Hereford manager Josh Gowling is proud of his squad’s performance to beat York City 1-0.
“We spoke at length this week about what we need to come here and win and I thought we implemented the game plan excellently. We deserved it.”
Defender Reiss McNally made his debut having signed on a short term loan deal. “It was hard for Reiss because he hasn’t trained with us,” Gowling said. “He was absolutely outstanding. We have athleticism in the back four now.”
“We just wanted to come here to be solid and organised, and we had some good opportunities. TOE (Tom Owen-Evans) has gambled for the goal, and I’m really pleased.”
On the penalty decision, Gowling pleased their homework had paid off when Brandon Hall saved the spot kick. “It’s not a foul, is it? The crowd cheers, and he gives the penalty. I know people don’t like analysis, but that’s why we do it. We know which way they take a penalty, and Brandon gets it right.
“I had a conversation with Brandon a couple of weeks ago and said I need him to step up and lead this team. He made one save in the first half that was unbelievable and then the penalty save, that has won us the game. He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the league.
Gowling added that although Hall was struggling with an injury towards the end of the game, he’ll be fine to play in the FA Cup on Saturday.
“The players who’ve come in have been unbelievable, including the subs. We have a small squad. We are missing six key players. This shows the character of the boys with their resilience, desire, to put in a performance like that.
“And a big thank you to the fans who travelled up.”