Dan’s the Man as Bulls keeper proves the hero (From Worcester News)

Dan’s the Man as Bulls keeper proves the hero

8:00am Saturday 18th August 2012 in Sport By Steve Carley - Midlands Sports Journalist of the Year 2013, @stevecarleyWN

IT appears young Hereford United keeper Dan Hanford’s stock is rising after being praised by Tamworth boss Marcus Law.

Hanford has impressed in Martin Foyle’s side since being handed his chance when ex-Forest Green Rovers keeper James Bittner suffered a back injury during pre-season.

The 21-year-old made several saves in a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Tamworth on Tuesday and will be in goal for today’s trip to Alfreton Town (3pm).

Law said: “I can’t believe the amount of saves, number of balls going into the box and near-misses.

“We made life very difficult for their back four and their centre-halves. Their goalkeeper has pulled off three excellent saves.”

Meanwhile, Bulls chairman David Keyte admitted having the opening Blue Square Bet Premier game televised has gone a long way to stabilising the finances.

Hereford were paying contracted players over the summer and also suffering the effects of being relegated from the Foot-ball League.

But last Friday’s home match against Maccles-field Town, was shown live on Premier Sports.

Keyte said: “We have had to pay for too many players through the months of May, June and July with very little income. But we’re here and the first league match was televised so it’s amazing how the pendulum swings back and forth.”