Hereford were left frustrated after a spirited display at Kidderminster Harriers ended in a 4–2 defeat to their rivals. The Bulls showed fight and quality throughout but were undone by some defensive lapses.
The game’s first turning point came late in the opening half. A Kidderminster player drove down the left and went to ground under Josh Lloyd’s challenge, despite the Hereford full-back appearing to have won the ball and put it behind for a corner. Much to the frustration of the travelling support, the referee pointed to the spot, and the hosts converted to take a 1–0 lead at the break.
Hereford responded brilliantly after the restart. Jack Tolley seized on a loose ball in midfield, spotted the home keeper off his line, and launched an audacious effort from nearly 40 yards. The strike sailed high into the night sky before dipping under the bar for a stunning equaliser that silenced the home fans and lifted the Bulls.
Kidderminster thought they had restored their advantage when a set-piece to the back post was bundled in, but the assistant referee’s flag ruled it out for offside. However, a long ball forward soon exposed Hereford’s back line, leaving the keeper stranded as the Harriers’ striker finished coolly to make it 2–1.
The Bulls refused to buckle, and some outstanding work from Ethan Secker-Howe in midfield created another opportunity. His composure on the ball opened space for Tolley, who slotted home his second of the night to level the scores at 2–2. With momentum swinging in Hereford’s favour, the visitors looked the more likely to find a winner.
But controversy struck again with just five minutes remaining. A ball over the top drew the Hereford goalkeeper out, and as he retreated to gather, he appeared to be fouled. Play was waved on, and Kidderminster took full advantage to roll the ball into an empty net for a late 3–2 lead.
Chasing an equaliser in the closing stages, Hereford pushed bodies forward but were caught on the counter. The hosts broke quickly and sealed the game with a fourth goal, securing a 4–2 victory that flattered them on the balance of play.
Despite the scoreline, Hereford showed real character and attacking quality in a match that could easily have gone their way. The Bulls now turn their focus to bouncing back in their FA Youth Cup tie away at Worcester, while wishing Kidderminster all the best for the season ahead.
