Tuesday, August 20, 2002

Hereford United climbed to equal top of the Nationwide Conference after a hard-fought 3-1 win last night over Forest Green Rovers at The Lawn.

It was a memorable match for United's 21-year-old midfielder Danny Williams who scored his first-ever senior goal in the dying seconds and also set up the Bulls' opener for the lively Paul Parry.

"I have been impressed by our two performances in the league so far and I am delighted to have opened my account in first-team football," said former Chesterfield player Williams.

But it is unlikely that Forest Green's Steve Jenkins will look back at the derby with fond memories.

After picking up an early caution for unsporting behaviour, Jenkins scythed down Steve Guinan in the 77th minute and was dismissed by referee Paul Melin.

Although they trailed 2-1 at the time of Jenkins' second booking, the Gloucestershire team did not concede defeat.

Indeed, 10-man Rovers gave United's defence some anxious moments in the closing stages before Williams sealed the points, neatly following up a rebound after home goalkeeper Steve Perrin had pushed out a stinging shot from Parry.

The Bulls fought back well after conceding an early goal to former United favourite Neil Grayson and gave a spirited display.

Following good work by Alex Sykes, veteran striker Grayson lashed an unstoppable angled half volley past Matt Baker with the first chance in the 16th minute.

But Hereford drew level with their first constructive move in the 27th minute.

Williams played a ball over the top for Parry, who outpaced two Forest Green defenders before hammering a superb low shot past Perrins's despairing dive.

Skipper Ian Wright gave United a deserved lead on 59 minutes. He climbed well to Michael Rose's inswinging corner and his firm downward header beat a defender on the line and bounced into the roof of the net.

Hereford: Baker 6, Clarke 7, Rose 7, Tretton 7, Wright 8, H James 9, Pitman 7, Parry 8, Williams 8, Sawyers 6, Guinan 7. Subs (not used): Griffiths, Teesdale, Purdie, Voice, O'Kelly.

Attendance: 1,514.