HEREFORD are looking to sign a new defender in time for tomorrow's game at Gosport Borough.

The Bulls only have three centre-halves, with Dara O' Shea suspended for the next two games and Dan Preston on a dual registration deal at Bromsgrove Sporting.

"He is quite flexible and can play anywhere across the back four," said Beadle.

"He is a bit older than Dara and will be a permanent signing rather than a loan."

O'Shea's suspension could be increased to five games after being dismissed again on Saturday.

The 18-year-old saw red after bringing down Wealdstone's Matt Whichelow during Hereford's FA Trophy second round defeat.

However, the Bulls believe there was minimal, if any contact, and have this morning lodged an appeal to try and get the sending off overturned.

"The ref slows down before running back to blow his whistle," said Beadle.

"The linesman was twice the distance away from him and on the wrong side of the pitch, so how can he give it?

"We think it's harsh and thei rplayer even clips his heels before going down in the box and there's clear daylight between him and Dara.

"We've been told he was sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity, but no way was the lad going to get the ball.

"He has clearly tried to win a penalty."

Fellow defender Cameron Pring's loan spell will end on Wednesday.

However, Beadle says the club are in talks with Bristol City to try and get it extended until the end of the season and Pring is willing to stay.

"He is only 19 but has fitted in really well and is a popular member of the group," said Beadle.

Jack Deaman will be in contention to start tomorrow's game after sitting on the bench on Saturday.

However, midfielders Mike McGrath, Calvin Dinsley and Eliot Richards will not be fit enough to be selected.

Hereford will go top with a win but Beadle knows it won't be easy against the bottom placed side.

"Everyone will be writing them off but they will be up for the game and we will have to have the same mentality," said Beadle.

"It is a chance for us to go top, which will be the first time that we will have achieved that this season.

"We know it's not going to be easy but if we prepare right, then the rewards are there."