HEREFORD United have withdrawn their reserve team from the Central Conference following last season's 'shambles', writes Ian Morgan.

The Edgar Street outfit took the decision after only two clubs completed their fixtures in the seven-strong section last term.

United boss Graham Turner believes the league organisers made a big mistake in admitting Lincolnshire side Boston United.

"It was very foolish to include Boston United from so far away in the league last season and, sadly, the league was a complete and utter shambles," said Turner.

He understands that Tamworth, Worcester City and Telford United have also chosen to withdraw from the league.

He said: "Basically, we have decided to operate without having a team in an organised reserve league. We will get football for the fringe players when we need it, but it will be a case of organising practice matches like the one against Swansea City shortly before last season's FA Cup match with Wrexham."

Meanwhile, the Bulls have severed their youth association with North Birmingham College and hope to announce a new link-up with another college shortly.

United have had no dealings with North Birming-ham College since they indicated a wish to work with Stoke City.

Turner explained: "There was a change of hierarchy and we experienced difficulties contacting the new people and also the players.

"The college applied to go into the Midland Floodlit League next season as Stoke City and we are disillusioned at the way in which they have behaved. We were well down the line with Solihull College but they opted for the prestige of Birmingham City's Comm-unity Scheme."