HEREFORD Under-18s got their league campaign off to a 3-1 win against Stratford Town.

After a steady first half the young Bulls took the lead following a Rob Whitlock free-kick which was partially cleared and Jack Rosser was on hand

to control and fire home.

Stratford levelled seven minutes before half-time after a neatly worked free kick, caught the Bulls napping and Jack Ballinger side-footed home.

Dan Chance's side dominated the second half and a good move down the left resulted in Shaun Yalland whipping a low cross in for Archie Muirhead to slide home inside six-yard box.

The Bulls maintained their pressure and good work from Chris Hilton resulted in Yalland beating a couple of players and then firing home from outside the penalty area.

Hereford managed the last 10 minutes professionally to gain a valuable win over last season's league champions.

Head of coaching Andy Bevan said: "Overall it was a pleasing performance with a number of very good performances, especially with a couple of lads playing in different positions.

"Notably the centre-half pairing of Frank Pemberton and Rob Whitlock, with Rob just edging the Management's Man Of The Match award."