WILL Ford wants to stay in the Hereford first team as long as possible after starring in the Wyesiders' win over Stratford-upon-Avon.

Ford made his debut at the back and was key to Hereford's first win of the season.

"This was my first game for the firsts so I haven't seen how they have got on in the other games," said Ford, who previously played for Bromyard.

"But I know they were close and we were able to get over the line.

"I just want to stay in the team if I can and hopefully I made a good impression and can stay in there for as long as I can."

Hereford coach Kieram Hallam felt Ford was exceptional.

"He really helped the back three work as a unit and it's going to be exciting to see him link up with the more experienced players," said Hallam.

"We should have a decent back three and back line to continue in the league."

Brad Gardiner also made his debut in Hereford's back three.

"I just wanted to come here and make an impact," he said.

"I used to be playing for the seconds on a regular basis but they asked me to play for the firsts.

"It was a really big step up and I hope I played well."

MATCH FACTS

Hereford: Rowlett; Gardiner, Pudge, Mifflin, Ford, Powell, Sullivan; Welch, Jordan, Hill, McColl, Humphreys, Slater, Yarranton, Harris. Replacements: Hillstead, Bell, Parsons.

Stratford-upon-Avon: Cook; Powell, Geekie, Young, Allen, Brain, Southall; Hancock, Hibberd, Cook, Cobb, Mylott, Jones, Kirby, Pritchard. Replacements: Dyson, Joyce, Cook.

Referee: Phil Jones.

Yellow cards: Hereford – Rowlett.

Star man: Will Ford.

Match rating: 3/5.