UEFA Nations League opener with Bulgaria.

Manager Stephen Kenny has doubts around the availability of James McCarthy so has called up West Brom's O'Shea who has played several times for the Under 21's.

Described as versatile by the Irish Independent, O'Shea can play anywhere in defence. He has also been used as a holding midfielder.

"We have added Dara O'Shea to the squad." Kenny said.

"Dara has obviously come through the ranks of U15 right through every year and shown himself very capable of playing all four [defensive] positions really with West Brom last year.

"He's a centre-half really who's played to the right of centre back, he's played at right back for a good bit this season [and] left back down toward the end of last season for West Brom."

O'Shea made 21 appearances for the West Brom first team last season. 

It's Stourbridge On Tuesday Evening

After yesterday's game against Newport at Edgar Street yesterday, Hereford FC manager Josh Gowling takes his squad and a number of trialists to Stourbridge on Tuesday evening for the club's third pre-season friendly.

Tickets for the game remain available, as at Sunday morning, and are priced at £10 for adults, OAP's £7 and Juniors £5.

To purchase go to: https://stourbridgefc.ktckts.com/

The friendly kicks off at 7.30pm.

Address: War Memorial Athletic Ground, Amblecote, Stourbridge, West Midlands DY8 4HN 

Also taking place on Tuesday evening is a friendly between Cinderford Town and Weston Super Mare, who have a host of former Hereford FC players in their squad.

Cinderford are raising money for a new clubhouse roof so would warmly welcome any Hereford supporters to the game.

Admission is £5 for adults, Juniors are free. Kick-off is at 7.45pm. 

Your Herefordshire Team Up With HFA

From Left: Stefan Davies (YourHerefordshire), Alan Darfi (HFA) and Matt Healey (YourHerefordshire)

The Herefordshire FA has confirmed that the County Challenge Cup and Giantkillers Cup Final will be joined at Edgar Street for the first time by the Women’s County Cup Final. The three showpiece finals will be played on the famous turf of Edgar Street with the men’s and women’s finals taking place in a double header format.

In an additional boost to the County Cup programme, the County FA are delighted to announce that Your Herefordshire will be on board as official partners of all Herefordshire FA County Cups. As part of the arrangement, all cup draws will be broadcast exclusively through Your Herefordshire alongside the site providing an extensive programme of County Cup content and coverage throughout the season.

Alan Darfi, Herefordshire FA CEO added “It’s great to be able to confirm that not only will the County Challenge Cup and Giantkillers Cups be returning to Edgar Street this season, but also that we’ll be adding the Women’s County Cup Final, which is a real sign of how well the Women and Girl’s game is doing across the County. We’re really grateful to Hereford FC for their help in supporting this. In terms of the Your Herefordshire partnership, this again is great news and will hopefully help raise awareness of our fantastic Cup programme”

Your Herefordshire representative Stefan Davies added “Your Herefordshire is delighted to team up with the HFA to help grassroots football and to help them enhance the local game. We’ve enjoyed covering many of our local sides and believe that this partnership will enable us to take things to the next level.’’

Hereford FC representative Martin Watson added ‘’we’re really glad to be able to support the HFA’s showpiece finals at Edgar Street and are looking forward to welcoming the fans of all finalists, including for the first time those connected to the Women’s County Cup teams, to Edgar Street.

The HFA County Challenge Cup has a proud history dating back to 1876 and has remained the senior competition in Herefordshire football for the County’s NLS and Premier Division clubs. The competition was won most recently by Westfields FC in 2019, and they also hold the proud record of 15 cup wins. 

The HFA Giantkillers Cup was introduced to commemorate one of the most famous moments to take place at Edgar Street; Hereford United’s FA Cup 3^rd Round victory over Newcastle in 1972. The cup continues today as an invitational competition for U18 sides from Herefordshire and beyond, with the prize of playing on Edgar Street attracting interest from far and wide.

The HFA Women’s Cup was revived two seasons’ ago after a brief hiatus. Historically run jointly between Herefordshire and Worcestershire FA, the growth of the women’s game has allowed the competition to be brought back specifically for Herefordshire affiliated clubs. The County FA are delighted after establishing the cup over the last two years that Hereford FC have facilitated the cup final to be played at Edgar Street, further demonstrating the development and deservedly growing interest in women’s football.

Gowling Impressed By A 'Couple Of Trialists' This Afternoon

 

Speaking after this afternoon's friendly against Newport, Hereford manager Josh Gowling said he was impressed by a couple of the trialists on show.

As for the game itself, which Newport won 4-0, Gowling felt it was 'a game of two halves'. 

"The second half was a trialists game more than anything," said Gowling.

"The first half we defended well, we had a good shape and I think we worked well in the transition which we’ve been working on in training, but I think we just lacked a bit of creativity.

"We've worked on winning the ball back and then playing, but I don’t think we played enough in that transition which at the end of the day it was our second pre-season friendly.

"We still don't have a settled mid-field yet, they were basically trialists. But I was pleased with our shape and how we worked."

Did any of today's trialists impress Gowling?

"There are a couple that are going to be with us next week. A couple started with the lads and we'll be looking to carry them on into next week," he said.

"A couple of them had good energy. One of the lads I like his energy, I think he's got goals in him. So we'll be looking to bringing them back in.

"We've got a couple that are, hopefully, going to get across the line in the next week or so. A couple of loanees and a couple of signings hopefully over the line very quick."

Gowling suggested some could be players who have not yet featured.

Toby Raison played today.

'He has been excellent. The transition that he has made from when he came in, the back-end of last season from the youth team to where he is now is a credit to the lad.

"He wants to learn, he wants to develop.

"I'm really pleased the way he has come back. He played well today."
 

Bulls comprehensively beaten by Newport

Hereford were comprehensively beaten 4-0 by League Two side Newport County in this afternoon's behind-closed-doors games.

It was always going to be a test against a side who are well into their pre-season schedule, whereas it was only Hereford's second game.

Bulls boss Josh Gowling named 12 trialists in his 20-man squad, with former Hereford United midfielder James McQuilkin and Connor Parsons, who scored in Tuesday night's 1-1 draw at Wellington, both starting.

Newport opened the scoring in the 12th minute when good work from the right saw Lewis Collins stab the ball home from close range.

The visitors should have doubled their lead just before the half-hour mark but a trialist's header was cleared off the line and onto the bar before Ryan Haynes saw an effort saved. And Newport again hit the woodwork just before the break thanks to a curling shot.

Hereford brought on a trialist goalkeeper for the second half, meaning that question marks remain over Brandon Hall's future at the club.

However, the keeper had to pick the ball out of the back of the net just two minutes into the second half. He fumbled at a free kick, resulting in Ryan Taylor hooking the rebound home. He did redeem himself with a smart save in the 52nd minute, but poor marking by Hereford  in the 65th minute led to Newport making it 3-0. A corner was flicked on for the unmarked Saikou Janneh to nod home at the back post.

Hereford had their best effort on goal just a minute later when a trialist's fierce shot produced a smart save, while at the other end Yan Klukowski had to clear under pressure. Newport then made it 4-0 in the 76th minute thanks to a fine finish from a trialist. Six minutes from time, substitutes Demetri Brown and Kyle Finn linked up well for the latter to curl an effort wide for Hereford, but the home side's chances were few and far between and the gulf in class between the two sides told in the end.

It would have been interesting how Hereford would have fared if this was their last match of their pre-season when they would hopefully have had a more settled squad. However, Gowling still would have taken a lot from the game and would have seen more from his trialists in match action. Next up is Stourbridge away on Tuesday.

Hereford: White, Hodgkiss, Grimes, John Lewis, Trialist 1, Trialist 2, Trialist 3, Trialist 4, Trialist 5, Trialist 6, Trialist 7. Subs: Jones, Brown, Finn, Klukowski, Trialist 8, Trialist 9, Trialist 10, Trialist 11, Trialist 12. 

Newport: King, Haynes, Baker, Howkinga, Demetriou, Trialist 1, Labadie, Bennett, Collins, Amond, Abrahams. Subs: Townsend, Woodiwiss, Wilmott, Taylor, Trialist 2, Janneh, Trialist 3, Dolan, Sheehan.

Team news for Newport game

Trialists again heavily feature for Hereford in their behind closed doors friendly against Newport County.

White, Hodgkiss, Grimes, John Lewis, Trialist 1, Trialist 2, Trialist 3, Trialist 4, Trialist 5, Trialist 6, Trialist 7.

Subs: Jones, Brown, Finn, Klukowski, Trialist 8, Trialist 9, Trialist 10, Trialist 11, Trialist 12.

Frith Joins HUST

HUST have announced that Nick Frith has joined the organisation as Independent Secretary For Governance. He takes over from Frank Williams.

Frith works at the FA managing the Women's Pyramid of Football.

"Nick is a splendid addition to our team," said HUST Chair Peter Sell.

"I thank him for his interest and I also thank Frank Williams for his interim assistance since the turn of the year."

Frith is looking forward to supporting HUST.
 
"The role of the Trust in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the club whilst maintaining links to the local community is key, particularly given the current uncertain climate," he said.

Stourbridge Tickets On Sale

Hereford Supporters can purchase tickets for Tuesday's friendly at Stourbridge.

All the details from Stourbridge FC:

Stourbridge will be limited to 300 spectators for our first home 'test event' against Hereford under the current government and FA guidelines.
Our first home fixture of the 2020/21 season sees us welcome National League North outfit HEREFORD FC on Tuesday, 1st September (note - 7.30 pm kick-off).
This will be the first home game for the Stourbridge FC first team since February 29th when Lowestoft Town were the visitors!
Under current government and FA guidelines we are restricted to a crowd of 300 for our first fixture before being allowed a 600 capacity for matches after that, starting with the friendly against Kettering Town on Tuesday, 8th September.
COVID-19 guidelines, with particular regard to social distancing to other supporters, staff and team players and restricted access points, will need to be adhered to by fans. Please look out for appropriate markings and signs (especially in the Bar area and around turnstiles, food and drinks outlets and toilets) and follow any instructions from stewards.
In some situations, supporters may feel more comfortable by having a face mask on their possession.
At all times, and in all parts of the ground, please observe social distancing and avoid close contact, including hugs and high-fives, with people who are not within your social bubble.
Supporters must not attend matches if they are exhibiting potential covid-19 symptoms.

Tickets are now on general sale via https://stourbridgefc.ktckts.com/ on a first come first serve basis.
Tickets are priced as follows -
Adults - £10
OAP's (over 65) - £7
Juniors (aged 17 and under) - £5

If purchasing a ticket on the site on behalf of another family member etc. please after clicking on ASSIGN ATTENDEES, then click on EDIT DETAILS to provide the name of the person using the relative ticket for track and trace purposes.
After clicking CONFIRM & PAY you will have one final chance to check everything is in order before making your credit or debit card payment.
Following your purchase, your ticket will be emailed to you as a PDF attachment. Print it off or show it on your phone at the turnstiles for scanning on match night. If you're unable to print off at home for whatever reason, please bring your booking order reference number to our new ticket office situated inside the archway entrance on the night so that it can be dealt with there.

Football Returns To Edgar Street This Afternoon

Edgar Street On February 29th

At long last football returns to Edgar Street this afternoon Admittedly the friendly against Newport County is being played behind closed doors but it's a start.

Supporters can watch the game for just £5.99. Go to:  https://page.inplayer.com/hereford-fc/ 

The last game played at Hereford's home was against Altrincham on February 29th so it's six months since groundsman Ben Bowen has had to prepare the surface.

Hereford lost the game 2-0 and our match reporter that day, Son of Eric, was critical of the performance.

'The poorest performance under Gowling by some way with little width and not as much passion, Finn making little difference when he came on. Altrincham are a well-run club playing good football with less resources than Hereford but they’re fifth from top and Hereford look to finish fifth from bottom.'

And his final sentence summed up how many felt at 4.50pm that afternoon.

'The sooner this season is over, and Hereford can start again the better.' 

The line-up that day was: Hall, Hodgkiss (C), Thomas, Pollock, Anderson, Riley, Jagger Cane, Owen-Evans, John-Lewis, Liburd, Mooney.

Subs: Davies, O'Sullivan, Ash, Finn, Pope  

Of those sixteen, just five are signed on for this season, Hodgkiss, Pollock, Owen-Evans, John-Lewis and Finn.

David Icke Interview

The former Hereford United goalkeeper speaks to Steve Wraith about his time at Edgar Street. The relevant section is approximately between 7 and 20 minutes.

More Trialists At Edgar Street Tomorrow

There will be more trialists on view at Edgar Street tomorrow when the Bulls entertain Newport County in a behind closed doors pre-season friendly.

Last Tuesday at Wellington there were nine trialists for Hereford one of whom was former Hereford United midfielder James McQuilkin.

Others were reported to be Declan Weeks, Jason Cowley, Giles Coke and Connor Parsons.

"I’ve been really pleased with the quality of trialists that we’ve had here so far, we’ve been taking a good look at them during training, and we’ll have another look at them tomorrow," said manager Josh Gowling in a interview on the OS.

"There are also a couple more who weren’t available last Tuesday that will have a run-out tomorrow, so I’m really excited to see what they can do."

"We’re still short in the middle of the park, so that’s where we’ll be focussing out attention at the moment." 

Both Dan Jones and Tom Owen-Evans will not take part as they have picked up injuries.

"Dan had a tight calf in training, and during the match on Tuesday it was just getting tighter, so we decided to get him off and let him rest.

"It’s a similar story for TOE, he took a knock in training and still has a bit of a niggle, so we’re just going to make sure he has plenty of rest and that he only comes back when his body is ready."

Supporters can watch the game live for £5.99.

Please go to: https://page.inplayer.com/hereford-fc/ 

Details of how you can pay for live stream of Newport game

Supporters wishing to watch this Saturday's friendly between Hereford and Newport via a live stream can buy a match pass for £5.99.

Hereford have worked in partnership with CJP Broadcast Service Solutions Ltd, who are offering a live production of the game, which includes live multi-camera feeds, in-game replays and live commentary from RadioHerefordFC.

You can purchase your pass here.

Hereford Set To Stream Newport Friendly

Hereford FC are set to stream Saturday's friendly against Newport.

CJP Broadcast Service Solutions are understood to have been given the task.

It's believed they will have four different camera points.

More details are expected later. 

National North Fixtures Out On September 8th

Fixtures in the National North league are set to be released on September 8th.

Matches are expected to commence the following mid-week, almost certainly on October 6th, a Tuesday evening.

Clubs will play an FA Cup-tie on the previous Saturday, October 3rd. 

Given the late start to the season it's thought that Hereford will be playing two league games a week for much of October and November.

Salary Cap 'Essential' Says Accrington Owner

The owner of Accrington Stanley has told the Guardian that he thinks a salary cap is 'absolutely essential'.

Salary caps have been introduced into League One and Two but not the National League as yet.

This is the view of Accrington owner Andy Holt:

'There had to be some controls on this Wild West that has been football. A salary cap was absolutely essential. If we carried on with clubs going bust, there is no doubt the government would get involved and, before you know it, there would be regulation all over football because we can’t have a situation where clubs keeping getting into trouble and not paying wages. Something had to stop the madness because the regulation up until now has not been strong enough and it has been a disaster. 

You’ve seen Bury, Bolton – it’s everywhere you look, clubs are really struggling. It is affecting the transfer market. We make an offer and if we don’t get the player, we look elsewhere. But we have always operated like that because I wouldn’t operate any other way. John Coleman, our manager, has a fixed budget, he can spend it how he wants but when he has spent it, that’s that. But it is really difficult to keep the costs reined in when all around you aren’t, forever outbidding each other to increase costs. 

The Championship is like an arms race. Football will take every penny you can give it, no matter what your budget is. It can take another £2m off you if you’re prepared to let it. I get the PFA aren’t happy about wages being restricted but the truth is if clubs keep going bust and the EFL collapses, there will be no jobs for anybody.'

News Round Up

Former Hereford United winger Marley Watkins has joined Aberdeen. “He’s a threat in behind for 90 minutes and has got a goal in him."

Hereford FC have agreed a sponsorship deal with Domino's. 

Former Hereford FC players Jamie Bird and Rhys Davies both scored in friendlies on Tuesday evening. Bird scored against Westfields.

Tickets for the away friendly at Stourbridge on September 1st are now on sale to home supporters only. Capacity is limited to 300.

THROWBACK THURSDAY | Hereford United 0-1 Manchester United - 28th January 1990 - FA Cup 4th Round

A crowd of just under 14,000 packed into Edgar Street, a late winner from Clayton Blackmore breaks Hereford hearts.

Hereford line up

1 Tony Elliott

2 Mark A Jones

3 Steve Devine

4 Chris Hemming

5 Darren Peacock

6 Mel Pejic

7 Mark Jones

8 Jon Narbett

9 Colin Robinson

10 Ian Benbow

11 Paul Tester

Attendance 13,777

Murray Recalls That Night At MK Dons

It's over eleven years since Matt Murray suffered a serious injury whilst keeping goal for Hereford that ended his footballing career.

Murray had joined Hereford to regain fitness after a previous injury when just three games into his loan spell from Wolves he sustained a further injury whilst playing for the Bulls at MK Dons in November 2008

“I’d got myself back fit again for that loan spell and I’m not just saying this, that first game for Hereford against Cheltenham was one of the best I have played in my life,” Murray told the Express and Star.

“Forget the play-off final, forget when we beat Albion, that game at Norwich, I just felt so good.

“When it came to Hereford, I had come through injuries like a cruciate, broken shoulder, broken foot, and was at the stage where I was going to make sure that I properly enjoyed every single game that I played. Then, I just hit a ball, and my knee completely snapped.

“The patella tendon had ruptured and the pain? Well I can’t even describe it.

“It was completely different to a cruciate – my kneecap was halfway up my thigh – and all of a sudden I am there, laid out, lying on a stretcher.

“You have to get a lift at MK Dons to get back out of the stadium and there were three big roars while I was in there as Hereford conceded goals.

“It is difficult to completely describe how I felt, because there was a lot going on in my life at that time, the sort of stuff that I know lots of people have to go through – the human side – which affects footballers just like it does anyone else.

 “My wife at the time was pregnant with our second child, my landlord who I had lived with when I was in the academy had just suffered a massive stroke, and my nan, who would pass away shortly afterwards, was really ill in hospital.

“My stepdad was at the game and went to fetch my stuff, and so were my good mates Dave and Rob, and when I got into the ambulance, I phoned Keaney (Robbie Keane).

“I’ll never be ashamed to say I properly burst into tears at that moment, everything just came flooding out.” 

Murray regained some fitness and played a few games but soon realised he couldn't continue. Ten years ago today, August 26th, he retired.

Luckily, amidst other roles, he became a reporter for Spy Sports.

Read more at: https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2020/08/26/a-decade-on-matt-murray-recalls-day-he-knew-wolves-game-was-up/

 

Details about Hereford's goalscorer versus Wellington

The trialist who scored Hereford's goal against Wellington last night is believed to be a former Norwich City youth player.

Connor Parsons is a 19-year-old left winger whose contract with the Canaries expired on June 30. 

He also has his own YouTube channel, which has 35,000 subscribers.

*Photo by Will Cheshire.

Ex-Kidderminster and Chester keeper joins Bulls' coaching team

Former Kidderminster, Chester and Solihull goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan has come on board at Hereford. The 38-year-old was part of Josh Gowling's backroom team during last night's pre-season friendly at Wellington.

Gowling said it was great to have him on board.

lots of positives from last night and a big welcome to the club to @NVaughan1 roll on Saturday pic.twitter.com/CSEeCr2bkN

— Joshua Gowling (@joshgowling) August 26, 2020

Hall again won't feature on Saturday

Hereford manager Josh Gowling confirmed that goalkeeper Brandon Hall again won't be part of the squad for this Saturday's behind closed doors friendly against Newport County.

New goalkeeper Paul White started last night's opener against Wellington, with Brandon Powell coming on in the second half.

When asked if Hall will make an appearance on Saturday, Gowling just said no and did not want to comment further. 

Fans speculate who the trialists are

As per normal during the opening pre-season games, a number of trialists feature and supporters start to speculate who they are.

During the second half of Hereford FC's opening friendly against Wellington, there were nine trialists on the pitch and one of those definitely looked like former Hereford United midfielder James McQuilkin, seen below.

The 31-year-old spent four years at Edgar Street between 2009 and 2013 and went on to play for a number of clubs, namely Kidderminster where he played under current Bulls number two, Steve Burr during an initial loan spell. He was last with fellow National North League club, AFC Telford but was released at the end of last season.

Another midfielder who played last night is believed to be Declan Weeks, who can be seen in the picture below. Weeks spent three seasons at Kidderminster after previously starring for Southport. 

Other players who are believed to be on trial include striker Jason Cowley, who has been prolific for Bromsgrove Sporting, and Giles Coke, a midfielder who spent five years with Sheffield Wednesday and was last with Oldham. 

"I'm sure there's a couple that supporters will know but it's up to them to earn themselves a contract and a place in the team," said Hereford manager Josh Gowling.

"We've got to get a lot of trialists in. I think we've only got about 12 signed players so we will need a lot of players in and it's up to them to impress and if they impress, they'll be in.

"I don't want players that are not good enough. They will come in and will be part of what we're doing and they will drive the sessions as well in training. So a lot of players who were with us tonight will be with us through pre-season."

Photos from Wellington

A selection of photos from Tuesday evening's friendly match against Wellington. 

Gowling on Wellington draw

Hereford manager Josh Gowling spoke to the press following tonight's 1-1 friendly with Wellington. He spoke about how he felt his team fared, how it was good to see supporters back and the trilaists who were on show. You can listen to what he had to say here.

Hereford draw opening friendly in awful conditions

Hereford drew their opening pre-season friendly against Wellington tonight in very difficult conditions.

The Bulls - who hadn't played any game for five months because of the coronavirus pandemic - named a number of trialists in their squad, with one of them scoring with a very good effort. 

Others also played well, and even though a draw against a side who play four leagues below them may look bad on paper, one has to remember that Wellington had already played a few friendlies and the strong wind and driving wind made conditions extremely difficult.

Hereford had an early chance through Lenell John-Lewis and had the majority of possession in the opening 15 minutes. New signing Dan Jones looked impressive before he had to hobble off, while Jamie Grimes looked assured at the back. 

One of the midfielders who is on trial shot just over shortly before the half-hour mark before Hereford were awarded a penalty in the 39th minute when Kyle Finn was bundled over. However, John-Lewis saw his spot-kick brilliantly saved onto the post by Keiran Blackburn, who is playing some games at Wellington from Westfields following an injury lay off. Then, Finn saw an effort whistle over. 

Despite Hereford dominating, Wellington did pose a threat on the break and a low cross from Paul Jones on the left-hand side had to be intercepted. And it was Jones who put his side ahead three minutes into the second half when his shot went through the legs of substitute keeper Brandon Powell. Hereford had a much different side in the second half, with some youngsters joining the trialists. One of the trialists saw a header go narrowly wide before another one levelled for the Bulls. Good footwork led to him cutting inside before curling in an effort off the crossbar. Blackburn had to be alert to make a save to deny Hereford going in front, while at the other end, Matty James saw an effort go just wide.

Overall, it was a decent workout for Hereford. These sort of games are about getting fitness levels up, especially with the lack of football that there has been. And Hereford supporters will have been pleased with some of the performances. The Bulls are at home this Saturday against League Two side Newport County, but it will be played behind closed doors due to no fans being allowed at Step Two stadiums. However, it will be streamed on Hereford FC TV, so supporters will be keen to see how many trialists will play in that game.

Wellington: Blackburn, Mullenger, Robinson,  J Davies, James, Fletcher, Griffiths, Huntbach, Jones, Hackett, Pearson. Subs: Brimble, Winter, Morris, Tomkins, Perkins, Apperley, S Davies, Thomas. 

Hereford: White, Hodgkiss, Grimes, Raison, Jones, Finn, Trialist, Klukowski, Trialist, John-Lewis, Brown. Subs: Trialist, Whitlock, Trialist, Trialist, Powell, Trialist, Trialist, Trialist, Owen-Evans, Trialist. 

Tonight's Hereford Line-Up

Hereford FC have released the 21 names of those involved in today's pre-season fixture at Wellington

First Half:

Paul White, Jared Hodgkiss, Jamie Grimes, Toby Raison, Dan Jones, Kyle Finn, Trialist, Yan Klukowski, Trialist, Lenell John-Lewis, Demetri Brown.

Second Half: 

Trialist, Rob Whitlock, Trialist, Trialist, Brandon Powell, Trialis, Trialist, Trialist, Tom Owen-Evans, Trialist. 

News Round Up

Kidderminster Harriers have stressed that buying a Season Ticket is the only way 'to ensure you’re at the front of the queue to watch the action at Aggborough.' They have sold 'hundreds' so far.

Hereford FC's new blue 'Jewson' training shirt is now available to purchase.

Former Hereford United striker Theo Robinson has rejoined Port Vale on a two year deal.

Boston are talking to former Hereford FC midfielder Jordan Nicholson. ' But he lives quite far away as well and that needs to be taken into consideration," said manager Craig Elliott.

Wellington's Pitch Is 'Ready For Tomorrow'

Wellington FC are holding a friendly against Hereford FC tomorrow evening and the pitch is described as being 'ready for tomorrow'.

'During the close season a lot of work has gone into improving the already good playing surface at Wellington.

The pitch has been reseeding, verti-drained, top dressed with specialized sports sand and treated with a slow release fertiliser.

As always the main contribution to improving the surface is regular mowing and brushing which has been done two or three times a week throughout the shutdown.'

Please note the friendly is 'sold out'. However Radio Hereford FC are set to broadcast live commentary.

Beadle talks about becoming new Barnet manager

Former Hereford manager Pete Beadle has spoken about becoming the new boss at Barnet, saying that he will be looking to play open, attractive football.

Beadle was named as the Bees manager at the weekend following a two-year hiatus from the game. Talking to Barnet's YouTube channel, Beadle said that he was selective about what clubs he applied for but was attracted by Barnet due to previously playing for them.

You can listen to the full interview here.

Beadle given £800k budget

Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous says that new manager Peter Beadle will be given a budget of over £800,000 with the aim of being in the promotion mix this forthcoming season.

Former Hereford boss Beadle was named as the Bees' new manager on Saturday, possibly surprising a lot of people.

"There has been much talk about salaries and budget but that’s just poor speculation, all applicants had the same details so everyone was on an even playing field," said Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous, as reported on Barnet's official website.

"Of course to be successful this season Peter will need a competitive budget so our plan is to use the new £199 season ticket offer to form the basis of this budget and hope you will all join me in backing him for success. 

"I want us to have a real go at promotion so whatever you, the fans, spend on tickets I will double and this money will go directly to players. We are hoping to eventually sell over 2,000 of these tickets so with my added support Peter will have over £800k in his playing budget but whatever the final number is, we will do this together."

Kleanthous added that Beadle quickly emerged as a stand out candidate during the interview process and everyone were impressed by his positive attitude, hunger for success and his understanding of the work ethic needed to achieve promotion.

More here.

Radford Joined By Shearer In Harris Songbook

 

Hereford FC supporter Harry Harris, perhaps best known for his song about Ronnie Radford, has recently written 'The Ballad of Alan Shearer' which fronts a podcast about the Newcastle United legend.

Despite coming from Builth Wells, Harris has followed Shearer's career.

"I'm a big football fan who is in his his 30s, so I grew up with the Keegan era of Newcastle United," said Harry, who now lives in Edinburgh, told the Chronicle.

"They were always one of the big teams that I remember watching, so I already knew about the Everton goal and the story about how he turned down (Manchester) United, so it was a quick one to write.

"I just remember how good a player he was, and what a great era it was for English strikers. I remember Ian Wright couldn't get a game for England because of Shearer and (Teddy) Sheringham."

Beadle Selected From Over 100 Applicants

It has emerged that former Hereford FC manager Peter Beadle was selected for the manager's job at Barnet from 'over 100 applicants'.

Beadle has also commented on his appointment.

  

"I'm delighted and privileged to be given the opportunity to work for a club with the standing of Barnet FC," he said.

"I enjoyed my time here as a player and am looking forward to my time here as manager."

 

Beadle Starts At Barnet Tomorrow

Hereford Managers Graham Turner And Peter Beadle

Former Hereford FC manager Peter Beadle starts his new job at Barnet tomorrow.

It's also been reported that he will speak to the media and supporters later in the day.

For a National League club Barnet have some very good facilities. Owner Anthony Kleanthous moved the club to the Hive in 2013 after playing at Underhill since 1907. 

Kleanthous doesn't appear to keep managers too long at a time, since 2010 there have been 24 changes although several of the managers have returned for a second spell and Martin Allen has had four spells in charge.

However Beadle will know a bit about Barnet and Kleanthous as he played for the Bees in 2003.

Beadle gets National League job

Former Hereford FC manager Pete Beadle has been appointed as Barnet manager.

Beadle - who won three successive promotions with the Bulls - has been out of work since being dismissed in September 2018.

Barnet, whom is a former club of Beadle's, reached the semi finals of the National League play offs last season, but then saw their manager Darren Currie leave the club.

HUST Endorses FSA Campaign “Sustain The Game”

HUST fully endorses the FSA campaign to ‘Sustain the Game’. It has never been more timely to remind society and the powers that be of this. Watching football at your local Club is one of life’s great pastimes. 

Peter Sell, HUST chair says “All Hereford supporters have battled hard for football at Edgar Street. It is a privilege to endorse the campaign across football.”

Richard Tomkins, HUST’s rep at the FSA says “The FSA has acted very constructively for the good of the game we all enjoy, whatever level of football a Club plays at. We’re gaining the momentum now to show the emotional value of the game and how it’s presence in localities brings many tangible benefits.”

Read More HERE: SUSTAIN THE GAME 

WINNING NUMBERS for the HUST CLOSE SEASON ONLINE DRAW (12) - Saturday 22nd August 2020

WINNING NUMBERS for the HUST CLOSE SEASON ONLINE DRAW

Draw 12 - Saturday 22nd August 2020

Congratulations to Kevin Eaton, Roger Lundberg & Mark Nottingham

Thank you for your continued support, investing in our #CommunityClub

Thank you to our sponsors Anytime Fitness Hereford

The more entries each week, the higher the Prize Fund

Today's Prize Fund = £180

Total Prize Fund Paid (11 draws) = £2,391

80 tickets already SOLD for next week's HUST CLOSE SEASON DRAW - Saturday 29th August 2020 (Draw 13)!

This is currently a manual process for this draw so please allow time to process your entry

BUY EARLY!

Link to the NEW HUST CLOSE SEASON DRAW for Saturday 29th August 2020

https://www.hufctrust.co.uk/hust-continue-with-a-close-sea…/

Entries close at 3pm on Saturday afternoon of 29th August

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

#STAYSAFE

#unitedsupporters #foreverunited #InThisTogether #KEEPTHEBULLSFLYING #StaySafe

No replays in FA Trophy

There will be no replays in the FA Trophy for 2020/21.

The same applies to the qualifying rounds of the FA Cup, although no announcement has been made yet about the 'proper rounds'.

Bulls to face Newport in friendly

Hereford are to face League Two side Newport County next week in a pre-season friendly.

The match will be behind closed doors at Edgar Street on Saturday, August 29 at 1pm, but fans will be able to watch it via a streamed service.

Details of how you can watch it will be announced next week.

Welcome Back To Westfields

Westfields FC, who are Hereford FC's closest neighbours, are at home this afternoon for the first time since last March.

Chief Executive Andy Morris has posted a welcome back message.

'I write to welcome everyone back to allpay.park and to Westfields Football Club after nearly six months without football and general activities.

In that six months we’ve had to survive extensive flooding and of course continue and deal with the Covid-19 coronavirus situation.

The flooding left us all devastated here at the ground but due to financial support from the Hereford Council, the Football Foundation, our own club donations and the support of supporters and companies we’ve been able to totally refurbish the club room and dressing room.

The committee, our fantastic volunteers and in particular Steve Higgins, Sean Edwards, Pete Williams, Paul Martin and Rory Hollingshead along with the support/work of manager Phil Glover and his company AP Carpentry who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, together they have put together a tremendous refurbishment of our premises which I know as supporters and club members you will all want to see.

The money we received has been put to really good use and we now hope that all supporters will enjoy the facilities here and continue to support us, both through the Supporters’ Club payments, match-day draws and other fundraising activities that we’ll undertake in an effort to get back to normality.

On the pitch we have had a new ground contractor engaged in Ben Bowen from High Ground Maintenance and he has certainly produced a fantastic playing surface which I know the players and management of all our teams are really enjoying and I know from the landscape perspective supporters will enjoy coming to watch football on the new playing surfaces.

We’ve also engaged this year with additional junior teams and this year we have also brought together a ladies’ senior team who will be playing their home fixtures here on a Sunday afternoon so this all adds up to the development and future of Westfields Football Club.

We now need to enjoy the season ahead of us but we have to be mindful of the risk assessment that we have to work under and we ask all supporters, players, management and staff to remember the FA guidelines and the Government directives if we wish to maintain football for a long period whilst this Covid-19 pandemic continues.

I hope everybody will enjoy returning to the ground and let’s hope we can continue football where we left off last March.

Once again, thank you to everybody who has contributed during the past six months to improving the facilities here after what has been a most difficult and frustrating time for all concerned, locally, nationally and globally.'