When negotiations broke down to re-sign Jared Hodgkiss, I did fear there would be nobody in our squad who really understood what being a Bull, or a Herefordian, was all about. Today, the signing of Hereford-born Andy Williams led to whoops of joy across the county and far beyond. Sadly, it’s not often that players that we feel we know, join Hereford FC.

On a salutary note, Williams made 46 appearances for Walsall last term and scored 3 times. It’s testament to the dream factor that no-one is questioning why we have signed an experienced forward who has never been a prolific goal scorer.

Curiously the two of them were members of the same Swindon squad in 2012, although Caddis was on loan to the Bluenoses for the most part. In fairness, Walsall were notorious for their goalless draws last season. Logically their style of play, and how much support the strikers had both need to be considered. Willo was clearly contributing, otherwise he would not have racked up so many minutes.

Hereford-born Willo is returning for his third Edgar Street spell and as Ron Parrott would agree, you have to have something about you to be invited back twice. We’re pretty fussy at the Street.

Willo was one of our promotion warriors from the epic Play-off Final at Leicester. Andy is not likely to be the prolific goal scorer we crave, but being 6 foot 2 with 700 games behind him, you’d hope he will make chances for team mates. And sell season tickets to the waverers.

The Gaffer noted that our returning striker had turned down full-time offers. That’s probably pragmatism. Willo is 37 in August. His time as a full-timer ‘baller is clearly coming to an end and maybe better to be choosing an exit strategy now rather than be forced on him. If he hasn’t made his pile by now, then it’s too late anyway. Andy has his UEFA B coaching badge and more interestingly, has passed his RO1, an exam which demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the financial services industry. Playing part-time at a local club near to his home base could free up time for more exams and a whole new ball game.

At this stage in his career, words like hunger, drive and fitness levels spring to mind. He has all three says our Gaffer and right now that’s good enough for everybody. Reaching a bit here but Paul has yet to announce his support team. I wonder if…

So welcome back Willo. Edgar Street hasn’t changed much since 2009. The Meadow End is just as curvy, the Blackfriars underused, and Talking Bull is still going.

If you haven’t purchased a season ticket yet, here’s the link:

Hereford FC (ticketco.events)

Simon Wright

By Editor

Lifelong Hereford supporter who has endured the rise and fall of the club through progressive generations. Sports journalist, broadcaster and commentator who will never forget his Edgar Street roots.

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