WITH another free weekend for Hereford fans we look at the back at the first 15 league games and forward to the rest of the season.

Consistency is key

Consistency is the word which manager Russell Slade has used in recent weeks.

Following the error filled defeat at Guiseley changes were made and the Bulls responded with a run of four wins in all competitions.

However, defensive issues, particularly away from home, returned at Bradford and Southport with 3-2 defeats in games we could have won on another day.

The Bulls returned to a much more compact unit at Darlington and have had four clean sheets in eight leagues games under the new boss.

Keeping that consistency, particularly on the road, is key as we look for a play-off finish.

Hereford Times:

Hereford had an afternoon to forget with a 3-2 defeat at Bradford (Park Avenue). Picture: Andy Walkden

New manager means new ideas and players

The departure of Head Coach Marc Richards and introduction of new manager Russell Slade has meant a host of changes on the pitch.

One major arrival who has already shown the talent and attitude which has seen have a professional career is Stephen Dawson.

Despite seeing his debut goal controversially chalked off at Southport the workhorse midfielder has shown Bulls fans what we have been missing in the last two away games.

Originally with the Bulls until January feeping Dawson fit and at Edgar Street as long as possible will be key in any play-off push in the coming months.

Pacey winger Taylor Allen and striker Victor Sodeinde will be looking to impress in the coming weeks having arrived on short loan deals.

Four of the starting 11 against Darlington and two of the three substitutes used have all arrived since Slade has been in charge.

Released have been the likes of Simeone Maye and Raheem Hanley while Jacob Jagger-Cane and Kyle Finn are out on loan.

Hereford Times:

Stephen Dawson has impressed in his opening two matches playing for Hereford. Picture: Steve Niblett

Home form is key

The Bulls are one of six sides unbeaten at home in the National League North.

While most have played eight or nine games at home Hereford have graced Edgar Street just six times in the league with three wins and three draws.

Away wins hard to come by for most sides in the league, expect for York City who seem to buck the trend unbeaten with six wins.

So a current league position coming into the weekend of 12th has been hampered by only picking up a point from our last three games, all away.

Tuesdays return to Edgar Street will be a welcome one for everybody and a win would see the Bulls move back towards their desired play-off position.

Hereford Times:

Winning at Edgar Street is going to be crucial in Hereford's play-off bid. Picture: Steve Niblett/Hereford FC

All to play for

With 15 games gone just eight points separate 13 teams with York City flying high at the top and the Bulls are well in the mix.

Heavy away defeat at Kings Lynn Town and Chester under the previous management structure are the only times the Bulls have looked well beaten.

Even at Guiseley it was only for defensive errors late in the match which saw the hosts pull away otherwise we didn’t look outclassed.

In all the other matches, despite some performances looking far from convincing, only the odd goal has settled matches.

With goals currently coming from around the squad a decent scoring run from a striker or midfielder could be the difference in many of the remaining 27 matches between now and May.

Hereford Times:

Jordan Nicholson has contributed with a host of goals for the Bulls from midfield. Picture: Steve Niblett