Third-time lucky hope for big Herefordshire county derby (From Hereford Times)

5:00pm Friday 5th February 2010

MORE than 1,000 fans will be packing into Wyeside on Saturday for the biggest Herefordshire rugby match in almost eight years, writes IAN MORGAN.

County rivals Hereford and Luctonians will come face-to-face in an eagerly-awaited derby clash in National 3 Midlands.

Fifth-placed Hereford will have home advantage for Saturday’s match and are one position and one point better off than Luctonians.

The fixture has already been postponed twice this season because of bad weather.

The clubs have only ever met twice in league competition - the last time was in March 2002.

“There is so much interest in the game now after the two postponements,” said Hereford’s secretary, Frank Dullehan.

“We are expecting a gate of well over 1,000 and that will be our biggest home gate for some time.

“It could be our biggest home gate since we played Pontypool at the old Rockfield Road ground many years ago.”

The derby kicks off at 2.15pm and the teams will also be playing for the Pied Piper Cup which was last competed for more than 20 years ago.

The cup has been donated by Chris and Nick Nenadich who will present it to the winning captain after the final whistle.

Luctonians have won nine and lost just two of their last 11 league games, while Hereford have won seven, drawn one and lost three of their last 11.

But Luctonians stalwart Dave Thomas says the league form of the respective sides will count for little.

“Some people have been saying it will be a battle between the Luctonians forwards and the Hereford backs.

“I don’t hold that view because Hereford are a very good, young side with an excellent backrow and a lively set of backs.

“We hope it will be an excellent spectacle for sport in Herefordshire.”

Hereford’s officials say parking spaces at Wyeside will be limited and are urging fans to use public car parks or share lifts.

The club added that there will be a pig roast and outside bars for spectators.

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