Bulls need a perfect tonic
John Trewick, the Hereford United coach, has told the Evening News that a win tomorrow would be a perfect tonic after a poor set of results over the festive period.
"People keep telling me about our recent results against Burton Albion. But I'm not someone that looks at what went on in the past.
"Tomorrow is another game and we must go there in a positive frame of mind. When we played Burton earlier this season, they put 10 outfield players behind the ball even though we had Tamika (Mkandawire) sent off early on.
"There are probably about 10 sides who all have a legitimate claim to a top-five finish. It's going to be very close. We have got to try and win every game if we want to be in the play-offs.
"We can't legislate for what other teams do from now until the end of the season. We've got to look after our own results and try to maintain a level of consistency.
"It was very disappointing for us to lose to the same team (Exeter) twice in a week. The fact is that we have taken three points from nine and it is important that we bounce back."
Meanwhile Burton's Kris Taylor is expected continue his central midfield partnership with skipper Darren Stride for tomorrow's Conference clash according to the Burton Mail.
But manager Nigel Clough could have to change the side that began 2005 in fine style with a 2-0 victory at neighbours Tamworth after wide midfielders Craig Dudley and Chris Hall both picked up groin strains in that match.
However, he has ready-made replacements in Andy Ducros and Sam Shilton, who have declared themselves fit after being sidelined by flu and a neck strain respectively.
The Brewers boss could also turn to Michael Simpkins, who impressed on the left side of midfield after replacing Dudley at Tamworth.
Burton have lost only once against Hereford since being promoted to the Conference and completed a notable double last season, winning 4-1 at Eton Park and 2-1 at Edgar Street.
"They had the majority of play in both games," Clough told the Derbyshire Telegraph "and they did again when we drew 0-0 there this season.
"So we won't be too unhappy if they come at us, as long as we defend properly.
"They will be more aware than us, probably, of their record against us and they'll be thinking it's time they beat us, so we will have to be careful."