THE heat was the only real winner as Hereford United's pre-season programme came to a close with a 1-1 draw at Gloucester City on Saturday.

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 ultimately proved ineffective and substitute Neil Griffiths' scrambled equaliser nine minutes from time gave the home side a share of the spoils.

Injuries meant that Hereford were forced to field a below-strength side with player-coach Phil Robinson, Gavin Williams, Paul Sturgess, Matt Clarke, John Shirley and Steve Piearce all resting minor injuries.

The casualty list did at least allow trialist Andy Moran another run-out and the former Tranmere Rovers forward did his prospects of earning a contract no harm with a lively display.

Goalkeeper Matt Baker, another trialist from Hull City, also gave a confident showing and did enough to suggest that he could provide capable cover for Scott Cooksey.

With Hereford in the ascendancy for much of the first half, home goalkeeper Ryan Gannaway was tested by efforts from Moran, Ian Rodgerson and Chris Lane, while Parry's wingplay provided a severe test for the home defence.

A long throw reached Snape on the edge of the area for the midfielder to drill past Gannaway in the 48th minute after which substitute Craig Hanson's strong running and crossing often caused problems for the home defence.

After Griffiths' equaliser, Hanson almost grabbed a winner.

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

n Pershore Town warmed up for the start of their Midland Combination season on Saturday with a 1-1 draw at Knowle.

The reserves won 7-0 at home to Tenbury United.