Hereford were relegated from the English Football League after finishing in last place in 1996–97; they had been level on points with Brighton & Hove and with a superior goal difference, however goals scored was the decider and Brighton scored three more than Hereford over the course of the campaign.
Hereford were demoted from the English Football League in 1996–97 due to finishing last; they had an equal number of points with Brighton & Hove but more goals. Despite having a better goal difference, Brighton scored three additional goals during the season and thus won promotion.