Saturday, August 24, 2002

A CATASTROPHIC late error by goalkeeper Matt Baker capped a dismal afternoon for Hereford United who crashed 3-0 away to Nationwide Conference newcomers Gravesend and Northfleet on Saturday.

The former Hull City shot-stopper was left red faced after being dispossessed inside his penalty area on 82 minutes as he needlessly attempted to dribble away a back-pass from Tony James.

The lively Tastao Kwashi, who had tormented United throughout the game, could hardy believe his own luck and, after tackling the hapless goalkeeper, the ex-Fisher man roled the ball into an empty net from eight yards.

In truth, Bakers embarrassing error spoke volumes in a very flat performance by Hereford, who had won their opening two matches.

The Bulls were outfought and outplayed by a strong and robust Kent side after the opening 25 minutes.

United's cause was not helped by the early loss of key central defender Andy Tretton with a groin injury but the manner in which they were outgunned in midfield would have worried Hereford boss Graham Turner. Despite a bright opening from Hereford, the home side created the first opportunity, Steve McKimm drilling a low shot which Baker pushed out.

Kwashi then fired over the bar from the edge of the box before Nick Burton stole behind the Hereford defence to head in the opener on 23 minutes.

It came from a quickly taken short corner kick crossed in by Jimmy Jackson.

Gravesend continued to have the upper hand over United and doubled their advantage in the 38th minute.

Jackson's corner from the right caught out the United rearguard and Burton once more stooped inside the six yard box to head home unmarked.

The home side continued to dominate the midfield exchanges and the skilful Kwashi cut inside the Hereford defence, firing a fierce low shot which Baker held well under pressure.

Mark Bentley then clipped the outside of the Hereford upright with a curling effort from 20 yards before Gravesend added a third following Baker's uncharacteristic blunder.

In stoppage time Hereford substitute Scott Voice had a glorious chance to reduce the deficit but scuffed his shot wide with the goal at his mercy.

Hereford boss Turner commented: "The day was typified by Baker's embarrassing mistake and Voice's miss, which was equally as embarrassing."

HEREFORD: Baker 4, Clarke 5, Rose 5, Tretton (Teesdale 17, 6), Wright 6, James 7, Pitman 6, Parry 6, Williams 6 (Voice 90), Sawyers 6 (Purdie 70, 6), Guinan 6. Subs (not used): Griffiths, Gough. Attendance 1,130.