CHAIRMAN David Keyte says Hereford United are desperate to avoid going into administration.

The Edgar Street club's future hangs in the balance ahead of Monday's winding-up order over an unpaid tax bill of £36,000 dating back to November.

At the hearing, they could be placed into administration, which would see them hit with an immediate 10-point penalty and plunge them into the Skrill Premier relegation zone.

United could avoid the petition from HM Revenues and Customs but they would have to settle the bill today.

The Bulls' cause has not been helped by the collapse of a telecoms deal that would have brought in much-needed revenue.

But the club could also point to Tuesday's rearranged home league match against Kidderminster Harriers as a potential money-spinner by way of mitigation against administration.

It all adds up to uncertain times for a club that is due to celebrate its 90th birthday in August.

“Our prime objective is to stay in this league," Keyte said.

“To go into administration would mean we incur a 10-point penalty. Then, if we had not paid football creditors by the end of the year, we would be relegated.

“If, because of our points total, we were relegated anyway, then we would be dropped another level."

Hereford will also be hoping to raise more money at tomorrow's match against Salisbury City at Edgar Street, the second of three home matches in a row.

Following last Saturday's 4-1 victory over Southport, they will also be looking to extend their unbeaten run to four matches.

Manager Martin Foyle has no fresh injury concerns but could have defender Joel Edwards back in the ranks following illness.

Striker Michael Rankine will be aiming to add to his two goals against Southport, which were his first goals since December 21.

Salisbury, 10th in the table, are looking for their fourth victory in five matches.