Hereford fans can look forward to an improved season at Edgar Street -- but a return to the Nationwide League still looks a long way off.

United's financial problems forced them to sell several key players last season, and consequently a final position of 13th was no surprise.

The club is by no means out of the financial woods yet -- but Director of Football Graham Turner has been able to make some shrewd summer acquisitions.

The key signing is prolific Halesowen Town striker Steve Piearce, while Rob Elmes has also joined from Halesowen and enigmatic striker Leroy May is back at the club after spending last season with Kidderminster Harriers.

Piearce, the top scorer in the Dr Martens League Premier Division last season, is relatively untried at this level, although he has played in the Football League with Doncaster.

But Turner will be hoping that he can quickly adapt, providing the striker can shake off a nagging injury that has restricted his pre-season work.

If Piearce can gel well with May up front, and with Paul Fewings recovering his fitness and up-and-coming teenagers Gavin Williams and Paul Parry out to continue their rapid development, United should not be short on goals.

Youngsters Craig Hanson and James Wall, both recruited from Premiership side Derby County, have also shown up well in pre-season and will be eager to impress.

Defensively Hereford look pretty sound and they will be hoping for another good season from Ian Wright, who hit top form towards the end of the last campaign.

The vastly experienced Mark Taylor will be relied upon to anchor the midfield.

Hereford's financial position makes it impossible to match the likes of Rushden and Diamonds, but they have pulled together well in times of adversity and this spirit should stand them in good stead for the season.

One thing Hereford will be anxious to do is gain some success in the cups, particularly after crashing out of both the FA Cup and FA Trophy against lower-graded sides at the first hurdle last year -- blows which put a severe dent in their finances.

Predicted finish: 5th.

Key player: Steve Piearce.

Best cup: FA Cup.