Hereford United were narrowly defeated 1-0 last night despite a gritty display against new Nationwide Conference leaders Dagenham and Redbridge.

Director of Football Graham Turner will be encouraged by the Bulls' resilience, but will be wanting more creativity from his side that only really offered an attacking threat through the use of direct football.

The home side had most of the chances in the first-half, John Snape having a couple of wayward snapshots to show for Hereford's efforts.

After the break, industry prevailed over attacking flair until the 58th minute when the deadlock was broken.

Tony James hesitated following a long Tony Roberts clearance, the ball bounced and Mark Janney stole ahead of him. 'Keeper Matt Baker's legs blocked his path but the ball rolled to Tony Lock to finish from 25 yards.

Hereford tried to hit back but skipper Ian Wright should have done better with a header, Snape's volley forced a fine save from Roberts and Wright hit a close-range shot wide.

Hereford: Baker 6, Clarke 7, M. Williams 5, Webb 7, Wright 7, T. James 7, C. James 6 (Piearce 70), H Snape 8, Elmes 7, G. Williams 7, Parry 7. Subs unused: Goodwin, Evans, Davidson, Sedgemore. Attendance: 1,338.