DEBUTANT defender Josh Gowling felt that Hereford stuck to their game plan but were denied by two refereeing decisions.

The 35-year-old centre-half who signed earlier this month put in a solid display during his first match for the Bulls against Bradford (Park Avenue).

Gowling felt that goalkeeper Matt Yates was fouled in the build up to Avenue's goal and that James Roberts should have been awarded a penalty late on.

"When you are down there you don't get the rub of the green," said Gowling.

"In the first half we played really good football and dominated.

"The second half they had a bit of a spell but we were comfortable.

"The attacker has gone in on our goalkeeper (during the Bradford goal). I personally think it was in the goalkeeper's hands.

"We didn't get that decision and at the end that's a penalty so it's frustrating.

"We spoke to some of their players who also said it was a penalty as he has come in from the side behind him and the ball didn't really move direction.

"So for us it's a definite penalty.

"We knew what to expect and were comfortable, we sat in well, defended well and hit them on the break.

"We were tested like we will in every game but for a team that is second in the league and we are down there you wouldn't be able to tell.

"We had a game plan going into the game and I'd like to think we implemented that for large portions of the game.

"It's just unfortunate with the two decisions."

Gowling has a host of Football League and National League experience having previously played over 100 games for Kidderminster Harriers.

Gowling started the season on loan from Torquay United to Alfreton Town but has now signed a permanent deal with Hereford.

Speaking about his time at Alfreton earlier this season Gowling said: "It was frustrating as I went in there and played for the first 10 and then found myself out of the team for whatever reason I don't know.

"I like to play football so this was a great fit for me. I have been here before and know the fans and the area.

"I've got to get up to speed with the rest of the lads."