It was their twelfth straight defeat, and left the Us a staggering 10 points behind the rest of the strugglers - a fact that John Rains will find very disappointing, given their FA Trophy run earlier this season.

Us could have edged ahead against Hereford when Nko Ekoku hammered a low shot inches wide of the target.

But, deservedly, the home side went ahead when Steve Pierce beat a static Us back line and slotted beyond 'keeper Gareth Howells.

Howells kept Us in the contest with an outstanding save to deny Elmes, and midway through the second half Sutton scored their first goal in more than 500 minutes of Conference football.

Dave Harlow's corner was directed into the box by Danny Brooker, and Keith Rowlands scored from close range.

On 70 minutes, Hereford regained the lead when John Snape hit a volley beyond the outstretched arms of Howells.

Five minutes later the contest was over after Pierce grabbed his second goal of the game

Hereford made it four in injury time, with a close range shot from Mark Taylor, and left Rains in no doubt that changes are needed.

"We haven't been good enough over 42 games. I will keep half of the side, but the rest will not be required."