Saturday, August 9, 2003

Hereford United launched their Nationwide Conference campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 away win over newly-promoted Tamworth on a scorching afternoon at the Lamb.

United withstood a fierce opening onslaught from the reigning Dr Martens League champions but thoroughly deserved their victory by the final whistle.

A superbly struck 29th minute goal from marksman Steve Guinan settled United's nerves after the home side had been dominant for the opening quarter.

And two second-half strikes from Ben Smith, who made some incisive runs throughout the match, sealed United's triumph.

Tamworth refused to buckle in the heat and the experienced Mark Cooper, who had already rattled the crossbar, scored their first-ever Conference goal with a curling 25-yard free-kick in the 76th minute.

The home side almost added a second soon afterwards when the lively Scott Rickards powered a shot against the far post but United also struck the woodwork - on three occasions.

As anticipated, the Staffordshire side made a flying start and Marc McGregor, on a couple occasions, headed wide from crosses into the Hereford area.

Darren Collins also posed an aerial threat for Tamworth but United survived the barrage, and almost broke the deadlock with their first serious attack in the 23rd minute with a Danny Williams 35-yard drive against the bar.

The outstanding Rob Purdie headed the rebound against the post with goalkeeper Phil Whitehead stranded.

United took the lead when Purdie dribbled past a defender on the left flank and cut the ball back for Guinan, who hammered an unstoppable low drive inside the near post.

Purdie was again the provider for United's second goal in the 65th minute, flicking on a long throw for Smith to power in a header from close range.

And four minutes later Purdie started a slick passing move which saw Smith slot in the third goal after Guinan's shot had been parried.

Hereford: Baker 7, Green 7, Rose 6, Pitman 6, Tretton 7, James 8, Williams 7, Smith 8, Guinan 7 (Carey-Bertram 73), Parry 6, Purdie 9 (Sawyers 86). Subs not used: Scott, Teesdale, Craven. Attendance: 2,250.