Shrewsbury Town manager Gavin Cowan is excited for the team's pre-season friendly against Hereford United, marking the return of the A49 derby after a long hiatus. The match, which takes place at Edgar Street, marks the first meeting between the two teams since 2021. Cowan has fond memories of facing Hereford during his playing career with Shrewsbury and is relishing the opportunity to get back on the pitch against his former club. Hereford United, who were relegated to the Conference in 2012, have since climbed back up the pyramid and now compete in the National League North. Their Edgar Street home has undergone significant improvements, including major drainage work carried out this summer to help prevent weather-related postponements. The Leominster-born winger Jarrod Bowen, who contributed financially towards the work, will be looking to get back to action after a summer of transfer activity. Shrewsbury Town, who finished 19th in League Two last season, will be looking to build on their recent form, which saw them lose their last two matches. The team's recent form has been marked by a string of defeats, including a 1-0 loss to Gillingham on May 2nd. Hereford United, who finished 20th in the National League North last season, will be looking to make a statement in their pre-season friendly against Shrewsbury Town. The A49 derby has a local rivalry edge, with the two teams separated by around 51 miles. Cowan is looking forward to the occasion and has praised Hereford's investment in their pitch, which he believes will make for a great day out for the fans. The match is expected to be a lively one, with both teams looking to make a positive start to their pre-season campaigns. Hereford United's recent form has been marked by a string of defeats, including a 3-1 loss to Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup first round in 2021. Shrewsbury Town, who secured promotion to League One in 2012, will be looking to build on their recent form and make a statement in their pre-season friendly against Hereford United.