HEREFORD United will be looking to gain the upper hand over Bristol Rovers when the two sides meet in Coca-Cola League Two on Boxing Day (12.30pm).

The Edgar Street clash is the first of two fixtures between the teams in under a fortnight as they go head-to-head in the FA Cup third round on Friday, January 5.

But league points are the immediate priority for Graham Turner's side as they continue their hectic Christmas and new year schedule.

Today's match is their second in four days after Friday's 1-0 win at Notts County.

The Bulls then host Wrexham on Saturday and visit Wycombe Wanderers, Charlton's Carling Cup conquerors, on New Year's Day, a match just four days before the Rovers cup tie.

Turner said: "It's a tremendously busy period coming up with the three league games and culminating with the FA Cup match with Bristol Rovers."

Keeping the squad in good shape is of paramount concern for the Hereford coaching staff during one of the most demandings spells of the season.

Striker Andy Williams has recently returned to training following a throat infection, while centre-half Dean Beckwith is sidelined until the Wycombe trip through suspension.

Midfielders John Eustace and Neil MacKenzie have been recalled from successful loan spells.

Turner added: "It's a tough period for players and it's when you want everybody fit, have some luck with injuries and get a result from the first two games to set you up."