HEREFORD’s youngsters have qualified for the third qualifying round of the FA Youth Cup following a 4-0 victory over Malvern Town with Joe Mellars netting a first half brace.

Following their convincing 11-3 win over Tipton Town in the first qualifying round the under-18s were at home once again in the second qualifying round on Thursday night.

Hereford went ahead after four minutes with Luke Firkin crossed low into the box which was met by Mellars for the opening goal.

The Bulls turned on the style resulting in a second goal midway through the half with Mellars netting to finish a good passing move.

Hereford goalkeeper Brandon Powell, who signed for the senior team prior to the game, was forced into action early in the second half.

Just as Malvern looked for a route back into the tie a wicked deflection from Rob Whitlock’s shot saw Hereford out of sight with a third goal.

It was 4-0 before full-time when Matt McLeod was brought down inside the box and Jack Marston fired home from the penalty spot.

Hereford are now in the third qualifying round draw.

Powell is one of five of the under-18s who have now also signed for the senior squad under Hereford FC’s new management structure