THE heat was the only real winner as Hereford's pre-season programme came to a close at Meadow Park on Saturday, writes Richard Prime.

Neither side was able to find much in the way of rhythm under clear blue skies although the Bulls carved out more than enough opportunities to have won the game comfortably.

John Snape's cracking shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 48th minute seemed as though it was going to be the first of many for United who had dominated the game in the first half.

But Hereford's efforts to break down the Tigers defence again ultimately proved ineffective and substitute Neil Griffiths' scrambled equaliser nine minutes from time gave the home side a share of the spoils their endeavours scarcely warranted.

Injuries meant that Hereford were forced to field a below strength side but the casualty list did at least allow trialist Andy Moran another run-out and the former Tranmere Rovers forward gave a lively display.

Goalkeeper Matt Baker, another trialist from Hull City, also gave a confident showing.

Hereford: Baker, Lane, Gardiner, McIndoe, Wright (Moran 81 min), James, Rodgerson, Snape, Elmes, Moran (Hanson 59 mins), Parry (Beale 66 mins). Sub not used: Cooksey.

Gloucester: Gannaway (Hines 70 mins), Johnstone, Hunt, Abbott, Moore, Thorne, Medows (Steadman 70 mins), Chenoweth, Bayliss, Rawlins (Griffiths 70 mins), Dicks (Cox 58 mins).