THE Nationwide Conference is becoming a tougher league season by season with money doing the talking at more and more clubs.

But down at Edgar Street, Hereford United will again have to rely on a squad of free-transfers.

On paper the freebies stand little chance -- but Graham Turner has put together a talented young squad.

Hereford have some good young players. The much-heralded Paul Parry heads that list but he must be more consistent and Gavin Williams was, in some circles, United's player of the year last season with some very impressive displays.

Both can learn from each other. They need to score more goals but while Parry's strength is in his distribution, Williams lets himself down in that department. On the flip side Parry's defensive contributions can only improve.

As well as these two Chris Lane, Tony James and Matt Clarke are very consistent and under-rated performers and Michael McIndoe has had a promising pre-season following his arrival from Luton Town.

United can also call upon the experience of key players and the arrival of player-coach Phil Robinson will fill the gap left by Mark Taylor's departure.

Midfield problems should be sorted by McIndoe and Robinson but it is the lack of firepower which needs to be addressed.

The loss of Leroy May and Paul Fewings will hit hard and although a number of triallists have been on view, an experienced striker needs to be found if the Bulls are to challenge.

FORECAST: 7th.

KEY PLAYER: Steve Piearce.

INS: Matthew Gardiner (Halesowen Town), Michael McIndoe (Luton Town), Phil Robinson (Stoke City), John Shirley (YTS), Matt Beale (YTS)

OUTS: Mark Taylor (Nuneaton Borough), Paul Fewings (Boston United), Andy Quy (Halesowen Town), John Cotterill (Released), Leroy May (Released).