Puddy- 7- Dropped a couple of catches in the first half and almost put Hereford in trouble with a wayward kick. Kept the Hereford fans amused with some handbags with Adam Marriott before half-time. Solid second half, commanded his box and was rarely tested.

Oates-8- Solid performance as expected and caused trouble on the break with an overlapping run which led to the opening goal. Almost got onto the scoresheet early in the second half but could only find the side-netting.

Pring- 8- Another solid performance also chipping in with the Bulls attack and with both full-backs attacking they caused the visitors a host of problems.

Richards 7- Proved a useful outlet on the attack and did his share of defending too.

Green 8- Provided that reassurance that the Bulls defence needed when under pressure and also had a few rare runs forward.

Liburd 7- A decent performance the weaker of the central pairing and was almost caught in possession in a dangerous position but was saved by the half-time whistle. Much better in the second half and was composed under pressure and kept a good Royston forward pairing quiet.

MAN OF THR MATCH- Smith 9- Relentless pushing forwards which led to both Hereford goals helped to control the midfield too. Could have had a goal before taking the opener well and was instrumental in securing the victory with setting up the second goal.

Purdie 8- Controlled the midfield as he always does and took the sting out of the game late on. Did well to see Smiths’ run and kept his compose to fire home the second goal.

Mills 7- The marksman struggled by his high standards and was heavily marked throughout. Had a chance to double the Bulls’ lead but was heavily marked by a host of defenders at the time.

Haysham 7- Did he job in midfield well and almost scored the Bulls’ second but couldn’t beat the goalkeeper when through on goal. Replaced by Symons on 70 minutes.

Reffell- Went close on several occasions in the first half but was denied by misfortune and the Royston goalkeeper.

SUBS

Symons 7- Came on after 70 minutes- Took any pressure off Hereford and used his physicality well against a team who were intent on making it a physical game. He almost netted a third goal at the death but crashed his effort against the post.

O’Shea 7- Had little to do on his return from international duty as the game was already sealed.

Attendance: 2,657 (21 from Royston)

Referee- Matthew Law- 6- Some dubious decisions on both sides and handed out a host of yellow cards. Claims that he should have handed a red out as Will Puddy was being manhandled by the Royston attack.

Match Rating 6/10

Analysis: Not a classic and not a game Hereford fans will remember for long but a vital three points and a professional performance. Bulls edged the match in all areas of the pitch and a 2-0 victory was a fair reflection.