County V Hereford

County go into the opening game this season looking to pick up a win in their opening game for the first time since the 2000/2001 season, when County beat Gillingham 3-1 in the opening game of the season.

Hereford, however, will be looking for a similar start to last season, when they beat Scarborough 4-0 – with four second half goals.

Vital Quotes:

Jim Gannon: ‘It’s going to be a tough game because Hereford are a good side and they’ve obviously got a successful formula from last year.

‘The good thing for us is we’re happy at the moment but we know we can add to the squad over the next couple of weeks, so it’s a nice position to be in.’

Graham Turner ‘It’s our first time back in the League, it’s a day that our supporters have looked forward to for a long time.

‘We have had to work hard to regain our League status and had a lot to do inside the club in terms of finances but we are in a good position.’

‘Stockport are very powerful and big up front and they are going to be a threat. We will go there without any great concern. It’s a big test for the players.’

County Team News:

Tes Bramble is County`s only injured player, he picked up a calf problem in training this week. Glenn Murray, the loan signing from Carlisle, is therefore likely to start upfront.

Jason Taylor has recently signed for County, and he may play apart in midfield alongside skipper Tony Dinning.

Dinning, Rose, Murray, Owen and Taylor could all make their County competitive debuts at Edgeley Park.

Player to watch: Tony Dinning

Returning to his old club where he had so much success and is skippering aswell. Made the drop from League One, and should still have enough quality to boss the midfield tomorrow.

Hereford Team News:

Alex Jeannin, the French Hereford defender, is suspended and will definately miss the game.

Glynn Thompson, goalkeeper, has picked up a knock in training and will probably miss out on the game.

Player to watch: Stuart Fleetwood

Only scored five goals last season, but can be a threat upfront. Ashley Williams and his partner (Raynes or Owen) will have to be sharp to stop him getting through the defence.

Match Facts & Stats

Odds
Stockport 23/20
Draw 21/10
Hereford 2/1

Last meeting
FA Cup last season at Edgar Street. County ran out 2-0 winners with goals from Jermaine Easter and a 30 yard volley from Mickael Wolski – both players have now left the club.

Ref Watch:

Darren Drysdale is Saturday’s referee, and last season refereed games from the Championship to League Two last season – even refereeing Reading’s last game in the Football League.

He refereed County’s 3-2 loss away to Rushden & Diamonds last season, and issued 9 red cards in 33 games.

Next Fixtures:

County – Walsall Away – Tuesday Night

Hereford – Lincoln Home – Tuesday Night