Hereford United face their biggest test of the season so far when they travel to Chester on Saturday, needing at least a draw to prevent their Cheshire rivals from taking over at the top of the Nationwide Conference.

But, with an excellent away record and having suffered just one defeat all season, the trip holds few terrors for United.

"We've got no fears going away from home and the Deva Stadium certainly holds no fears for us," said Bulls director of football Graham Turner, who saw his side win 1-0 at Chester last season thanks to Steve Guinan's late strike.

"Chester are physically a big side and operate with three central defenders and two central midfielders who keep their shape and clear their lines when necessary.

"But we're expecting a big following and there should be a good atmosphere."

Chester, however, have conceded just two goals at the Deva Stadium and, with six wins and a draw in their seven home Conference matches, will provide Hereford with a considerable test.

They did, however, suffer their first home defeat of the season on Tuesday when Francis Tierney's goal was enough to give Doncaster Rovers a narrow victory in the first round of the LDV Vans Trophy.

Definitely missing for United on Saturday will be centre-back Andy Tretton who is still some way from full fitness. On-loan Tamika Mkandawire will continue to deputise.

Meanwhile, there is better news on the Bulls' other casualty, Rob Purdie, who has been to Lilleshall for investigation on his ankle injury and was due to play a part in the reserve team fixture with Stafford Rangers at Edgar Street last night.

For Hereford's Chester old-boys, Michael Rose and David Brown, it will be a chance to renew old acquaintances, while the Blues' Ian Foster spent two seasons at Edgar Street before moving on to Barrow and then Kidderminster Harriers.

But, whatever the result on Saturday, tradition appears to be on United's side as they bid for promotion back to the Football League.

In the past seven seasons, the side top of the table on October 16 have never failed to finish in the Conference's top two places.

Next Tuesday, the Bulls embark on their LDV Vans Trophy campaign with a visit from Conference rivals Exeter City for a first round southern section tie.

The game is 'all pay' with terrace prices at £7 (£3 concessions) and £9 (£5 concessions) in the stands.