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Here is the news about the club received in the 2002/3 season, in date order with the latest news at the top.
2 June Boston United Centre of Excellence will be starting in earnest in August 2003. Four age groups with boys ranging from 8 to 15, will be competing against the likes of Lincoln City, Rotherham United, Scunthorpe United, Chesterfield, Mansfield Town and Notts County over the season with the emphasis being on individual performances rather than results. The scheme will be run by Daral Pugh, the Head of Youth / Centre of Excellence Director and Neil Richardson, the Youth Development Officer. Intake will be small this season with a maximum of sixteen players per age group. All players that register will have a minimum of one season with the Club, apart from the under 16's who will be given a decision on their futures regarding a scholarship by Christmas. Coaching staff have been identified, although any local coaches with a UEFA 'B ' licence qualification who may be interested in joining the scheme can contact either Daral or Neil.
Coaching will take place a RAF Cranwell twice a week with the players receiving quality coaching at what is an outstanding facility. Although the scheme receives funding for the season it is still on the look out for prospective sponsors to enhance the program. Details of sponsorship are as follows:
| Training Kit and Travelling Tracksuits | |
| Under 9/1O'S | £1500.00 |
| Under 11/12'S | £1500.00 |
| Under 13/14'S | £1500.00 |
| Under 15/16'S | £1500.00 |
| Match Kit | |
| Under 9/1O'S | £1000.00 |
| Under 11/12'S | £1000.00 |
| Under 13/14'S | £1000.00 |
| Under 15/16'S | £1000.00 |
| Staff Kit | |
| 10 People | £1000.00 |
Again for further details on sponsorship packages contact Daral or Neil.
This is an exciting time for all connected with Boston United Centre of Excellence and it is hoped that with the backing of the public and local businesses we may well see a future home grown player represent the first team or even his country.
Support your local team.
Contact numbers:
Daral Pugh 07971 616063
Neil Richardson 07905 281891
31 May The Boston United Invitational Golf Tournament 2003 takes place at Boston Golf Club on Thursday 3 July, Lafarge Aggregates are the main tournament sponsor.
Entry Form
Contact Details:
Name:
Address:
Telephone Number:
Team Name:
| Player | Club / Society | Handicap | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | |||
| 2 | |||
| 3 | |||
| 4 |
Tee off times are between 9.30am and 3.45pm, followed by a meal on completion of the round. The prize award ceremony will take place at approximately 8.30pm. The entry fee is £130.00 per team (inclusive of VAT). Teams will play as a four.
To enter please print the above Entry Form and send it with a remittance for the entry fee (payable to Boston United FC Limited) to:
John Blackwell, Boston United Football Club AM-AM, 14-16 Spain Place, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 6HN
Please state a preferred tee-time, the organisers cannot guarantee to meet a requested time but will endeavour to meet competitor's preferences on a first come first served basis.
Competition Rules
Boston United would like to thank Boston Golf Club for once again allowing them to stage the event at the premier course in the local area. As always Boston United will endeavour to maintain the high standards of previous tournaments, which have been widely acknowledged as being amongst the very best of their kind in the County.
Hole Sponsorships
Boston United would like to invite individuals and business's to be additional sponsors of the Tournament. Benefits will include:
The cost is £35.00 (inclusive of VAT) which can be for sponsoring a hole, one of the two “Longest Drive” holes, one of the four “Nearest The Pin” holes, etcetera.
To arrange sponsorship contact John Blackwell at the above address.
30 May The period during which season tickets for next season are available at the discounted price expires at 12.00noon tomorrow. The club office will be open from 9.00am to 12.00noon tomorrow for the sale of season tickets.
28 May David Town has joined Havant and Waterlooville of the Dr Martens League Premier Division.
Stevenage Borough's website has re ported that they have signed Peter Costello and James Gould.
22 May Paul Bastock has agreed to extend his contract with Boston United for one year. Contract talks with Paul Ellender, Mark Angel and Lee Beevers are still in progress, it is hoped they will be completed by the middle of June. Neil Thompson has made an offer to another player and again hopes to have an answer by the middle of June; he is also still looking for another goalkeeper to add to the squad. Most of the squad changes were made last year, which enabled the players to get to know each other; the benefit of this will be taken into pre-season training and next season.
The Boston United Invitational Golf Tournament will take place on Thursday 3 July 2003 at Boston Golf Club; entry details will be available shortly.
19 May The home pre-season friendly match with Grimsby Town has been re-arranged for Saturday 26 July 2003 at 3.00pm. The Lincolnshire Senior Cup match against Scunthorpe Town has been scheduled for 3.00pm on Saturday 2 August 2003 at York Street. Away pre-season friendly matches have been provisionally arranged for Goole Town on Tuesday 15 July and Lincoln United on Wednesday 16 July.
Boston United wish to augment their existing management team with the appointment of a Commercial Manager. The successful applicant will be responsible for optimising income received from all commercial opportunities from sponsorship negotiations to matchday hospitality. Previous experience in a similar role would be advantageous. Remuneration will be on the basis of a salary plus commission. To be considered for this position, apply in writing to: The Chief Executive, Boston United Football Club Limited, 14-16 Spain Place, Boston Lincolnshire, PE21 6HN.
The following announcement has appeared on the Football Association's website concerning Steve Evans: On 19 May 2003, an Appeal Board convened by The Football Association sat to hear appeals against both conviction and sentence in the case of Steve Evans. As to the appeals against conviction, these were dismissed in their entirety. As to the appeal against penalties, the decisions were as follows: the total period of suspension imposed, which was 20 months, was not reduced at all but the date from which it was to commence was put back from 3 March 2003 to 4 July 2002, the date upon which Mr Evans was suspended by Boston United Football Club; the appeal against the fines imposed was dismissed. Additionally, Mr Evans was ordered to pay a proportion of the Appeal Board's costs.
15 May Daryl Sutch has agreed to sign for Boston United on 1 July 2003 when his contract with Southend United expires. Daryl was born in Beccles on 11 September 1971; he is 6ft 0in tall. Daryl joined Norwich City as a trainee on 6 July 1990 and moved to Southend on 3 January 2003. During his career Daryl has made 365 first team appearances (60 as substitute) and scored 10 goals, he has also been capped four times at Under 21 level by England. Daryl was a member of the Norwich City team which beat Bayern Munich in a UEFA Cup match. Neil Thompson has said that he has played against Daryl a number of times. Daryl has a good pedigree and a lot of experience from playing at a higher level with Norwich City, he has a good engine and is keen as mustard to come to Boston United. Daryl may primarily be earmarked for the right back position, but he is a versatile player who can also play centre back, midfield or on the left; he will be a good addition to the squad.
Daryl's views on joining Boston United appeared in an article in the sport section of the Eastern Daily Press on Tuesday 13 May.
A pre-season friendly match has been arranged away to Lincoln United on Tuesday 15 July 2003, kick off at 7.30pm, and a match away to King's Lynn has been provisionally arranged for Thursday 24 July 2003.
13 May Saga Radio on 106.6FM are planning to have coverage of Boston United next season, along with Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Chesterfield, Mansfield Town, Notts County and Lincoln City. Saga have local news bulletins on Monday to Friday between 6.00am and 7.00pm, Saturday 7.00am to 2.00pm and Sunday 7.00am to 2.00pm, they preview matches in the afternoon before an evening match and in the morning for a midday or afternoon match and carry results the day after a match if it is a late kick off, from 5.00pm onwards.
Frank Riches, a long standing supporter of Boston United, collapsed and died last week. In recent years Frank has been working for the Alphabet Forecast to raise funds for Boston United. Frank's funeral will be at Boston Crematorium on Tuesday 20 May 2003 at 1.30pm, all are welcome.
12 May Work has commenced to prepare the York Street pitch for next season. The top layer of the pitch has been removed which has removed the shallow rooted meadow type grass and left the deeper rooted rye grass. The pitch was then slitted and verti-drained to improve drainage, circulation of air to the roots of the grass and to provide a looser base for new seed to germinate in. Next the pitch was re-seeded and covered with a new layer of top soil, the top soil was brushed to produce a level surface and remove any surplus.
A water tank has been installed underneath the Finn Forest stand to supply a pitch irrigation system to ensure the new seed and existing grass have the required amount of moisture to aid their growth.
9 May Neil Thompson has advised that Simon Rusk and Ryan Clark have signed for next season. A contract has been offered to Paul Bastock, Mark Angel, Paul Ellender and Lee Beevers. Lee Thompson and Alex Higgins have been retained. Robert Dickinson who has been on loan from Ipswich Town is not being offered a contract. Peter Costello and James Gould have been released in addition to David Town and Nick Conroy. It was a tough decision to make to release these players who have given good service to Boston United and we wish them well for the future. Players already under contract for next season are Ben Chapman, Mark Greaves, Tom Bennett, Graeme Jones, Peter Duffield, Simon Weatherstone, Matthew Hocking, Neil Redfearn, Stuart Balmer, Stuart Douglas and Richard Logan. Neil is planning to meet with other players with a view to building the squad for next season.
A friendly match has been arranged away to Holbeach United on Saturday 12 July 2003, kick off at 3.00pm.
The club office will be open tomorrow from 9.00am to 11.00 for the purchase of season tickets.
BBC
Radio Lincolnshire last night scooped one of the radio industry's most
prestigious awards. The station's success came at the Sony Radio Academy Awards
- the radio world's version of the Oscars. It won a Sony Bronze award in the
event category for its coverage of Boston United's historic promotion from the
Conference to the Football League. The win was revealed at a star-studded
ceremony at London's plush Grosvenor House Hotel. The Sony judges had this to
say about the entry:
“BBC Radio Lincolnshire's coverage of one of the greatest days in Boston's history was a perfect example of a local radio station's absolute partisan reporting of a tremendous occasion for the small Fenland town. The presenters and formatting of the coverage immersed the listener in the event and conveyed a true feeling and emotion of a community rejoicing in unashamed glory. A fantastic entry based on a simple formula and true passion.”
Delighted BBC Radio Lincolnshire managing editor Charlie Partridge said: “This is an amazing achievement for the station. We always said we were happy just to be nominated but to take bronze was fantastic. We beat off competition from 5 Live's coverage of the Ryder Cup which is magnificent. It is a very proud day for us.”
7 May An additional pre-season friendly match has been arranged at home to Grimsby Town on Saturday 19 July 2003, kick off at 3.00pm.
6 May
Season Tickets for the 2003 / 2004 season will be
available for purchase from the club office from 9.30am on Thursday 8 May 2003.
The tickets are priced at: Finn Forest Stand Adults £249.00, Concessions
(supporters aged 65 and over) £174.00, Juniors (supporters aged 16 and under)
£119.00;
Terraces (York Street and Spayne Lane) Adults £224.00, Concessions £154.00,
Juniors £99.00. There will be a discount available on a limited number of
tickets for purchases before 31 May 2003 of Adults £25.00, Concessions £15.00,
Juniors £10.00.
4 May Neil Thompson has commented a good end to the season which has given us a good basis to build for the future. We have finished the season in fifteenth place, our highest ever position. If we hadn't suffered the four point deduction we would have been one point behind Hull which is very creditable considering all that we have been through. Our form since the home game with Shrewsbury Town on 21 December 2002 has been good; we have won ten, drew nine and lost six matches.
Stuart Balmer tweaked his groin in the warm up before yesterdays match with Cambridge United and it was decided not to risk making the injury worse. Mark Greaves came in for his first match since his injury against Shrewsbury Town two weeks ago and had a good match, which shows the benefit of strength in depth in the squad. When Richard Logan was substituted for Mark Angel Neil wanted to change the formation and our attacking style which was vindicated by Mark's goal. Overall we played good football, especially in the first half. After Mark's goal, subconsciously we appeared to sit back, but when Cambridge equalised we were spurred on to go in search of another goal. This culminated in Simon Rusk's goal which resulted from some good attacking football on the left wing. The creditability of the performance can be gauged by appreciating that Cambridge have been challenging for a play off place for most of the season.
The progress we have made is indicated by the team for yesterday's match containing only four players who were in the team for the home fixture against Cambridge United on 28 September 2002. Neil had to make tough decisions and perform surgery on the squad during the season. We want to improve for next season to make the squad solid, but we now have a good basis to build on. There is a good nucleus in the squad under contract which can be developed further with good additions. We are looking to have a squad of 19 first team players together with five youngsters who will hopefully be pushing for a first team place by Christmas. Discussions with the players who out of contract will be held this week. David Town and Nick Conroy have been released; they have been terrific servants of the club and good professionals. Goalkeeper, Michael Price has been on loan from Leicester but it isn't planned to extend further his career with Boston United, we are, therefore, looking for another goalkeeper to provide competition for Paul Bastock. Ryan Clark from Notts County, who has been making appearances for the reserves, has been offered a contract for next season. Lee Beevers and Robert Dickinson, who have been on loan from Ipswich Town, are to have discussions this week about a contract for next season.
Neil has thanked the players for their terrific efforts this season, the supporters, the Board of Directors, Des Wood, Dave Pickett, John Blackwell and all the other staff at the club for their support during a tough season. The experience has made us stronger. The team spirit with in the squad has always been good and if we can build carefully and add quality in one or two areas we can, hopefully, make progress next season. Successful teams, such as Hartlepool United and Rushden and Diamonds this season, have had stability in their squads which enables the players to get to know each other's strengths and weaknesses and to have trust in the ability of each other.
We hope to have a quieter Summer than last year and we report back for training on Monday 30 June 2003 to begin preparing for next season. Two pre-season friendly matches have been arranged against two of Neil's former clubs; Barnsley on Wednesday 23 July and Ipswich Town on Wednesday 30 July. Joe Royle, manager of Ipswich, has been good to us this season and has said he will bring their first team squad for the match.
2 May Neil Thompson has commented that we will be aiming to finish the season on a good note with a good performance away to Cambridge United tomorrow but there isn't the pressure to gain points that there has been in past weeks. It will be a tough match tomorrow as Cambridge have been near the top of the division for most of the season but the players are capable and we have done well since Christmas. The fitness situation will be assessed today and it is not intended to risk anyone with a knock tomorrow. Alex Higgins was examined by a specialist concerning his thigh injury on Tuesday; the specialists report is still to be received but Alex will have the Summer to get right.
30 April The referee for Saturday's match away to Cambridge United is scheduled to be Graham Poll who represented the Football Association at the World Cup last year and recently took charge of the FA Cup Semi-Final between Arsenal and Sheffield United.
28
April Neil Thompson has commented on
gaining a very important three points against
Macclesfield
Town
on Saturday to maintain our Football League status through our own efforts.
Neil had said to the players before the match that he wanted them to get a
result so that they didn't have to come off the pitch at the end of the match
having to look for other results for our league status. We played well for an
hour with good passing, which had been assisted by the recent rain taking the
edge off the pitch. We have now won three matches on the bounce which
is a fantastic achievement considering the pressure we were
under before Easter. We are now looking forward to the match with Cambridge
United at the weekend and hope to finish the season on a high note.
It has been a tough season with a lot of obstacles in our way; the first four
months were very difficult. It has been good to achieve maintaining our league
status through our own efforts. There is a big step up from the Conference to
the Third Division, tough decisions regarding the squad had to be made and were
made. Over the season 12 players have come in and 12 players have left the
club. The four point deduction was a big downer psychologically and if they are
added back to the points we have gained show where we could have finished.
Since Christmas we have averaged a point and a half per match, which if this
form had been achieved over the season would have produced a mid-table finish.
The season changed between the match away to Southend
United and the 6-0 victory at home to
Shrewsbury
Town,
even during the Southend match there were signs that
results would pick up. The end result shows the benefit of stability due to the
support of Des Wood, Dave Pickett and John Blackwell. Neil also says a big
thank you is due to Neil Redfearn for his support
during the season. We have a new ground to look forward to and the
establishment of a Centre of Excellence and hope to make further progress next
season.
27 April York Street was graced by the presence of six former Boston United stars at the match against Macclesfield yesterday. General manager John Blackwell had invited the players to get together for a reunion at the club. All of them had played in the Boston United squad that had been put together by manager Ray Middleton to challenge for honours in the 1955/6 season. They went on to produce the best performance of any Boston United side up to that time. This included a record breaking away win at Derby County in the FA Cup, which was rewarded with a third round tie at Tottenham Hotspur. The side also achieved their best ever position in the Midland League, finishing as runners-up to Peterborough United.
Don
Hazledine, Ralph Robinson, Reg
Howlett, Ray Wilkins, Geoff Snade,
Peter Williams
(Photo by Ken Fox)
27 April The annual Player of the Year awards were made after the match against Macclesfield. Paul Bastock, who has had an outstanding season, will now be spending as much time polishing trophies as he currently does windows having picked up five awards, including the main one, voted for by the club's supporters. It is ten years since he first won the award, in his initial season with the club. Ben Chapman got the York Street Veteran Supporters Award and Peter Costello received a special award from BUSA for his outstanding contribution to the club over the years - playing a key role in both the Dr. Martens League and Conference title winning sides and continuing with a successful season in the Nationwide Football League.
Photos by Colin Woodcock
25 April Neil Thompson has advised that Graeme Jones and Mark Greaves are unavailable for tomorrow's match due to their respective hamstring and thigh problems. Alex Higgins came on as a substitute for 30 minutes in the reserves match against Notts County on Wednesday and still had a problem with his thigh; he is due to see a specialist next week to try to resolve the problem. Neil Redfearn is doubtful for tomorrow due to a calf injury.
There has always been a good spirit in the squad but the six points gained last weekend have given everyone a boost. There is another tough match tomorrow against Macclesfield Town who have picked up some good results lately, but our fate is in our own hands.
The annual ends of season awards are due to be presented after the match with Macclesfield Town tomorrow. The Football Association have issued a communication regarding end of season celebrations stating that they consider pitch incursions by supporters pose a threat to the safety of players, officials and spectators. In view of these instructions from the Football Association supporters will not be allowed to stand on the pitch to watch the presentation of the awards.
23 April Boston United will be pleased to welcome six members of the squad from the 1950s back to York Street for a long awaited reunion at the home match with Macclesfield Town on Saturday 26 April 2003. The former players are: Don Hazledine, Ray Wilkins, Ralph Robinson, Reg Howlett, Geoff Snade and Peter Williams; they were part of the squad which played under Ray Middleton in the epic FA Cup matches against Derby County and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1955/56 season.
22 April Neil Thompson has commented on a good return from the two matches over the Easter weekend and was pleased to take six points. Against Shrewsbury Town on Saturday we changed our formation to 4-3-3 for the specific circumstances of the match. We rode our luck and scored through two quality strikes from Peter Duffield and Neil Redfearn. The match went our way; it was a massive win which set us up for the match against Southend United yesterday. We were the driving force during the Southend match and deserved to get the three points.
Mark Greaves was substituted during the Shrewsbury match due to a thigh injury and is unlikely to be fit for the weekend. Richard Logan was substituted yesterday due to a persistent knee injury which is being irritated by the hard ground. Following Richard's substitution Stuart Douglas came on and did well as did fellow substitutes Mark Angel and David Town. It was a good strike from Mark from the penalty spot yesterday to secure the three points.
We now have two remaining tough matches against Macclesfield Town and Cambridge United but our fate is in our own hands.
The Boston United chairman Des Wood has told
BBC Radio Lincolnshire that he will be making a planning application for his
York Street relocation plans in the next few weeks. Mr Wood says
the application to Boston Borough Council could come "within days rather
than weeks" as soon as the Pilgrims' Football League status is assured.
The Pilgrims are almost certain to retain their Division Three place, but need
a point from their last two games to be mathematically safe. Mr Wood told the
radio station that he hoped that if the planning process ran smoothly the
Pilgrims could be in the new stadium by the 2004-2005 season.
He admitted, though, that in the now unlikely event of the Pilgrims being
relegated it would be "very difficult" for the move to a new stadium
to go-ahead because of the funding available.
In the interview Mr Wood also talks about the appointment of Dave Pickett as
the club's new chief executive, his plans to make the Pilgrims financially
viable, and the club's decision to cut admission prices for Saturday's match
with Macclesfield.
You can download the full 11 minute interview
from the BBC Lincolnshire website at bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire
BBCi at http://www.bbc.co.uk/
21 April For the Nationwide League Third Division match at home to Macclesfield Town on Saturday 26 April 2003 the admission price will be £5.00 for all spectators who will be paying on the match day.
18 April Neil Thompson has advised that Matt Hocking, Mark Greaves and Stuart Douglas have trained this week and are available for selection against Shrewsbury Town tomorrow. Alex Higgins has tentatively returned to training, he is getting back to full fitness after being out for a long time and may be able to be considered for part of a reserves match next week. Graeme Jones had a long training session with Jim Woods yesterday where he did everything that was asked of him, but at the end of the session Graeme had a little reaction. Graeme was looking forward to the weekend's matches and was very disappointed in case he had tweaked his hamstring again as this would mean at least another week to recover.
The squad have got over the disappointment of the Hull Match, which can't be dwelt upon, and are now focussing on tomorrow's match. The players are capable and now need to get out on the pitch and earn points. It will be a tough weekend and at the moment the concentration is on Shrewsbury tomorrow.
14
April Neil Thompson has commented on
a disappointing result on Saturday against Hull. We should have defended
better at the free kick when Hull scored and created good chances for
ourselves which we didn't capitalise on. We didn't test Alan Fettis
enough; most of the shots on goal were too close to him. On the other hand we
must give credit to Hull, they were big, strong and defended well and they
stopped us doing what we wanted to do. Everyone was upset and hurt after the
match and will now be preparing for important matches at the weekend. Our fate
is still in our own hands; we have four matches left and must kick on.
Mark Angel was substituted due to having blurred vision but it is hoped he will
have recovered and Matt Hocking was substituted due to a tight hamstring. It is
hoped that Graeme Jones and Stuart Douglas will be available again for the
matches at the weekend.
On Wednesday the reserves are at home to Hull (kick off at 7.00pm) who are the new champions of the Avon Insurance League Eastern Division.
This afternoon at York Street in the Final of the Holland Schools Pitcher Cup Giles School beat Donington Cowley School 3-1.
In the Lincolnshire Senior Cup for 2003 / 2004 Boston United have been drawn away to Scunthorpe United. The competition has a new format whereby the Lincolnshire Senior Cup is to be contested by four clubs: Boston United, Grimsby Town, Lincoln City and Scunthorpe United. The other clubs who have taken part in the Cup in previous seasons will be in a different competition.
11 April Neil Thompson has reported that there are one or two injury concerns in preparation for tomorrow's match with Hull. Stuart Douglas has not trained all week due to a groin injury and Graeme Jones will not be available due to his hamstring problem but it is hoped he will ready for next weekend. It will be a big match tomorrow; it should be one of the highlights of the season, with a big crowd and a good atmosphere. The players are up for the match and we need to get results.
8 April The Nationwide League Third Division at home to Hull on Saturday 12 April 2003 is all ticket for both home and away supporters. Ticket sales for the home areas are going very fast, the remaining tickets are on sale until 7.30pm on Friday 11 April 2003 from the club office in Spain Place during normal office hours. Admission to the ground for the match will not be allowed without a ticket.
The Avon Insurance fixture at home to Darlington has been re-arranged for Monday 28 April 2003 at 7.00pm.
On Wednesday 30 April 2003 the Lincolnshire County FA Senior B Cup Final will be played at York Street between Sleaford Town and Harrowby United.
7
April Neil Thompson was disappointed
with the performance away to Leyton Orient on Saturday, we started poorly and Orient
looked sharper, possibly because they had had a week without a match. We looked
lethargic and didn't deal with balls at the back as we have been doing. It was
commendable to score two goals away from home but we shot ourselves in the foot
by conceding three goals. We didn't clear our lines as well as we have been
doing, on the bobbly pitch we needed to get to the
bounce of the ball. We had enough of the ball but weren't at the races; overall
it was a poor performance.
We picked up a few knocks on Saturday, Peter Duffield
had been suffering with flu symptoms during the week and Mark Greaves and
Stuart Balmer came off due to knocks to their knees
but hopefully they will be ready for Saturday. Simon Rusk and David Town should
be available this week but Graeme Jones is unlikely to be ready and Alex
Higgins is getting their slowly. We need to get back to what we have been
doing.
Contracts
3 April The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Simon Rusk and Matt Hocking have both signed year extensions to their contracts and that Mark Greaves, Paul Bastock and James Gould are still mulling over similar proposals.
Award
1 April At half-time in tomorrow's match with Wrexham, in conjunction with the Football Association, there will be a presentation of cheques to organisations nominated by Boston United to receive money from the Football Community Shield Fund which comes from the FA Community Shield Match played prior to the start of the season. The organisations nominated by Boston United are LIVES First Responders and Boston and South Holland Blind Society.
Torquay, Trophy
31 March Neil Thompson was delighted with the performance on Saturday against Torquay United, we played well to create a lot of chances and Torquay's goalkeeper made some good saves. We gained a good point and more than held our own against one of the better footballing teams in the division. We went a goal down the players were disappointed for a few minutes but we showed good resilience to respond and score an equaliser.
Paul Bastock collided with the post during the match but he showed a terrific attitude in carrying on with the match. The swelling went down after the match and Paul appears to be OK. Neil Redfearn and Mark Greaves incurred knocks to their knees and they will be assessed to day for the match with Wrexham on Wednesday. Every match is massive for us now, Wrexham are a good team who play good football under Dennis Smith but we're in good form ourselves.
The Nationwide Conference Championship Trophy was today returned to the Conference Office in accordance with the rules of the competition.
The Lincolnshire County Under 16 Cup Final will take place at York Street on Sunday 6 April 2003 at 11.30am between Boston Town Juniors and Ermine Junior Colts. Admission is £1.00 for adults and free for concessions.
Torquay
28 March The squad were planning to leave Boston>at 10.00am this morning to travel to Torquay and hopefully have a training session when they arrive this afternoon to get the journey out of their legs. Neil Thompson has advised that Simon Rusk and David Town are unavailable due to their hamstring strains but they hope to be available again next week. Alex Higgins is making slow progress with his thigh injury but he hopes to be playing again within the next ten days. Lee Thompson is unavailable as he is still recovering from the operation on his knee. Stuart Douglas has a slight groin strain, he has been nursed through recent matches and training sessions and is expected to be available.
For the run in to the end of the season we need luck with the number of players attending the treatment room, but the situation is better than earlier in the season when there were eight or nine players needing treatment. There is a good team spirit in the squad, the players are up for matches, the players know the importance of the League position and their attitude is spot on.
Lee Beevers and Robert Dickinson have joined us this week from Ipswich Town; they have been at a good club and brought up in the right way. Lee and Robert give us more numbers in the squad, they have been signed with a view to the future but depending upon how things develop they may also get an opportunity this season.
Signings, Released, Radio
27 March The loan signings of Lee Beevers and Robert Dickinson were completed earlier today.
Mark Clifford has left Boston United; his contract was cancelled by mutual consent this afternoon. Mark is talking to Burton Albion, Nuneaton Borough and Halesowen Town with a view to joining them for the rest of the season.
Boston United's historic promotion to the Football League could still be a winner a year on - for BBC Radio Lincolnshire.
The station's coverage has been nominated for a top radio industry award. It's been short listed at The Sonys in the Event category. But it faces tough competition from the likes of Radio Five Live's coverage of the Ryder Cup and the Cheltenham Festival.
Jubilant BBC Radio Lincolnshire managing editor Charlie Partridge said: “We're thrilled to even be nominated for an award. The Sonys are the radio version of the Oscars. The best people in business will be there for the awards night and for our coverage to be sitting alongside huge outside broadcasts like the Ryder Cup and Cheltenham is outstanding. “Our broadcasts really captured the imagination of our listeners and this nomination is just rewards for the fantastic effort our staff put into the coverage.”
The station's nomination centres on a six-hour live programme which included full-match commentary of Boston's last-day 2-0 victory at Hayes which clinched the championship for the Pilgrims.
Sports producer Michael Hortin said: “We spent weeks planning our coverage of Boston's championship run-in, not knowing how it would end or whether or not it would go to the final day of the season.
“On the air fans hear people like myself, Rob Underwood and Scott Dalton, but behind us there is a dedicated team that keeps things running smoothly and this nomination is a huge recognition for them as well,” he added.
The winners will be announced at a star-studded ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London on May 8.
Maybe Dreams Do Come True - BBC Radio Lincolnshire
The Ryder Cup - BBC Radio Five Live
Cheltenham> Festival - BBC Radio Five Live
The Queen's Visit to Harewwood - BBC Radio Leeds
The Jubilee Long Weekender - 95.8 Captial FM
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Charlie Partridge, Andy Farrant or Michael Hortin on 01522 511411.
26 March Boston United are currently in talks with Lee Beevers and Robert Dickinson with a view to signing them on loan from Ipswich Town until the end of the season. Lee is a defender who was born in Doncaster on 4 December 1983; he is 6ft 2in tall and joined Ipswich as a trainee on 1 July 2002. Robert is a midfield player who was born in Leeds on 27 November 1983; he is 5ft 9in tall and joined Ipswich as a trainee on 1 August 2001.
The Standard has reported that Peter Costello has been put on the transfer list at his own request.
24 March Neil Thompson thought we gained a good point against Rushden & Diamonds on Saturday, he felt we were the better team in the first half and were resilient when Rushden put us under pressure in the second half. Rushden are a good team with quality in a number of positions. There was a good goal from Graeme Jones; he is a quality striker who has been scoring good goals over the years. Graeme is a good addition to the squad; he is a different type of player to the other strikers and gives us different options. Simon Rusk tweaked his hamstring just before he was substituted. Simon has just returned from injury and puts everything into the match, it is hoped the injury isn't serious and he may be unavailable for two weeks.
The situation in the league table is very tight, we need to keep performing to
give ourselves a chance. A positive aspect is that Rushden's
goal was only the second conceded at York Street since the New Year.
The transfer deadline is this Thursday (27 March); Neil is hoping to bring in
two players, possibly in loan, to bolster the squad for the run in to the end
of the season.
The Avon Insurance League match at home to Scunthorpe has been re-arranged for Monday 7 April 2003, kick off at 7.00pm. The match was originally scheduled for Wednesday 2 April but has been moved due to the Nationwide League Third Division match at home to Wrexham being re-arranged for this date. The new date will mean the reserves will have two fixtures that week as they are away to Darlington on Wednesday 9 April, kick off at 2.00pm.
Signed, Released
21 March Striker, Graeme Jones, has signed a contract with Boston United until the end of next season after obtaining release from his contract with Southend United. Graeme was born in Gateshead> on 13 March 1970; he is 6ft 0in tall. Graeme commenced his career with Bridlington Town on 1 August 1992 and has since played for Doncaster Rovers, Wigan Athletic, St Johnstone and Southend United. During his career Graeme has made 299 first team appearances (57 as substitute) and scored 90 goals.
Boston United have released Liam George who has been on non-contract terms.
20 March For the match with Rushden & Diamonds on Saturday the Pelican Crossing on John Adams Way at the end of Spayne Road nearest to the end of the ground used by away supporters is closed. People using the NCP Car Park off John Adams Way will have to cross it at Rowley Road or at the junction with Main Ridge.
The home fixture with Hull City on Saturday 12 April 2003 will be all ticket for both home and away supporters. The tickets will go on sale next week, the times and dates will be announced later.
Boston United hope to sign a new striker tomorrow.
17 March Neil Thompson was disappointed with the performance on Saturday at Rochdale where both teams struggled to get going on the bobbly pitch. There was an unusual match atmosphere with the bright sun, breeze and bobbly pitch. We had enough of the ball but didn't take sufficient responsibility and it was a match where one mistake was likely to be decisive. We waited for things to happen and weren't as positive as we need to be to make things happen. The players are capable and will now prepare for another big match at home to Darlington on Wednesday. The teams who can get away from the bottom of the table will be those who can find another gear.
The home fixture with Wrexham has been re-arranged for Wednesday 2 April 2003, kick off at 7.45pm. The scheduled Avon Insurance fixture with Scunthorpe United for this date has now been postponed with a new date to be arranged.
14 March When we played Carlisle last Saturday, Neil Thompson felt that we bossed the game, created decent opportunities, were disciplined and professional but didn't put the ball in the net. A positive aspect was that we gained a point and prevented Carlisle from going above us.
The Reserves had a good win on Wednesday against York. Of the trialists Ryan Clark and Robert Dickinson did well, David Town scored the goal and Mark Greaves had the opportunity for a game. The match was a good opportunity to have a look at a few people in a match situation.
For tomorrow's match away to Rochdale Richard Logan, Stuart Douglas and Peter Duffield all have knocks, bumps and bruises, but it is hoped that two of them will be fit to start the match. Richard Logan has had a problem with his knee for a couple of weeks and has been nursed through training and matches; against Carlisle the problem was restricting his movement which necessitated his substitution. Alex Higgins is still unavailable due to his thigh injury. Simon Rusk played the full 90 minutes for the reserves on Wednesday and Jamie Gould played for part of the match.
10 March This evening Boston United were visited by Mark Chapman and Comedy Dave of Radio One. Mark and Dave are visiting all 92 League clubs this week; they started their journey at Carlisle United at 5.00pm on Friday 7 March and plan to complete their tour this Friday. At each club they visit Mark and Dave are collecting memorabilia which is being used as the prize in a competition being run by Radio One for Red Nose Day. Boston United have donated a football signed by the squad, a championship scarf and a copy of the 2003 Boston United calendar.
7 March Neil Thompson has advised that
in the circumstances we gained a valuable point at Swansea
on Tuesday and watching the video emphasised the
view that we were the better team. It was a tight game but we created the
better opportunities, even when we done to ten and nine men. The referee had a
disappointing match, it wasn't a dirty match but there were a lot of bookings,
it is a contact sport and there was a lot at stake.
There is a fantastic team spirit in the squad; there is a togetherness and a willingness to work hard for each other which comes from getting results. In the circumstances on Tuesday there was a huge sense of achievement in drawing the match and preventing Swansea from gaining three points. Every game is important and the players want to do well and stay in the division. The nature of the Third Division this season is that all games will be hard as there are few teams in no-mans land. This can help with the tempo of games.
No new major injuries were incurred on Tuesday; just the expected knocks and bruises. Mark Greaves is available again for tomorrow's match with Carlisle United. Nick Conroy is out due to his broken fingers. Jamie Gould is not expected to be available due to his hamstring strain but it is hoped he will be able to appear in the reserves match next week. Alex Higgins will need longer to recover from his thigh injury which is taking longer to mend than was expected. Alex is disappointed about the injury as he is desperate to get playing again. It is hoped to bring in players to strengthen the squad, either permanently or on loan, before the transfer deadline date later this month.
5 March Ross Weatherstone joined Nuneaton Borough on a free transfer yesterday.
3 March Neil Thompson was disappointed that we didn't get anything from the match with Oxford United on Saturday; as we were playing a top six side, this shows how far we have come. It was a strange game with a strange atmosphere, we had enough possession but we weren't positive enough and were poor defensively for Oxford's goals. For Oxford's first goal we conceded a free-kick and then didn't defend the cross and we were disjointed for their second goal. We didn't ask enough questions of Oxford's defence and until the last 15 minutes our tempo was too low. We possibly played too deep, but showed what we are capable of in patches.
We shall now re-group this morning for the big game against Swansea tomorrow evening, which we shall approach in a positive frame of mind and intend to ask questions of them. No new injury problems are anticipated. Mark Angel is available following his suspension. Neil Redfearn and Stuart Balmer are expected to be available following their injury problems. Stuart Douglas has scored goals after coming on as a substitute recently. Alex Higgins and Simon Rusk are expected to recommence training this week; it will be a boost to the squad to have them back.
28 February Jamie Cook has today joined Stevenage Borough who have taken over his contract.
Neil Thompson has advised that Paddy McCarthy has decided not to join Boston United permanently at the moment and to stay with Manchester City. Paddy has done well for us during the three months he was on loan and we wish him well for the future.
Alex Higgins is still recovering from his thigh strain and is not fully fit. Simon Rusk is still recovering from his injury. Jamie Gould is not available due to the hamstring injury he suffered last week against Kidderminster Harriers. Neil Redfearn is getting over his calf injury; he has done a bit of running and may be able to be considered for a place on the bench tomorrow. Stuart Balmer is a major doubt for tomorrow due to a groin strain. Mark Angel is unavailable due to suspension. Lee Thompson has had an operation for a problem below his knee which is likely to take 12 weeks to recover from; therefore he is likely to miss the remainder of the season. Nick Conroy will be unavailable due to his broken fingers. Peter Costello is due to be assessed to see if there is any reaction following his appearance for the reserves on Wednesday. The reserves match with Scarborough was a good opportunity to give a trial to some players who are available and for members of the squad who haven't played much lately, such as Mark Greaves, to have 90 minutes in a match situation.
Oxford United will present us with a massive challenge tomorrow. It will be a tough game, Oxford are an aggressive team and their manager, Ian Atkins, knows this division well. The injury problems amongst the squad will give opportunities to other players.
The Great BBC Radio Lincolnshire Pub Quiz, raising money for Comic Relief takes place on Friday 7 March 2003, the quiz starts at 8.00pm so. There are two simultaneous quizzes being held in Executive Club at Lincoln City FC and the Sports Bar at Boston United FC. The entry fee is £3 per person, with a maximum of five per team. There will be prizes for best teams at each venue and another prize for best team overall! Presenter Melvyn Prior is the compere at Sincil Bank and Scott Dalton is fronting the show at York Street.
26 February Ben Chapman has extended his contract until the end of next season.
BBC Teletext page 312 has reported that Stockport County would like to sign Tom Bennett.
The team for the Avon Insurance match with Scarborough this afternoon included the following trialists. Ryan Clark a defender from Notts County. Manny Muscat a midfielder from Australia. Keith Gilroy a midfielder from Middlesbrough. Steve Ferguson, a midfield player from Leeds United. Arturo Bernhardt a Brazilian striker from Middlesbrough who scored two of the goals against Scarborough.
24 February Neil Thompson was pleased the performance against Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday; he thought we played well, did the right things, were professional, created chances and deserved the win. After the match the supporters were happy which gave the players satisfaction. During February we have won three matches and lost one, the players can be pleased with this. The basis is there but we need to keep replicating these performances.
Paul Ellender was terrific; he and Tom Bennett complimented each other well. Paul has had a long spell out through injury which has restricted his chances, but he is professional and always tries his best. Paul won the ball and passed it well, which gave licence to other players to get on the ball. Liam George did well on his home debut, he did the things asked of him and fitted in well with the other players. Simon Weatherstone has had a tough time lately but he has stayed strong. Simon's goal will give him a confidence boost, he struck the ball and it is what Simon is good at. Peter Duffield complimens the other players very well; he is a clever footballer who comes deep to give us variety and options. James Gould suffered a hamstring injury and could be unavailable for two to three weeks. Paddy McCarthy's loan spell has been completed, we have offered him something but he has a lot to think about. Paddy has done well for us and we would like to keep him, he is quick, aggressive and has a terrific attitude.
There are 14 games left to the end of the season and we need to get on with the job. This game can turn on its head very quickly and there are likely to be more twists and turns to come.
The Avon Insurance League match away to Mansfield Town has been re-arranged for Wednesday 30 April 2003; kick off at 2.00pm.
21 February Stuart Balmer has today signed a contract with Boston United until the end of the 2003/2004 season and the registration has been accepted by the Football League.
Neil Thompson has advised that yesterday
Stuart Balmer agreed a deal for the rest of this
season and next season and Neil is delighted to have agreed the deal with
Stuart. Stuart has done very well in the two months he has been with Boston
United, he is enjoying being with Boston United and what we are trying to do,
and he has earned the respect of everyone at the club. So far this season the
loan deals have worked well. Neil is in discussions with Paddy McCarthy's agent
regarding extending his career with Boston United.
Simon Rusk is back running and is expected to be two weeks away from returning
to full training. Peter Costello has trained for two days and may be available
for selection tomorrow. Alex Higgins thigh injury is taking longer to recover
than was originally expected and may be available again next week. Neil
Redfearn's calf injury will cause him to miss the match
tomorrow but at a push he may be available for selection at
Oxford next week. Nick Conroy is out of action with his
broken fingers. Lee Thompson
still has a problem with his knee, he has done a bit of training this week and
had a scan, next week he is due to see the specialist to see the results of the
scan and decide on any action which is required. Mark Angel and Mark Greaves
are unavailable due to suspension.
The postponement of the match with Wrexham on Wednesday disrupted the plans for
the match and would have used up the suspensions currently in force, but it
also gave the injured players an opportunity to recover. We expect another
tough game with Kidderminster Harriers tomorrow, they are a good
attacking, footballing team, but we shall concentrate
on our own game. The pitch softened up yesterday and hopefully the frost won't
cause a problem tomorrow.
Wrexham, Radio
19 February Tonight's scheduled match with Wrexham was postponed following a pitch inspection at 11.00am due to the pitch on the Spain Road side of the ground being frozen. The mew date for the match is still to be arranged.
BBC Radio Lincolnshire Managing Editor, Charlie Partridge, has issued the following statement in response to correspondence received on the coverage of last Saturday's match at Exeter.
"I was impressed by the number of the letters and e-mails we have received
from Boston United fans. What surprised me was the number of people who were
clearly having difficulty picking up commentary on AM. There is also a lot of
comment and discussion by people who are clearly passionate about their
team and radio coverage. I don't think we should ignore people who have taken
the trouble to contact us with their concerns in this way. I have therefore had
a rethink of our coverage and for the rest of the season I think we need to
revert to the system of "away team on FM" for both
Boston and Lincoln. We will continue to provide our extra bonus
commentary of home games on medium wave till the end of the season.
We may though for editorial reasons need to reassess this during the run in.
For example if Lincoln drop of the playoff race
and Boston United are still involved in the relegation fight or vice
versa."
Michael Horton commented “So the bottom line is home on MW away on FM till the
end of the season, subject to any need for editorial decisions. I will be interviewing
Charlie on Sporting Lincs this week about coverage.”
Goalkeeper
18 February Due to the injury to Nick Conroy Boston United have taken Michael Price on loan for one month from Leicester and he is included in the squad for tomorrow's match with Wrexham. Michael was born in Newcastle on 4 March 1983; he is 6ft 3in tall. Michael joined Leicester as a trainee on 1 August 2001 and has yet to make a first team appearance.
Boston United would like to thank the Head Teacher and Staff at Boston High School who allowed them to use the indoor facilities at the school to train when they were unable to train outside due to frozen ground.
Heavy overnight frost has caused a problem on the Spain Road side of the pitch at York Street. Arrangements have been made with the Football League for the pitch to be inspected tomorrow morning at around 11.00am to see if the match with Wrexham can go ahead.
Mark Clifford has returned from his one month loan with Chester and today he has gone out on loan to Ilkeston Town for one month.
Exeter
17 February Neil Thompson has advised that we gained three valuable points on Saturday. We well deserved the victory and were the better team throughout the match, even though we didn't play to our full potential but we showed battling qualities. Everyone played their part without being spectacular, Paul Bastock had a good game and the other lads at the back deserve a mention. We were the more likely team to score, there was a good opening goal from Neil Redfearn, and we played with a lot of spirit and character.
During this week Neil will be looking to extend Stuart Balmer's stay with Boston United. Stuart has done well for us; he is a good character and a good influence on the other players. There are some more tough games coming up where we will again have to cope with players missing through injury and suspension.
Nick Conroy was injured his hand during the warm up for the match at Exeter, he went to hospital after the match where it was discovered he had broken two fingers. Nick is expected to be unavailable for three to four weeks. Boston United are searching for a replacement goalkeeper.
Today's scheduled Avon Insurance match away to Mansfield Town was called off due to a frozen pitch following a pitch inspection at 11.00am. The match is to be re-arranged.
Exeter
14 February Neil Thompson has advised that Peter Costello and Simon Rusk are not available for selection due to their long term injuries. Alex Higgins is not expected to be available due to the thigh strain he incurred last week; it is hoped that Alex, together with Peter Costello, will be able to take part in training on Monday. Lee Thompson is 50/50 to be available. Lee has a problem with his knee, which may be his cartilage; he is due to have a scan next week to see if the problem can be solved by microsurgery. In addition to these injury problems Mark Angel and Mark Greaves aren't available due to suspension.
Liam George has signed non-contract terms, after having a good match for the reserves on Wednesday, to enable us to have a longer look at him. Liam can play in midfield, up front, or play as a link between the two; he is bright and has talent. Liam had a good start to his career with Luton Town but may have suffered from a loss in form since then.
George
13 February Liam George, who played for the Reserves last night, has signed non-contract terms with Boston United. Forward player, Liam was born in Luton on 2 February 1979; he is 5ft 9in tall. Liam commenced his career with Luton Town on 1 August 1997 and has also played for Clydebank, Stevenage Borough and Bury; he has made 142 first team appearances (35 as substitute) and scored 26 goals. Liam left Bury on 31 January 2003 prior to which he appeared as a substitute against Boston United in the league match at Gigg Lane on 18 January 2003.
Mark Angel and Mark Greaves shall miss the matches against Exeter and Wrexham due to suspension. Mark Angel is also suspended for the next match against Kidderminster Harriers due to accumulating five yellow cards.
Elding
12 February Anthony Elding has been recalled from his one month loan with Gainsborough Trinity and at 12.00noon today he signed an eighteen month contact with Stevenage Borough.
The reserves team for tonight's match with Hartlepool United featured three trialists. Ryan Clark, a right-back from Notts County, Paul Thornton a midfield player who has been with Chelsea and Liam George a forward who stated his career with Luton Town and was with Bury until 31 January 2003.
Fixture, Scunthorpe
10 February The Nationwide League Division Three fixture at home to Wrexham is now being played on Wednesday 19 February 2003, kick off at 7.45pm, therefore the Avon Insurance League match away to Mansfield Town is now scheduled to be played at Field Mill Mansfield on Monday 17 February 2003, kick off at 2.00pm.
Neil Thompson was delighted with the match against Scunthorpe United on Saturday; the win gave everyone a lift. Following the previous match against Bournemouth when we conceded two late goals we showed character to bounce back and achieve a victory against Scunthorpe. We played well in the first 20 minutes, the second half was more scrappy and Scunthorpe appeared to sit back but we kept at it. When Scunthorpe were reduced to ten men we changed the formation to try to put more pressure on them.
Stuart Balmer reported a calf strain at half-time which hopefully isn't too serious. Stuart's substitution was more for tactical reasons, to enable the formation to be changed to be more adventurous, than due to his injury. Stuart's current loan spell expires after the Exeter match at the weekend, Neil is looking to extend Stuart's stay with Boston United. Ben Chapman was substituted due to attack of cramp, which he should soon recover from; this wasn't helped by the sticky pitch. Richard Logan had a mainly quiet game but he showed good awareness to score the goal with a good header. Shortly afterwards he was unfortunate not to set up Peter Duffield for a second goal. Richard showed good football intelligence in being aware of the opportunity and reacting quickly. Peter Duffield also showed good awareness and intelligence in his first home match for the club, he demonstrated he is a good link player between the midfield and forwards. Mark Greaves worked hard in covering a lot of ground to close down Scunthorpe's players. Overall every player made a contribution, the lads at the back did their job, Scunthorpe's wide players are dangerous, and the wide players got forward and helped to prevent Scunthorpe's full backs from overlapping. Maybe we could have given Mark Angel more of the ball to create more chances.
Over the last nine matches we have won three, drawn five and lost one. In the same period we have conceded three late goals, a penalty against Bristol Rovers and two goals against Bournemouth. This is a credit to everyone and shows the progress we are making.
7 February Stuart Douglas has signed an extension to his contract with Boston United to keep him with the club until the end of next season.
Anthony Elding has joined Gainsborough Trinity on loan for one month and he is in the squad for their match with Gateshead tomorrow.
Paul Hart and Brian Hardie have left Boston United by mutual consent.
Neil Thompson has reported that following last Saturday's match with Bournemouth the squad had a discussion about the match on Monday and then got back on track to prepare for tomorrow's match with Scunthorpe United. Peter Costello and Simon Rusk are expected to miss the match due to their long-term injuries. Alex Higgins is doubtful due to a thigh injury he picked up in the friendly match against Rushden & Diamonds on Wednesday. Alex is hoping the medical specialists have resolved his illness problem; he has a good first touch and a desire to succeed. Peter Duffield has had a week's training to become more familiar with the rest of the squad; he is intelligent and experienced and should be a valuable addition to the squad.
The match at Rushden on Wednesday was arranged at short notice following the cancellation of the Avon Insurance League match against Darlington. The match was a good opportunity for players to have time on the pitch in a match situation.
Tomorrow's opponents, Scunthorpe United, are a decent team; most of their players have been together for a few years.
6 February Yesterday's friendly match at Rushden & Diamonds was abandoned after 75 minutes due to freezing weather conditions; Tony Battersby scored one of Rushden's goals.
Saturday's match with Scunthorpe United has been designated a Select Match, whereby Premiership officials are appointed to take charge of a Nationwide League match. The team of officials on Saturday will be headed by referee Andy D'urso, last night Mr D'urso took charge of the Sunderland versus Blackburn Rovers FA Cup match which went into extra time and was eventually won by Sunderland after a penalty shoot out.
The new President of the Football League, Sir Brian MaWhinney MP, will be attending Saturday's match.
Yorkshire Television will be recording Saturday's match with the intention of showing it as the main match on their Goals on Sunday programme, which is scheduled to be broadcast at 2.00pm on Sunday 9 February 2003.
Paul Ellender, Boston United's record transfer signing, has requested a transfer and all clubs have been notified.
5 February This evening's Avon Insurance League match with Darlington> was postponed due to a frozen pitch, the decision was made at a pitch inspection at 10.00am. Following the postponement of the Darlington match an away friendly with Rushden & Diamonds was quickly arranged for 4.00pm. A strong Rushden team won the match 3-1 with David Town scoring Boston United's goal.
Two new dedicated radio services from BBC Radio Lincolnshire for Lincoln City and Boston United fans will start on Saturday.
With both the Imps and the Pilgrims involved in thrilling climaxes to the end of the season, BBC Radio Lincolnshire will be providing full match commentary from ALL of Lincoln's and Boston's remaining fixtures both home and away.
94.9FM and 104.7FM will become the dedicated home for match coverage for Lincoln; while Boston United fans will be able to tune into 1368 medium wave for specialised coverage of their team.
“With Lincoln hoping to get in the play-offs and Boston trying to stay up we didn't want either set of fans to miss a kick of what promises to be an amazing climax to the season for both teams,” explained BBC Radio Lincolnshire sports producer Michael Hortin. “By splitting our frequencies it means we can give both sets of fans the full picture,” he added.
BBC Radio Lincolnshire's managing editor Charlie Partridge commented: “By the end of the season we will have broadcast more live commentary games than ever before. Having dedicated services for both clubs shows our commitment to covering the whole county. It is also the biggest investment we've ever made in Lincolnshire sport and means each week we'll undertake a huge outside broadcast operation.”
The new era starts on Saturday to coincide with double derby weekend with Lincoln's match at Hull on 94.9 and 104.7FM frequencies and Boston United's clash at York Street; with Scunthorpe United on 1368 medium wave.
The commentaries will be backed up by the usual pre-match and post-match coverage which will be broadcast on all frequencies as part of Saturday Sport between 2.00pm and 6.00pm.
For more information contact Michael Hortin or Charlie Partridge on 01522 511411 or go to the BBC's website for Lincolnshire at bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire.
The Standard has reported that Paul Ellender has requested to be placed on the transfer list and that former Mansfield Town assistant manager, Neil Richardson, has been appointed as Daryl Pugh's assistant at the Pilgrim's Centre of Excellence.
3 February Neil Thompson has advised that the whole of the dressing room felt down and found it difficult to accept the result of the match against Bournemouth on Saturday. Before conceding two late goals, we had done well to go in front and deserved something from the match; Sean O'Driscoll manager of Bournemouth, agreed with this sentiment. After Mark Greaves was sent off we reorganised and still did well, creating two good chances for Simon Weatherstone and Richard Logan. We did well for 92 minutes of the match and were surprised when four minutes of injury time were announced. Peter Duffield did well in his first match; he played some intelligent passes and will be a good addition to the squad.
We have to take Saturday's result on the chin and re-group, there is a third of the season left and plenty of points to play for, and we can't dwell on this result. We have to keep going and during this week we have to get everyone bubbly again ready for the match with Scunthorpe at the weekend.
For the match with Scunthorpe United on Saturday visiting supporters are to use turnstiles 7, 8, 9 and 10 at the Town End of the ground only. A group of Premiership officials will take charge of the match, led by referee Andy D'urso.
People planning to attend the Avon Insurance match against Darlington on Wednesday (kick off at 7.00pm) are advised to check the state of the ground as there is currently a lot of snow on the pitch.
31 January The registration of Peter Duffield has been completed.
Neil Thompson has advised that Simon Rusk and Peter Costello are not available for tomorrow's match at Bournemouth due to their long-term injuries. Stuart Douglas has not travelled to Bournemouth due to his ankle injury. Richard Logan has been laid up with flu this week; his fitness will be assessed tomorrow. David Town and Mark Angel are available following their recent illness problems. Peter Duffield suffered a bump on the back of his leg whilst playing for York at Hull last weekend, he will be assessed tomorrow. Alex Higgins played the full 90 minutes for the reserves against Lincoln City on Wednesday but he suffered in relapse in training yesterday and has not travelled to Bournemouth. Alex is currently having a tough time, he has a lot to offer, and he is now trying to maintain his general fitness whilst the medical specialists get his medication right ready for a return for first team football.
Neil his delighted to have Peter Duffield in the squad, he is a player Neil has admired for a few years. Peter is an experienced goal poacher who can sniff out chances, he has already scored 15 goals this season and being different to the other strikers will give us variety and more options. The best of Peter may be seen in future weeks as he shows the benefit of more time and familiarity with the rest of the squad.
The reserves had a good match against Lincoln City on Wednesday; there was a good attitude and a lot of plusses. Simon Weatherstone scored three goals to give his confidence a boost. Lee Beevers did Ok, he is strong and aggressive. Neil is planning to have another look at Lee in a future reserves match as he is not out of the plans. The match was good for Mark Angel following his recent illness problems and Lee Thompson came through the match following his problem with a sore knee last week.
30 January At 6.00pm today Boston United signed striker Peter Duffield from York. Peter was born in Middlesbrough on 4 February 1969; he is 5ft 6in tall. During his career Peter has made 485 first team appearances (96 as substitute) and has scored 153 goals, 15 of the goals have been this season including one in York's victory over Boston United at Bootham Crescent on 26 August 2002. Peter commenced his career with Sheffield United and has also played for Halifax Town, Rotherham United, Blackpool, Crewe Alexandria, Stockport County, Hamilton, Airdrie, Raith Rovers, Morton, Falkirk and Darlington. Earlier today Neil Thompson served 14 days notice to the Administrators of York City, pursuant to clause 17 of Peter's contract with York. The Administrators waived the 14 days notice and gave Peter his immediate release from his contract. Neil and John Blackwell then immediately drove to Yorkshire to meet Peter where he signed a contract until the end of next season. Peter should be available for the squad for Saturday's match at Bournemouth.
The Football Association's website has reported that Steve Evans has been given a full suspension of 20 months commencing on 3 March 2003, a fine of £8,000 and a contribution towards the cost of the commission. Pat Malkinson has been given a suspension of 13 months commencing on 3 March 2003, a fine of £5,250 and a contribution to the costs of the commission.
28 January BBC Radio Lincolnshire will have extensive coverage of the Football Association's hearing in Birmingham on Wednesday. It will rule what punishment former manager Steve Evans and previous chairman Pat Malkinson will face after being found guilty of charges relating to an investigation into contract irregularities. The hearing starts at 10am and an announcement is expected around two to three hours later. Radio Lincolnshire's coverage starts in William Wright's Breakfast Show from 7am and continues throughout the day. Reporter Scott Dalton will be in Birmingham and will break into programmes as soon as the verdict is delivered. There'll also be reaction in Lincolnshire Tonight from 5pm and extensive coverage on the BBC website for Lincolnshire.
BBC Radio Lincolnshire is on 94.9FM and 1368 MW.
BBCi Lincolnshire is at bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire
BBCi at http://www.bbc.co.uk/
During the match Ben Chapman suffered a knee in his backside which had an
effect similar to a dead leg; he should recover in the next few days. Lee Thompson
reported a sore knee after the match and is doubtful for next weekend. Stuart
Douglas suffered another kick on the same ankle as his previous injury; again
this should clear up this week. Mark Angel trained in the week and played for
the reserves on Wednesday, but on Saturday he suffered a stomach illness and
had to miss the match. Mark's creativity was missed against Bristol Rovers.
The Third Division is tight at the bottom, as it is at the top, the teams in
mid-table will be looking over their shoulders for teams below them putting a
winning run together. There is a fine balance between playing
defensive football and free flowing football, in the past we have given the
opposition a two or three goal start before we started to play ourselves. Now
that we aren't conceding goals so easily we can gain points by taking chances
to score. We now need a big push to get us up the table; two or three
consecutive wins would put us in mid-table. There is still a lot to play for,
especially if we can turn draws into victories. We could have won
all of the last seven match and some of them have against
teams at the top of the table.
The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Mark Angel has been offered a year's extension to his current contract.
Ipswich Town's website has reported that Lee Beevers, a 19 year old defender, will play for Boston United in the reserves match against Lincoln City on Wednesday on a trial basis. Lee has been told he can leave pswich Town on a free transfer and he has been capped by Wales at the under 19 level.
23 January Neil Thompson has advised that more of the squad are available for selection this week for the match against Bristol Rovers than there were last week. Simon Rusk's is still recovering from his knee injury; Peter Costello has a problem in the area behind his knee and his hamstring. Paul Ellender is still building up his fitness he has had rehabilitation treatment on his knee and has two full 90 minutes of match action. Paddy McCarthy has had his loan from Manchester extended for a further month. Alex Higgins played the full 90 minutes at Doncaster on Wednesday without suffering any adverse reaction, which was a psychological relief for Alex and everyone else at Boston United. The specialist has given Alex the green light to resume playing, he has done well since he joined us and is keen to continue to progress. Ross Weatherstone suffered a crack above his eye at Doncaster, he is sore and had a headache but he should recover in the next few days.
There is a good spirit in the club ahead of the match with Bristol Rovers
tomorrow, it is a big game, the reason why people want to play football and
everyone wants to be involved. It will be a tough match with pressure, but
successful players respond to the pressure of situations like this and look
forward to big matches.
The squad has changed since last season but this is the same with other teams
who are promoted as the existing players raise their game to the new higher
standard and new players come into the club. The squad need to back up their
ability by obtaining results on the pitch. Neil is still looking to strengthen
the squad before the transfer deadline if the right player becomes available,
but the right player would need to be available at the right time and the right
cost.
22 January The transfer of Richard Logan from Ipswich Town was completed today.
During today's reserves match at Doncaster Ross Weatherstone suffered a bad head injury after 35 minutes, he was taken to hospital and had six stitches inserted to repair the injury.
The Standard has reported that Jim Rodwell looks set to join Grantham Town on loan from Farnborough Town.
Warburton
21 January The Daily Telegraph has reported that Ray Warburton has joined Aldershot of the Ryman League Premier Division.
20 January Richard Logan who has just started his second month loan will sign a one and half year contract with Boston United tomorrow, after being given his release by his previous club Ipswich Town.
Neil Thompson felt we gained a valuable away point at Bury on Saturday. We put in a good performance, were solid as a team, restricted their shots on goal and we had the better chances to have won the match. We passed the ball and created opportunities. It was a tight game, Bury are a good side and it was all credit to the players for sticking to the task and following what had been put into practice in training in the week. The team was changed due to injury and illness but the players who came into the team did a good job. Mark Angel missed the match due to a virus, which enabled Lee Thompson to come back into the team. Lee is a different player to Mark; he did a good defensive job on Saturday and still made forward runs. The good recent performances are the result of a lot of hard work in training, for example through work on defending as a team, and through having improved strength in depth.
Paddy McCarthy current loan agreement expires this week. Neil is looking to extend his stay with Boston United, Paddy is enjoying his football and would like to stay but we will be dictated by Manchester City's requirements. Tony Battersby's contract also expires this week but Neil won't be extending Tony's stay with Boston United. Stuart Douglas's current contract expires early February; Stuart has done well and Neil plans to initiate discussions this week to extend Stuart's career with Boston United.
Next Saturday there is an important match at home to Bristol Rovers, during this week the current good work in training will be continued in preparation for the match where it is hoped everyone will play their part in trying to achieve a victory.
The first ever Boston United Sportsmans Dinner will be held at The Springfields Restaurant at Spalding on Wednesday 22 January 2003; the guest speaker is Tommy Docherty. The event is a sell out and it is expected a second dinner will be held in the very near future.
Tickets for the Nationwide League Third Division matches away to AFC Bournemouth and Oxford United are available from the club offices, both matches are all ticket for visiting supporters.
Mark Clifford made his debut for Chester in the televised match with Barnet on Saturday; the match ended as a 1-1 draw. Mark was substituted by another former player, Mick Brown, in the 60th minute.
Is there a local organisation, football club or school help with training facilities over the next few weeks? If so please contact John Blackwell on 01205 364406.
17
January Neil Thompson has advised
that Stuart Douglas and Peter Costello have not a great deal since New Years
Day but should be available for selection, Simon Rusk is not fit and Paul
Ellender has just started his come back from injury by playing
for the reserves against
Grimsby
Town
on Wednesday. Alex Higgins has been diagnosed with epilepsy which can be
controlled with medication to enable him to resume playing. Neil
Redfearn is suspended for tomorrow's match
which will give an opportunity to someone else such as Mark
Greaves, who has played in midfield for
Hull
and played there for half of the game against
Grimsby
Town,
Simon Weatherstone or Lee Thompson.
Neil went to Swansea>
on Tuesday to see their match with Bury. Bury were
excellent in the first half, they played with a lot pace and energy and are
capable of causing us a lot of problems tomorrow, but the second half was
different with Swansea coming back into the match.
It is hoped that the negotiations with Richard Logan are almost complete with
one or two small issues to be decided, but we can't count our chickens before
they are hatched.
Mark Clifford has joined Chester on loan for one month with a view to a
permanent deal if things work out well for him.
Next Wednesday, 22 January 2003, the reserves play their final group match in the League Cup away to Doncaster Rovers, kick off is at 2.00pm.
The Avon Insurance League match away to Darlington has been re-arranged for Wednesday 5 April 2003, kick off is at 7.00pm.
Clifford
16 January BBC Teletext page 394 has reported that Mark Clifford has been loaned to Chester.
Higgins
15 January The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Alex Higgins believes a MRI scan he underwent yesterday at Sheffield's Royal Hallamshire hospital will confirm he has epilepsy.
McCarthy, Blondish
14 January The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Manchester City have instructed Paddy McCarthy not to play for the Republic of Ireland in the Under 20 tournament in Dubai.
On Saturday the Boston United Sports Bar will open at 5.00pm and later in the evening the entertainment will be provided by Blondish a tribute band to Blondie.
Wrexham, Balmer
13 January The Nationwide League Division Three match at home to Wrexham which was postponed on Saturday has been re-arranged for Wednesday 19 February 2003, kick off at 7.45pm.
Stuart Balmer has extended his loan from Oldham Athletic into a second month today.
Neil Thompson was disappointed that Saturday's match with Wrexham was postponed as the squad had prepared for the match and Neil Redfearn's suspension will have to be served over another match. There was frost on the pitch in the morning but the temperature didn't rise as expected to thaw the pitch. A consolation is that the injured players will have more time to regain fitness. Stuart Balmer has reached the end of his month loan spell from Oldham Athletic. Neil is pleased to retain his services for a further month as he is a big influence both on and off the pitch and was unlucky to obtain a training injury before the match with Bristol Rovers.
12 January The Nationwide League Division Three match away to AFC Bournemouth on Saturday 1 February 2003 is all ticket for visiting supporters. AFC Bournemouth do not take cash from visiting supporters at the turnstiles on the day of the match. Boston United supporters are being accommodated in the East Stand Left, Block ES5. The tickets are now available from Boston United office priced at £13.00 for adults and £5.00 for supporters over 65 and under 16.
Match Off
11 January Today's match against Wrexhan was postponed by the match referee at 1.00pm this afternoon as there two parts of the pitch which hadn't thawed sufficiently.
International, Wrexham
10 January Paddy McCarthy has been selected for the Republic of Ireland Under 21 squad to play in a week's tournament in Dubai in a fortnight's time; the tournament also includes France.
Neil Thompson has advised that Stuart Douglas has a 50/50 chance of being available for selection for tomorrow's match against Wrexham, Peter Costello is hopeful of being fit, Neil Redfearn is suspended but Paul Ellender and Simon Rusk are still unavailable. Neil is considering the options for the midfield positions, Mark Greaves has played in midfield during his time with Hull and Lee Thompson could come back into the team. Alex Higgins has had preliminary tests to try to discover why he has collapsed twice in recent matches and the results are awaited. It is hoped that the reason for Alex's collapses are quickly discovered and resolved as he has done well since he has come to the club and is determined to continue to do well. The reserves against Rushden & Diamonds on Wednesday provided useful practice on a grass pitch for some of the players who hadn't had a match for a few weeks. Due to the weather causing problems with the goal areas the pitch was shortened and the match was played with eight players on each side with revolving substitutions. Discussions are still ongoing with Richard Logan to sign him on a permanent basis.
At 4.30pm this afternoon the York Street pitch was fit to stage tomorrow's match. Hopefully there will be no further adverse weather conditions to jeopardise the match.
9 January For the Nationwide League Third Division match away to Oxford United on Saturday 1 March 2003 advanced ticket sales are now available from the Boston United office for the North Stand at the following prices: adults £14.00, students £10.50, under 16s £8.50, over 65s £8.50, wheelchair users and helpers £6.00. There will also be ticket sales on the match day from the ticket office next to the away turnstiles; there will be no cash admission at the turnstiles on the day. Tickets purchased on the match day from the ticket office will cost: adults £17.00, students £13.00, under 16s and over 65s £11.00.
Board
8 January Tonight's edition of the Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Vice Chairman, Andrew Malkinson, resigned from the Board of Directors at the recent Annual General Meeting.
BBC Teletext has reported that Mark Clifford has joined Chester on trial for seven days.
Special VIP Package
7 January For the away match on Saturday 18 January 2003, Bury Football Club have made a Special V.I.P. Package available to Boston United supporters. The package includes: car park pass, bucks fizz reception, superb four course pre-match lunch in Starkies Pitchside Restaurant (served at 1.00pm), full bar facilities before and after the match, complimentary match programme, half-time refreshments, fun quiz and competitions, reserved main stand seat for the big game. The total all inclusive cost is £31.00 per person (£25.00 for juniors). The package must be pre-booked. To book contact Bury Football Club Commercial Department on 0161 705 2144, fax 0161 763 3103.
6 January Neil Thompson was disappointed not to get anything from the Hartlepool match on Saturday, he felt we had done enough to get a point. It was a match which appeared as though one goal would settle it, we had enough chances, but Hartlepool scored when they had a player who may have been in an offside position. We looked solid as a unit, finished strongly and weren't outplayed by a side which is at the top of the table. Hartlepool defended well with two big centre-backs, and looked to attack us on the break. The side has come on a lot. Over the holiday period the team has done well, we have played a lot of matches, some of them in difficult conditions, and included a long journey to play Bristol Rovers. The team changes were due to injuries, which apart from the players with log-term injuries has created opportunities for other players. Matt Hocking has been outstanding over the Christmas period.
Paul Ellender hopes to train again this week and start to build up his fitness. Ray Warburton is struggling to cope with matches and has decided to call it a day with full-time football as he doesn't want to let the team down. Ray may stay involved with the club in a coaching capacity and will discuss his future in the next few weeks.
We have gained 8 out of a possible 15 points over the holiday period and we need to maintain that return, there are some big matches coming up.
On sale shortly from the club offices will be discount tickets for the Nationwide League Third Division match away to Oxford United on Saturday 1 March 2003.
On Wednesday 8 January 2003 at 12 noon Boston United Reserves are away to Rushden & Diamonds Reserves in a friendly fixture.
Two special guests attended the match against Hartlepool on Saturday, Emlyn Hughes the former Liverpool and England captain was a guest of Hartlepool manager Mike Newell and Premiership referee Uriah Rennie was at the match prior to taking charge of the Manchester City versus Liverpool FA Cup Third Round match yesterday.
Director
5 January Boston United have appointed former Huddersfield Town player, Daryl Pugh, as their new Soccer Academy Director. Daryl has been on the coaching staff at the Leeds United Academy and has managed Leicester's Academy, he is a UEFA A qualified coach and his first task will be to work with Tim Ruck to secure Centre of Excellence funding in time for next season.
4 January Today's Nationwide League Division Three match against Hartlepool United is on. The pitch was inspected by the match referee, Mr J J Ross at 9.30am this morning and passed fit for the match.
3 January Neil Thompson thought that
it was a game of two halves against
on New Years Day. We expected
Lincoln
to come at us at the start of the match and
were up against it in the first half, there was a
mistake for their goal otherwise we coped with their attacks. In the second
half we came into the match a bit more and scored a deserved equaliser, with a
better final ball we could have got more from the match. It was a tough game
but the football was better than expected in view of the reports on the
condition of the pitch. After taking the lead in the previous three matches it
was a different situation to go behind but we rose to the challenge, got stuck
in and came back into the match. Recently we have worked on defensive
performances and have now had a four game unbeaten run.
Alex Higgins is to have a medical check up to try to discover why he has
collapsed twice in recent matches. Stuart Douglas strained his ankle ligaments
against Lincoln
and is doubtful for tomorrow. Tom Bennett (kick on
shin), Peter Costello and Stuart Balmer have had
injuries and will be assessed prior to tomorrow's match. Simon Rusk has had an
operation on a problem at the back of his knee and is expected to be out of
action for six weeks. Richard Logan has quality, he is enjoying scoring goals
and we hope he keeps the run going.
Hartlepool are top of the division on merit, they play good football. We need to keep our run going and the players are capable.
30 December Richard Logan has signed for a further month on loan from Ipswich Town.
Geoff Hazledine's funeral will be on Friday 3 January 2003 at the village church in his home village of Edingley near Newark, starting at 1.30pm, anyone wishing to attend will be welcome. There will be an article on Geoff Hazledine by Rob Singleton in the Target which is published on Wednesday 8 January 2003.
The Boston United Sports Bar will be open on New Years Day for the use of supporters before the BUSA coaches leave for the match at Lincoln at 1.00pm. The Sports Bar still has tickets available at £10.00 for the function on New Years Eve; the entertainment is provided by Flashback.
Tickets for the match away to on New Years Day are available from Boston United's office until 7.30pm on New Years Eve. Boston United's initial allocation of 1462 have all been sold and a further allocation is being delivered tomorrow. Boston United supporters are reminded that they must purchase a ticket in advance from Boston United to attend the match.
Neil Thompson felt we gained a good away point at Bristol Rovers on Saturday but he was disappointed not to gain all three points after coming close to the end of the match before Bristol Rovers were awarded their penalty. There were no complaints about the penalty as if an opponent is touched in the penalty area there is always the risk of a penalty being awarded. In the first half we played well and got an early goal through Richard Logan. In the second half Bristol came at us but we defended well the two centre-backs (Paddy McCarthy and Matt Hocking) were superb along with the full backs (Peter Costello and Ben Chapman); the concentration was good. The second half was scrappy; Bristol closed us down and got in a lot of tackles. We can't have things our own way in every match, Bristol are fighting hard to avoid relegation and we can't switch off. Stuart Balmer had trained on Friday but when he woke up on Saturday he had a problem with his calf, therefore he wasn't risked in the match. Paddy McCarthy came into the team and did well and Mark Greaves is still regaining fitness after his hamstring injury. Alex Higgins has had no further problems following his collapse on Boxing Day. Richard Logan and Stuart Douglas have formed a good partnership in attack, it is hoped to extend Richard's spell with Boston United. will present a different challenge on New Years Day, they have done well this season, they are dogged and defend well. It will be a tough game with a cracking atmosphere in front of a large holiday crowd.
29 December Former Boston United striker Geoff Hazledine died in Mansfield last Saturday, at the age of 70. He leaves a wife, two sons and two grandchildren. Hazledine gained fame for his part in one of the greatest upsets in FA Cup history when along with his brother Don, he was in the Boston United team that beat Derby County 6-1 at the Baseball Ground in December, 1955. Geoff scored a hat-trick in the match and reckoned it was the best individual performance he had in his footballing career.
Former player Gary Jones has joined Gainsborough Trinity of the Unibond League.
27 December Neil Thompson was again very pleased with the match yesterday, it was a cracking game for the supporters with end to end football, and we scored three goals and kept a clean sheet again. York are a decent team with good movement up front, in the second half York put us under pressure but we defended well to keep a clean sheet. We have now won two consecutive matches, scoring nine goals and keeping clean sheets which has done the world of good. We are now half way through the season, every match has its own significance, and we need to keep performing. In attack Richard Logan and Stuart Douglas are working well together, they have pace and are a threat to the opponents defence. Neil is working on retaining the services of Richard Logan. When Alex Higgins collapsed it is not certain what happened, he may have suffered a bang to his head earlier in the match. Alex was substituted as a precaution but appeared to be OK after the match and will be assessed prior to tomorrow's match with Bristol Rovers.
23 December Neil Thompson was very pleased with the performance on Saturday against Shrewsbury Town, describing it as fantastic. We defended well to keep a clean sheet which provided a platform to attack. We created a lot of chances and converted a good proportion of them. In previous matches we have been punished for mistakes, during the week the emphasis in training was on defending. There were a lot of good performances on Saturday which is a good starting point for the future. Richard Logan is talented and confident, he could have scored more goals, and he was withdrawn during the second half as his calf had tightened again when he stretched for the ball. During the next few days Neil is planning to discuss his future with Joe Royle at Ipswich Town. Matt Hocking was substituted when his hamstring tightened and Paddy McCarthy did well when he came on. Neil is also going to enquire about extending Paddy's loan spell from Manchester City. Mark Greaves is not expected to be fit for Boxing Day but he should be available for the weekend. There are some tough matches coming up and we shall need everyone fit. The players are capable of producing results, we now need to back up Saturday's victory and kick on for the rest of the season. There are some tough matches coming up where the opposition will provide different problems but it is about our own performances.
What better way to celebrate Saturday's The Taming of the Shrews than with.......... a brand new issue of BUFC fanzine "From Behind Your Fences" Issue 15 will be on sale on Boxing Day at the York game. Farmer Dan the Boston Fan is back for a brand new full two page strip (that's a comic strip, not a Full Monty moment.....) We will also be selling the fanzine by mail order: please send a cheque for £1.20 (or coins) to: FBYF, 4 Court Farm Road, Rose Hill, Oxford OX4 4UL. (Cheques payable to: R. Smith). This price INCLUDES postage and packing, so there is no need to bother with a SAE.
Boston United have re-signed defender Paddy McCarthy after today arranging with Premiership Manchester City to extend his loan period for a second month.
Mark Monington has left York Street after 18 months. After joining Halifax Town on a month's loan in November, he has agreed with the Boston United Directors, by mutual consent, to cancel the final six months of his contract. This will enable Mark to join Halifax tomorrow on an 18 month contract.
Tickets for the Lincoln City versus Boston United match on New Years Day will be on sale from the Portakabin in the York Street Car Park before and after the Boxing Day fixture with York City, which kicks off at 3.00pm.
The Boston United Sports Bar was declared open last night by Julian Joachim of Coventry.
BBC Teletext Page 311 has reported that Steve Evans and Pat Malkinson have been found guilty of contract irregularities and are expected to learn their fate on 29 January 2003. Steve Evans has said he intends to appeal.
20 December Neil Thompson has advised that Mark Greaves is out of contention for tomorrow's match with Shrewsbury but is hoped he will be fit for next week. Ray Warburton has not trained this week and Paul Ellender, Simon Rusk and Mark Clifford are also out of contention. There are more options available in defence with Stuart Balmer and Paddy McCarthy being available but Paddy hasn't had much match practice lately.
The postponement of the Avon Insurance League match at Darlington on Wednesday hasn't helped with the planning for tomorrow as Neil wanted to have a look at some options in a match situation. A pitch inspection at 2.00pm had declared the match was on but during a later inspection at 4.30pm the match was postponed by which time the squad had reached Ferrybridge. Neil had been informed about the availability of Juan Cobian at Swindon Town but the postponement meant he was unable to have a match, Neil may arrange to see him again in the new year.
The squad have worked hard in training this week, they need to take on board the lessons learnt and take them out onto the pitch on Saturday. We need to pick up points.
19 December Last night's scheduled Avon Insurance League match away to Darlington> was postponed due to the pitch at Feethams being frozen. The squad were notified at 4.30pm by which time they were at Ferrybridge on the way to Darlington.
The new flag is ready and will be brought to the match on Saturday against Shrewsbury> . The flag will be flown as normal and and a photograph will be taken after the game at the York Street end. The announcer hopefully will ask the sponsors to collect at the York Street > end after the game by the goalmouth.
16 December Boston United are making a one-off "Kids Christmas" offer. For the match at home to Shrewsbury Town on Saturday 21 December 2002 supporters aged 16 and under can gain admission for £5.00 to the Finn Forest Stand, York Street Stand and Spayne Road Terrace.
From January 2003 the admission prices for supporters aged 16 and under will be reduced to £6.50 for the Finn Forest Stand and £5.50 for the York Street Stand and Spayne Road Terrace.
The Boston United Sports Bar opens at 7.00pm on Thursday 19 December 2002 and will then be open daily. Tickets for New Years Eve are now on sale at £10.00 each, the entertainment will be provided by Flashback.
Neil Thompson was frustrated on Saturday because three of Southend's goals came from identical mistakes, which resulted in silly free kicks being conceded. Reports on Southend had identified the source of their goal threat and we let them play to their strength. In training we had practiced techniques in readiness for the match, but training is a no pressure situation, in matches major decisions need to be made. Players need to show responsibility on the pitch, it is no good being good at your job for most of the match. We had prepared as well as we could for the match but mistakes disrupted all the hard work. During the match overall we had enough of the ball and in the second half we pulled the score back to 3-2 and looked capable of getting something from the match but then we conceded another free kick. Richard Logan was substituted due to a calf injury, which is likely to be cramp due to his lack of playing 90 minutes in recent weeks and is not likely to be a long-term problem. Before he was substituted Richard was strong, quick and dangerous to Southend's defence with a good finish for his goal. Richard and Simon Weatherstone complimented each other well in attack. We need to keep searching for the extra 2 - 3 % in our performances to eradicate mistakes which will enable us to gain points from matches. We are not stranded at the bottom of the League, there is no points gap and other clubs have similar problems. We worked hard to achieve promotion to the Football League and now need to work hard to maintain the status.
13 December Boston United have signed defender Stuart Balmer on loan from Oldham Athletic. The signing was necessitated by Mark Greaves suffering an injury to his hamstring during training today. Stuart was born in Falkirk on 20 September 1969; he is 6ft 1in tall. Stuart commenced his career as a trainee with Celtic on 1 August 1989 and has been with Charlton Athletic, Wigan Athletic, Oldham Athletic and a loan spell with Scunthorpe United earlier this season when he played against Boston United. Stuart has made 443 first team appearances (31 as substitute) and scored 18 goals.
Neil Thompson has advised that the during the two week break between Third Division matches the squad has been able to do different work during training including different fitness routines in readiness for tomorrow's match at Southend. The break has also provided an opportunity to regroup to win points in forthcoming matches. For tomorrow's match Tom Bennett and Paddy McCarthy will be out through suspension and Simon Rusk and Ray Warburton are expected to miss the match due to injury, which provides opportunities for other players. The players are capable of winning matches and have taken heart from the second half against Orient. We are working as a ream on both defending and attacking. It is a long time since we have had a clean sheet, which is an important aspect towards winning matches. Southend are an aggressive direct team with big players at the back and up front and they are dangerous at set pieces. We will need to work hard but last week Bournemouth> were able to cause Southend problems in certain areas.
The website of the Football Association has reported that the Disciplinary Commission hearing the cases of Steve Evans and Pat Malkinson is considering the evidence.
The Boston United Sports Bar will be re-opening next week, further details will be available later.
11 December The new BUFC flag is in the process of being made and all being well will be collected on Friday 20 December ready to fly at our next home game on Saturday 21 against Shrewsbury Town. It is hoped to have a photograph taken with the donors on the pitch but due to security in moving from section to section we will not be able to do it before kick-off, we therefore intend to have a photo taken after the match has finished as supporters leave the ground, the donors can collect at the York Street end of the ground.
The Boston United 2003 Souvenir Calendars are now available from the office of the Target Newspaper.
The Standard has reported that Mark Clifford has been granted a free transfer and that Simon Weatherstone is to appear in a Channel 4 documentary along with Gary Neville of Manchester United.
9 December Tickets for the away match with Lincoln City on New Years Day are now on sale from the club office at £14.00 for adults, £9.00 for supporters aged 65 and over and £5.00 for supporters aged 16 and under. Boston United supporters are to be accommodated in the Co-op stand.
The Boston United 2003 Souvenir Calendars have been delivered from the printers and are now on sale from the outlets below.
5 December The Boston United 2003 Calendar will be available from Monday afternoon from the Club Office, the Standard Newspaper Shop, the Pilgrim Hospital Shop and the Club Shop during normal opening hours. The Calendar is being sold at £5.50 with £0.50 being donated to the Pilgrim Hospital. The Calendar may also be purchased by post by sending a cheque payable to Westpoint Media Sales for £7.25 per Calendar (£1.75 for postage and packing), to Boston United Football Club, 14-16 Spain Place, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 6HN, together with details of the name, address and post code to send the Calendar to and a contact telephone number. Payment may also be made by credit card by telephoning Simone Steventon on 0121 202 1596. BBC Look North are planning to feature the Calendar launch on Monday and it will also be featured on BBC Radio Lincolnshire.
During the game last Saturday a further £90.00 was donated towards the flag fund. As the cost of the flag was £380.00 plus VAT the total required was £446.50, it was decided that the club would pay the invoice and be able to reclaim the VAT saving £66.50 from the donated funds. The Club are desperate for a set of new nets so the extra funds are going towards the new nets. The flag should be available for the Shrewsbury game on 21 December 2002. The additional donors were: Michael May, Terry Wing, Ray Smith and Richard Hackford
Notts County are expected to bring a strong team for next weeks Avon Insurance fixture on Wednesday 11 December 2002.
Tom Bennett has incurred a three match suspension due to being dismissed in the recent Avon Insurance match against Scunthorpe United.
2 December Neil Thompson has advised that once again on Saturday we fell short of the required standard. In the first half we didn't pass the ball well enough, tackle or close down Orient's players and we conceded a sloppy goal, which should have been cleared. At half-time tactical substitutions were made to give us more momentum. There was an improvement in the second half but things didn't go for us. We now have two weeks to regroup from the bad run of results. We are not being turned over and beaten heavily. The players are capable and chances are being created but we need to keep clean sheets in order to win matches, we are contributing to our own downfall. Orient came with a game plan and the early goal gave them something to hang onto. In the second half Richard Logan showed that he has the talent and quality to succeed, he may play for the reserves at Hull on Wednesday.
The away match against Lincoln City on New Years Day will be all ticket for Boston United supporters. Tickets will be available on the day of the match in the Co-op Stand on the Sincil Bank side of the ground and on sale from the Boston United club office from next week. Admission prices will be available later.
At an awards ceremony last night Boston United won the BBC Radio Lincolnshire Special Achievement award for 2002 in the BBC Sports Awards in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
Logan, Orient
29 November Boston United have signed striker Richard Logan on a one month contract after he was given a free transfer by Ipswich Town yesterday. Richard was born in Bury St Edmunds on 4 January 1982; he is 6ft 1in tall. Richard joined Ipswich Town as a trainee on 1 August 1998 where he has made five substitute appearances, he joined Cambridge United on loan for one month on 25 January 2001 where he made six appearances and 12 December 2001 he joined Torquay United on loan for three months where he made 20 appearances and scored four goals.
Neil Thompson has advised that the squad has trained well this week for tomorrow's match with Leyton Orient. There is a smashing attitude with no despondency as there is a belief that we played well in recent matches, as in the first half at Hull last week, but have had a mad few minutes and we have had good results in the past. Tony Battersby has shook off his flu bug and has trained this week, Tom Bennett played 20 minutes for the reserves on Wednesday, Simon Weathersone was hoping to train today, and Mark Greaves has been training this week which should provide more options. Stuart Douglas has a problem with his heel, which has meant he is not fully fit due to limited training and has made cameo appearances in matches. Stuart has had an injection in his heel and will be assessed for tomorrow's match. It is an important match for both clubs tomorrow with both being near the bottom of the League. Neil has been searching for new players this week, but he is finding it frustrating as clubs are reluctant to let players go out on loan over the Christmas period and are generally operating with small squads this season.
Flag
27 November Roy Hackford has raised the required amount of £380.00 to purchase a new BUFC flag; it is hoped the new flag will be fluttering over York Street for the Christmas games. Roy started the appeal by donating £100.00 himself towards the flag and with the help of the following supporters has made the scheme possible. Roy> stated, " I would like to thank all those who donated towards the flag, this small band of supporters raised nearly £300.00 between them and appreciate the gratitude shown." Donors: TownEnders, Duncan Browne, Richard Clayton, Mr & Mrs Roy Dawson, Mervin Goor, Dick Killick, Mick Knowles, Peter Niedermier, Ray Parker, Shona Ross, Martin Smith, Jim Stuart, Becky Thompson, Tim Upsall, Derek Whelbourn.
The Standard has reported that Boston United have met with the Football Association to discuss setting up a Centre of Excellence for youth teams for next season and the Jim Thompson Challenge Shield match against Stevenage Borough has been cancelled by the Nationwide Conference.
Hull
25 November Neil Thompson was disappointed with the result against Hull City on Saturday. During the first half we played to our game plan, coped with Hull's attacks at the back but we didn't have a cutting edge in attack. When Hull scored we wanted too many touches in dangerous areas and should have cleared the ball better. Paddy McCarthy was very disappointed to be sent off, he had a moment of madness when he reacted to a challenge, but his first booking was harsh. Paddy showed he is a decent player with a lot to offer; he has aggression, pace and can pass the ball. Even when we down to ten men we still coped with Hull's attacks. There was decent football, the ball was passed and there was good effort, but we still more penetration up front. Mark Angel had a good shot, which on another day may have gone in. A positive aspect is that we are not getting turned over and suffering heavy defeats. We need to keep going and to have better concentration. Tony Battersby played on Saturday even though he had been suffering with flu during the week and Stuart Douglas wasn't fully fit. Another positive aspect is that other clubs around us are having similar problems and we are not getting stranded at the bottom of the table. The players are capable, hopefully the fitness situation will improve for next weekend and efforts are being made to give us more potency in attack.
McCarthy, Hull City
22 November Boston United have signed central defender Paddy McCarthy on loan for one month from Manchester City. Patrick McCarthy was born in Dublin on 31 May 1983, he is 6ft 1in tall. Paddy signed for Manchester City on 1 August 2001 and has yet to make a first team appearance.
Neil Thompson has advised that the squad have worked hard in training this week in preparation for tomorrow's match at Hull City. There are a number of injury problems, Paul Ellender damaged a medial ligament in his knee on Wednesday and could be out of action for six weeks, Mark Greaves is suffering from a hamstring strain, Simon Weatherstone has a back strain, Tom Bennett has a hip problem, Simon Rusk has a hamstring strain and Neil Redfearn has a chest infection. Matt Hocking is fit to play after being withdrawn against Northampton Town last week. Neil has made enquiries about players this week but due to clubs operating with smaller squads and their injury problems the required players haven't been available.
There is a good pitch at Boothferry Park, Hull, together with a good atmosphere from a massive crowd this should produce a good match tomorrow. Tomorrow's match is scheduled to be Hull's second last home match before they move to their new ground.
Yesterday, Boston United's ground cleaner, John Revell, collapsed and died whilst he was cleaning the ground. The funeral will be at Boston Crematorium at 11.00am next Friday.
Share Issue
21 November Shareholders of Boston United have voted to approve the issue of more shares in the club. This took place at an Extraordinary General Meeting at the football ground on Monday 18 November 2002.
The club's chairman, Des Wood, told the meeting there had recently been some major events in the history of the club.
"We achieved promotion to the Football League and I would like to thank again the players and all the staff at the club and of course the supporters for enabling that to happen. Then we had the less welcome news of the FA Investigation. We were able to demonstrate that the club was not guilty of any fraud, but certain details had not been correctly registered with the FA, so the club was fined and had points deducted. On balance I think we came out of that investigation as well as we could and it is now time to look to the future."
"The next stage is to secure additional funding by issuing more shares. Our main purpose is to achieve financial stability. This will enable us to move forward with our key objectives which include staying in the Football League and moving to new premises with better facilities."
The shareholders approved plans for the company to issue shares and preference shares. The preference shares are redeemable in 2007 giving the club five years in which to build up its finances. The shares are being offered both to existing shareholders and to supporters of the club. The chairman asked for anyone who wants further details to contact him or one of the other directors by post at the Football Club or by telephone to 01205 364406.
Fixture
20 November The Avon Insurance fixture at home to Hartlepool United has been re-arranged for Wednesday 12 February 2003, kick off at 7.00pm.
In tonight's Avon Insurance League Cup match against Sheffield United Paul Ellender suffered a knee injury and may be out of action for six weeks.
The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Mark Monington has joined Halifax Town on loan for one month.
18 November At 11.00am this morning an Extraordinary General Meeting of Boston United passed all proposals concerning a new share issue.
Neil Thompson was frustrated by the first half performance at Northampton on Saturday, what he had asked the players to do wasn't done. We then played well in the second half but by then we were 2-0 down and chasing the game. Northampton> were strong, we conceded a free kick which was deflected for the first goal and there was sloppy play for the second goal. In the first half we didn't impose ourselves on the match and let Northampton dictate the game, in the second half we played with a quicker tempo and a much-improved performance. The second half showed that we are capable; we have the ability, fitness isn't a problem and the problem isn't thought to be nerves. In the last nine matches there have been poor performances against Exeter and in the first half on Saturday. We made a good start against Bristol City, but are conceding too many goals. We need to get results not good performances for part of a match. Simon Weatherstone jarred his back during the warm up on Saturday which prevented is involvement in the match and Matt Hocking was stood on during a collision; both these injuries were due to be assessed today. The squad are now preparing for next weekend's match.
Sheffield United are expected to bring a strong team for the Avon Insurance match on Wednesday; former player Ronnie Reid is due to be in charge of their team.
Lodge, Bristol City
15 November Andy Lodge has left Boston United with his contract being terminated by mutual consent and has joined Ilkeston Town of the Dr Martens League Premier Division.
Neil Thompson was disappointed with the result of the LDV Vans Trophy match against Bristol City on Wednesday, he felt we played well for the first 25 minutes but didn't make any of the chances count, we conceded a goal our heads appeared to drop for a few minutes we then came back to equalise and then deserved to take the match to penalties. There was then a poor decision from the referee to award a corner to Bristol City from which they scored the winning golden goal in extra time. It has hoped that we don't have any more bad luck with decisions. Our performances in the last few matches have shown that we are capable of playing good football, we need to be more effective and ruthless in taking chances to win matches. Over the last eight matches there has been an overall improvement in the performances. When we play well we pass the ball at a good tempo and use the width of the pitch. On Wednesday Mark Angel put over a good cross for Lee Thompson's goal. Danny Wilson and Frank Burrows, manager and assistant manager of Bristol City, said that we gave them a good game and the referee's decision on the corner decided the match.
Mark Greaves was withdrawn on Wednesday with a re-occurrence of his hamstring problem; his condition will be assessed today for tomorrow's match at Northampton. Mark's hamstring is concerning as the problem keeps occurring and then he recovers quickly, it is a shame as he is making a good contribution and wants to do well. Simon Weatherstone was withdrawn on Wednesday due to a stomach bug; it is hoped he will be available for tomorrow. Simon Rusk came back into the team at right back on Wednesday and did well, Simon is a versatile player but it may be in his interests to nail down a position of his own. Ray Warburton's knee problem is getting better.
Northampton Town's pitch is good for passing football. We are the underdogs but if we play to our ability we are capable of getting a good result and having a run in the cup. There should be a good support there and we hope there is a similar atmosphere to the away match with Rushden & Diamonds and there is an enjoyable match. If a replay is required it will be at York Street on Wednesday 27 November.
Former player Joby Gowshall has joined Grantham Town of the Dr Martens League Premier Division.
Award, Dinner, Calendar
14 November Boston United have been nominated for the Team of the Year Award in the BBC in Yorkshire> and Lincolnshire Sports Awards. Votes for Boston United can be made by visiting www.bbc.co.uk/sportsawards or by post to BBC Sports Awards, Broadcasting Centre, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9PX.
On Wednesday 22 January 2002 Boston United are holding a Sportsman Dinner at Springfields Restaurant, Camel Gate, Spalding. The guest speakers will be Tommy Docherty and comedian Ian Richards together with a four-course meal. Individual tickets cost £27.00 and tables of ten ar