Much has changed since the original fixture was postponed. Our mid-table hosts are now scoring regularly after a poor start, have their missing players back and are a side in form. Prior to their 3- 1 defeat in the Trophy at York on Saturday, they’ve only lost once in the last 7 fixtures
The Quakers haven’t lost at home since the opening day (now won 4, drawn 4, lost 1). Scoring first has led to a home win every time since March. Their defence is sound with 19 conceded as their manager Steve Watson draws upon his many years’ experience of defending in the Premier League.
Hereford FC have never won in Darlington. Hereford United did, way back in 2010. A lot has happened to both clubs since. Our trip will be a challenge yet it wasn’t that long ago when we could travel and overcome such barriers. The Bulls will be without Campbell (suspended) and Skinner (injured). Otherwise, we’re at full strength for a tediously distant midweeker. It’s a different ask now that Needham Market was postponed.
You won’t miss the contribution of Cedric Main, a Suriname version of Jason Cowley. Main has 4 goals while several of his team mates have 3 each. Jack Lambert’s name may sound familiar. A previous regular scorer for Darlo, he was lured to Kiddy with full-time football. He’s a peripheral figure there now so Harriers were happy to loan him back to the Quakers until January. Ali al- Shabeeb is surely the only Saudi Arabian born baller in our League?
Admission is £12/ £16 for terrace and £2 more for a seat. Car parking is a fiver at time. Tickets can be pre-ordered. No mention of segregation as our travelling numbers will be very small. Just be mindful that the home club have repeatedly reissued warnings aimed at the behaviour of a small minority of their supporters.
If you’re not travelling, Radio Hereford will keep you up to speed. Keith Hall, Paul Fewings and Ian Sandford will bring you full match commentary. Mind you, try not to overthink the return of Ian “Jonah” Sandford. A mere coincidence that the Bulls haven’t won any of the last 13 games that he’s covered. Surely that’ll change here!
Simon Wright
