HEREFORD’S hat-trick hero Billy Phillips said that it was a ‘no-brainer’ to sign a long-term contract for the club which will see him at Edgar Street until the conclusion of the 2027/28 season.
Phillips, aged 20, signed for the Bulls after graduating from Bristol City’s under-21s in the summer and he has signed an extended deal, alongside defender Joseph James.
The attacking midfielder showed his talent with a hat-trick during Hereford’s 6-0 victory against title favourites South Shields on Saturday.
“We said before the game, that we wanted to go out there and show everyone what we've got.
“We're still hungry every game. I think we showed that today with a 6-0. We knew we had to make it uncomfortable for them on the ball and obviously at times we managed to, obviously we've got our goals from it as well.
“In training we work on it. Lots of finishing, lots of patterns, stuff like that. Obviously, it pays off in games and I think we want to have a good chemistry really.
“We have to stay confident. There’s no reason for us to not be confident now. You just have got to keep pushing.
“You still have got to be hungry. We can't lie down now. We can be buzzing about this result, but it's not done.”
Adding about his contract extension which will see him play for the Bulls for at least another 20 months.
Phillips said: “It was a no-brainer really to sign on for more years.
“I'm liking everything here, the project and the lads. I'm really happy to sign for the next two seasons here.
“It’s been tough switching from full-time (with Bristol academy) to part-time, so having someone around in Joseph (James) that I’ve known for so many years has been good for me and helped me to settle in.
“Our connection on the pitch is clear to see at times, so I feel really comfortable.”
Meanwhile, defender James has become a key figure in the Hereford defence, and has helped them keep six clean sheets in his eight appearances.
James came in during Hereford’s troubles last season and made 14 appearances.
However, the youngster has looked much more established this season with a full pre-season under his belt.
James said: Hereford have been here for me when I’ve needed it, and I’d like to think I’ve been here for Hereford when they’ve needed it sometimes.
“It was nice to click the reset button and kick on this season, knowing that I’m more comfortable in a certain atmosphere and coming back fit for pre-season.”
Talking about the contract extensions for James and Phillips, Bulls boss Aaron Downes said: “Firstly, I want to thank the chairman and the board for their support. It shows long-term planning and I really appreciate them backing me.
“I want to thank both Billy and Joseph (James) for their efforts so far this season and I’m excited about helping them to develop. I see both of them having a bright future in the game.
“I also want to thank their representatives for working swiftly and professionally in getting the deals done.
“Signing these two players goes to show that our football club is moving in the right direction and that we’re planning for the short, medium and long-term future. I’m excited to watch them improve and see where their careers go.”
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