HEREFORD United are hoping to use the FA Cup as a catalyst to lift their flagging fortunes.

The Bulls visit Hornchurch in the fourth qualifying round tomorrow (3pm) having failed to win any of their last five Skrill Premier matches.

Martin Foyle’s side have dropped to 19th in the table as a result and are just three points above the relegation zone.

But with the cup representing a break from league action, and offering a welcome £12,500 in prize money, the Edgar Street side will be looking to advance to the first round proper.

Striker Dan Walker said: “Hopefully, we can win the game against Hornchurch, which would then give us a bit of confidence and we can kick on from there.

“A win can help us gain momentum for the league, because if we go on a good cup run, it can boost the confidence of the lads.”

Hornchurch are second in the Ryman League Premier Division, one level below Hereford, with just one league defeat all season.

However, the Urchins were knocked out of the FA Trophy last Saturday following a 3-2 reverse at Hemel Hempstead Town.

Walker added: “Hornchurch will be up for the tie and the ground is not going to be what we’re used to.

“They’re going to make it difficult for us, but I would love to have an FA Cup run.”

Midfielders Josh O’Keefe (arm), Kingsley James (knee) and Frankie Artus (leg) could be back in contention for the Essex trip but on-loan Mansfield midfielder Ross Dyer is not eligible.