PHYSIO Jonny Evans saluted the fans after a bumper crowd watched the Hereford United Supporters Trust team last night at Ledbury Town.

Former Hereford United players Sam Gwynne and Jon Hill played for a supporters’ team managed by Pete Beadle and assistant Steve Jenkins.

Beadle and Jenkins seemingly mastermined United's great escape from relegation from the Conference Premier on the final day of last season.

However, the club has since been taken over by new owner Tommy Agombar and expelled from the Conference due to the non-payment of football creditors.

A total of 654 fans flocked through the turnstiles at New Street to see the fans’ team lose 6-2 to Ledbury Town.

“It was really good and it was an excellent crowd,” said Evans, a former sports therapist at Hereford United.

“There were some chants at our goalkeeper and he made some good saves.

“There were also a couple of chants at Beads.”

Goalkeeper Chris Oleksy said: "Playing infront of 650 fans was an incredible experience, and the lap of honour was something I'll remember forever. I just hope the fans continue to support us."

Former United kitman Roger Lloyd was in the dressing room and former Bulls' club photographer Steve Niblett covered the game.

Former club director Dave Preedy was also at the match.

The scoreline was immaterial because the friendly gave United’s fans a chance to mingle for the first time this pre-season.

Evans added: “Beads and Jenks enjoyed it - they were having a laugh and it’s completely different to what they are used to doing.

“As Pete Beadle said, it’s the start of something.”