HEREFORD FC assistant manager Matt Bishop says the Bulls want to have as competitive a squad as possible after signing striker Mike Symons this week.

The former Worcester City frontman has agreed to join the Bulls after being released by National League North side Gloucester.

“We needed an extra body upfront and he brings a different option in terms of holding the ball up and taking some pressure off John [Mills]. It gives us a different dimension and he scores goals.

“I think it is a great signing and a good addition to the squad.”

The signing, which follows hot on the heels of midfielder Joe Tumelty joining Hereford from Frome Town, has resulted in Sol Wheatley and Ben Miller leaving Edgar Street.

“It is never easy when you lose players, but both are young and they’ve got to be playing rather than sitting on the bench,” said Bishop.

“They did great for us and we wish them well for the future.”

Bishop added that Nathan Hughes, a fourth striker on Hereford’s books, still has a role to play at the club.

“Nathan is young, but has struggled with an injury and has got to fight for his place,” said Bishop.

“He is quite raw, but is someone who can score goals.”

Captain Joel Edwards missed last Saturday’s FA Vase win at Rocester because he was at a family wedding. But Bishop said it was never an issue.

“Joel agreed at the start of the season that he had a family wedding to get to and Peter [Beadle] spoke to him and there was not an issue.

“I think people were a little bit naughty with some of their comments, but Joel is a great servant and very committed to the club.

“But [Rob] Purdie slotted in at left-back and did exceptionally well.

“We are in four different competitions and we have a lot of strength in depth and have players who can play in two or three positions.”

Hereford, who face Rocester again this Saturday, this time in a league game, have been drawn at home to West Midlands (Regional) League Premier Division high-fliers Haughmond in the second round of the FA Vase

“It is a good draw for us in that is a home game, but I don’t know much about our opponents,” said Hereford manager Pete Beadle.

“I will hope to speak to one or two people and I know they have played Wellington and Pegasus, so I will probably speak to them to see how they line up.

“But on the day, they are going to come out and give it a good go, so we have to make sure we prepare in the right way.”

The match will be played on Saturday, November 21, meaning that Hereford’s scheduled home game against Sporting Khalsa is postponed. That game will now take place on Tuesday, February 16.