Hereford United will be looking to kick-off their Nationwide Conference season on Saturday with a win against visiting Scarborough.

The Bulls have begun each of the last two seasons with 3-1 successes, at Tamworth and at home to Farnborough respectively, and a repeat of that scoreline against the Yorkshire side would be an excellent opening to the campaign.

"Scarborough are a very workmanlike side, always difficult to play against with one or two threats," said Hereford's director of football Graham Turner. "But on the opening day it's always a case of 'never mind the quality, feel the three points'. That is the only thing that is vital to come out of the opening day of the season."

The Seadogs' visit is followed by a trip on Tuesday to old Southern League and Football League rivals Cambridge United who were relegated last season. That match is set to be shown live on Sky TV.

"Cambridge are a club who have been in dire financial straits and just about seem to be sorting themselves out," said Turner.

For many Bulls fans, Saturday will provide a first opportunity for a look at the club's new signings.

A ninth pre-season arrival checked in at Edgar Street yesterday (Wednesday) when West Ham centre-back Darren Blewitt joined Hereford on a season-long loan from the Premiership club.

"He is 6'2'' and a left-sided centre-back," said Turner. "He comes highly-recommended by Kevin Keen, the West Ham reserve coach."

Blewitt had a two-month loan spell with Southend last season, making one appearance as a substitute.

The only doubt for Saturday, aside from long-term casualties Jamie Pitman and Simon Travis, concerns Stacy Coldicott who will be assessed over the next couple of days after experiencing problems with inflammation in a lower-back joint.

Despite his considerable experience, Turner still feels the excitement of the start of a new season.

"However long you have been in the game, at this point the adrenaline and the nerves still start to flow with the first game approaching," he said.