Saturday, August 19, 2000

HEREFORD United opened their Nationwide Conference campaign with a goalless draw from a game of few clear-cut chances.

A draw was always on the cards -- the Bulls having never won an opening day Conference fixture while the Sandgrounders have never lost one.

United did show a smattering of creation throughout and the encouraging work of Matt Clarke and last season's joint top scorer Rob Elmes hinted that the Bulls may have a promising season to look forward to.

Elmes in particular, who looked significantly fitter than in his lumbering pre-season performances, challenged the visiting defence with his physical presence and nearly gave Hereford the lead after 25 minutes, heading an Ian Rodgerson corner goalwards only for former Aston Villa defender Shaun Teale to clear off the line.

Rodgerson volleyed a half-clearance over the bar on 34 minutes and, six minutes later, a well-worked free-kick ended with Michael McIndoe firing into the arms of keeper Steve Dickinson.

Teale, who went closest for the visitors with a 30-yard strike straight at United stopper Scott Cooksey, was a rock at the back for the Sandgrounders. He showed his pedigree with an assured performance to halt the Bulls' charge, aided by an ineffective showing from Gavin Williams.

Williams partnered Elmes up front in the absence of Steve Piearce, but had somewhat of a nightmare and, uprooted from his regular wide position, looked uncomfortable and, at times, clumsy.

In contrast, Elmes hit the top of the bar with a header late in the half, seconds before Lee Furlong forced Cooksey into a save.

Chances were at a premium in the second half and it was not until the 73rd minute that either side threatened to break the deadlock -- Southport striker Simon Parke heading a free-kick from Mark Stuart over from close range.

However, within 60 seconds, Hereford player-coach Phil Robinson, who made his league debut for the Bulls along with McIndoe, flicked a 20-yard effort from Rodgerson inches wide.

Both sides had late opportunities to snatch victory but it was little surprise that the game ended in stalemate.