There were only 14 games on the opening day of the season and only two in Cropleys Suzuki Division One – one of which was at Freiston where it looked like the home side could emerge as serious contenders for the championship following a 4-3 victory against Billinghay Athletic. Whereas, in the other fixture, the eventual winners of The Premier, namely Wyberton, kicked off with a shaky 1-1 draw at Woodhall Spa United, who themselves enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign. At the other end of the table, Westside Rangers, who went the entire season without managing a single victory must be given credit for turning out a side for every single game. Westside’s first game was a 4-1 defeat at Kirton Town and things just didn’t get any better for the spirited Boston-based side. They have since decided to disband with their Reserves side and just operate a first team in Division One. Wyberton were still looking for their first win after the second week of the season when Swineshead Institute returned home from The Causeway with a 2-1 victory under their belts. Wyberton finally got a win on the scoreboard at the end of September – an 11-goal mauling of Westside Rangers with Mark Lovelace and Jimmy Britton hitting four goals apiece while Woodhall were holding Freiston to a 3-3 draw. During October Wyberton were still not firing on all cylinders and Billinghay almost dealt a severe blow but, in the end, the points were shared following an enthralling 4-4 draw. Westside suffered a record defeat at Swineshead during the same month when the home side struck 24 times without reply. Billinghay continued to look menacing and in early December striker Adam Burrows started to show his goalscoring prowess with four goals in his side’s 8-0 demoliton on Kirton Town whereas Freiston started to stumble with a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Coningsby. Of course, the heavy snow of mid-December took its toll on fixtures during the Christmas period and when normal service resumed the clubs were desperate to make up for lost time and Coningsby hit double figures against Kirton Town in a 10-4 scoreline and towards the end of January Woodhall were dealing more pain upon Freiston with a 6-4 victory. One of Freiston’s highlights, however came during the first Saturday of February when they travelled to Billinghay and came away with maximum points following a 3-2 win while Wyberton were also triumphant at Swineshead in a single-goal victory. There was another highlight a week later when Westside gained there first point of the season following a 3-3 draw against Kirton Town – this was after they had stormed into a 3-0 interval lead. At the end of February, Wyberton took advantage of Woodhall’s wobbles with an 11-2 thrashing and then John Reeson hit all of Wyberton’s goal in a 3-0 win over Coningsby in early March. Westside helped boost Billinghay’s goal difference at the beginning of April with a 15-1 surrender. Freiston’s faint hopes were finally extinguished with a 5-0 defeat at Spilsby Town. Billinghay followed their early April win with a 3-2 derby victory over Woodhall although they had to come from two goals behind to keep their title aspirations going while Wyberton were clicking into gear with a 5-1 win at Skegness Town Reserves. The top two clashed at Wyberton at the end of April when Billinghay earned a 1-1 draw to keep the title race open and both side had comfortable wins before the final Saturday – Billingahy winning 8-4 at Skegness with Adam Burrows hitting four while Wyberton were still looking favourites after a 4-2 win over Freiston. Wyberton made no mistake at Freiston with an 8-0 away win while Billinghay defeated Spilsby 2-1 with Burrows grabbing both. So Wyberton were crowned Champions to cap a wonderful season (they had also won the Fishtoft Cup).

In Division One, the eventual champions, Old Doningtonians, endured a stuttering start similar to that of Wyberton in The Premier as they went down to an opening day defeat at the hands of Spalding Harriers. Nortoft United, who ended up withdrawing from The League and Wainfleet United, who languished at the foot of the table both suffered 5-1 defeats during the opening day – against Pointon and Sutterton respectively. Nortoft had shown some promise during some encounters – a 6-0 drubbing of Coningsby Reserves was one example and an amazing 9-5 comeback at Sutterton was even more impressive. Coningsby Reserves struggled throughout the season and they have since requested that they be demoted to The Second Division because of the continued uncertainty of the availability of players from The R.A.f. Camp. Old Dons gained their first victory of the season during the second week with a 3-2 win at Fishtoft and they also hit three at Old Leake towards the end of the month following a 3-1 away win. The Dons showed that they were only human in the first week of October when they were held at home by Coningsby Reserves in a 4-4 score-line. Swineshead Reserves had a dreadful start to the season and their confidence was visibly shaking as Wainfleet United returned home with a 2-1 victory early in the season. The upheavals of a difficult season had forced Swineshead Reserves’ manager Dale Atkinson to recently announce that he is standing down. Old Dons were also held at home by Sutterton in early December following a 3-3 draw before Nortoft’s decision to withdraw came to a head before their home fixture against Holbeach Bank when an internal mix-up resulted in the match being postponed and Chairman, Mick Clayton showed his dissatisfaction by throwing in the towel. Sutterton were proving to be Old Doningtonians’ bogey side when they defeated the leaders 2-1 in early March before they bounced back when Aiden Moore struck all three goals in their win against an improving Pointon side. The Dons somehow ground out a 4-3 victory at Swineshead Reserves before striker Chris Wing scored some important goals in the final games including a hat-trick at Coningsby Reserves and another four at Wainfleet. Fellow striker Mark Sharman scored two brilliant goals to earn victory against Fishtoft to set his side up for a nail-biting finale. The Dons held their nerve as they beat Old Leake 4-1 to send them up into the top flight.

Another club who called it a day during the season was Division Two side Skegness Working Men’s Club who experienced a fairly miserable time throughout and the alarm bells were ringing on the opening fixture when they were crushed 7-0 by Billinghay Athletic Reserves. This Division also suffered another loss with the withdrawal of Sportsman FC who had shown glimpses of their international talent before their difficulties on and off the field put paid to their reign. The club registered the majority of their players from The Peterborough area meaning that they had to employ a mini-bus to collect their players from a halfway meeting point before ferrying them to their matches – a feat which was always going to prove difficult. However, they got their season off to a flying start with a 3-1 victory over Kirton Leisure. Castle Colts lifted the title in Division Two although their opening match fracas almost cost them their place in the league. Their home match during the second Saturday of the season against Billinghay Athletic Reserves was interrupted by a mindless non-playing member of the club who decided to enter the field of play and carry out an unprovoked act of violence on a visiting player and the referee abandoned the match. An inquest was held and although the player was severely dealt with by The Lincolnshire FA the club continued by the skin of their teeth. Gary Frost rallied his side to concentrate on their football and they never looked back with some impressive performances. On the third Saturday of the season, Mareham United and Kirton Leisure were involved in one of the games of the season – a 7-6 victory in Mareham’s favour while Sportsman continued to show their flare with a 6-2 win against Skegness Working Men’s Club. There was a turning point in the race for the title in early October when Castle Colts were trounced 8-2 by Sportsman – a result which was obviously overturned when the troubled side withdrew from The League. Whereas the victories gained by the challengers, Billinghay Reserves and Boston Town Old Boys were snatched away from them when Sportsman were dispelled. The Castle went from strength to strength as the season unfolded and a 2-0 win at Billinghay Athletic Reserves in mid-April virtually wrapped up the tile and they were presented with their trophy at Fishtoft Reserves, where both sides celebrated their successes with an entertaining 4-4 draw.

Newly-formed club, Benington had a successful mixture of youth and experience in their ranks and they were eventually crowned Division Three champions after a season in which they always looked down on the chasing pack. A 7-1 opening win against Spalding Harriers Reserves set them on the right track and another new side, F. C. Kirton were also amongst the goals when they kicked off following an 8-4 home win over Freiston Reserves. Kirton Town Reserves topped the goal-scoring charts on the opening day with ten goals against Pointon Reserves. Benington did suffer an early hic-cup at Skegness Town A (another new side), when a 2-0 defeat put them on guard and a 5-5 draw against Park United only helped in ironing out a few early-season frailties. That match did witness the beginning of Tim Bell’s goal-scoring abilities as he hit four of side’s goal that day. Although Benington were held to a 3-3 draw at Holbeach bank at the end of September, they continued to look impressive. Bell banged in five in a 9-1 win at F. C. Kirton in October and a 5-3 win against fellow contenders, Friskney, in November was crucial. Bell again struck five more times in his side’s 6-1 win over Kirton Town Reserves before the winter set in while Friskney had a day to forget at Skegness Town ‘A’ when they were thumped 8-0 – Josh Whittam hitting four of The Skegness goals. Benington were held by another of the new boys, Boston United Community following a 4-4 draw in early February but they bounced back the next week when they hit six goals on the same day Friskney kept their hopes alive by also recording a six-goal victory. The two sides clashed on the first Saturday of March when the spoils were shared in a 3-3 draw before a crucial Saturday at the end of March saw Benington defeat Kirton Town Reserves 7-1 while Friskney succumbed at Skegness 3-1. An impressive 3-0 victory at Skegness put Benington in sight of the title while Friskney were slipping up against Eastville, Kirton Town Reserves and Spalding harriers Reserves. Although Benington lost at home against Holbeach Bank towards the end of April as the cricket-lovers in their team switched allegiances they had done enough to be the first team to be presented with a league title at their match at Freiston Reserves.

New league fixture secretary Ian Cant did an admirable job in his first season and following the loss of 78 fixtures due to the bad weather, only 16 re-arrangements took place in midweek at the end of the season.

In the cup competitions, Wyberton achieved a superb ‘double’ by lifting the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup with a 2-1 victory over Billinghay Athletic. There had been no real shocks in the competition although Westside Rangers produced one of their best displays of the season when they rocked Billinghay before going out 7-4. The visitors had trailed just 4-3 at half-time and went close to causing an upset. Billinghay added the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup to their league runners-up success when they defeated Swineshead Institute 1-0. Billinghay earned their right to a cup final place following a 3-2 victory over Wyberton in the semi-final with Adam Burrows scoring twice. Swineshead had ousted Old Doningtonians in the other semi-final by 4-1, a result that was exactly reversed (and avenged) by the Division One side in the Swineshead Cup final recently. Fishtoft Reserves were certainly the team of the moment in the ‘second-string’ competitions when they lifted both the Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup and the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield following victories over Spalding Town Reserves and Billinghay Reserves. Boston Town Old Boys lifted the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup with a 1-0 win over Benington. The County Cup was a little disappointing with only Freiston reaching round four before going out to one of the finalists in Waltham Tea Gardens. Premier champions Wyberton ironically went out in the preliminary round to the other finalists, and eventual winners, AFC Brumby.

Review for May 15

The Sharman Burgess Sports Cup final took place at Boston Town’s ground when Billinghay Athletic were looking to add another trophy to their cabinet following the previous weeks triumph in the Willoughby Cup final. The contest, against Premier Division champions, Wyberton, was, once again, a very tight affair but on this occasion Billinghay missed out when they went down by the odd goal in three. Wyberton struck a body-blow quite early on when Jamie Skinner headed in a John Reeson cross at the near post on ten minute to give them a 1-0 lead but Billinghay's response was instant as, just two minutes later, they were level after Jamie Skinner had headed away a dangerous attack for a corner. From Danny Long's flag-kick, Adam Weston headed home at the far post. Wyberton went close to extending their lead shortly afterwards when Steve Melady and Luke Brittain shot wide of the target. Jamie Skinner was involved in all the early action but unfortunately his next piece of action saw him cautioned after 25 minutes for dissent and from the ensuing free-kick the same player headed away for a corner. During the clearance, Billinghay’s Gary Cochrance had to leave the field due to an injury and after lengthy treatment, it was clear the central defender could not continue – it looked like he had sustained a suspected collar bone and was eventually replaced by Adam Smith. As both sides battled for superiority, the referee brandished another yellow card - this time for a late tackle by Jasper Caudwell. Danny Long had a teasing cross tipped over the bar by Dean Reynolds, the Wyberton keeper, while at the other end, John Reeson almost put Wyberton ahead just before the break when his low shot was well saved by Martin Louth. Billinghay started brightly after the break and leading goalscorer, Adam Burrows sent a header just wide before he fired a 30-yard free-kick into the defensive wall. Danny Long was beginning to cause problems for Billinghay with his surging runs from midfield and from one of his runs he attracted a reckless challenge from Steve Melady who earned himself a yellow card for the tackle. John Reeson had a shot blocked by Weston before the Wyberton flank-man made way for substitute, Jamie Button. Athletic’s Simon Burrows went close midway through the half with a left footed shot on the turn which went just wide while Joe Hallam sent a 25-yard free kick narrowly wide at the other end. Sam Louth then burst through twice in close succession - his first dangerous run came to nothing while his second raid ended with him setting up Jim Britton whose shot was well saved by the keeper. Adam Burrows had an effort well blocked by Dean Reynolds and fellow-striker, Steve Rowlands was then cautioned for kicking the ball away as the tension mounted. The match-winning goal came with just ten minutes remaining when Jamie Button intercepted a ball before sending an inviting pass to Jim Britton and the striker hit a great dipping volley past the helpless keeper to send the Wyberton camp jumping for joy. Billinghay went close in the dying moments when they forced Dean Reynolds into making an excellent save but Wyberton held onto their slender lead to lift the trophy and achieve a highly creditable Boston Saturday League ‘double’ (they also were victorious in claiming the Fishtoft Cup) Pete Sharman presented the trophies to both teams, the match officials who performed admirably and to the ‘man of the match’ Wyberton’s Jamie Skinner. Billinghay’s Danny Long must also have been a close contender as he turned in an impressive performance for his side. Final score was 2-1.

In the Swineshead Cup semi final, Old Doningtonians bagged a prized scalp in the form of Premier Division side, Spilsby Town. The Division One champions booked their place in the final following their 3-1 victory. Mark Sharman struck their first goal before Aiden Moore added another. The third goal came from Marin Fox who struck a 25-yard shot which was too hot too handle for The Spilsby keeper and the ball squirmed into the net. In the other semi-final, Swineshead eased through at the expense of Holbeach Bank.

Review for May 8

Billinghay Athletic lifted the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup last Tuesday night after a hard fought final encounter against Swineshead, the tie being settled by a single goal. The first chance of the night came after two minutes when Mark Wheatley flashed a header wide of the right hand post following a corner and the same player headed across the goal shortly afterwards – again from a corner. At the other end, Matt Bates went close for Swineshead after 10 minutes when his jinking run ended with a low shot from the edge of the box which was saved. Thomas Briggs then found himself with a free run on goal five minutes later after a good run but his shot was tipped round the left hand post by Swineshead keeper Andrew Stukins and ten minutes later Steve Rowland pulled his shot wide when in a good position as Billinghay enjoyed their best spell of the game. The breakthrough came on the half hour mark and it was a goal worthy of winning any final as Briggs hooked home a superb volley from the edge of the box and the ball flew into the top left hand corner past a helpless Stukins. Martin North was proving to be a danger for Swineshead and from one of his dangerous crosses, striker Jack Houghton probably should have levelled the scores after thirty five minutes but he directed his volley wide of the far post. Paul Clarke was also causing problems down the left flank and he linked up shortly afterwards with Houghton but Nick Pearce in the Billinghay goal plucked the threatening cross out of the air. The half ended with Wheatley going close again with a header from a free-kick but the ball went wide. Paul Clarke sent a shot past the left hand post on the hour before Danny Long almost broke through to score a second for Billinghay but Stukins was quick off his line to avert the danger. Billinghay lost their heads midway through the second period as first, Adam Weston was cautioned for brining down Clarke, and then Gary Cochrane was dismissed for talking out of turn shortly afterwards and referee, Rod Crozier flashed his red card to send the defender packing. Billinghay regrouped and with man of the match, Adam Weston, in dominant form, they denied Swineshead time and again. The closest Swineshead went to snatching an equaliser was when Jack Houghton sent a shot into the side netting. Final score was 1-0

Wyberton were crowned Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division champions at Freiston following an emphatic, if not somewhat flattering, scoreline of 8-0. The home side had presented Wyberton with an early lead on 10 minutes when their unfortunate goalkeeper failed to hold onto a shot and the ball spilled out of his hands and into the path of a grateful forward. Wyberton then took control scoring three more times to put the result beyond Freiston’s reach. The home side were then dealt a real body blow on the half hour mark when they were reduced to 10 men following the dismissal of Curtis Yeatman who was adjudged to have been the last man when he prevented Wyberton from a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Shortly after the restart the referee awarded Wyberton a penalty following an aerial challenge and the spot-kick was duly despatched. Although playing with a man short, Freiston played some neat football and they created a couple of chances but The Champions sealed victory with three further second half goals to run out 8-0 winners. For the record, Wyberton goalscorers were Ben Parkinson (2), Mark Lovelace (2), Chris Rutt, John Reeson, Sam Louth and Mark Thompson. Billinghay secured runners-up spot with a 2-1 home win against Spilsby Town and leading goalscorer, Adam Burrows added another two goals to his impressive tally. Swineshead enjoyed a comfortable home win against Skegness Town Reserves although they suffered a very early scare when the visitors opened the scoring after just three minutes when they broke through a square Swineshead rearguard. The home side soon recovered from the early setback and Paul Clarke got them back on level terms seven minutes later with a shot from the edge of the area. Bert Snaith then squandered a golden opportunity to put his side ahead after 20 minutes but he missed from the penalty spot. Clarke then showed his team-mate how it should be done when he slotted home from the penalty spot on the half hour and shortly afterwards the feat was repeated when Clarke was again clinical from 12 yards to make the half time score 3-1. Bert Snaith wrapped up the scoring with 15 minutes remaining when he netted a fourth goal for Swineshead. Final score was 4-1.

Old Doningtonians lifted the Cropleys Suzuki Division One title following a 4-1 home win against fellow promotion hopefuls, Old Leake. It was a nervy start for the leaders, however, and they fell behind to an early goal from Leake’s Greg Brown after just three minutes but a brilliant Curtis Lane header got them back on level terms before the break. Another header, this time from Liam Pitts following a Mark Sharman cross edged The Dons in front before Chris Wing grabbed a decisive third goal when he fastened onto an Andy Barnett goal-kick before finishing in style. Old Doningtonians wrapped up the scoring and the title with a fourth goal when substitute, Giles Favell entered the action to get on the scoresheet. Wainfleet United ended their campaign with a 1-1 home draw against Spalding Town but it could so easily have been three points for the lowly outfit. Phil Simpson had struck the post in the first half before Andy Carter did manage to grab their goal. Wainfleet had a golden chance to secure victory when they were awarded a penalty in the dying minutes of the game but Matthew Broome’s spot-kick was saved by Stu Ward. Town’s earlier goal had come from Shane Bycraft. Fishtoft secured runners-up spot following a 1-0 away win at Wyberton Reserves. Dean Fisher grabbed the all-important strike for the visitors. Pointon ended on a high note following their impressive run during the second half of the season with a 2-0 home win against Holbeach Bank. Mark Smith and Michael Musson hit the match-winning goals.

Andy Hardstaff pulled out all the stops to get Fosdyke’s final Cropleys Suzuki Division Two fixture played and he, himself, had to pull on a substitute’s jersey when his side entertained Fishtoft Reserves. Several players were unavailable and the game was under threat on Friday night but thankfully, the game went ahead despite the home side suffering a heavy 8-1 defeat. Drew McGuire grabbed Fosdyke’s consolation goal. Billinghay Athletic Reserves, mirrored their first team’s achievement when they clinched the runners-up spot after a 4-1 away win against Spalding Town Reserves. Paul Ryan struck The Town goal while the visitors took the three points following goals from Stuart Fullerton who hit a hat-trick and Rick Harrod. Billinghay had also secured another three points in midweek when they gained revenge for their Willoughby Shield Final defeat against Fishtoft Reserves. This time Billinghay were triumphant following a 4-1 away win. After a goal-less first half, a strong Billinghay line-up went 2-0 ahead before Simon Hyland pulled a goal back for the home side. The visitors were not to be denied, however and they clinched victory with two further goals. The match-winning goals came from Rick Harrod (2), Mark Wheatley and Jasper Caudwell. Boston Town Old Boys hit six goals at lowly Old Doningtonians Reserves in a 6-3 scoreline. Wayne Foster, Dale Houghton and Johnny Butler struck the Dons goals

Park United ended their Cropleys Suzuki Division Three season in style when they thumped Pointon Reserves 5-2 at home. After falling behind, Park responded with a Thomas Limb strike to go in at half time all-square. A Chris Wright penalty put Park in front before Martin Bradshaw added a third. Pointon were still in the game, however, and they made it 3-2 before Park stepped up a gear to finish strongly. Alex Limb and Thomas Flatters added further goals for their side to send Pointon home empty-handed. Pointon’s goals came from John Mott and Cryss Stoffell. Skegness Town A and Boston United Community shared the points following a 2-2 draw. Jamie Lyall and Josh Whittam hit the Skegness goals. Woodhall Spa United Reserves ended on a high note with a 2-0 home win against Kirton Town Reserves. Leon Learney and Andy Money struck the decisive goals.

Review for May 1

Fishtoft Reserves were, once again, victorious in their second major cup final of the season. Their wonderful ‘double’ was achieved with an impressive performance in the final of the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield against favourites, Billinghay Athletic Reserves. Fishtoft dominated the final for long periods while their opponents will be somewhat disappointed with their display. It was Fishtoft who went the closest early on when central defender, Adam Vinters sent a header just over the crossbar from Pete Coonan’s right wing corner. Billinghay’s best chance of the first half came ten minutes later when Glen Long burst past his marker but keeper, Jack Mival produced a fine save with his legs to deflect the shot away from danger. Fishtoft went ahead five minutes later when Coonan’s free-kick from the left flank was headed in at the far post by skipper, Luke Perkins. Carl Tate then shot wide from the edge of the box after finding himself in space as Fishtoft threatened to run riot. The same player then took advantage of some hesitancy in the box but he fired his shot into the side netting. Fishtoft continued in the ascendancy after the break and striker Conrad Louth had two chances in the opening minutes when he first scuffed his shot after turning his marker in the box and then he just failed to reach a low tantalising cross from Tate out on the left. Danny Long went close for Billinghay at the other end but his chipped effort just sailed over the bar before Fishtoft went 2-0 ahead on the hour mark when Louth fastened onto a misplaced goal-kick before firing past the desperate keeper. Mival, in the Fishtoft goal was dealing with everything Billinghay could send his way and he saved well at the foot of the left hand post to keep his side in control. Louth, a constant thorn in his opponents’ side, clinched victory with a third decisive goal when he fired home a superb low shot. Sam Eliff sent a shot just too high at the other end and Aiden Moore lifted his shot over the bar after Steve Wilcox had flicked on a free-kick as Athletic briefly threatened. Fishtoft finished strongly during the last 10 minutes with Simon Hyland curling a free-kick just over the bar before the same player completed the scoring when he knocked in a rebound after the keeper had parried out a free-kick. Central defender, Luke Perkins, who had marshalled his defence superbly throughout blotted his copy-book late on when he reacted to a robust tackle and referee, Chris Reeson sent him packing for his retaliation. Final score was 4-0. Competition president David Peatling presented the trophies to the two teams and match officials while Conrad Louth received his man of the match award for the second successive final.

Freiston put up a spirited performance in their away Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division fixture at leaders, Wyberton. Despite being 2-0 behind after 20 minutes they pulled a goal back through Lee Dakin just before half-time. Wyberton regained their two-goal lead soon after the break before Freiston responded again when Lee Marshall made it 3-2. Wyberton grabbed the clinching fourth goal soon afterwards to put them in sight of the championship as they now need just one point from their final game next Saturday to take the title. Wyberton’s match-winners were Luke Brittain (2), Mark Lovelace and Sam Louth. Billinghay Athletic warmed up for their Willoughby Cup final meeting with Swineshead with an 8-3 away win at Skegness Town Reserves. Again it needed a strong second half performance from the team in second place as Skegness were still in the game at half time. Town ran their opponents close early on with strikes from Matthew Tipper, Greg Barker and Adam Cameron but they came up against Billinghay’s leading scorer, Adam Burrows, who, once again, was in red-hot form hitting four of his side’s goals. The visitors’ other match-winning goals came from Adam Weston, Jonathan Fenton, Ed Creasey and Richard Meldrum. Swineshead also enjoyed some shooting practice before Tuesday’s final with seven goals in their home match against Woodhall Spa United. It was a comfortable win for Swineshead and the match, as a contest, was as good as over by half time with the home side leading 6-0. Jack Houghton struck a hat-trick while Chris Shipley, Nick Stone and Ryan Barker added to Woodhall’s first half misery. There was one further goal from Martin North in the second half but the margin could have been heavier as Scott Hempsall missed from the penalty spot.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, you can’t keep Old Doningtonians’ goalkeeper Andy Barnett out of the spotlight – when he’s not keeping clean sheets, he’s scoring at the other end! The Dons’ “Mr Versatility” launched a drop-kick from his own penalty area and the ball caught the opposing keeper in no-man’s land as it bounced over his head and into the net. It couldn’t have happened in a bigger game either – a top of the table clash at home to Fishtoft. The goal proved to be the third and clinching goal in a 3-2 victory. Two brilliant Mark Sharman goals had given the Dons a 2-0 half-time lead before Fishtoft levelled on the hour mark. Then came Barnett’s “bomb” with 20 minutes remaining before Fishtoft made it 3-2 in the final 10 minutes. Although the Dons had Chris Grimer dismissed for dissent, they hung onto the three valuable points. Fishtoft slipped up in midweek at home to Wainfleet United when they had to be content with a point following a 1-1 draw. Leon Pycock struck the Fishtoft goal while Wainfleet replied through Matt Broome.

Pointon had eight different scorers in their convincing 8-0 home win against Wainfleet United. Nathan Wilson, Jimmy McDonald, Mason Hardy, Mark Smith, Shane Jordan, David Cook, Peter Wilson and Tom Steadman were all on target for the home side.

Castle Colts were presented with their Cropleys Suzuki Division Two championship medals at their away match at Willoughby Shield winners, Fishtoft Reserves and both sides contributed in producing an exciting 4-4 draw. The Castle’s scorers were Danny Maddison, Jordan Favell, Chris Spooner and a Marv Jolly own goal. Two games failed to go ahead in Division Two as Boston Town Old Boys couldn’t raise a side for their trip to Mareham United owing to various injuries and commitments and Westside Rangers Reserves were suspended by the Lincolnshire Football Association and therefore not allowed to proceed with their home match against Kirton Leisure. Fosdyke always held the upper hand in their away fixture at Tydd St Mary although both sides were committed to providing attacking football leaving defences under pressure on the wider than average pitch. Dan Sansam gave Fosdyke the lead on twenty minutes and Andy Thorpe doubled their advantage on the half hour mark. Tydd possessed their very own ‘Rory Delap’ who launched some mammoth throw-ins and from one of these, the home side reduced the arrears. The opening twenty minutes of the second half was evenly contested and if Tydd had scored during that time it could have been a different story but it was Fosdyke who went 3-1 ahead when Dave Beament netted with half hour to go. Drew McGuire then added a fourth on 80 minutes before Tydd pulled a goal back with the last kick of the game to make the final score 4-2.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Benington were presented with their title trophy after their away match at Freiston Reserves. Unfortunately for the champions, they went down 4-3 — although Freiston included first team striker Dean Seiner in their line-up and he proved to be the major difference by hitting a hat-trick while Ty Fravigar also got on the scoresheet. It was Seiner who opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Benington levelled before the break when a free-kick was deflected past the home keeper. The home side went 2-1 ahead shortly after the interval when Ty Fravigar scored a rare goal before Seiner volleyed home goal number three. Benington kept in the game when they pulled a goal back to make it 3-2 but Seiner completed his hat-trick within minutes following a Simon Leedle cross. The visitors completed the scoring when a shot went in off the upright to make the final score 4-3. Woodhall Spa United Reserves were again involved in a high-scoring encounter, this time at Holbeach Bank Reserves. After last week’s 6-5 away win at Mareham, Woodhall were at again winning 5-4. The Bank’s goals came from Simon Hall, Ben Westlake, Ben Louth and Joel Meadows but it was all to no avail as United were out-scoring their opponents at the other end . An Andrew Ayliff hat-trick helped Pointon Reserves secure another three points in their seven-goal thriller against Freiston Reserves. John Mott hit the other Pointon goal while the visitors went close to salvaging some reward with replies from Daniel Redford, David Whalley and an own goal. Final score was 4-3. Friskney suffered with a case of promotion jitters as they endured two defeats last week starting with their midweek match at Graves Park where Kirton Town Reserves won 3-1. Lee Jackson struck two goals while Ashley Hughes also got on the scoresheet. Friskney had found themselves leading at half time thanks to a Mikel Saskowski strike but they missed several gilt-edged chances including an ‘air-shot’ from just two yards out by the unfortunate Neil Allen. Two cast-iron penalties put Kirton in front and then the visitors had Dan Fox dismissed. The final clinching goal was a superb strike from long range. Then last Saturday, Friskney went down 2-1 at home to lowly Spalding Harriers Reserves. Friskney were struggling to raise a side and among their bare eleven (with no subs) was 60-year-old club stalwart Pete Holland. Spalding struck first after the unfortunate Josh Brown stood on the ball allowing the grateful forward to score before Friskney levelled before the break when Glenn Hislop was felled in the box and Matt Goy stepped up to convert the spot-kick. Spalding wrapped up the points early in the second half and neither side threatened much after that so the final score stayed at 2-1. Mareham United Reserves edged a 2-1away win at Park United in midweek thanks to goals from Lee Rylett and James Todd. Park’s goal came from Thomas Flatters.

Review for April 24

Coningsby came back from a goal behind to cause something of an upset when they played hosts to Swineshead Institute in their Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division encounter. Coningsby found themselves trailing 1-0 at the break before an own goal 15 minutes into the second period got them back on level terms. Robin Holderness struck the match-winning goal to give Coningsby the three points with a 2-1 home win. Billinghay Athletic’s leading goalscorer, Adam Burrows boosted his tally with a five-goal salvo in a midweek game last week when Kirton Town felt the full force of his goal power at Graves Park. However, although the final score-line was 9-2, Kirton were still in the game at half-time, holding their opponents at 2-2. The second half was a different story, however, as Billinghay came storming out of the blocks and the home side had no answer to their slick football. Gary Cochrance, Mark Wheatley, Richard Meldrum and Steve Rowlands completed the scoring. Kirton’s two first half strikes came from Ashley Hughes. Billinghay were then in action at leaders Wyberton four days later and a Steve Rowland goal earned them a creditable 1-1 draw. Mark Lovelace hit the Wyberton goal. Skegness Town Reserves fielded a strong line-up at Freiston and they returned home with all three points following a 4-3 victory. Freiston were forced to field manager Shane Chase in goal but they rocked their visitors with the opening goal after 25 minutes when Curtis Yeatman netted. Skegness replied with two goals to lead at the interval before Freiston re-organised their ranks to some effect after the break and they levelled the scores at 2-2 when Dean Seiner equalised on the hour. Although Town had a player dismissed for handball, they delivered a two-goal body-blow to the home side to lead 4-2. Dean Seiner pulled a goal back with ten minutes remaining. Skegness Town’s match-winners were Dan Tuplin (2), Josh Bartlett and Liam Papworth.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Nathan Wilson and Dan Wright both grabbed two goals apiece in Pointon’s 5-1 home win against Fishtoft. Michael Musson also got on the score-sheet for the home side. Fishtoft replied through John McGarel. Fishtoft had fared better in a midweek game four days earlier when goals from Ady Almond and John McGarel secured a 2-1 home win against Spalding Town. Chris Wing was, once again, in rich goal-scoring form last Saturday for Old Doningtonians when his title-chasing side travelled to lowly Wainfleet United. The striker went one better after the previous weeks’ hat-trick with a four-goal blast while John Malkin scored twice in an 8-0 victory. Curtis Lane and David Slaughter, who scored direct from a corner, completed the scoring. Spalding Harriers had a fine 4-0 home win against Wyberton Reserves last Saturday with Dawid Kantak grabbing two of the goals. Craig Lawrence and Adam Thompson hit the other two for The Spalding side. A Greg Brown hat-trick secured a 3-1 away win for Old Leake at Spalding Town. Jonathan Turner replied for Town.

Boston Town Old Boys brought last Saturday’s home Cropleys Suzuki Division Two fixture against Kirton Leisure forward to the Friday night because of wedding celebrations but the alteration didn’t affect the home players as they won 5-1. Town proved far too strong for their opponents on the night with Ollie Pinner and Micky Nuttell both scoring twice while Alex Tilley also got on the scoresheet. Liam Shinn replied for Kirton Leisure. Pete Coonan hit a hat-trick for Fishtoft Reserves in their 5-0 home win against Tydd St Mary. Guilherme Garcia and Lewis Emmanuel were also on target.

Friskney went down to a surprise Cropleys Suzuki Division Three home defeat in midweek when Eastville, Midville and New Leake scuppered their opponents’ faintest hopes of grabbing the title. Two goals from Jed Stainton helped do the damage while Kane Watson was also on target in Eastville’s fine 3-2 away win. It was Friskney who struck first when Glenn Hislop struck a sweet lob into the net before Stainton hit an equally fine reply with a fine shot across goal and into the far corner. Kane Watson then beat the offside trap before finishing in style and then Stainton struck his second goal of the game when he tucked away a Lucky Singh corner at the near post. Friskney did pull a goal back late on when Perrie Dale was fouled in the box and Matt Goy slotted home the spot-kick but Eastville held on for a well deserved victory. Unfortunately for Eastville, their midweek victory came at a cost as they suffered several injuries in The Friskney encounter forcing David Bowers to rustle up a patched up side four days later when they entertained Freiston Reserves. The visitors showed no remorse by storming into a 2-0 half time lead and they added a third after the break. A blinding Chris Dickens goal gave Eastville a glimmer of hope and it was ‘game-on’ shortly afterwards when Dickens was fouled in the box and Phil Hodgson slotted home the spot-kick. Unfortunately for the home side the injuries started to take its toll and two players were forced out of the action leaving the side to battle on with just nine men. Freiston wrapped up victory with a further to make the final score 4-2. The visitors’ goals came from David Whalley, Simon Leedle, Lee waters and new signing Luke Chester. Leaders Benington suffered only their second defeat of the season when they entertained Holbeach Bank Reserves. The home side were missing several key players due to cricket commitments but take no credit away from the visitors who took full advantage by rattling in six goals. Recent signing Pedro Sevicha hit both of the Benington goals. James Todd struck four goals for Mareham United Reserves in their home match against Woodhall Spa United Reserves but still finished up on the losing side as the visitors came out on top of a high-scoring local derby encounter. Tom Sewell struck Mareham’s other goal but Woodhall returned home with the three points following a six-goal response. Final score was 6-5. Goals from Craig Spiller and Alex Limb earned Park United a share of the points in a 2-2 draw at Spalding Harriers Reserves

The finals of the Willoughby Cup and Willoughby Shield are imminent – the Willoughby Shield final between Fishtoft Reserves and Billinghay Athletic Reserves is on Thursday April 29 while the Willoughby Cup final between Swineshead and Billinghay is on Tuesday May 4. Both finals kick off at 7.00 pm and are being staged at Boston Town’s Tattershall Road ground.

Review for April 17

There were no matches in the Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division last weekend, although there was a high-scoring encounter at Skegness Town Reserves last Wednesday evening where Spilsby Town came out on top in an eight-goal thriller. Spilsby’s Dan Smith and Adam Dales struck with two goals each in their 5-3 away win while Des Rook also got on the scoresheet. Skegness replied through Royston Wilkinson, Darren Walker and Josh Whittam.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, although Old Leake appeared to enjoy a comfortable 3-0 victory at Coningsby Reserves, the scoreline probably flattered the visitors. After a goal-less first half Old Leake opened the scoring but then had to defend in numbers as Coningsby had their opponents penned back in their own half for a lengthy period. It was then against the run of play when Old Leake grabbed their second goal and then a late penalty sealed Coningsby’s fate. Leake’s scorers were Chris Wray, Adam Wright and Greg Brown. Old Doningtonians had a more convincing victory at Holbeach Bank following a 4-0 away win. Liam Pitts gave the Dons a half-time lead with a bullet-like header. The second half belonged to Dons’ striker, Chris Wing who grabbed an impressive hat-trick to show he has lost none of his predatory instinct – his treble consisted of strikes with both feet and a header. Swineshead Reserves entertained Fishtoft last Wednesday and only a late controversial penalty robbed them of victory. After a goal-less first half, Richard Barker gave Swineshead the lead and the points appeared to be heading for the home side when the referee awarded Fishtoft a late penalty and Adam Vinters stepped up to salvage a point and make the final score 1-1. Swineshead did manage to secure three points three days later when they won 4-1 at struggling Wainfleet following two goals in each half. Mark Ledger, Andy Thompson, Richard Barker and Rhys Holland were on target for the visitors. Fishtoft also took maximum points at the weekend when they defeated Sutterton 3-2 at home thanks to goals from Ady Almond, Leon Pycock and Martin Jolly. Steve Kemp and Jamie Button hit the goals for Wyberton in their 2-1 home win against Pointon. Shane Jordan replied for the visitors.

Castle Colts now look certain favourites for the Cropleys Suzuki Division Two title following last Saturday’s 2-0 away win at fellow promotion hopefuls, Billinghay Athletic Reserves. Ben Jacques and Danny Maddison scored the crucial match-winners for The Castle. A second half strike from Spalding Town’s Aiden Doherty secured maximum points in his side’s 1-0 home win against Tydd St Mary. Fishtoft Reserves went down 3-1 at home at the hands of Westside Rangers Reserves with Chris Skerritt grabbing the home side’s only goal. Jonathan Butler was on target again for Old Doningtonians Reserves in their home game against Mareham United but it wasn’t enough to earn any reward as they went down 4-1.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, David Bowers pulled out all the stops to ensure Eastville, Midville and New Leake’s home game against Pointon Reserves went ahead. Things looked bleak towards the end of the week as several players pulled out due to injury and work commitments and key player, Jamie Appleby also started a suspension. Although David’s final eleven was a little light-weight at times they didn’t disgrace themselves. First half goals from Kane Watson and George Crewe saw Eastville holding their opponents to a 2-2 interval score-line and they stunned Pointon even further by taking a 3-2 lead in the second half through Crewe. The plucky home side couldn’t maintain their impetus, however and Pointon slowly brushed aside Bowers’ Braves with three goals to run out 5-3 winners. Michael Pullem and Simon Long grabbed two goals apiece for Pointon goals while a rare Dale Faulkner strike sealed the three points.

Friskney were once again, down to the ‘bare bones’ in last Saturday’s home fixture against Boston United Community with Pete Holland having to squeeze on his boots once more as their only substitute. The home side produced an excellent team performance to put themselves in pole position for promotion. Michael Saskowski put Friskney ahead with a left footed drive before Boston Community levelled before the break. Friskney stepped up a gear in the second half and Craig Mountain’s powerful header from a Dan Fox corner put them in front. Glenn Hisplop made it 3-1 soon afterwards and Perrie Dale completed the scoring when he tapped home from close range after Hislop had pulled the ball back into the striker’s path. Final score 4-1. Tim Bell added another two goals to his tally when Benington went another step closer to clinching the title following an impressive 3-0 away win at Skegness Town A. Kirton Town Reserves hit six in their home game against Woodhall Spa United Reserves although, at one stage, the outcome had looked decidedly fragile with the visitors leading 2-0. Chris Hilton, Dave Marshall, George Bakes, Karl Louth, Lee Jackson and Jordan Gilliard eventually scored the goals to seal victory in a 6-3 scoreline. Freiston Reserves took maximum points when they played hosts to Park United in a closely fought 3-2 victory. Nicky Syndercombe hit two of The Freiston goals while David Whalley also got on the scoresheet. Park went close following efforts from Alex Limb and Ben Liu.

The final of The Boston Saturday League’s Premier knockout competition, the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup will be contested between Billinghay Athletic and Wyberton, although the latter had something of a fright in their semi-final tie against First Division side Spalding Town. After Wyberton had opened the scoring the underdogs stormed back with an equaliser from Matthew Hempsall and they then spurned chances to have taken a shock lead before Wyberton snatched victory. Town still had chances to have levelled once again but home keeper, Dean Reynolds denied them when he turned a shot round an upright. Final score was 2-1. Wyberton’s match-winners were Jamie Khun and Jim Britton. Billinghay, more or less, had their semi final tie won by half time after they had stormed into a 4-1 lead at home to Swineshead. The home side found themselves 3-0 in front by the half hour mark and although Bert Snaith reduced the arrears, Billinghay regained their three-goal advantage ten minutes before the break. Benn Houghton made it 4-2 with a 25-yarder in the 63rd minute before Athletic grabbed a crucial fifth goal 10 minutes later. Jack Houghton completed the scoring with Swineshead’s third to make the final score 5-3 with five minutes remaining when his fierce shot crashed into the net via the underside of the crossbar. Swineshead continued to push forward in the dying minutes but Billinghay’s solid defence eased them through to the final. Leading goalscorer, Adam Burrows hit a fine hat-trick while Gary Cochrane and Steve Rowland also got on the scoresheet.

It had therefore been a miserable couple of days for Swineshead who also suffered another defeat when they were beaten in the final of the Fishtoft Cup last Thursday when a controversial penalty gave Wyberton the trophy.

Review for April 10

Last Thursday night saw Division Three leaders, Benington attempting to cause a Target Newspapers Challenge Cup final upset against Division Two promotion hopefuls, Boston Town Old Boys at Tattershall Road but, in the end, it was a single Mark Wakefield goal which settled the final. The underdogs certainly showed their potential at times and the Boston Town defence had to be on their toes to quell the threat of a lively Benington attack which probably went some way in deciding the outcome of the man of the match award presented to the Old Boys central defender, Mark Locking. Benington created the first real chance of the game after eight minutes when leading scorer, Tim Bell made space in the area before firing in a right footed shot which was smothered by Town keeper, Scott Drury. The Third Division side went close again after 15 minutes when Bell sent over a dangerous right wing cross which eluded the keeper and had to be headed out for a corner from under the crossbar. Again Benington threatened a minute later when Nicky Wiles was fouled and from Baxter’s low free-kick Bell’s flick was turned round the post by Drury. Wiles then suffered a nasty injury when he went over on his ankle on the hard surface and he took no further part. Boston Town finally started to get their game together and they rocked their opponents with the opening goal which was a strike worthy of winning any final when Mark Wakefield seized onto a loose ball from 20 yards out on the right hand side of the box and sent his shot flying across the keeper and into the far left hand corner. Bell almost got Benington back on level terms soon afterwards when his effort from a tight angle found the side netting before Micky Nuttell went close at the other end with two headers which crept just over the crossbar. Benington went close with the final attack of the half when Ross Don-Duncan’s low free-kick flew inches wide. The second half was disappointing with both sides cancelling each other out although Benington had their chances to draw level when, after 50 minutes Bell’s free-kick was turned round the post by Drury and in the closing minutes Ian Morris fired in a fierce shot which dipped just over the crossbar. Final score was 1-0. Guest of Honour, Mr Nick Purkiss presented the trophies to the teams and match officials.

In a midweek Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division game at Wyberton the leaders were given a stern test by Kirton Town. The match was settled by a Jim Britton goal as Wyberton snatched a 1-0 victory. Wyberton followed that victory with an away win three days later at Skegness Town Reserves. This time the score-line was more convincing as the visitors came away with a 5-1 victory following goals from Nick Lovelace, Steve Melady, Luke Brittain, Jim Britton and Sam Louth. Town replied through Ashley Rasmussen. Billinghay Athletic almost slipped up at home last Saturday when they played hosts to Woodhall Spa United. The title-chasers found themselves 2-0 behind at the break and any hopes of stealing The Premiership were fading fast before a second half fight-back saw them snatch victory with goals from Mark Wheatley, Keith Leader and Adam Burrows. Final score was 3-2. Westside Rangers produced a spirited performance in their home match against Swineshead despite ending up empty-handed following a 3-1 defeat. Swineshead opened the scoring after 12 minutes when Matt Bates headed home and the signs looked ominous for the basement side. That was not to be the case, however, as Rangers competed well and restricted Swineshead to just two more chances during the first half. Westside rocked their opponents within 10 minutes of the second period when they Luke Wilson scored with a header from a corner for a deserved equaliser. The visitors dashed Rangers’ hopes immediately when they regained their lead two minutes later when Bert Snaith was fouled in the box and the striker dusted himself down before firing home the spot-kick. Rangers remained in the game until 10 minutes from time when Swineshead finally wrapped up victory with a third goal when Paul Clarke scored from 10 yards out following Chris Shipley’s long through pass. Final score

3-1.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Swineshead Reserves and leaders Old Doningtonians produced a seven-goal thriller with the promotion seekers winning 4-3. Aidan Moore gave Old Dons the lead during the first half but Swineshead hit back immediately scoring straight from the restart to make the half time score 1-1. Martin Fox and Liam Pitts scored for the Dons after the break with Swineshead matching them all the way with two goals of their own to make it 3-3 and the match looked to be heading for a draw. A superb David Slaughter effort conjured up a winning goal for Old Dons when he jinked his way through from out on the flank before finishing in style. Swineshead had gone close to earning some rewrd following two goals from Benn Houghton (one a penalty) and Alex Kirkham. Final score was 4-3. There was another close encounter at Fishtoft where Spalding Town went down 3-2. Leon Pycock, John McGarel and an Ady Almond penalty kept Fishtoft in the promotion hunt. Spalding Town replied through David Simpson and Thomas Rabiega. Two goals from Chris Baker helped Old Leake to a 5-1 away win at Holbeach Bank with the other match-winning goals coming from Simon Hippisley, Adam Tempest and Karl Shackleton. Stuart Dawson replied for the home side. A winning goal on the hour mark earned Coningsby Reserves a hard earned three points when they entertained Spalding Harriers. Danny Barker’s second half strike was enough to give Coningsby victory in a 1-0 scoreline.

Two goals from Micky Nuttell kept Challenge Cup winners, Boston Town Old Boys in touch at the top of Cropleys Suzuki Division Two following a 3-1 home win against Fosdyke. Jack Carter also got on the scoresheet for Town. Mareham United defeated Tydd St Mary 4-2 at home thanks to two goals from Danny Cottingham and further strikes from Micky Johnson and Tom Sewell. Tydd hit back with goals from Luke Tordorf and Andrew Barnett, who also missed a penalty. There were hat-tricks for both Nicky De Vries and Danny Maddison in Castle Colts’ 10-0 home win against Westside Rangers Reserves. Ben Jacques, Leon Marsh, Jimmy Nuttell and Craig Spooner were also on target for the Castle. Spalding Town Reserves took maximum points with a 3-2 home win against Kirton Leisure following goals from Chris Page, Ben Hudson and Rob Dempsey.

In the only midweek game in the Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, FC Kirton took all three points in their home clash with Mareham United Reserves. Dan Bourne’s goal proved to be enough to earn a narrow 1-0 victory. A patched-up Friskney side travelled to Park United hoping to earn some more points to boost their promotion hopes. The visitors started well enough during the first half striking the woodwork twice and having two goals disallowed. But good football was difficult on a tricky surface. Park stunned their opponents, however, with the opening goal when Alex Limb scored to edge his side in front at the break. Friskney kept plugging away in the second half and they were rewarded with an equaliser on the hour mark when Glenn Hislop fired home a fierce drive into the top corner giving Darren Hunt in The Park goal no chance. Just when it looked like the game was heading for a draw, the visitors snatched victory with ten minutes remaining when Hislop was on hand to squeeze the ball home from a tight angle after following up from a rebound. Final score 2-1. Goals from Karl Louth and Chris Hilton helped Kirton Town Reserves to a 2-1 home win against FC Kirton in a local derby match at Graves Park. Lewis Mundt and new signing, Nick Ward hit the crucial goals for Benington at Woodhall Spa United Reserves to keep them within touching distance of claiming the title. Final score was 2-0. Pointon Reserves and Mareham Reserves shared the points in a six-goal thriller. John Mott, Brad Munton and Shane George hit the Pointon goals in the 3-3 draw. Skegness Town A returned home from their lengthy journey to Spalding Harriers Reserves with all three points following a 3-1 away win. Andy Parish, Jamie Cotterill and Josh Whittam grabbed the goals for the East Coast side. Spalding’s goal came from Luke Chilvers.

Review for April 3

Westside Rangers will be relieved when they reach the end of their season and they can assess their position in he Boston League. With their second string being unable to fulfil their fixture last Saturday, the remaining players faced the daunting task of travelling to title-chasers, Billinghay Athletic for a Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division game. The outcome couldn’t have been worse for the Boston-based side as they conceded 15 goals with Adam Burrows boosting his goals tally with seven of his side’s goals. Steve Rowland also hit a hat-trick while there were braces from Joe Carr and Danny Long. Thomas Briggs completed the scoring for Billinghay. Freiston’s demise continued when three of their players failed to turn up for their outing at Spilsby Town leaving them bereft of any central defenders. Des Rook took full advantage of the visitor’s troubles hitting a smart hat-trick for Town in their 5-0 mauling at their Ancaster Avenue Ground. Steve Marvell and Paul Hide were also on target for the home side. The home side were 3-0 ahead by half-time and although Freiston held out for the majority of the second period, Spilsby wrapped up victory with two goals in the final 15 minutes. There was another 5-0 scoreline – this time at Woodhall Spa United where Swineshead kept alive their title challenge with an impressive victory. Jack Houghton’s recent return to the fold has boosted his side. And he contributed yet again with two more goals. Ryan Barker, Bert Snaith and a Scott Hempsall penalty secured victory.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Coningsby Reserves looked to be heading for a share of the points when they entertained Pointon in what looked to be a tricky fixture. Both sides were locked together at 1-1 at the halfway stage with Daniel Draycott grabbing the Coningsby goal and Jimmy MacDonald replying for the visitors. Pointon snatched the winner with just 10 minutes left when a Dan Wright shot found its way through a mass of players and into the net to make the final score 2-1. The Spalding derby ended up all square with the Harriers earning a point in a 2-2 draw. Michael Cartlidge and Matthew Hempsall grabbed the Spalding Town goals. Spalding Harriers will probably look on the match as a missed opportunity to grab all three points as they probably edged the possession stakes throughout. Sutterton’s topsy-turvy form saw them produce a superb performance last Saturday when they dealt a blow to Fishtoft’s promotion hopes with a 4-1 home win. After the previous weeks 10-0 drubbing at Old Leake, Sutterton bounced back in style with Andy Brown, not surprisingly, returning to the attack and his contribution was emphatic with a blistering hat-trick while Sergio Roquetti completed the scoring. Despite a shaky start the home side took the lead after twenty minutes when Nigel Edison took advantage of a poor goal and he released Andy Brown who coolly slipped the ball past the advancing keeper. This boost settled Sutterton down and they continued in control for the remainder of the half scoring a second after 35 minutes when Brown notched his second after beating two defenders and firing home. The game as a contest looked all but over by half time when Brown completed his hat-trick two minutes before the break when a lofted ball from Matt Wright was cleverly lifted over the keeper by Brown’s knee. Fishtoft came out after the break in a brighter mood and they looked more like the title-chasing side of recent times but they found Sutterton’s skipper Carl Appleyard in impressive form at the heart of the home rearguard. Sutterton added a fourth when Sergio Roquetti rose at the far post to power home a header into the top corner before Fishtoft bounced back and they laid siege to the home goal for the final 20 minutes. Their pressure was finally rewarded with a Declan Wilson goal 10 minutes from time. Wyberton Reserves won 3-1 away at Holbeach Bank with goals from Danny Mindham, Jason Allen and Scott Lea. The Bank replied through Joe Evling-White.

Boston Town Old Boys found themselves without a Cropleys Suzuki Division Two game after Westside Rangers Reserves were unable to raise enough players for their short trip to Tattershall Road so the inevitable outcome should be a walk-over three points for the third-placed side. Fishtoft Reserves and Spalding Town Reserves clashed again with the Reserve Cup winners coming out on top again with a 6-3 victory. Carl Tate hit two of the Fishtoft goals while Pete Coonan, Adam Vinters, Luke Perkins and Mark Ryan completed the scoring. Adam Abell and Liam Shinn both struck hat-tricks for Kirton Leisure in their 7-2 demolition of Fosdyke at home. Nicky Rodgers also got on the scoresheet for The Kirton side.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Eastville, Midville and New Leake were unfortunate to come up against a decent Kirton Town Reserves side at Graves Park going down 5-1. Martin Durrant (2), Chris Hilton, George Bakes and Billy Rodgers grabbed the match-winning goals while George Patman replied for the visitors. Park United found themselves trailing 2-0 at half time against Holbeach Bank Reserves but clawed themselves back into the match with second half strikes from Alex Limb and Tom Limb. The Holbeach side then stunned their opponents, however, with the decisive goal to run out 3-2 winners. Boston United Community grabbed a last-minute winner to snatch victory at Woodhall Spa United Reserves. Charlie Stapleton’s first half goal looked to have earned the home side a point until the visitors popped up with their late blow. In a sporting contest at Freiston Reserves, it was the home side who struck first with the opening goal after just five minutes when David Whalley scored following a free-kick which was floated into the box. Friskney got back on level terms on the half hour mark when Perrie Dale cut the ball back for Glenn Hislop to fire home through a crowded goalmouth. Friskney managed to take control after the break and they were awarded a penalty when Hislop was fouled in the area and Matty Goy stepped up to slot home the spot-kick. Freiston were dealt a blow shortly afterwards when Andrew Watson was dismissed by the referee for using foul and abusive language. Friskney soon wrapped up victory when Hit-Man Hislop side-footed home from a Perrie Dale cross to make the final score 3-1.

In the final of the Spalding Inter-Services Trophy, Old Doningtonians represented The Boston Saturday League in the final played at Holbeach United’s Ground last Saturday night where Long Sutton Athletic were their opponents. The Dons gave a good account of themselves in a final, which saw Long Sutton hit three goals in extra time to take the trophy. Old Dons had their moments during normal time and they went desperately close when a shot struck the crossbar and from the resulting rebound, Aiden Moore sent an effort across the face of the goal where the inside of the post came to Long Sutton’s rescue. Andy Barnett in the Donington goal was also called upon on several occasions with some important saves including one excellent double-save to keep his side in the match. Danny Goddard struck in the first period of extra time when his first header was cleared off the line by a defender but the ball came back to the lurking striker and he forced the ball home at the second attempt. Goddard struck again in the second period when he made space for himself before firing home from 10 yards. Disaster struck with six minutes remaining when there was a floodlight failure affecting one side of the pitch resulting in a 10-minute delay which allowed the lights to boost themselves back to full power. Coincidentally, it was from the corner, which heralded the floodlight failure that Long Sutton clinched victory with their third goal when Jake Clitheroe got on the end of the flag-kick to make the final score 3-0.

Review for March 27

The first silverware of the season went to Fishtoft Reserves last Wednesday night when they defeated Spalding Town Reserves at Boston Town’s Tattershall Road ground in the final of the Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup. Fishtoft, four places above their opponents before battle started, just about deserved their victory against a plucky Spalding side who took the final into extra time. The first half was dominated by Fishtoft and they went close in the opening minute when striker, Pete Coonan waltzed through a couple of challenges before being fouled on the edge of the box and Simon Hyland’s free-kick went just past the left hand post. It was Hyland again who went closest to opening the scoring after fifteen minutes when, following a goalmouth scramble, fired a rising shot just over the crossbar. Spalding’s first real effort came after 25 minutes when Chris Page’s hopeful shot drifted wide before Fishtoft squandered a golden opportunity when Pete Coonan was guilty of missing in front of goal after Conrad Louth had set up the chance with a fine run and cross. It was still all Fishtoft and Adam Vinters headed straight at the keeper from a corner and then Coonan flicked on a Tom Adams cross which the keeper saved low down to his left. Just before half time both Grant Butler and Luke Perkins had headers which went close to breaking the deadlock for Fishtoft while at the other end, Spalding almost snatched a goal right on the stroke of half-time, when Aiden Doherty wriggled his way through but was thwarted by Jack Mival’s last-ditch save. Spalding finally started to produce their best football after the break and they rocked their opponents with the opening goal five minutes into the second half when Fishtoft got in a mess out on the left and when the cross came into the far post the experienced Paul Ryan showed his goal-poaching instinct with a superb volley into the roof of the net. Ryan almost doubled their lead five minutes later when he poked a Mickey Handford cross just wide. Fishtoft were level on the hour mark when Simon Hyland fired home from the edge of the box following a cross from Joe Wood. Conrad Louth went agonisingly close with twenty minutes remaining when his close-range shot was deflected over the bar by the keeper, again from a Wood cross. Another Louth shot 10 minutes later was again deflected over the bar for a corner and from the flag kick Adam Vinters sent his header just over the bar. Spalding almost snatched a winner in the final minutes when Rob Dempsey’s free-kick was well saved by Mival and the final went into extra time. The all-important winner came in the first half of extra time when Pete Coonan sent The Fishtoft Camp jumping for joy but they had to survive a late scare when Spalding went desperately close following a goalmouth scramble. League Vice-President, Tony Appleby presented the trophies to both teams and the man of the match award went to Fishtoft striker Conrad Louth who worked tirelessly throughout.

Two Adam Burrows goals helped Billinghay Athletic clinch their place in the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup final when they just edged out Wyberton at The Causeway. Gary Cochrane grabbed the other goal in a hard fought 3-2 away win. Wyberton went close with goals from Jim Britton and Sam Louth.

In the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield semi-finals, it turned out to be a hugely successful day for Billinghay Athletic as their Reserves also stormed through to their final at the expense of Old Doningtonians Reserves. The outcome was much more comfortable, however, than their first team’s titanic battle. Matthew Dring hit a hat-trick for his side in a thumping 7-1 home win while Stuart Fullerton struck two goals. The other goals came from Danny Long and Tom Moor. Old Dons replied through Jonathan Butler. Fishtoft Reserves carried over their Reserve Cup final success to their semi-final tie against Wyberton Reserves to cause a cup upset. The Division Two cup winners ousted their First Division opponents at home with a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from Luke Perkins who netted from a corner and an 87th minute penalty from Adam Vinters. Fishtoft recovered impressively after falling behind to a Jason Allen opener goal for Wyberton. Wyberton’s misery was complete with the sending-off of Jason Skinner.

Goals from Matthew Tipper, Ben Etches, Ryan Beresford and Liam Papworth secured a welcome three Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division points for Skegness Town Reserves in their 4-1 home win against Westside Rangers. The local derby encounter at Coningsby was settled by a second half strike from Daniel Draycott as the home side sent Woodhall Spa United home empty-handed. After a goal-less first half, Draycott popped up with the winner to give Coningsby a 1-0 home win. Some woeful finishing saw Freiston crash to a 1-0 home defeat when they played hosts to Spilsby Town. The Town keeper also contributed to preserving a clean sheet with some smart saves for the visitors as they snatched victory with the winning goal on the half hour mark when Steve Marvell cheekily back-heeled home a cross. Freiston went desperately close to levelling the scores in the second half but Town denied them with two goal-line clearances. Although Swineshead ended up by thrashing Kirton Town at home by the convincing scoreline of 8-0, you probably wouldn't have guessed the outcome at the half time interval. Swineshead held a slender 1-0 lead at the break and it was a penalty, which helped present them with that advantage - Bert Snaith despatching the spot-kick. The second half was a different story however, as the floodgates opened despite Kirton keeping them out for the first 20 minutes before Snaith nipped in between defender and goalkeeper to make it 2-0. Matt Bates added a third three minutes later following a slick move down the left and substitute Paul Clarke made it 4-0 in the 75th minute. Jack Houghton also came on as a substitute and soon got the scoreboard ticking over with a quick-fire hat-trick inside ten minutes. Martin North had the final say with a left footed finish following a long clearance from Andy Stukins to make the final score 8-0.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, an Aidan Moore hat-trick helped Old Doningtonians sink Pointon in what looked like being a difficult encounter for the home side. All of Moore’s goals came after a goal-less first half to give the home side a valuable three points in their chase for the title. Final score 3-0. Spalding Harriers defeated Holbeach Bank 4-2 at home thanks to goals from Kamil Sowinski, Rafal Hebda, Dawid Kantak and Callum McNab.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, after the previous week’s excellent away win at high-flying Billinghay Reserves, Mareham United were in a buoyant mood going into last Saturday’s visit to Kirton Leisure. The home side, however, brought their opponents crashing down to earth with a thumping 7-2 home win with Adam Abell and Liam Shinn both scoring twice. Tim Billingham, Nathan Cook and Chris Massingham also got on the scoresheet to make it a miserable day for Mareham. The only bright spot for the visitors came in the form of Jonathan Barrs who was drafted into the side at the last minute and he managed to score one and make the other. There was almost another upset at Tydd St Mary where Boston Town Old Boys were looking for victory to keep them in touch at the top of the table. Tydd had other ideas storming into a two-goal lead following goals from Robert Precey and Roger Kissane. Town reduced the arrears on the hour mark from the penalty spot when Micky Nuttell was fouled in the box and Mark Wakefield tucked away the spot-kick before Nuttell got on the scoresheet himself with a trademark header shortly afterwards to salvage a point. This was the first match in charge for Tydd’s new manager, Graham Greenacre and he will be hoping for more of the same during the final run-in. Final score 2-2. Fosdyke were without a game after Sportsman were again unable to field a side. Things now look bleak for Sportsman and their future looks in real doubt.

There were plenty of Cropleys Suzuki Division Three goals at Woodhall Spa United Reserves where Pointon Reserves came away with a surprise victory following a thrilling 4-3 win. Brad Munton, John Mott, Russell Holden and Simon Long grabbed the Pointon goals. Woodhall went close to salvaging some reward with goals from Connor Parsons who hit two and Charlie Stapleton. Eastville, Midville and New Leake enjoyed a long awaited victory when they came away from Mareham United Reserves with all three points following a convincing 4-0 victory. Eastville held a slender 1-0 half-time lead following a George Patman goal but a Jed Stainton goal early in the second half put them in control. Jamie Appleby added a third after 65 minutes before Mareham missed a chance to get back into the game when they had a penalty saved by Midge Griffiths. Eastville’s final goal came from the penalty spot after Stainton was brought down and George Crewe stepped up to convert the spot-kick to make the final score 4-0. FC Kirton went down to a surprise 3-2 home defeat at the hands of lowly Spalding Harriers Reserves. Max Elsom and Kyle Bates scored the Kirton goals which appeared to be enough to earn them some reward but a penalty five minutes from time stunned the home side and there wasn’t enough time to get an equaliser. The Spalding Harriers’ goals came from Luke Chilvers who scored twice and Lewis Field. Friskney's injury crisis hadn’t helped and they were forced to sign and play 16-year old Josh Brown in their home encounter against Skegness Town A. The youngster wasn’t fazed in the least and he produced a promising debut. The first half was evenly contested with Friskney opening the scoring through Matt Goy's penalty. Skegness drew level within three minutes of the second half when Josh Whittam netted. Injuries to Chris Clarke and Lloyd Sanderson then made life even more difficult for Friskney and this was compounded by Dan Fox’s unfortunate own goal shortly afterwards. Recent signing Jake Akers was controlling the midfield for Skegness and his man of the match display was rewarded when he headed home to make the final score 3-1. The margin could have been greater had it not been for Rob Holland’s impressive display in The Friskney goal. It was always going to be an uphill task for Kirton Town Reserves when they took to the field with just ten players at Graves Park against league leaders, Benington. Although Town put up a spirited display they were never going to keep out the league’s leading scorers and they went down 7-1. Tom Baxter (3), Tim Bell (2), Ben Hardstaff and Ross Don-Duncan scored the goals to keep Benington firmly on top of the table while Kirton were rewarded for their efforts with a goal from Ashley Hughes.

Review for March 20

In a physical encounter at Spilsby Town, visitors Billinghay Athletic edged through to the semi finals of the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup following a 2-0 victory. Adam Burrows and Ed Creasey grabbed the crucial goals for the visitors. In the other quarter-final, Wyberton eased past Kirton Town at the Causeway thanks to goals from Ben Parkinson, Luke Brittain, Jimmy Britton and Sam Louth. In the only semi-final tie of the day, Swineshead stormed through to the final with a devastating four-goal burst early in the first second half to sink a brave Old Doningtonians side. Matt Bates was allowed to run through from 30 yards out before firing past the keeper into the far corner after fifteen minutes and Jack Houghton made it 2-0 five minutes later when he fastened onto a Matt Bates flick-on. Jack Houghton added a third four minutes later with a shot from twenty yards out and it was game over before the half hour was out when Chris Shipley converted from close range following a Steve Graham free-kick. Chris Wing finally got the Dons on the scoresheet just before the break when Swineshead failed to deal with a long ball and the ex-Swineshead striker nipped in to reduce the arrears for a 4-1 interval score-line. Both sides tightened up their defences after the break to prevent any further scores. Final score was 4-1.

The big shock of the day in Cropleys Suzuki Division One came at Old Leake where visitors, Sutterton conceded 10 goals without reply as the home side went goal-crazy. Admittedly, Sutterton only had the bare eleven outfield players and were missing the goal-scoring prowess of leading goalscorer Andy Brown, but to go down 10-0 was still a real surprise. Substitute Danny Keal struck four of The Old Leake goals while the double figures were reached with goals from Adam Tempest (2), Simon Hippisley, Karl Shackleton, Greg Brown and Rob Staples. The massive win sent Old Leake soaring into second place. With Old Doningtonians preoccupied in the Willoughby Cup, Spalding Town took over top spot following their 2-0 home win against Holbeach Bank. David Simpson and Matthew Hempsall grabbed the all-important goals for the home side. Wainfleet United never recovered from finding themselves 3-0 behind after just 10 minutes when they entertained Spalding Harriers. Wainfleet conceded a further three goals to go down 6-0. Marcin Mincynski hit a hat-trick while the other goals came from Jason Haytree, Kamil Sowinski and Dawid Kantak. Swineshead Reserves were looking in a decent position at the halfway stage of their home game with Pointon but three goals in 15 minutes after the break put the visitors in command. The game was all-square at half time with Richard Barker netting for Swineshead and Daniel Wright replying for Pointon. Wright went onto score three more times for a personal haul of four goals while Dane Hardy and David Cook completed the scoring. Wyberton Reserves’ home match with Fishtoft had to be postponed as the ground staff discovered that only one pitch was playable down at the Causeway so the first team took preference leaving the second string without a game.

There was also a surprise in Cropleys Suzuki Division Two where leaders Billinghay Athletic Reserves ended up empty-handed despite scoring four goals at home against Mareham United. Stuart Fullerton, with two goals and further strikes from Thomas Moor and Joe Carr still weren’t enough to earn the home side vital title-chasing points because at the other end, Billinghay were conceding goals at a much faster rate. Six goals found their net as they slumped to a shock 6-4 defeat. In a tight encounter at Fishtoft Reserves, Boston Town Old Boys snatched victory with a 75^th minute winner when Micky Nuttell headed on for Mark Crozier to tuck the ball away. Final score was 1-0. Old Doningtonians Reserves recorded only their second win of the season to ease their relegation fears when they defeated Fosdyke 5-2 at home. Jonathan Butler hit a hat-trick while Danny Jackson struck twice for the Dons. Westside Rangers Reserves and Tydd St Mary produced 11 goals at Rosebery Avenue with the home side taking the three points following an 8-3 victory. Gavin Bell, Luke Wilson and Kev Manning all scored two goals apiece while Michael Langley and James Norris were also on target for Westside. It was Tydd who opened the scoring before Manning levelled the scores from the penalty spot. Luke Wilson then put Rangers ahead only for the visitors to equalise before the break. The second half belonged to Westside as they found their rhythm scoring six more times with the pick of the bunch coming from Gavin Bell’s 35-yard strike. There was also a landmark goal for James Norris – his first ever for Rangers. Tydd grabbed a final consolation goal from the penalty spot. The other scheduled game between Sportsman and Spalding Town Reserves was cancelled due to the Boston-based side’s League suspension. Sportsman have continually failed to respond to the Saturday League’s request to resolve outstanding issues and the future of the club must now be in serious doubt.

Benington remain top of the Cropleys Suzuki Division Three table following a 5-0 home win against FC Kirton. Tim Bell, Ross Don-Duncan, Rob Grant, Neil Timby and Ian Morris grabbed the crucial goals. A weakened Friskney side found themselves a goal down after just two minutes when they travelled to Mareham United Reserves – James Todd was the man on target. Friskney finally got their house in order just before the break when they forced seven successive corners but the woodwork, a goal-line clearance and some resolute defending from a spirited Mareham side kept the visitors at bay. Friskney kept plugging away and they eventually grabbed an equaliser on the hour mark when Jamie Lawson fired home following a Shaun Tebbutt pass. The visitors then got their noses in front 10 minutes later when a Dan Fox shot was parried out by the keeper to the lurking Neil Allen and he duly despatched the rebound. Perrie Dale wrapped up the scoring after Glenn Hislop invitingly laid the ball into the striker’s path. The score-line could have been more emphatic late on as both Hislop and Dale struck the woodwork. Final score was 3-1. Eastville, Midville and New Leake went down 4-1 at Freiston Reserves. Freiston had dominated the first half but it took until the 40th minute before Dave Whalley fired a shot into the bottom corner for a slender half time lead. Eastville came out stronger in the second half, but again, it was Whalley who headed home a Troy Ayton cross. The visitors then scored on the break through Jamie Appleby but this only spurred Frieston into action with two more goals from Troy Ayton and Nicky Syndercome. The match was well refereed by Stacey Howard. Park United opened the scoring in their home game against Woodhall Spa United Reserves through Josh Stanley but the visitors rescued a point with a second half penalty. Final score was 1-1.Boston United Community said goodbye to their striker Aldo Simao last Saturday before he flew back home to Brazil on Wednesday. Aldo signed off in style by scoring United’s only goal in a 1-1 home draw against Spalding Harriers Reserves. Luke Chilvers replied for the visitors. Skegness Town A ensured that their lengthy journey to Holbeach Bank was all worthwhile when Jamie Cotterill and Josh Whittam struck the all-important goals in a 2-0 away win. The remaining match at Pointon Reserves, where Kirton Town Reserves were due to play, was postponed.

News for March 13

Skegness Town could only raise 10 players for their home Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division encounter against Freiston so it was always going to be an uphill struggle for them. It was no surprise, therefore that Freiston returned home with an easy three points following a 5-0 victory, which could have reached double figures with some better finishing. The visitors found themselves 4-0 ahead by the break with Dean Seiner netting twice in the opening 15 minutes. Aston Chase converted a penalty twenty minutes later and the same player grabbed his second goal of the game with a simple tap-in on the stroke of half-time. Skegness defended much better after the break and they manage to restrict their opponents to just one more goal when substitute Scott Hutchinson slotted the ball home in the last minute. Referee Andy Redgard had a good game in the middle. Kirton Town had a welcome win at Graves Park where Woodhall Spa United were the visitors. Liam Wilson, Chris Hilton and an own goal earned Town a 3-1 home win.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, goals from Ady Almond and Dean Fisher secured three points for Fishtoft in their home game against Coningsby Reserves to keep them hot on the heels of leaders, Old Doningtonians. Coningsby’s goal came from Lee Scanlon. A single Mark Sharman strike helped Old Dons to a narrow victory in their home game against Wainfleet United. Final score 1-0. Mason Hardy and Nathan Wilson both scored two goals apiece in their side’s 4-1 away win at Holbeach Bank. Shane Hughes grabbed the home side’s goal. A late goal at Swineshead Reserves gifted Wyberton Reserves the three points when an unfortunate error by the home keeper let in the visitors to snatch victory in a 3-2 score-line. Cliff Langham and Rob Holland hit the Swineshead goals which seemed to be enough to earn them a share of the points until that late blow meant they finished up empty-handed. For Wyberton, the match-winning goals came from Jason Allen, Oliver Wareing and new signing, Ally Clayton. Two Martin Gordon goals helped Spalding Town to a 2-1 home win against Sutterton.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Paul Baxter and Gary Long hit the crucial goals for Billinghay Athletic Reserves in their 2-0 home win against Tydd St Mary to keep them at the top of the table. Castle Colts remain in close pursuit of the leaders following their 2-1 home win against a spirited Mareham United side. Daniel Maddison struck both of the vital goals for the Castle. Westside Rangers Reserves and Fosdyke provided a game, which, just about, had everything – 10 goals, two red cards, several bookings, while in between all the mayhem, there was quite a decent game of football. The Rosebery Avenue playing surface had dried out enough last Saturday to provide a somewhat ‘bobbly’ surface, which handed the advantage to the attackers on both sides. Westside opened the scoring before two goals from Andy Thorpe edged the visitors in front. Rangers got themselves level shortly afterwards only for Thorpe to complete his hat-trick to give Fosdyke a 3-2 interval lead. Drew McGuire made it 4-2 early in the second half before Westside reduced the arrears. Fosdyke’s Robbie Curle then smashed home a free-kick to put the visitors 5-3 ahead and although Rangers had a player and their Manager sent off, they pulled a goal back to make it 5-4. Ben Charlton had the final say to secure the points for Fosdyke with the sixth goal following a cool finish. Final score 6-4. There were also plenty of goals at Old Doningtonians Reserves where Fishtoft Reserves took maximum points following a 4-3 away win. Carl Tate 2, Joe Wood and Pete Coonan hit the decisive goals for the visitors while Old Dons went close to salvaging some reward with goals from Jonathan Butler who scored twice and Danny Hunt.

Tim Bell struck two more goals for Benington when they recorded a 5-1 away Cropleys Suzuki Division Three win at Pointon Reserves. Paul Timby, Tom Baxter and new signing Jason Cade completed the scoring to keep the visitors firm favourites for promotion. Pointon’s goal came from George Sharpe. Freiston got back to winning ways when they entertained Woodhall Spa United Reserves. The home side stormed into a tenth minute lead when Troy Ayton flicked the ball on for Joe Pitcher to tap home from close range and they added another shortly afterwards when David Whalley netted to make it 2-0. Woodhall managed to pull a goal back to set up a tense final 10 minutes but Freiston held onto the three points. Fnal score 2-1. There was a goal-less draw at Park United where Eastville, Midville & New Leake earned a hard earned point. Friskney started strongly in their home game against Holbeach Bank Reserves scoring in their first real attack when Neil Allen crossed for Glenn Hislop to open the scoring after just three minutes. The home side then had golden chance to go further ahead when they were awarded a penalty when Perrie Dale was fouled in the box but the normally reliable Jamie Lawson embarrassingly kicked the floor and ball rolled gently to the six yard box for the goalkeeper to gather up easily. Neil Allen missed several gilt-edged chances during the remainder of the first half which remained at 1-0. Holbeach stunned the home side when they fastened onto a long ball before beating the advancing Rob Holland in The Friskney goal to level the scores early in the second half. The home responded immediately by regaining the lead five minutes later when Perrie Dale crossed for Hislop to head home his second goal of the game. It was Dale the Provider once more when he crossed for Daniel Fletcher, this time, to volley home fiercely with fifteen minutes remaining. Craig Mountain wrapped up the scoring when he headed home a Chris Marshall cross to make the final score 4-1. The score-line could have been more emphatic but for an impressive display from the young Holbeach keeper. Josh Whittam grabbed four of the Skegness Town A goals in their 6-0 home win against Kirton Town Reserves. The other match-winners were Jake Akers and Ben Bloodworth. Gavin Gregory proved to be the match-winner for Boston United Community when they travelled to FC Kirton last Saturday. His goal was enough to send United home with the three points following a 1-0 win.

After last weeks cup shock, which saw Spalding Town progress it through to the last four of the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup at the expense of Premier opposition, there were no such shocks this time around. Swineshead, Billinghay and Wyberton all eased through to the semi-finals without any great problems. Steve Rowland and Adam Burrows both scored twice in Billinghay Athletic’s 6-1 away win at Coningsby. Daniel Long and Adam Weston also got on the scoresheet for the rampant visitors. Wyberton also won by a five-goal margin when they travelled to Spalding Harriers. The Division One side gave a good account of themselves but The Premier table-toppers breezed through 5-0 following goals from Jimmy Britton, who struck twice, Joe Hallam, Jamie Skinner and John Reeson. The only Second Division side left in the competition, Boston Town Old Boys, found it difficult against Swineshead at Tattershall Road going down 4-0. Town kept out their opponents for the first forty minutes with some resilient defending but then Swineshead opened the scoring through Jack Houghton who fired home from 15yards to give his side a slender half-time lead. Another Jack Houghton strike from the edge of the box made it 2-0 on the hour mark before Bert Snaith made the game safe with a third goal 10 minutes from time. Matt Bates completed the scoring in the dying minutes when he shrugged off a couple of defenders before slotting past the keeper.

News for March 6

Billinghay Athletic took all three Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division points in their top of the table clash against Swineshead Institute. New signing Jonathan Vickers opened the scoring for Billinghay to put them in front at the halfway stage and an Adam Burrows penalty made it 2-0. Swineshead reduced the arrears through martin North to set up a tense finish and the home side admitted that at times it was like ‘the Alamo’ as Swineshead pummelled their opponents but the home side hung on to gain the crucial three points. John Reeson hit all three goals for leaders, Wyberton in their 3-0 home win against Coningsby. Freiston had a comfortable 5-2 home win aginst Kirton Town although the score-line should have been more convincing as they missed a penalty and struck the woodwork three times as well as squandering countless chances. Dean Seiner opened the scoring after 20 minutes and a few minutes later Aston Chase made it 2-0. Kirton reduced the arrears five minutes before the break although there was still time for Freiston to regain their two-goal lead at the interval when defender, Lee Marshall headed home. The home side continued to dominate after the break but Kirton’s defence stood firm before Seiner finished off a good move to make it 4-1 and Chase volleyed in soon after for goal number five. A few minutes later the home side were awarded a penalty but the Kirton keeper kept out the spot kick. With the last kick of the game, Kirton took advantage of a defensive mix-up to make the final score 5-2. Kirton Town's goals came from Karl Louth and Paul Barker. Two goals from Andy Money helped Woodhall Spa United to a 4-1 home win against Westside Rangers. James Melia and John Kerry were also on target for the home side.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Adam Wright hit two goals for Old Leake in their away match at Wainfleet United. Rob Staples also got on the scoresheet for the visitors in a 3-1 victory. Matthew Broome hit back with Wainfleet’s goal. There was also a 3-1 score-line at Pointon where the home side defeated Spalding Harriers. Mark Smith, Dane Hardy and Nathan Wilson hit the match-winning goals for Pointon. An Andy Brown strike five minutes from time gave Mark Blissett's side all three points in their home fixture against table-toppers, Old Doningtonians. The leaders were quick out of the blocks and they opened the scoring after just three minutes but Sutterton's response was instant and they levelled the scored within five minutes when Scott Crekk and Sergio Roquette unlocked the Dons defence and Andy Brown fired home from 10 yards. The remainder of the first half was a real ebb-and-flow affair with Old Doningtonians enjoying most of the possession but Sutterton creating the better chances with Brown and Roquetti wasting excellent opportunities. The home side were dealt a blow at the half-time break when they lost key defender Nigel Daubney through injury but they defended well in the second half despite the setback as The Dons searched for an equaliser. The entertaining ame appeared to be heading for a draw when Brown popped up with the winner in the dying minutes when he fastened onto a through ball from James Bruns before slamming the ball home. Although it was Brown who grabbed both match-winners, defender Carl Appleyard was Sutterton’s man of the match with his superb defensive display. Final score was 2-1.

Boston Town Old Boys entertained fellow Cropleys Suzuki Division Two title-chasers, Castle Colts on the ground of their UCL side but unfortunately the open spaces of the Tattershall Road ground took its toll on some of the more experienced campaigners and they went down 3-2. A Nigel Vince free-kick had put Town in front before The Castle hit back in impressive style to lead 3-1 thanks to goals from Nicky De Vries who struck twice and Dale Crich. Mark Locking pulled a goal back to make it 3-2 to set up a grandstand finish but for all their huffing and puffing they just couldn’t grab that elusive equaliser. Kirton Leisure switched their home game to their opponents’ ground at Fosdyke and both sides produced a closely fought encounter. Fosdyke opened the scoring after 20 minutes through Andy Thorpe and they held onto that lead until the 70th minute when Kirton finally levelled. Fosdyke stormed back to regain the lead when Rob Curle outpaced the opposing defence before scoring only for Leisure to equalise with just a few minutes left and they almost snatched victory when they had a goal ruled out for offside. The game then finished with tempers flaring up and new signing, Karl Jackson who had only been on the field for five minutes as a substitute reacted to a bad tackle and received his marching orders. Final score 2-2. The Kirton Leisure goals came from Adam Abell and Nathan Cook.

In the big Cropleys Suzuki Division Three top of the table clash, leaders, Benington were held to a 3-3 draw by Friskney. Top scorer Tim Bell was on target once again while Ian Morris and Scott Francis completed the scoring. Friskney had started the better and they created two golden opportunities, which they wasted before Benington hit back with the opening goal when Tim Bell broke through to score on the half hour mark. Friskney were level within minutes when Perrie Dale fired home a low drive into the corner. Benington regained their lead just before the break when a shot deflected off defender Dave Clarke and spun over the helpless Rob Holland in The Friskney goal. The home side started brightly after the interval and they deservedly went 3-1 ahead with a headed goal. They then went desperately close to adding another but Scott Francis’s header from close range struck the crossbar. Friskney made some changes with 20 minutes remaining and they reduced the arrears when Perrie Dale was brought down in the box and Jamie Lawson stroked home the spot-kick. The visitors threw caution to the wind by playing just two defenders at the back and they finally drew level with two minutes left when substitute Glenn Hislop sent Neil Allen scampering down the flank before crossing for the other sub, Chris Marshall to side-foot home. Referee Dave Bent had a fine match in the middle. Final score 3-3. Boston United Community had the privilege of playing their home match against Park United at The Jakemans Stadium last Saturday and they celebrated with a 3-2 victory. Aldo Simao hit two of the Boston United goals while Joe Dobson grabbed the other. Simao had opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Park levelled just before the break. Park continued on top in the second half and they deservedly went 2-1 in front after some enterprising play. The setback stung the home side into action and, following some nippy wing play, Joe Dobson broke through before firing home across the keeper and into the net. Park were left stunned when the lively Simao headed home to give Boston United Community a slightly fortunate three points. Sam Veasey and Alex Limb hit the Park goals. Skegness Town A remain just off the pace at the top of the table following their 4-2 home win against Woodhall Spa United Reserves. Michael Hardy (2), Josh Whittam and Andy Parrish hit the all-important goals for Skegness. There was another 4-2 score-line at Eastville where FC Kirton took maximum points to remain in third place. For the home side, Kane Watson and Lucky Singh grabbed their goals. Kirton Town Reserves had a comfortable 3-0 home win against Freiston Reserves thanks to goals from Daniel Darwood, Dave Marshall and Ashley Hughes.

In the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield quarter-finals, Coningsby Reserves backroom staff admitted that their side produced one of their worst displays of the season when they went out of the competition in their home match against lower division opposition in Old Doningtonians Reserves. The Dons, who are surprisingly struggling at the bottom of Division Two made it through to the last eight thanks to goals from Jonathan Butler, who bagged two and Mark Stanhope in a 3-1 away win. The visitors were out of sight at 3-0 by the time Carl Llewellyn pulled a goal back in the 75th minute. Third Division side, Mareham United Reserves put up a brave fight against Division Two title contenders, Billinghay Athletic Reserves before going out in a high-scoring 5-3 score-line. Tom Still struck two of the Mareham goals while James Todd also got on the scoresheet. There were signs of a cup upset as the home side stormed into a 2-0 lead but Billinghay recovered to turn the tie around with three goals from leading scorer, Rick Harrod. Matt Phillips and Stuart Fullerton were also on target for Billinghay. In the other tie, Swineshead Reserves and Fishtoft Reserves finished all-square after extra time with neither side unable to find a breakthrough so the outcome had to be decided by the dreaded penalty shoot-out. Visitors, Fishtoft proved more clinical from the spot on this occasion by squeezing through to the last four by four penalties to two.

There was a big Sharman Burgess Sports Cup shock in the only quarter-final tie of the day when Division One side Spalding Town edged out Premiership outfit, Spilsby Town at home by the odd goal in five. The home side’s deadly strike duo did the damage once more as Michael Cartlidge hit two of the Spalding goals while Martin Gordon grabbed the other. Spilsby went close with goals from Luke Odlin and Dan Smith. Final score was 3-2.

News for February 27

Two of the five scheduled Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division games fell victims of the heavy rainfall towards the end of the week– with Kirton Town and at Skegness Town Reserves having no option but to call their games off. The big clash of the day was at Swineshead where a single goal earned the visitors, Freiston maximum points. Swineshead started well enough and had their opponents on the back foot but Freiston’s defence stood firm throughout. The visitors slowly got into the game with some neat passing and a couple of chances were created but the half finished goal-less. It remained a tight affair after the break with Freiston forcing several corners but they couldn’t find a way through until 10 minutes from time. Swineshead’s defence got in a tangle allowing Nicky Syndercombe the simple task of slotting home the loose ball. Leaders, Wyberton were in irresistible form in their home game against Woodhall Spa United. An early four-goal blitz put paid to the visitor’s challenge and by half time the score had been extended to 8-1. A further three goals found The Woodhall net after the break and although the visitors grabbed another consolation goal the score-line finished a comprehensive 11-2. Jimmy Britton helped himself to four of the goals while Chris Rutt and Sam Louth both scored two goals apiece. The other goals came from Ben Parkinson, John Reeson and Adam Broom. Westside Rangers continue to show a marked improvement without any reward when they went down 5-2 at home to Coningsby. The outcome could have been different, however, if at 3-2 the ball had found the visitor’s net instead of striking the crossbar. Rangers, realising it was going to be another one of those days, then lost their way conceding three further goals. Liam Wilson and an own goal had kept Rangers in the game before Coningsby put the game beyond them.

Sutterton went down to a heavy Cropleys Suzuki Division One 5-1 home defeat at the hands of Spalding Harriers although a sending-off had a significant bearing on the match. Sutterton’s Troy Thomas was shown the red card a minute into the second half and Spalding took advantage of their extra man to end up comfortable winners. Carl Duncan grabbed Sutterton’s only goal while Spalding took the points with goals from Jack Chilvers, Marcin Minczynski, Adam Thompson, Jason Haytree and Rafal Hebda. Leaders, Old Doningtonians suffered only their second defeat of the season when they played hosts to Wyberton Reserves. The Dons found themselves trailing 3-1 at the interval and although they pulled another goal back in the second half just couldn’t find an equaliser. Aiden Moore grabbed both of the Donington goals while Jamie Cox, also with two goals and Jason Allen made sure of victory for the visitors. Mark Sampson, Tom Elderkin and Martin Gordon grabbed the match-winning goals for Spalding Town in their 3-1 away win at Coningsby Reserves. Coningsby never recovered from being 2-0 down at the break and when the visitors added goal number three in the second half there was no way back. Jordan Moore did manage to reduce the arrears before the end to make the final score 3-1. Wainfleet United continue to struggle down at the bottom of the table following a 3-1 home defeat by Fishtoft. Joe Bradbury, Grant Butler and Dean Fisher grabbed the goals to keep Fishtoft in touch at the top. Matt Broome replied for Wainfleet.

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two leaders, Billinghay Athletic Reserves went goal-crazy in their home game against Westside Rangers Reserves. Stuart Fullerton struck four goals for his side while leading scorer, Rick Harrod hit a hat-trick. Matthew Dring and Matthew Phillips also got on the scoresheet in a 9-0 trouncing. Fishtoft Reserves remain just off the pace at the top of the table despite a fine 4-2 home win against Mareham United. Conrad Louth, Lewis O’Keefe, Adam Vinters and Pete Coonan were all on target for the home side. There were plenty of goals at Spalding Town Reserves where Fosdyke went down 6-4 in a bizarre encounter. Fosdyke found themselves 3-0 down after 20 minutes but got back on level terms by half time. Spalding then struck three more time after the break to regain a three-goal cushion on the hour mark. The visitors then pulled another goal back with 20 minutes remaining but time ran out for them. Youngster J Fairweather had a good game in the middle as referee. Tydd St Mary came unstuck at Kirton Leisure where striker, Liam Shinn did most of the damage hitting a hat-trick in a 3-1 home win.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Two games were lost in this division with Freiston Reserves calling their game off on Friday night and Friskney pulling the plug on their game on Saturday morning. FC Kirton hit six goals in their home match against Pointon Reserves with Aaron Bradshaw and Kyle Bates grabbing two goals apiece. The other Kirton goals came from Max Elsam and Josh Brason. Pointon replied through Simon Long who also bagged a two-goal haul and Brad Munton. Holbeach Bank Reserves and Kirton Town Reserves shared the points in a 1-1 draw. Ben Westlake scored The Holbeach goal to earn his side a valuable point. There was a goal-feast at Mareham United Reserves where the home side went down 8-4 to Skegness Town A. James Todd hit two of The Mareham goals while Lee Bunn and Chris Ray also got on the scoresheet. Woodhall Spa United Reserves edged out Park United by the odd goal in five with Connor Parsons, Richard Hall and Charlie Stapleton hitting the match-winning goals in a 3-2 thriller. Alex Limb struck both of the Park goals

In the semi-finals of the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, an early Will Chambers strike was enough to send Second Division side Boston Town Old Boys through to the final where they will play Division Three pacesetters, Benington. Boston Town had to produce a dogged defensive display after their early strike to keep Division One outfit, Pointon at bay. It was hair-raising stiff at times but Town held out somehow. Benington required extra time before finally seeing off opponents, Sportsman by the amazing score of 6-4.

News for February 20

For the second week running Westside Rangers produced an encouraging performance in a Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division match, only this time they finished up empty-handed. After the previous week’s draw with Kirton Town, Rangers put up a brave fight once again in their home match against Freiston before eventually going down 4-2. The visitors went ahead after ten minutes through Dean Seiner and the same player added a second five minutes later after bursting clean through to score. Further chances went begging as Freiston threatened to run away with the match and they did, in fact, make it 3-0 through Aston Chase ten minutes before the break and the game looked all but over. Westside, with nothing to lose in the second half, threw caution to the wind and they deservedly reduced the arrears on 55 minutes with a low shot. Rangers then rocked Freiston with another goal on the hour mark when, following a header, they brought the scores back to 3-2. Freiston finally wrapped up the points in the final minute when Dean Seiner forced the ball home following a goalmouth scramble to complete his hat-trick and make the final score 4-2. Two Jimmy Britton goals settled the outcome at Spilsby Town. The Wyberton striker hit both of his side’s goals in a 2-1 away win to keep the visitors firmly on top of the table.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Wainfleet United suffered another defeat, this time away at Coningsby Reserves. Will Ladd and a Cameron Robertson penalty gave the home side a 2-0 home win. Two goals from Michael Cartlidge and another from Martin Gordon earned Spalding Town a 3-1 home win against Wyberton Reserves. The visitors replied through Scott Lea. Swineshead Reserves went down to a heavy 5-1 away defeat at Spalding Harriers. Marcin Minczinski proved a real thorne in Swineshead’s side netting a fine hat-trick while fellow striker, Dawid Kantak grabbed the other two goals. Swineshead looked capable of earning a share of the spoils at the halfway stage with them holding Spalding to a 1-1 draw but a disastrous second period put paid to any6 hopes they may have had. Lee Hunt scored their first half goal. Two goals from Jimmy McDonnell helped Pointon to a highly creditable 3-3 draw at Fishtoft. Nathan Wilson grabbed the other goal for the visitors.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Castle Colts moved menacingly into top spot with a 3-1 home win against Kirton Leisure. With Billinghay Athletic Reserves being held by fellow title-chasers, Boston Town Old Boys, The Castle took full advantage to take poll position with goals from Ben Jacques, Daniel Maddison and Chris Spooner. Billinghay Athletic Reserves and Boston Town Old Boys shared the points in an exciting 3-3 top of the table clash. Rick Harrod struck twice for Billinghay while Matthew Phillips was also on target. Boston Town's goals came from Shane Clancy who also scored twice and Ollie Pinner. Westside rangers Reserves went down to a surprise 5-0 home defeat at the hands of Spalding Town Reserves. Maz Donnourah and Micky Handford both scored twice for the visitors while Aiden Doherty also got on the scoresheet.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, goals from Callum Pearce, Andy Parrish and Josh Whittam secured a 3-2 home win for Skegness Town A when they entertained Spalding Harriers Reserves. Spalding went close to salvaging some reward following two goals from Steve Davies. Friskney kept the pressure on at the top of the table with a 3-1 away win at Pointon Reserves. It was a tight physical encounter and the visitors took the lead after twenty minutes when Simon Goy flashed home a glorious 40-yard drive into the bottom corner after the ball had been headed out. There were no further goals during the first half with both sides struggling to get a rhythm going. The second half continued in much the same pattern with both sides finding it difficult in a real scrappy affair. Friskney increased their lead on the hour mark when, following a counter-attack, Glenn Hislop held the ball up before releasing Perrie Dale who scampered past three bewildered defenders and rounding the keeper to score. Pointon finally woke up after this setback and, following a good ten minute spell, they reduced the arrears when Michael Pullem nipped in to score as Friskney defenders hesitated. With Pointon continuing to take control of possession, Friskney hit them with another breakaway goal whne Hislop and Dale linked up once more before the former side footed home to secure the points for the visitors. Pointon’s frustration came to the boil when a mass brawl broke out in the home camp resulting in a delay of five minutes before play could resume. Eastville made leaders, Benington fight all the way for their three-point haul when they went down by the narrow margin of 4-3. Kris Holland, Paul Nicholls and Jamie Appleby scored the home goals which so nearly caused an upset. FC Kirton hit six goals at Freiston Reserves in a fiery affair. The home side had Jon Hardy dismissed with Tom and Andrew Waterson also receiving yellow cards as they lost their way a little. Freiston had started brightly enough with Troy Ayton hitting the crossbar in the opening minutes. Kirton then rocked their opponents with a three-goal burst to lead comfortably before Jonathan Redford replied to make the half time score 3-1. Freiston’s keeper, Jon Hardy then received his marching orders shortly after the break and there was no way back for the home side. FC Kirton struck three more time before Troy Ayton grabbed a second goal for Freiston when he beat two defenders to fire home to make the final score 6-2. Boston United Communtiy and Kirton Town Reserves fought out a 2-2 draw at Kirton Middlecott School. Gavin Bailey and Aldo Simao grabbed the goals for United.

In the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup, there were no shocks in the two first round matches taking place after the recent weather interruptions and two quarter final ties providing Swineshead Institute and Old Doningtonians passages into the last four. The round one matches saw Kirton Town and Billinghay Athletic progress to the next phase while Old Doningtonians hit double figures at Fosdyke to breeze through to the last four. Swineshead encountered some tough resistance from Division One side, Old Leake before squeezing through to the semi-finals. Adam Burrows and Pete Dickinson both scored twice for Billinghay in their 5-1 away win against a spirited Park United side. An own goal completed the scoring for Athletic while Park replied through Craig Spiller. Park keeper, Darren Hunt denied the visitors from hitting six goals when he saved a penalty. Swineshead were made to struggle at home by a determined Old Leake side. The opening goal came from the penalty spot after 18 minutes when Bert Snaith was upended in the box and the same player got up and dusted himself down before firing home the spot-kick. Old Leake rocked their opponents when they levelled the tie two minutes into the second half – Rob Staples netting the equaliser. Swineshead clinched victory with just three minutes remaining when a Nic Stone shot from the edge of the area found the net. Final score was 2-1. Old Dons hit 12 goals away from home at Fosdyke as they carried their league form into the cup competition. The Division One leaders easily disposed of Division Two strugglers. Fosdyke’s only reward came in the form of goals from Ben Charlton and Andy Thorpe.

News for February 13

Highlight of the day belonged to Westside Rangers who gained their first Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division point of the season when they drew with Kirton Town at home. It could easily have been much better for the basement side, however, when they found themselves cruising 3-0 at the halfway stage. A second half sending-off and a Kirton revival brought the scores level at 3-3. Rangers’ hero of the day was Liam Wilson who bagged all three goals. All three of Kirton’s goals in the second half came from Chris Hilton. Woodhall Spa United heaped more misery on Skegness Town Reserves’ recent poor run with a 2-0 home win. Rob McCusker and Jack Draper grabbed the crucial goals for Woodhall. In the only other Premier game, Coningsby were comfortably beaten 4-0 at home by Spilsby Town. Simon Sutton, Matt Barker, Steve Marvell and Des Rook grabbed the goals for the visitors.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Mark Ryan grabbed his second goal of the season for Fishtoft when they were held to a 2-2 draw by Old Leake. Dean Fisher also got on the scoresheet for Fishtoft while Rob Staples earned a point for Old Leake with both of his side’s goals. There was another draw at Wyberton Reserves where Coningsby Reserves earned a creditable 1-1 point away from home. Daniel Draycott grabbed the Coningsby goal while an own goal deprived the visitors of a surprise victory. Ben Elkington scored two goals for Pointon in their 4-2 home win against Spalding Town. Dane Hardy and Dan Wright were also on target for the home side. Old Doningtonians got back to winning ways after their shock cup exit last week. A second half penalty from Mark Sharman sealed a 3-2 victory for the visitors to keep them top of the table. Aidan Moore and Liam Pitts hit the first half goals for the Dons while Dawid Kantak and Chris Harvey replied for the Spalding side. Wainfleet United suffered another defeat, this time at home against Sutterton. Both sides struggled to get going during the early stages on a pitch, which made passing the ball around very difficult. Sutterton were restricted to just long range efforts from Gary Lee and Troy Thomas during the opening 20 minutes before the visitors started to get their game together as the half wore on. Wainfleet fell behind five minutes before the break when Nigel Edison fired home from the right hand side of the box following good work from Ben Smalley and Andy Brown. Wainfleet enjoyed much more possession after the break but they found Nigel Daubney in commanding form at the heart of the Sutterton defence. The visitors could have extended their lead late on but Brown and substitute, Gavin Rhodes wasted decent chances to put the game beyond Wainfleet’s reach. The home side huffed and puffed to salvage some reward from the game but Sutterton held on for all three points. For Wainfleet, Andy Carter was their man of the match. Final score was 1-0.

Fosdyke came unstuck at Mareham United where the home side went goal crazy hitting seven goals without reply in their Cropleys Suzuki Division Two encounter. Tom Sewell struck four of the home side’s goals while Micky Johnson grabbed two goals. Danny Cottingham completed the scoring for Mareham. Final score 7-0. Two goals from Gary Frost helped Castle Colts to a 4-2 away win at Old Doningtonians Reserves and keep them on course for promotion. Dale Crich and Nicky De Vries were also on target for The Castle while centre back, Trevor Hammond grabbed both of The Dons’ goals. Fellow title-chasers, Boston Town Old Boys also recorded an away win when they travelled to Spalding Town Reserves. A Mark Crozier header put Town in front before a Mark Wakefield penalty sealed a 2-0 victory. Kirton Leisure made the lengthy journey to Tydd St Mary but a 4-3 away win made the trek all worth while. In the other fixture Billinghay Athletic Reserves still hold top spot after a 5-1 away win at Sportsman. The home side had started brightly enough and they produced some fine flowing football but unfortunately they lost their cool and with it they lost the match. Billinghay took advantage of Sportsman’s indiscipline by taking complete control and running out comfortable winners.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Benington hit six goals at Park United to keep them firmly on top of the table. Scott Dawson and Tim Bell both struck twice for the leaders while Tom Baxter also got on the scoresheet. An own goal completed the scoring in a 6-0 scoreline. Friskney also hit six goals in their home game against FC Kirton with Daniel Fletcher and Jamie Lawson both scoring twice. Both sides produced a sporting encounter which made referee David Bent’s officiating that much easier. Kirton actually opened the scoring when the unfortunate Simon Goy put through his own net before Friskney equalised through Dan Fletcher who curled in a delightful shot. Fletcher then put his side ahead before Jamie Lawson made it 3-1 from the penalty spot just before the break. Lawson made it 4-1 within five minutes of the restart when he superbly swept home a rebound after Perrie Dale’s shot was parried by the keeper. Dale then got on the scoresheet with a powerful volley following good work from Fletcher and substitute Glenn Hislop wrapped up the scoring with a left footed drive. Skegness Town A and Freiston shared the points in a 2-2 draw. Michael Hardy and Josh Whittham struck for Skegness while the visitors replied through Joe Pitcher and Sam Hill. Another 2-2 draw at Eastville saw Mareham United Reserves return home with a point. Kane Watson and Jamie Appleby struck for Eastville to give the home side their sixth draw of the season. The points were also shared at Spalding Harriers Reserves where Holbeach Bank Reserves earned a point following a 3-3 draw. Luke Chilvers, Matt Hall and Jamie Robinson hit the goals for Spalding Harriers Reserves. Pointon Reserves had an excellent 5-2 away win at Boston United Community with Aaron Pullem scoring two of their goals. Simon Long, Brad Munton and George Sharpe were also on the scoresheet for Pointon while United replied with two penalties – one from Tom Barkworth and the other spot-kick from Aldo Simao.

In round one of the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield, Fishtoft Reserves edged through the next stage following a 3-2 away win at Kirton Town Reserves thanks to Conrad Louth’s goalscoring exploits. ‘Hotrod’ Louth hit all three of his side’s goals to put Fishtoft in the hat for Round Two. Kirton had the earlier chances and could easily have found themselves two goals ahead but it was Fishtoft who broke the deadlock through Louth’s first effort to lead at the break. Kirton played some great football early in the second half and they stunned Fishtoft with a two-goal burst from Ashley Hughes. Fishtoft equalised through Louth’s controversial strike as the home side stood appealing for a foul ten minutes from time. Louth grabbed the winner late on and then Kirton were reduced to 10 men when a player was dismissed.

In the Fishtoft Cup semi-finals, Wyberton and Billinghay Athletic produced an exciting tie at the Causeway where extra time was required to settle the outcome. John Reeson struck twice for Wyberton in normal time as the tie ended 2-2 before Jimmy Britton took centre stage in extra time to put his side through to the final. Britton hit both goals as Wyberton ran out 4-2 winners. Wyberton will now meet Swineshead Institute in the final following their comfortable 3-0 home win against Freiston.

News for February 10

At the Boston Saturday League’s February meeting the draws for several local competitions were made. Due to recent poor weather there are a few earlier ties still to be decided so they contain a few either-ors.

Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup, quarter-finals, Saturday, February 20, 1.45 p.m. kick-off

Fosdyke v Old Doningtonians

Spilsby Town v Park United or Billinghay Athletic

Swineshead Institute v Old Leake

Wyberton v Kirton Town or Skegness Town Reserves

Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, semi-finals, Saturday, February 27, 1.45 p.m. kick-off

Boston Town Old Boys v Pointon

Sportsman v Benington

Barclays Brokers Willoughby Shield, quarter-finals, Saturday, March 6, 2.00 p.m. kick-off

Coningsby Reserves v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Mareham United Reserves v Billinghay Athletic Reserves

Swineshead Institute Reserves v Fishtoft Reserves or Kirton Town Reserves

Wyberton Reserves v Bye

News for February 6

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, Billingahay Athletic and Freiston produced an exciting five-goal contest which swayed one way then the other. Freiston took the initiative in the first half and they held a 2-0 lead at the halfway stage before Billinghay hit back with two Adam Burrows goals to level the scores. A late Jack Smith goal sealed victory for Freiston. Scott Hutchinson had headed Freiston in front after 10 minutes before Billinghay went desperately close with two efforts that struck the woodwork. Dean Seiner then made it 2-0 for Freiston 10 minutes before the break. The home side pulled a goal back through Burrows 20 minutes into the second half and the same player pulled the scores level from the penalty spot 15 minutes later. A draw looked on the cards with time running out but then Smith popped up in the final minute when he headed home a Joe Harris free-kick to give Freiston victory. Spilsby enjoyed their second successive 3-0 home win when Kirton Town returned home empty-handed. Adam Dales was again among the goals netting on two occasions this time while Matt Barker also got on the score-sheet. A single goal five minutes before the break settled the outcome at Swineshead when Wyberton took maximum points. The goal came following a corner from Joe Hallam which was misjudged by the home keeper and the ball found it’s way directly into the far corner. The win takes Wyberton to the top of the table at Swineshead’s expense. Final score 1-0. Coningsby won 2-1 at Skegness Town Reserves thanks to Chris Quinn and an own goal. Royston Wilkinson grabbed the Skegness goal.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Swineshead Reserves finally got back to winning ways when they showed a glimpse of last season’s form at Holbeach Bank. Swineshead stormed into a 3-0 half time lead and although Simon Hall pulled a goal back for the Bank, the visitors sealed victory with a fourth to run out 4-1 winners. Swineshead’s goals came from Lee Hunt and Alex Kirkham who both bagged two goals apiece. Old Leake hit five in their home game against Wainfleet United. The game was as good as over by half time with the home side leading 3-0 and two further goals meant in was another miserable day for Wainfleet. Old Leake’s match-winners were Karl Shackleton (2), Kieran Stocks, Rob Staples and Craig Slater. The visitors had been hoping to add another two players in the transfer window but they had to make do with just one capture – Danny Simpson from Skegness Town. Wainfleet did manage a consolation goal to make the final score 5-1. In an ill-tempered game at Pointon, the points were shared in a 1-1 draw with Sutterton. Shane Jordan grabbed the Pointon goal. Fishtoft replicated their second-string’s Reserves Cup result with a 4-2 victory. Spalding Harriers were Fishtoft’s victims on this occasion. Dawid Kantak and Adam Thompson hit the Spalding goals.

Castle Colts finally got back to playing Cropleys Suzuki Division Two football after their lengthy winter lay-off and they shook off the rust to defeat Tydd St Mary at home. Ben Jacques, Nicky De Vries and Jordan Favell were on target for the title-chasers in a 3-1 victory. Tydd came out of the blocks the brighter when Aaden Hayes lofted a lovely ball between the Colts central defenders for Greenacre to smash home the opener after just three minutes. Castle Colts drew level on sixtteen minutes after a cross to the far post deceived everyone and nestled into the back of the net. Both teams battled and scraped through the match in a stop-start game and the contest was settled during the final 15 minutes when Castle Colts scored a controversial goal to take the lead. This knocked the wind out of The Saints and with just a few minutes left The Castle scored again to wrap up all three points. Final score was 3-1. Mareham United looked to be heading for victory in their home game against Westside Rangers Reserves when they found themselves 2-1 in front with just fifteen minutes remaining but Rangers turned the game round with two late goals to run out 3-2 winners. Tom Sewell and Micky Johnson struck for United to edge them towards victory but, in the end, it wasn’t enough. Rangers’ goals came from DJ Wright, Luke Wilson and Michael Langley. Spalding Town Reserves and Old Doningtonians Reserves finished all-square in a 1-1 score-line. Chris Page hit the Spalding goal.

Benington remain top of Cropleys Suzuki Division Three despite being held to a 4-4 draw at home against Boston United Community. Tim Bell added two more goals to his leading scorers total while two own goals helped earn a share of the points but United showed great resilience in coming from behind four times. Boston cancelled out Benington’s opener when Nick Cott set up Aldo Simao. The first own goal came from the unlucky Dan Smith only for Cott to level once more with a fine finish. Another own goal, this time from Koran Darrigan, edged Benington back in front only for the visitors to level the scores with yet another own goal when keeper, Brendan Taylor’s huge kick upfield was spectacularly headed past a bewildered goalkeeper at the other end to make the half time scores 3-3. Benington came out after the break looking much the stronger and they deservedly went 4-3 ahead before Gavin Gregory brought the scores all square with a fierce drive from 30 yards. Tom Barkworth had an effort disallowed and Simon Bush squandered a chance when clean through but United were more than satisfied with their point. There was another draw at Eastville where Skegness Town A returned home with a point following a 2-2 draw. The game could have gone either way with Skegness edging in front but were then grateful to have hung on for a draw. Josh Whittam and Simon Wise had given Skegness a two-goal half time lead although Eastville had gone close to reducing the arrears through Jamie Appleby but his effort was disallowed. Skegness could have added to the score after the break before Eastville brought themselves back into the game midway through the second half when George Crewe headed in following a Kane Watson cross to make it 2-1. Jamie Appleby went close on two occasions before Eastville finally found the net through Watson to level the scores. Skegness were suddenly hanging on and were grateful to hear the final whistle. Final score 2-2. The third draw in the division came at Spalding Harriers Reserves where Woodhall Spa United Reserves earned a point in a 3-3 score-line. An own goal got Spalding off the mark before they added further goals from Matt Smith and Jamie Robinson. F C Kirton hit three goals in their home game against Friskney but it still wasn’t enough to earn any reward as Friskney grabbed three valuable points with a 4-3 away win. Jamie Lawson (2), Glenn Hislop and Daniel Fletcher scored the goals to keep Friskney in touch at the top of the table. Friskney had to come from 3-1 behind to earn a hard fought victory. After Kirton’s long-range opener, the visitors levelled through Jamie Lawson’s spot-kick. Friskney looked to have blown their chances when they conceded two quick-fire goals just before the break but a half time re-shuffle and a stern dressing down seemed to work wonders. Hislop had a couple of decent headers before reducing the arrears then Daniel Fletcher equalised following a goalmouth scramble. Keeper, Rob Holland kept Friskney in the match with a fine save from his own defender, Craig Mountain before Jamie Lawson grabbed the winner with 10 minutes to go when he fired home an unstoppable shot from the edge of the area. Referee Tom Kelly had a fine game in the middle. Kirton came out on top of their home match at Graves Park against Mareham United Reserves. The home side went ahead through a goal from Danny Darwood, which was soon followed by a fine header from Glen Smith. Kirton went 4-0 up through another goal by Danny Darwood and another from winger Gearge Bakes. Mareham had a ten minute flurry at the end after Kirton dropped their guard and the visitor brought some respectability to the score-line with two goals. Final score 4-2.

In the semi-finals of the Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup, Fishtoft Reserves were forced to switch their game to their opponents ground after their playing field committee ruled that their pitch would be unplayable. The change didn’t affect Fishtoft Reserves, however, as they hit four goals at First Division outfit, Coningsby Reserves to cause a minor upset. The Division Two side stormed into the final thanks to goals from Conrad Louth (2), Adam Vinters and Pete Coonan.

In the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup quarter-finals, Boston Town Old Boys and Kirton Leisure clashed for the second week running at Tattershall Road. After last week’s highly charged Sports Cup clash, this cup tie was, thankfully focussed more on playing football. Boston Town came out on top to book their place in the last four. Lee Hoff, Mark Crozier, Mark Locking and Shane Clancy did the damage to sink the Kirton side 4-1. Sportsman caused a bit of an upset when their team, boasting an international flavour, dumped Division One leaders, Old Doningtonians out of the competition. Valdo Mancas and Sandal Battitar hit the all-important goals for the Second Division side in a shock 2-1 victory.

News for January 30

Only three matches were lost due to the icy conditions last Saturday as the hard overnight frost resulted in some dangerous surfaces. Old Leake, Old Doningtonians Reserves and Skegness Town A called their games off on Saturday morning to prevent their opposition from making lengthy journeys.

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division Kirton Town produced an amazing comeback when they entertained Skegness Town Reserves at Graves Park. The home side were staring defeat in the face with fifteen minutes remaining with Skegness coasting at 2-0 when Kirton went on the rampage. Chris Hilton popped up twice to level the score to 2-2 and then a shot from Jonathan Hallum put Kirton in the lead. A fourth goal scored by Ashley Hughes secured an amazing 4-2 victory for Kirton Town while a bemused Skegness couldn't understand what had happened. Freiston went down 6-4 at home to Woodhall Spa United although it took 25 minutes before the first goal was scored. The Woodhall keeper made several good saves early on as Freiston looked to break the deadlock before the visitors hit back with the opening goal following a defensive mistake. Woodhall then ran riot as Freiston lost their way just before the break and three goals found the home side’s net. Amazingly Woodhall added another soon after the interval to make the score 5-0 before Freiston finally responded with a three-goal burst . Aston Chase, Dean Seiner and Nicky Syndercombe brought some respectability to the score-line before Woodhall had a player dismissed for an alleged last-player offence. The ten men were not deterred and they added goal number six with a low shot before Dean Seiner scored with a cross shot to make the final score 6-4. There was an unsavoury fracas in the centre circle after the final whistle and Freiston’s Jack Smith was singled out for a red card.

Phil Horspool and Aaron Bradnam put Coningsby Reserves on course for Cropleys Suzuki Division One victory when they played hosts to Sutterton. The two-goal interval lead meant that Sutterton had to throw caution to the wind after the break and the visitors did just that to rescue a point with two second half goals. Leading scorer, Andy Brown, unsurprisingly, grabbed both of the Sutterton goals. Final score 2-2. Swineshead Reserves shot themselves in the foot when they had two players dismissed to leave Spalding Harriers with a big advantage. The visitors didn’t waste any time in making their two-man advantage pay dividends hitting their opponents for six without reply. Steve Carn and Jason Haytree both scored twice while Adam Thompson and Craig Lawrence were also on target. There was another 6-0 score-line at Wyberton Reserves where basement side, Wainfleet United were shown no mercy. John Reeson hit two of the home side’s goals while victory was ensured with further goals from Jason Skinner, Danny Mindham, Jason Allen and Mark Lovelace.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, leaders, Billinghay Athletic Reserves travelled to Fosdyke last Saturday looking to extend their lead at the top of the table. The home side competed well during the first half and trailed just by a single goal at the halfway stage but Billinghay’s superiority came to the fore after the break and they struck three more times to run out comfortable winners by 4-0. The opening goal came on the half hour mark when Fosdyke failed to clear a corner and, following a comical ‘ping-pong’ sequence in the area, the ball was finally forced home. Fosdyke remained in the game until 15 minutes from time and they created some worthwhile chances helped by the return from injury of their influential play-maker, Ben Charlton. Billinghay took advantage of some gaps in the home defence as the game wore on and three late goals made sure of victory.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Benington remain in top spot following a 4-1 home win against Freiston Reserves. Nicky Wiles (2), Ian Morris and an own goal did the damage for the home side. Friskney got back to winning ways with a 2-0 home win against Woodhall Spa United Reserves. Richard Hatch grabbed the first goal while the clinching strike came from Glenn Hislop. Friskney should have opened the scoring after thirty minutes when Richie Hatch was felled in the box but their spot-kick jinx returned to haunt them once more as Simon Goy fired his penalty high over the bar. The home side took the lead, however, 10 minutes later when Hatch side footed home following a Matt Goy cross. Woodhall’s keeper kept Friskney at bay with some fine saves in the second half until ten minutes from time when Friskney clinched victory. Neil Allen headed the ball back for Glenn Hislop to fire home. Man of the match, Dave Clarke made a welcome, to Friskney’s line-up after a lengthy injury spell.

Simon Hall struck twice for Holbeach Bank Reserves as they continued their impressive run with a 3-0 home win against FC Kirton. Mark Casey hit the other Bank goal. Goals from Nathan Gurbutt and Daniel Langford helped Spalding Harriers to all three points following a 2-1 home win against Eastville, Midville and New Leake. Two goals from George Sharpe for Pointon Reserves meant Park United returned home empty-handed following a 4-3 defeat. Brad Munton and Aaron Pullem were also on target for The Spalding side. Park went close with goals from Josh Stanley, Ben Liu and Sam Veasey.

In round three of the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup Westside Rangers produced an impressive performance at one of the favourites for the competition, Billinghay Athletic. The Premiership’s basement side had the home side on tenterhooks at half time with Billinghay leading by the narrowest of margins at 4-3. Athletic secured victory with three second half goals although the underdogs still managed to reply to make the final score 7-4. Keith Leader and Adam Burrows both struck twice for Billinghay while Simon Burrows, Gary Cochrane and Pete Dickinson also got on the score-sheet. In a highly-charged cup tie at Tattershall Road, Boston Town Old Boys squeezed through to the next round after a penalty shoot-out against Kirton Leisure. Mark Wakefield, Micky Nuttell, Nigel Vince and Tom Maher scored The Town goals in normal time while Kirton Leisure matched their opponents with four of their own as the score ended 4-4 after ninety minutes. There was no further score in extra time so the dreaded penalty shoot out was required to settle the outcome and The Old Boys just edged it by 4-3. Two Sam Louth goals helped Wyberton to a 3-0 away win at Fishtoft with an own goal completing the scoring. Sportsman, from Division Two put up a spirited display at Spilsby Town before bowing out 3-0. Steve Marvell, Adam Dale and Paul Hide hit the crucial goals for the home side. Spalding Town and Pointon served up a seven goal thriller with Martin Gordon and Michael Cartlidge both scoring twice for Town. Pointon, who had been in front at 2-1 at one stage, replied through Ben Elkington, Mark Smith and Shane Jordan. Final score 4-3. There was no upset at Boston United Community where Premier outfit, Coningsby overpowered the third Division side. Tom Dickinson and Chris Quinn both scored twice in a 6-1 away win. Danny Barker and Adrian Shaw completed the scoring for Coningsby while Scott Burrell grabbed United’s consolation.

In the semi-final of the Spalding Inter-Services Trophy, Old Doningtonians, The Boston Saturday League’s representative, produced an excellent performance away from home at Gedney Hill. Chris Wing and Curtis Lane both scored twice in an emphatic 6-2 scoreline while Mark Sharman and Aidan Moore completed the scoring. The turning point, however, came with the scores standing at 2-2 and The Dons keeper, Andy Barnett somehow prevented the home side from edging in front with an unbelievable save. The visitors never looked back after that and they stormed through to the final. Old Doningtonians will play either Long Sutton Athletic or Sutton Bridge United.

News for January 23

Many sides tasted their first slice of action since before Christmas when the Boston Saturday League hosted their most productive programme since the wintry conditions descended in mid-December resulting in just six games being lost to the wet conditions following Friday’s deluge. At the Boston Saturday League’s January meeting two weeks ago, there was some bad news for two of the clubs when the withdrawals of Nortoft United and Skegness Working Men’s Club were accepted and approved. The two clubs have experienced troubles on and off the field for most of the season and although it was no real surprise when they called it a day, it was still seen as a big disappointment. The opposing sides who had earned points against these two sides will therefore have their records adjusted accordingly.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Holbeach Bank recorded their second successive away win to move away from the bottom of the table. They followed up last week’s away win at Wainfleet with a 2-1 victory at Coningsby Reserves. The Bank held a slender 1-0 lead at the break and they added another in the second half before Phil Horspool pulled a goal back for Coningsby with ten minutes left. The home side poured forward in search of an equaliser but Holbeach’s defence stood firm to earn another valuable haul of three points. Sutterton’s prolific goal-scoring machine, Andy Brown notched up yet another hat-trick for his side in their home match against Wyberton Reserves but it still wasn’t enough to earn the home side any reward. The visitors had their own hat-trick hero in Mark Lovelace while Steve Burdass also got on the scoresheet to give Wyberton a hard fought three points. Final score was 4-3. In the big clash between the two Spalding sides, Spalding Town enjoyed their short trip at Spalding Harriers following a comfortable 4-1 victory. Michael Cartlidge struck two goals while Tomas Rabiega and Martin Gordon also got on the scoresheet. Steve Carn replied for The Harriers.

Boston Town Old Boys kept in touch at the top of the Cropleys Suzuki Division Two table following a 5-2 home win against Fishtoft Reserves although the score-line probably flattered the home side somewhat. Fishtoft Reserves had fought back from 3-0 behind with two goals and were looking to salvage some reward in the final stages. Town had other ideas, however, when they made sure of victory with two late goals. Shane Clancy (2), Micky Nuttell, Will Chambers and Lee Hoff hit the all-important goals for Boston Town Old Boys. Town are now level on points with Castle Colts who were without a game after their top of the table clash at Billinghay Athletic Reserves was lost to the waterlogged conditions. Old Doningtonians went so close to securing their second victory of the season when they entertained Kirton Leisure but ended up empty-handed in a nine-goal thriller. Mark Stanhope, Trevor Hammond, Chris Wing and Andy Stanhope scored for The Dons but they were just edged out when Kirton replied with five goals of their own to run out 5-4 winners.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Holbeach Bank Reserves played hosts to Eastville, Midville and New Leake and the honours turned out even in a 3-3 basement battle. Simon Hall, Phil Dickinson and Robert Smith hit the goals for the Bank. Woodhall Spa United Reserves took all three points at FC Kirton with a 4-0 score-line. Alex Behan (2), Chris Hall and Charlie Stapleton were all on target for the visitors. Mareham United Reserves produced a spirited fighting performance in their home match against free-scoring Benington. Stuart Bunn, Steve Hunter and Shaun Boothby scored for Mareham but Benington remain top of the table following goals from Tim Bell 2, Nicky Wiles and an own goal. Final score 4-3. The other two games at Skegness Town A and Friskney fell victims of the weather so Boston United Community and Spalding Harriers Reserves respectively were spared their lengthy journeys.

In round one of the Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup, Fosdyke and Wainfleet United produced a closely fought encounter with the Division Two side edging through to the next round by the odd goal in five. Fosdyke went behind after ten minutes when the Division One side beat the offside trap to score but the home side, who had not played for the past six weeks, recovered well by taking control for the remainder of the first half replying twice to lead at the break. The first goal came from Scott Ekins before the inspirational Drew McGuire put Fosdyke ahead. Wainfleet came out after the break in determined mood and they deservedly levelled the tie with a penalty to make the scores 2-2. The game appeared to be heading for extra time when a shot from Drew McGuire was spilled by the visiting keeper and substitute Joe Chapman was on hand to tuck away the rebound to put Fosdyke through to the next round. Final score 3-2. Two goals from Chris Rutt helped Wyberton to a 3-1 away win at Fishtoft. Sam Louth was also on target for The Premier side. Wyberton had stormed into a two-goal lead before Paul Vaughan pulled a goal back. The visitors sealed victory with a third to ease through to the next round. A Paul Clarke penalty was enough to settle the all-Premier clash at Swineshead where Coningsby put up a spirited fight. The all-important penalty was awarded with 20 minutes remaining. Final score 1-0. The ties between Kirton Town and Skegness Town Reserves along with Park United and Billinghay Athletic were postponed.

News for January 16

The big thaw didn't come soon enough for most teams last Saturday with only seven matches surviving the elements. Heavy rain on top of the remaining ice and snow put paid to a dozen of The League's scheduled fixtures.

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, Coningsby certainly made up for their recent inactivity by hitting Kirton Town for ten in their home encounter with Robin Holderness grabbing a hat-trick. Three other players helped themselves to double-strikes - Tom Dickinson, Adrian Shaw and Lee Croft all going close to emulating Holderness. The remaining goal came from Rob Layton. In the only other Premiership game, Spilsby Town also enjoyed a comfortable home win when they defeated Westside Rangers 5-1. Adam Dale (2), Pete Sampson, Des Rook and Steven Marvell hit the crucial goals for Town. Rangers reply came from Jody Betts.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Holbeach Bank gained three valuable points with a 3-1 away win at Wainfleet United. The home side's only goal came from Nathan Rawden following a corner from Gary Coggan

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Freiston Reserves included Boston Town striker, Laszlo Lovas in their strong line-up when they entertained Spalding Harriers Reserves. Lovas was without a game after Town's League Cup tie was postponed so he signed on for The Division Three side to maintain his fitness levels. The new signing got on the scoresheet with one of the goals while Marcus Reeson and Dean Seiner were also on target in a 3-1 victory. Mareham United Reserves hit three goals at Boston United Community but still ended up empty-handed. Chris Money, James Todd and Tom Sewell scored the goals for the visitors but it still wasn't enough as Boston hit four goals to run out 4-3 winners in a seven-goal thriller at the Middlecott School. United took the lead with a superb individual effort from Joe Dobson when his quick feet saw him ghost past two defenders before coolly slotting past the keeper. Veteran play-maker, Simon Bush added a second with a fine volley into the top corner following a Scott Burrell flick-on. Mareham gave themselves a glimmer of hope when James Todd took full advantage of some hesitation by the home keeper at a free-kick to make the half-time score 2-1. Mareham improved greatly after the break and after some intense pressure, they deservedly equalised and shortly afterwards they stunned their opponents by going 3-2 ahead. Boston stormed back, however, and they levelled when Richard Houghton's through pass enabled Tom Barkworth to score. Barkworth’s goal-scoring instincts saw him snatch victory for United when he pounced to put away a rebound to make the final score 4-3. Referee, Graham Slater had a fine game in the middle.

In the quarter-finals of the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, Benington striker Tim Bell started the new year in much the same rich scoring vein as he ended last year when he hit both of his side's goals in a 2-0 away win at Skegness Town A. In the other quarter final, Old Leake and Pointon produced an exciting end to end tie despite there being only one goal in the match. The result could easily have gone either way with Pointon having two efforts cleared off the line and Old Leake missing three good chances before half-time. The tie was settled when a David Cook cross fell nicely for Shane Jordan to score the only goal of the game and put Pointon through to the semi-finals. Old Leake were unlucky to miss a header late in the game at the back post. Final score 1-0.

News for January 9

No review: all matches postponed due to frost, snow and ice.

News for January 2

As the big freeze continued, only three fixtures survived last Saturday – although that was three more than the Pre-Christmas weekend wipe-out.

In Division Two, Tydd St Mary’s home match against Spalding Town Reserves witnessed further snow showers but the referee persevered to get the fixture completed while in the other two games the pitches were just playable – a Division Three game at Mareham United Reserves where Park United were the visitors and a Sports Cup tie at Wrangle where Benington took on Spalding Harriers.

So back to the Cropleys Suzuki Division Two game at Tydd St Mary where the home side were on top of their home encounter with Spalding Town Reserves when the referee contemplated putting a stop to proceedings with 20 minutes remaining. The match official was persuaded by the home side to carry on, so it was ironic that Spalding then snatched victory two minutes later with the winning goal! Tydd will still be wondering how they failed to get some reward for all their efforts with Dan Fines hitting the crossbar and both Graham Greenacre and Kane Ashwood striking uprights.

Referee Ray Larcombe passed the pitch at Mareham as fit to play and although there was the odd firm patch, the surface did give a little as the Cropleys Suzuki Division Three game wore on. Park United played their part on a freezing cold day but Mareham proved too strong and they ran out 4-0 winners. Stuart Bunn hit two of the goals for Mareham United Reserves while Chris Ray and an own goal completed the scoring.

Only one tie in the Sports Cup was completed and that was at Main Road, Wrangle where Division Three high-flyers, Benington were hoping to cause an upset against Spalding Harriers from the First Division. Although Benington squandered plenty of decent chances, it was the Spalding outfit, who proved more clinical in front of goal. Ian Morris managed to get on the scoresheet for Benington but the visitors replied four times to run out 4-1 winners with three of their match-wining goals coming from Kamil Sowinski. The other Spalding goal came from Adam Thompson.

News for December 19

No reports: all matches postponed due to snow, frost and ice.

News for December 12

The Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division contest between Woodhall Spa United and Spilsby Town was decided by a single goal – unfortunately for Woodhall it was a freak own goal, which settled the match when a shot was deflected past the stranded keeper off the heel of the unlucky Mark Sargeant. Spilsby’s Matt Barker will probably try and claim the goal as it was his shot which flew across goal. Woodhall had their chances and were slightly unfortunate not to have grabbed some reward when they struck both crossbar and upright. Coningsby took full advantage of some sloppy play from Freiston to record a fine 3-1 away win. The opening goal came on fifteen minutes when a home defender lost the ball on the halfway line allowing the grateful Coningsby forward to surge forward and slot the ball home. Freiston were level, however, within five minutes when Dean Seiner swept home a low shot. Coningsby regained the lead just before the break when a misplaced back-pass was seized upon by another surprised forward who promptly netted to make it 2-1. Freiston started the second half brightly but the visiting defence looked solid and the result was put beyond doubt on the hour when a penalty was awarded and converted. Although Freiston’s approach play was good their finishing was wayward although they had a goal disallowed in the final minutes following an obstruction offence on the keeper at a corner. Coningsby’s goals came from Adrian Shaw who hit two and Robin Holderness. Westside Rangers continue to soldier on in difficult times and things didn’t get any better last Saturday when they went down 8-0 at home against Wyberton. Sam Louth hit a hat-trick for the visitors while substitute Michael Collins grabbed a brace. The other match winning goals came from Chris Rutt, Jamie Khun and Jimmy Britton. A second half hat-trick from leading goalscorer, Bert Snaith secured maximum points for Swineshead in their 3-1 away win at Skegness Town Reserves. Swineshead trailed 1-0 at the break after Danny Long had opened the scoring for Skegness before Snaith struck the equaliser ten minutes into the second half. The scores remained deadlocked until ten minutes from time when Snaith collected a long clearance and held off the close attention of two defenders and driving past the keeper. Snaith completed his hat-trick five minutes later when he combined with Martin North before scoring to make sure of victory. There was another bonus for Swineshead in the form of debutant Alex Snaith who produced an impressive performance at right back. Final score 3-1

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Old Doningtonians continued their impressive run with a 3-0 away win at Wyberton Reserves. Mark Sharman and Curtis Lane had given the visitors a 2-0 half time lead before Chris Wing made certain of victory with a third after the break. Fishtoft enjoyed a fine 3-2 away win at Coningsby Reserves following goals from Ady Almond who grabbed two and Scott Wiseman. The first half ended goal-less before Fishtoft took a two-goal lead after the break. Chris Chew pulled a goal back for Coningsby only for the visitors to restore their two-goal advantage shortly afterwards. Tom Dickinson gave Coningsby a glimmer of hope when he scored to make it 3-2 but Fishtoft held firm to take maximum points. Richard Stukins hit both of Swineshead Reserves’ goals in their home game against Spalding Town but it wasn’t enough to earn any reward as the visitors struck four goals to run out 4-2 winners. Spalding stunned their opponents with goals from Martin Gordon (2), Nathan Young and Aiden Doherty. Greg Brown hit two goals for Old Leake in their 3-1 away win at Sutterton. Rob Staples was also on target for the visitors. An Andy Brown penalty was Sutterton’s only reply. Pointon’s recent impressive run continued with a 3-1 away win at Spalding Harriers and they are just off the pace at the top of the table. Ben Elkington struck twice for the visitors while Nathan Wilson also got on the scoresheet. Spalding replied through Adam Thompson. Nortoft United’s home game with Holbeach Bank didn’t go ahead because of a lack of players at The Boston side’s camp. Things don’t look too good for Nortoft who are now applying to withdraw from The League.

With Boston Town Old Boys enjoying a day off, Cropleys Suzuki Division Two leaders Billinghay Athletic Reserves extended their lead to six points following a 5-2 home win against Kirton Leisure. Rick Harrod struck twice for the home side while Adam Weston, Matthew Phillips and Danny Long completed the scoring. Castle Colts moved into second place after a 5-2 away win at Tydd St Mary. Tydd had rocked their opponents with a sixth minute opener from Graham Greenacre before The Castle responded with two goals to lead 2-1 at the break. Although Devon Furness scored again for Tydd in the second half, the visitors turned on the style with three further goals to run out 5-2 winners. Tydd St. Mary’s Secretary, Carl Wilson claimed that they had come up against an excellent outfit in Castle Colts although his side were a little disappointed that three of the goals came from corners. The Castle’s match-winners were Ben Jacques (2), Gary Frost, Danny Maddison and Jimmy Nuttell. Fishtoft Reserves hit two goals in each half to keep in touch at the top when they entertained Fosdyke. Simon Hyland struck first for Fishtoft before a 30-yard strike from Diogo Garcia made it 2-0 at the break. Fishtoft wrapped up the points in the second half with further goals from Grant Butler and Matthew Parnham. Spalding Town Reserves and Mareham United produced a high-scoring encounter. Micky Handford (2), Chris Page and James Stafford were all on target for Spalding in a 4-4 draw. Old Doningtonians Reserves still continue to struggle at the wrong end of the table following a 3-2 home defeat at the hands of Westside rangers Reserves. Dale Houghton struck both of The Dons’ goals but Rangers took the points to move into the top half of the table.

Benington striker, Tim Bell struck five goals for the third time this season when his side overpowered Kirton Town Reserves in Cropleys Suzuki Division Three. Ross Don-Duncan was also on target for the home side in a 6-1 scoreline. There was a big shock at Skegness Town A where early pace-setters, Friskney crashed to a 8-0 defeat. Josh Whittam did most of the damage for Skegness hitting four of their goals while Callum Pearce, Jamie Lyall, Jamie Cotterill and Andy Parish also scored to make it a miserable day for Friskney. The visitors looked lethargic throughout and Town sensed there were goals in the offing and they sunk their opponents with four goals in each half. Boston United Community and Freiston Reserves shared the points following a 3-3 draw. Aldo Simao struck twice for United with Tom Barkworth grabbing the other goal while Freiston salvaged a point with goals from David Whalley who also grabbed a brace and Marcus Reeson. There was another draw at Pointon Reserves where Simon Long hit both of his side’s goals in a 2-2 score-line against FC Kirton. Holbeach Bank Reserves came out on top of their bottom of the table clash against Spalding Harriers Reserves. Simon Hall and Mark Casey scored the all-important goals in a 2-1 home win. The game at Eastville, Midville and New Leake was postponed during the morning following overnight rain, which caused one of the goalmouths to become waterlogged. Opponents, Park United were therefore unable to keep their momentum going after some impressive results of late.

News for December 5

Billinghay Athletic steamrollered Kirton Town during the first half of their home Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, clash scoring six goals and having five further efforts cleared off the line. To their credit, Kirton did improve after the break but the home side clinched a thumping victory by scoring twice more to run out 8-0 winners. Adam Burrows grabbed four of Billinghay’s goals, while fellow striker Pete Dickinson struck twice. Gary Cocharane and Keith Leader also got on the scoresheet for the rampant home side. The crushing victory puts Billinghay firmly on top of the table. Spilsby Town and Swineshead Institute fought out a dour goal-less draw at Ancaster Avenue while in the other remaining game, third placed Wyberton won 4-2 at Coningsby. Wyberton's match-winners were Chris Rutt, John Reeson, Jimmy Britton and Joe Hallam

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Holbeach Bank earned a hard earned point in their home game against Spalding Harriers thanks to goals from Mark Casey and Tim Cole. The Harriers replied to go home with a point following a 2-2 draw. Kieran Stocks proved to be a real thorn in the side for Swineshead Reserves following their 3-2 defeat at Old Leake. Stocks stunned the visitors with the opening goal in the first few minutes and Adam Tempest was also on target for Old Leake although Swineshead stormed back to level the scores at 2-2 following an own goal and a Richard Barker strike. Just when the visitors thought they were returning home with a share of the points up popped Stocks with the crucial winning goal in the last minute. Old Doningtonians conceded two goals in the last third of the game at home to Sutterton and had to be content with a point following a 3-3 draw. Chris Wing and Aiden Moore struck during a first half which The Dons dominated but Sutterton grabbed a lifeline just before the break when Nigel Edison capitalised on a rush of blood by The Dons keeper pull a goal back to make the half time score 2-1. Sutterton were a different side after the break and Brown, Edison and Hill all went close to levelling the scores before the home side stunned their opponents with a third goal when Wing notched up his second goal of the game. Sutterton refused to buckle however, and following a defence-splitting pass from Gary Lee their pacy striker, Andy Brown burst through before rounding the keeper and rolling the ball home on the hour mark. Sutterton grabbed an equaliser with twenty minutes remaining when Gary Lee got on the end of an Andy Brown corner to bundle the ball home. Both sides had chances in the final stages with Sutterton’s Roqueeti going closest with a speculative effort from inside his own half which struck the crossbar. Final score 3-3. Pointon hit Coningsby Reserves for six in their home game with Mark Smith helping himself to two of his side’s goals. The other goals came from Mason hardy, Dane Hardy, Shane Jordan and Jack Ramm. Wainfleet United, still struggling for players, went down 5-2 at Spalding Town. Spalding had stormed into a 5-0 lead thanks to goals from Tom Elderkin 2, Aiden Doherty, Martin Gordon and Thoamsz Rabiega before Wainfleet staged a late rally. A superb Thomas Jenkins strike and then a Ryan Medley-Metcalf helped reduce the arrears and make the score-line slightly more respectable. Wyberton Reserves and Nortoft United produced an excellent encounter at The Causeway with both sides contributing to a real end to end game. Nortoft came out on top eventually with goals from Terry Maddigan and Levi Emmanuel but Wyberton had their chances before finally got on the scoresheet in a 2-1 scoreline.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, last Saturday’s big top of the table clash saw Boston Town Old Boys, who had previously boasted a proud 100 percent record, finally experience defeat when they faced Castle Colts at Rosebery Avenue last Saturday. A Gary Frost penalty, a Danny Warren strike and a debut goal from Jimmy Nuttell secured a 3-1 victory for The Castle while Mark Wakefield pulled a goal back for The Old Boys.

Spalding Town Reserves opened the scoring at Fosdyke with a free-kick after fifteen minutes before the home side hit back with two goals from Chris Bell – the second being a spectacular left-footed volley. Spalding got back on level terms before the break when they scrambled home a corner after Fosdyke failed to deal with the dead ball. Fosdyke regained the lead early in the second half when the referee spotted a dangerous elbow on Drew Mcguire and Robbie Curle put away the spot kick. McGuire, on his home debut, then got on the scoresheet twice himself to cap a great performance. His brace came either side of a superb Dave Beament strike. Final score 6-2. Fishtoft Reserves still maintain their challenge at the top with a 5-0 away win at Kirton Leisure. Matt Parnham hit two goals for the visitors while Conrad Louth, Pete Coonan and Grant Butler were also on target. Tydd St Mary travelled to Boston to play Sportsman with only the bare eleven outfield players on Saturday but despite having no subs to draw on they put in an outstanding performance to run out deserved 3-0 winners. Both teams threatened in the first half with The Saints slightly shading it but neither side could make the vital breakthrough and the scores remained goalless at the break. Tydd started the brighter after half-time and they opened the scoring on 59 minutes when Steven Robinson put a lovely pass through to Roger Kissane who blasted the ball home from a narrow angle. Tydd doubled their lead two minutes later when a cheeky ball through ball by Andy Bennett found Kissane who scored on the half volley over the on-rushing ‘keepers head. The Saints were now in complete control and they scored their third goal on sixty seven minutes when Dev Furness squared the ball for Kane Ashwood to hit a fierce shot that squirmed under the ‘keeper’s body. Sportsman rallied and came back into the game, hitting the bar twice and forcing man of the match, Darren Milligan, in The Tydd goal, into some fine saves.

Boston United Community gained a hard earned three points in Cropleys Suzuki Division Three against a plucky Spalding Harriers Reserves side who kept the scores goal-less during the first period with some resolute defending. United went 1-0 in front in the second half when Aldo Simao gambled on a long goal-kick from keeper Brendan Taylor and coolly finished before Spalding levelled through Craig Lawrence from the penalty spot. Boston were then awarded a penalty themselves when Gavin Gregory, on as a substitute for his side, went on a forceful run before being upended – the same player then dusted himself down before blazing his spot-kick high over the bar. Boston skipper, Lewis Wright came to his side’s rescue with the winning goal when he produced a neat turn and composed finish to make the final score 2-1. Friskney’s inconsistent run continued with a disappointing 1-1 home draw against Freiston Reserves. The home team was guilty of some glaring misses with their only goal coming from the penalty spot – converted by John Rutherford. Unfortunately for Friskney he also missed from the penalty spot after Perrie Dale was hauled to the floor in the box for the second time during the match. Freiston equalised through Daniel Redford when he headed home from a corner. Ironically, Freiston’s life-saver could have turned hero when he took responsibility to take an injury time penalty – fortunately, this time for Friskney, he missed so the match finished all-square at 1-1. Referee Tony Taupin had a fine game in the middle. Benington moved into top spot following a thumping 9-1 home win against Eastville, Midville and New Leake. On this occasion, Tim Bell was outgunned in the goalscoring stakes, only scoring twice while strike partner, Ross Don-Duncan hit five of his side’s goals. Scott Dawson and Tom Baxter completed the rout. Eastville’s consolation goal came from William Gosling.

Daniel Bourne struck a fine hat-trick for FC Kirton in their 5-1 home win against lowly Holbeach Bank Reserves. Aaron Bradshaw and Phil Shuttleworth also got on the scoresheet for Kirton while Simon Hall replied for The Bank. Skegenss Town A came out on top of their home clash with Pointon Reserves following a seven goal thriller. Josh Whittam, Jamie Lyall, Ryan Beresford and Callum Pearce were all on target for Skegness while Pointon hit back through John Mott, George Sharpe and Andrew Ayliff. Final score 4-3

Park United continue to threaten the leading pack with another impressive three point haul when they returned home from Graves Park. Alex Limb hit two of his side’s goals in a 5-2 away win at Kirton Town Reserves while Martin Bradshaw, Ben Liu and own goal helped secure a fine victory. Mareham United Reserves were victorious in their local derby match away at Woodhall Spa United Reserves with a fine 3-1 win. Leon Learney scored Woodhall’s only goal.

In the Mason Bros Lincs Junior Cup, Waltham Tea Gardens disposed of The Boston League’s sole representative last Saturday when Freiston made the journey to The Grimsby-based side. Freiston were always going to be up against it when they travelled with an under strength side including no recognised keeper. Young Curtis Yeatman donned the gloves and jersey and equipped himself well but they were dealt another early blow when defender Lee Marshall was forced out of the action with an injury in the opening thirty minutes. The pitch didn’t help The Boston League side either as it was very narrow and could easily have passed as a juniors pitch but somehow the visitors found themselves 2-0 ahead following goals from Joe Harris and Dean Seiner. Waltham responded immediately, however, to level the scores by half time. The home side edged in front on the hour and although Freiston had chances to have levelled the tie they conceded two late goals to crash out 5-2, which was a rather flattering scoreline for Waltham.

News for November 28

Out of the four quarter-final ties in the Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup, two of the matches produced shocks with Fishtoft Reserves and Pointon Reserves toppling sides from higher divisions. Fishtoft Reserves, from Division Two ousted First Division outfit, Wyberton Reserves 2-1 at home. After a goal-less first half, Wyberton opened the scoring soon after the restart through Robert Adamiak before Michael Parnham levelled the tie. The all-important match winner came from Conrad Louth who netted from the penalty spot which was awarded when influential midfielder, Simon Hyland was pushed over just as he was about to tuck away a rebound off the keeper. The other shock came at Pointon Reserves where the Third Division side dumped Swineshead Reserves out in a 4-3 thriller. The underdogs’ goals came from John Mott 2, Brad Munton and George Sharpe. First Division side, Swineshead replied through Mark Ledger, Richard Barker and Rikky Toyer. The visitors have experienced some wretched luck in the competition during the past three seasons with three successive defeats after reaching the final. Coningsby Reserves had little trouble in disposing of Spalding Harriers Reserves in their home tie. Chris Chew opened the scoring for the First Division side and Cameron Robertson added a second before the break. A debut goal from recent signing, Stuart Gomes and another from Cameron Robertson made it 4-0 before The Spalding side replied through Nathan Gurbutt to make the final score 4-1. In an all Division Two clash Spalding Town Reserves edged out Old Doningtonians Reserves with a 3-2 home win. Jamie Juckes, Paul Ryan and Micky Handford were all on target for The Spalding side.

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, Coningsby came out on top of their local derby clash at Woodhall Spa United. Although the home side struck twice through Tom Richardson and James Wheeler there was no stopping Coningsby who made the short journey home with maximum points after replying with four goals to run out 4-2 winners. The top of the table clash between Freiston and Swineshead produced a frantic start with three goals in the opening seven minutes as first, Swineshead striker, Bert Snaith fired his side in front after four minutes from 15 yards. Freiston were level within a minute when Lee Dakin netted before Snaith struck again two minutes later with another drive from the edge of the box. It was all-square again after twenty five minutes when Scott Hutchinson headed home. Freiston then put their opponents under constant pressure during the early stages of the second half before Swineshead snatched the lead after seventy minutes when Paul Clarke was brought down in the box and the same player got up to fire home the resulting spot kick. Martin North then made it 4-2 after 82 minutes and Swineshead capped a great team performance with a fifth a minute later when Bert Snaith completed his hat-trick when he fastened onto a long clearance before scoring. Final score 5-2. Kirton Town and Spilsby Town shared the points at Graves Park following a 2-2 draw. Graham Blades and Dan Smith scored for Spilsby.

One Cropleys Suzuki Division One game was lost due to a chronic lack of players when Nortoft United, who were due to entertain Fishtoft, were forced to call their game off. Nortoft pulled the plug shortly before the kick off because several players had not turned up. The inevitable outcome will be the award of the three points to Fishtoft. Goals from Adam Tempest, Danny Keal and Rob Staples helped Old Leake to a 3-2 home win against Spalding Town. Sutterton had to wait until the 88th minute before clinching the three points in their home match against a plucky Holbeach Bank side. Things had started well enough for the home side and they created three good chances before Nigel Edison finally got on the end of Sergio Roquetti’s free-kick to open the scoring after eighteen minutes. Holbeach Bank levelled the scores ten minutes later with a superbly taken headed goal in their first real attack. Sutterton responded well and they created some more excellent opportunities before Andy Brown put his side 2-1 ahead at the break. Sutterton continued on the attack after the restart but some resolute defending coupled with some fine goalkeeping kept Messrs Brown and Edison at bay. The Bank then rocked the home side with an equaliser after 65 minutes when they netted from the penalty spot. Holbeach were now enjoying their best spell of the game and it was Sutterton's turn to defend in numbers. Daubney and Smalley had to make excellent last-ditch tackles to prevent the visitors from edging in front. The game seemed to be heading for a draw until leading goalscorer, Andy Brown popped up with the crucial winning when he skipped past two defenders before bending a superb shot into the top right hand corner. Sutterton then held onto their slender lead to give them a deserved but hard fought victory. Final score 3-2.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys returned to the top of the table following a 3-0 home win against Sportsman. Two goals from Shane Clancy and another from Micky Nuttell made sure Sportsman returned home empty-handed. Liam Shinn also helped himself to a two-goal haul when Kirton Leisure defeated Westside Rangers Reserves 5-0. Tim Rowland, Chris Massingham and Sam Duff also got on the scoresheet for The Kirton side. Craig Spooner struck a fine hat-trick for Castle Colts in their 6-0 home win against Fosdyke. Danny Warren grabbed two and a superb Danny White free-kick completed the scoring. Fosdyke had competed well during the first half and were only trailing 1-0 with fifteen minutes of the half remaining but The Castle then blitzed their opponents with a four-goal salvo to lead 5-0 at the break. Tydd St Mary recovered from 2-0 down to draw level in the 78th minute only for Mareham United to respond almost immediately to give the visitors a 3-2 away win.

Park United conceded two goals in the final 10 minutes to share the Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, points with Skegness Town A following a 3-3 draw. Chris Wright put Park ahead from the penalty spot before Skegness levelled before the break. Second half goals from Ben Liu and Alex Limb put Park in control at 3-1 but Town hit back with those two late strikes to rescue a point. Friskney and Benington clashed for the second week running and despite having home advantage again the outcome was the same – a Benington victory. Although Friskney were holding their opponents at 3-3 with fifteen minutes remaining two late goals saw the visitors home with a 5-3 away win. Benington struck first when a loose ball fell at the feet of leading goalscorer, Tim Bell who scored with ease before Glen Hislop levelled for Friskney with a fierce drive. Benington then regained the lead only for Perrie Dale to equalise. Again Benington edged in front at 3-2 from the penalty spot after Tim Bell was clipped in the area. The home side then had a goal ruled out for a foul on The Benington keeper but they were not to be denied and they levelled the scores at 3-3 shortly after the break when Marcus De Vivar was upended in the penalty area and Jamie Lawson netted from the spot. The game was very competitive with some tackles being a bit too fierce for the liking of the referee and a few players were shown yellow cards. Both sides had chances and the woodwork was struck but Benington went 4-3 ahead with fifteen minutes remaining following a corner which was dropped by Friskney’s keeper as he was challenged. The crucial fifth goal came when Tim Bell broke clear to score to make the final score 5-3. Apart from Bell’s two strikes, new signing, Neil Timby, Nicky Wiles and Ross Don-Duncan were also on target for the visitors. Referee, Tim Cowdell had a fine match in the middle. Holbeach Bank Reserves remain second from bottom after a six-goal mauling at home at the hands of Freiston Reserves. Troy Ayton and Tom Waterson both scored twice while Chris Spiller and Daniel Redford also got on the scoresheet for Freiston in a convincing 6-0 away win.

News for November 21

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, two first half goals sealed Coningsby Reserves’ fate in their home game against Swineshead Reserves. John Mitchell and Harry Houghton proved to be Swineshead’s match-winners in a 2-0 away win.

Mareham United hit Old Doningtonians Reserves for six when they entertained the Cropleys Suzuki Division Two strugglers although the visitors made a fight of it in the final stages. Mareham were, at one stage 6-1 ahead but The Dons struck with two late goals to make the score-line more respectable. Tom Sewell and Micky Johnson both scored twice in a 6-3 victory while Mark Twells and Jimmy Harris completed the scoring. Billinghay Athletic Reserves also hit six when they travelled to Westside Rangers Reserves. Alex Gammon 2, Rick Harrod, Thomas Moor, Matthew Dring and Steve Wilcox. scored the goals to send Billinghay to the top of the table following their 6-1 away win.

In the days’ big bottom of the table Cropleys Suzuki Division Three clash, Spalding Harriers Reserves moved above their opponents, Pointon Reserves following a 2-1 away win. Shane George scored The Pointon goal but Spalding owe a huge debt to their goalkeeper who produced an impressive display especially during the second half to keep the home side from gaining any reward. Richard Hall struck twice for Woodhall Spa United Reserves in their 3-0 home win against struggling Holbeach Bank Reserves. Tim Williamson hit the other Woodhall goal. A single Kyle Gibbons goal secured a superb 1-0 away win for FC Kirton at Skegness Town A. A Joe Pitcher hat-trick helped Freiston Reserves to a 4-2 home win against Mareham United Reserves. Sam Hill was also on target for Freiston.

There weren’t so many shocks in the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup round two this week – only two this time round – the first one taking place at Graves Park where Division Two pace-setters, Boston Town Old Boys ousted Premier side, Kirton Town 2-0. Experienced and much-travelled striker Mickey Nuttell scored one of the goals for Town while Will Chambers was also on target. The other act of giant-killing came at Nortoft United where the Division One side dumped Skegness Town Reserves, from The Premier, out of the competition. Jamie Elston and Nathan Bourne grabbed the crucial goals for The Boston side in a 2-0 victory. The victory came at a price for Nortoft with goalscorer, Nathan Bourne also receiving his marching orders for a second bookable offence. Benington came out on top of their all third division clash at Friskney with leading goalscorer, Tim Bell amongst the goals once more. The in-form striker struck two goals in his side’s 4-1 away win. Ross Don-Duncan also grabbed two goals to ease Benington through to the next round. It was Friskney, however, who opened the scoring when Jamie Lawson crossed for Neil Allen to volley home before Benington levelled before the break. The major turning point came in the second half when a highly debatable penalty was awarded in Benington’s favour and they scored from the spot. Both Friskney centre backs then unfortunately collided into each other allowing Bell a free run on goal and Don-Duncan wrapped up the scoring when he volleyed home with Friskney’s defenders appealing for offside. Final score 4-1. Fishtoft went through to the next round following a 3-1 home win against fellow division one outfit, Wainfleet United. Simon Collins, Anthony Tiffen and Leon Pycock hit the all-important goals. Wainfleet had taken the lead through Nathan Bowkett but once Fishtoft levelled there was only going to be one winner. Wyberton made sure there was going to be no hint of an upset at Holbeach Bank by completely overpwhelming their opponents with an impressive show of goal-scoring power. Joe Hallam, Jimmy Britton and Steve Melady all scored twice while Jamie Khun and Sam Louth also got on the scoresheet in an 8-0 away win. There was a real exciting local derby tie at Woodhall Spa United where extra time was need to settle the outcome when near neighbours, Coningsby were the visitors. Woodhall looked to be heading for the next round as the tie entered the final minutes with them leading 3-2 but then Robin Holderness popped up with a last-gasp equaliser to take the match into extra time. That late blow seemed to knock the stuffing out of the home side and Coningsby struck twice in the final half hour to go through 5-3. Woodhall’s goals came from Rob McCusker, Ed Parkinson and Alex Behan. Referee Paul Revell had a fine match in the middle. Old Leake certainly made a fight of it at Premiership Swineshead before eventually going down 3-1. Swineshead opened the scoring after 20 minutes through an own goal when a defender directed a cross past his own keeper. The breakthrough had followed some heavy pressure from the favourites but Old Leake’s keeper had been equal to the threats with some fine saves. Swineshead extended their lead five minutes before the break when Martin North threaded a pass through for Bert Snaith to fasten onto before tucking his shot past the keeper. The home side were dealt a blow shortly afterwards when Matt Bates was dismissed for dissent after the referee turned down a penalty appeal. Old Leake, sensing that maybe they could get back into the tie, rocked their opponents immediately after the break when they scored with their first attack of the second half - Danny Keal scoring. However, ten man Swineshead sealed victory with a third goal after 68 minutes when they counter-attacked following an Old Leake corner – Golakeeper Andrew Stukins threw the ball out to Paul Clarke who instantly released Snaith and the lively striker ran through to finish in style. Final score 3-1. Fosdyke and Pointon clashed for the second week running (Pointon were victors by 3-1 in The Challenge Cup) and although the score-line was much more convincing, Fosdyke probably played better than seven days earlier. Pointon were superior in all parts of the pitch, however, and although Fosdyke had two or three decent chances before Andy Thorpe scored their only goal but the visitors eased through by the convincing score-line of 7-1 with goals from Mark Smith 3, Nathan Wilson 2(), Mason Hardy and Dane Hardy. Old Doningtonians went out in their home tie with Spilsby Town although the Division One side gave a good account of themselves. Chris Wing grabbed The Dons first half goal while Matt Barker replied for Spilsby from the penalty spot. The crucial winning goal came from Pete Sampson who scored to make the final score 2-1. Kirton Leisure also went through by the same score-line in their home match against Park United. Liam Shinn and Tim Billingham were on target for Kirton Leisure while Sam Veasey replied for Park. Eastville, Midville & New Leake’s inconsistency was again evident in their home tie against Boston United Community when they went down to a 4-1 defeat. Boston opened the scoring after 13 minutes through Tom Barkworth’s superb left-footed strike which flew past the keeper before Eastville stormed back with an equally excellent equaliser from Lucky Singh ten minutes later. Boston made a couple of tactical changes at the interval and they created a few more chances before Tom Barkworth fastened onto a misplaced free-kick from Gavin Gregory before flicking the ball up and volleying home into the far corner. Barkworth then turned provider as his cross was swept in by Aldo Simao before Lewis Wright marked his return from injury with the fourth and final goal when he forced the ball home following an unfortunate fumble from the keeper. Final score 4-1. After a storming 6-2 home win in The League seven days earlier, Sutterton suffered a reversal in fortunes this week at the hands of Spalding Harriers. Gavin Rhodes and Nigel Edison scored the Sutterton goals but it was never going to be enough against a rampant Spalding Harriers side who won comfortably 6-2.

News for November 14

There were a number of shocks in the second round of Target Newspapers Challenge Cup with no less than four sides from lower divisions toppling their higher placed opponents. The mini giant-killers were Boston Town Old Boys, Kirton Leisure, Skegness Town A and Benington. Boston Town Old Boys who are flying high in Division Two dumped Wainfleet United, from Division One, out of the competition following a 3-1 home win. James Wright, Aaron Hunt and Nigel Vince scored the all-important goals for Town as they progressed to the next round. A high-scoring encounter at Second Division outfit, Kirton Leisure, saw the under-dogs edge out Spalding Harriers with a 6-5 home win although it needed extra time to decide the tie. Liam Shinn did most of the damage with a fine hat-trick while Nicky Rodgers, Tim Rowland and Sam Duff were also on target for the Kirton side. The First Division side replied through Lewis Field and Steve Carn who both grabbed two goals apiece and Jason Haytree. Holbeach Bank made the lengthy journey to a wind-swept Skegness to take on Town’s A side and it proved a fruitless visit at the East Coast for the struggling First Division side as they went down to a heavy 3-0 defeat. Skegness went through to the next round thanks to goals from Jamie Cotterill, Ross Muirhead and Sean Drury. Benington from Division Three had an excellent away win at Spalding Town. Although James Kingston scored for The Division One side, Benington returned home with a superb 3-0 victory thanks to goals from Scott Dawson, Ross Don-Duncan and inevitably, Tim Bell. Fosdyke failed to cause an upset in their home tie against Pointon although the 4-0 score-line was probably a little flattering for the visitors. Fosdyke, after winning the toss, elected to enjoy a strong backwind during the first half but soon found themselves 2-0 down after just ten minutes but then the home side competed well for the remainder of the tie. The third goal came on the hour mark before Fosdyke’s brave resistance was finally sealed with a fourth and final goal late on. The visitors’ goals came from Andy Garner 2, Tom Zealand and Nathan Wilson. Boston United Community put up a brave fight at Old Leake before going out 2-0. Nic Stone and Rob Staples scored the goals for the home side but United fought back well after losing Wayne Bailey through injury after just ten minutes – this meant that the underdogs were forced to play the remainder of the game with just ten men after arriving at Old Leake with just the bare eleven outfield players. Referee Stacey Howards enjoyed a fine match in the middle. In an all-Division One clash at Old Doningtonians, Fishtoft went out after crashing to a 4-1 defeat. Chris Wing struck first for The Dons before Aiden Moore added another with a superb strike into the top corner. Moore grabbed his second goal of the game when he tucked the ball past the advancing keeper after bursting through and Mark Sharman completed the scoring from the penalty spot – The top scorer earning the penalty himself after a mazy run ended with him being felled in the box. Castle Colts and Sportsman clashed at Rosebery Avenue and although Danny Warren struck for The Colts, it wasn’t enough to inspire his side to victory. The Sportsman’s Peterborough-based imports proved too strong for The Castle on this occasion replying three times to run out 3-1 winners. The Sportsman’s goals came from Eluisio Lucaras, Avelino Vierra and own goal.

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, Woodhall Spa United moved upto third place in the table following a 4-2 away win at Skegness Town Reserves. Rob McCusker, Ian Draper, Ed Parkinson and James Melia struck the crucial goals for Woodhall while Nathan Wetton and Ben Etches replied for the home side. Kirton Town were hit for six in their home game against Wyberton. Jamie Skinner was on fire for the visitors hitting four of his side’s goals while Jamie Khun and Sam Louth also got on the scoresheet in a convincing 6-1 away win. Billinghay Athletic bounced back last Saturday with a superb 4-0 away win at Spilsby Town. The visitors moved into second place after goals from Gary Cochrane, Mark Wheatley and a double-strike from leading goalscorer, Pete Dickinson. In the bottom of the table clash at Coningsby, Westside Rangers are still awaiting their first points of the season after a 3-0 defeat.

Andy Brown and Sergio Roquetti both struck twice for Sutterton in their 6-4 home Cropleys Suzuki Division One win over Coningsby Reserves. A Scott Creek penalty and a Nigel Edison strike completed the scoring. Two goals from Harry Houghton helped Swineshead Reserves to a 2-2 draw away at Wyberton Reserves. Wyberton hit back through Michael Beauchamp and Jamie Button.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Billinghay Athletic Reserves moved a little closer to the leaders, Boston Town Old Boys following their 5-1 home win against Old Doningtonians Reserves. Joe Carr, Glen Long, Andy Palmer, Alex Gammon and Matthew Dring hit the decisive goals for Billinghay. Westside Rangers Reserves were hit for six at home when they entertained Fishtoft Reserves. D. J. Wright hit The Rangers’ goal but Fishtoft overpowered their opponents with a six goal blast – Pete Coonan continued his red-hot scoring streak with another hat-trick while Conrad Louth grabbed two goals. Simon Hyland completed the scoring for Fishtoft. The score-line may well have been greater had it not been for a fine performance by The Rangers’ keeper. Final score 6-1.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, FC. Kirton put an end to Park United’s recent good run with a 2-1 home win. Kyle Gibbons and Daniel Bourne hit The Kirton goals while Sam Veasey replied for Park. Mareham United Reserves and Kirton Town Reserves shared the points in a 4-4 draw. Although Mareham will feel a little disappointed in not having taken all three points after missing a host of chances, they did have to recover from trailing 4-2 at one point. Shaun Smith 2, Lee Rylett and Stuart Bunn helped Mareham salvage a point. There was another high-scoring draw at Pointon Reserves where Holbeach Bank Reserves earned a point in a 3-3 score-line. George Sharpe hit two of The Pointon goals while Simon Long was also on target. The result meant Pointon Reserves moved off the foot of the table. Woodhall Spa United Reserves took the honours in a closely fought encounter against Eastville, Midville and New Leake. Alex Behan and Charlie Stapleton grabbed the Woodhall goals in a 2-1 home win. Goals from John Chand and Joe Pitcher secured the three points for Freiston Reserves in their 2-1 away win at Spalding Harriers Reserves. The defeat sent The Spalding side to the bottom of the table. The Spalding Harriers goal came from Steve Davies.

In the day’s only Swineshead Cup tie, Freiston beat Tydd St Mary 4-0 although The Division Two strugglers put up a spirited fight. Tydd restricted Freiston to a 1-0 interval lead after Dean Seiner had opened the scoring but Freiston’s strength and experience came to the fore after the break and they hit three further goals through Aston Chase who scored twice and Jordan Wood.

News for November 7

In Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, Woodhall Spa United defeated Kirton Town by a scoreline of 2-1 thanks to goals from Andrew Money and James Melia.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Wyberton Reserves defeated Sutterton 7-4 at the Causeway. Chris Rutt, Mark Lovelace and Danny Mindham all scored twice and Steve Kemp got on the scoresheet for Wyberton. Meanwhile, Old Leake defeated Coningsby 4-3 at home. Chris Baker struck twice while Simon Hippisley and Luke Stocks also scored for Old Leake. Spalding Town drew 2-2 at home to Pointon. Marcin Minczyski hit a hat-trick for Spalding Harriers in their 5-0 drubbing of Nortoft United who were reduced to 10 men when Paul Chester was dismissed. Lewis Field (penalty) and Allan Lawrence also scored. Harry Houghton hit three goals in Swineshead Reserves’ 4-2 home win against Holbeach Bank. Mark Ledger scored the other goal from the penalty spot.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Simon Hyland hit a hat-trick as Fishtoft Reserves beat Sportsman 4-1. Sam Wright grabbed the other Fishtoft goal. James Wright and Scott Palmer scored as Boston Town Old Boys overcame Mareham United 2-1. Fosdyke were beaten 2-1 at Billinghay Athletic Reserves. Fosdyke took the lead through Chris Bell but Rick Harrod equalised. Danny Long hit the match-winning goal deep into second half added time. Castle Colts thumped Spalding Town Reserves 6-1. Craig Spooner (2), Danny White, Danny Warren, Ben Jacques and Leon Marsh scored the victors’ goals. Westside Rangers Reserves saw off Old Doningtonians Reserves 3-0. Ben Carr, Chris Smith and Neil Skinner hit the target. Skegness WMC’s game at Tydd St Mary was postponed due to their chronic shortage of players.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Nathan Thompson scored a remarkable five times as Woodhall Spa United Reserves beat Freiston Reserves 7-1. Leon Learney grabbed the other two Spa goals. Holbeach Bank Reserves defeated Mareham United Reserves 4-2 at home. Dave Pell (2), Simon Hall and Michael Ocock scored for Bank. Spalding Harriers Reserves won 2-1 at Kirton Town Reserves. Ben Bloodworth’s hat-trick helped Skegness Town A to a 6-0 home win against Eastville, Midville and New Leake. Josh Whittam, Andy Parish and Josh White were also on target. Pointon Reserves suffered a 6-0 defeat at Boston United Community. Tom Barkworth hit a hat-trick while Joe Dobson struck twice. United’s other goal came from Aldo Simao. Friskney beat Park United 5-0 at home thanks to goals from John Rutherford (2), Craig Mountain, Perrie Dale and Glenn Hislop. FC Kirton lost 9-1 at home to Benington. Here, Tim Bell scored five of Benington’s goals.

In the quarter-finals of the Fishtoft Cup, Freiston beat Spilsby Town 2-1. Scott Hutchinson and an own goal gave Freiston a two-goal lead. Swineshead defeated Skegness Town Reserves 3-2 in extra time. Swineshead took the lead after 32 minutes with a Bert Snaith volley before Town levelled from the penalty spot. The tie went into extra-time and Skegness looked to have secured their place in the semi-finals but Swineshead equalised through Paul Clarke from the spot. Swineshead finished the strongly and Clarke clinched it. In the other two ties, Billinghay Athletic and Wyberton went through at the expense of Old Doningtonians and Fishtoft.

News for October 31

Woodhall Spa United struggled to raise a side for their Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division home game but it didn’t show during the first half as they found themselves holding Billinghay Athletic to a 1-1 interval score-line following James Melia’s strike. Billinghay stepped up their game after the break, however and they struck four goals without reply to run out 5-1 winners with Pete Dickinson hitting two of their goals. The visitors’ other goals came from Gary Cochrane, Steve Lamming and Sam Miller. Skegness Town Reserves suffered a surprise 3-1 home defeat at the hands of Kirton Town. Rob Jackson scored The Skegness goal while Kirton made sure of victory and a jubilant return journey home following goals from Paul Barker, Lee Jackson and James Holland. Westside Rangers, still trying to rescue their season, had the unenviable task of travelling to title hopefuls, Freiston last Saturday. The game was over as a contest by half time as the home side stormed into a 6-0 lead courtesy of goals from Dean Seiner 2, Scott Hutchinson, Curtis Yeatman, Jordan Wood and an Aston Chase penalty. Seiner completed his hat-trick after the break while Hutchinson also added to his tally. Veteran Player-Manager, Shane Chase was introduced to the action and he made his experience count by also getting on the scoresheet. Rangers improved greatly after the break and even managed to create a few chances of their own. Although The Rangers keeper, Steve Bursnall, conceded nine goals he did manage to produce many fine saves during the game. Final score was 9-0. Swineshead’s powerful first half performance put them out of reach in their home game against Coningsby. Martin North opened the scoring after 18 minutes with a shot from the edge of the area before Bert Snaith made it 2-0 when he took advantage of some hesitancy in the Coningsby defence to volley home from 15 yards. Swineshead looked home and dry on the half hour mark when Matt Bates struck a third with a left shot across the face of the goal which flew in at the far post. Although the second half lacked goals it was compensated by the number of dismissals - four in all, two from each side, which was not indicative of the game which was not a particular dirty affair. Swineshead keeper, Andy Stukins was first dismissed for clipping a speeding forward who had broke clean through and a penalty awarded, a decision which prompted Tim Tyler to protest too vehemently for the referee’s liking and he too was given his marching orders. To even things up two Coningsby players were also dismissed soon afterwards. Final score was 3-0.

Old Leake earned a creditable Cropleys Suzuki Division One point away from home at Pointon following their 1-1 draw. The result was slightly marred, however by an injury to their goalkeeper who was accidentally knocked unconscious following a brave challenge with about eleven minutes remaining with the scores standing at 1-0 in Pointon’s favour. There was a delay of at least twenty minutes while the ambulance arrived but referee, Graham Slater ruled that there was enough time and daylight to bring the game to a conclusion. Danny Tempest was handed the job of stand-in keeper and he managed to keep Pointon out while at the other end Old Leake struck a vital equaliser much to Pointon’s disappointment. Mason Hardy struck the Pointon goal while Adam Tempest hit that crucial late equaliser. Nortoft United fought back from a goal down to record a 3-1 home win against Wainfleet United. Ashley Rasmussen had given Wainfleet the lead before two goals from Terry Maddigan helped Nortoft to the three points. Levi Emmanuel grabbed the other Nortoft goal. Andy Brown also scored twice in Sutterton’s 4-0 home win against Spalding Town. Troy Thomas and Scott Creek were also on target for the home side as they ended their recent miserable run. The first half was fairly evenly contested with Sutterton edging ahead on 12 minutes when Scott Creek flicked on a Gavin Rhodes corner for the lurking Andy Brown to nod home from close range. Brown could have increased his side’s lead 10 minutes later but he unusually missed when clean through. A slight change in formation saw Sutterton take control the early stages of the second half and Brown made it 2-0 after 50 minutes before Creek made it 3-0 on the hour mark following a flowing six-man move. Spalding continued to press forward but Appleyard and Lee were rock solid at the heart of the home defence. Troy Thomas completed the scoring after 75 minutes while at the other end a late save by Jason Clow, making his debut for his side, ensured that a clean sheet was maintained. Final score was 4-0. Fishtoft kept up their challenge at the top with a 4-2 home win against Spalding Harriers thanks to goals from Joe Beard, Ady Almond, Leon Pycock and Anthony Tiffen.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys gave their goal average a boost following their 5-0 away win at Fosdyke although the score-line was somewhat flattering. Fosdyke had played their part in providing a stiff test for the table-toppers and they managed to restrict their opponents to a single first half goal but a strong second half display by Town finished off Fosdyke’s brave challenge. The home side had no answer to Micky Nuttell in the second half as the experienced striker grabbed a fine hat-trick. James Wright and Shaun Clancy hit the other Town goals. Danny Maddison hit two goals for Castle Colts in their 4-1 away win at Mareham United. Craig Spooner and Danny Warren were also on target for The Castle.

Park United got back to winning ways with a 2-1 Cropleys Suzuki Division Three home win against FC Kirton although it was visitors who struck first with the opening goal after sixty five minutes. Park stormed back in the final 10 minutes to snatch victory with Alex Limb levelling the scores with eight minutes remaining and then Tom Flatters popped up with the winner in the closing minutes of the game. Boston United Community had to produce a real battling performance to hang onto the three points in their home match against Skegness Town A. Andy Coxen hit a superb opening goal when he cut inside from the left before burying the ball into the top corner. Skegness surged forward at every opportunity but the home rearguard superbly marshalled by Gavin Bailey and Scott Burrell kept them out. United sealed victory in the closing minutes when Tom Barkworth latched onto a through ball before firing home a fine left foot shot. Final score 2-0. In a scrappy affair at Eastville, Friskney eventual took the three points following a 4-2 away win. After Eastville’s keeper, Griffiths had superbly tipped over a header after just two minutes Richie Hatch opened the scoring for the visitors on 13 minutes. Eastville levelled the scores through Lucky Singh who chipped the ball over the advancing keeper only for Matt Goy to make it 3-1 at the interval. The game looked all but over when John Rutherford added a fourth with a good finish from distance on the hour mark before the home side pulled a goal back with twenty minutes when Chris Dickens came off the bench to score with a header to give the home side a glimmer of hope. Eastville dominated the final stages as they threw caution to the wind but Friskney held firm to take the honours.

In the Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup, Josh Faulkner hit two goals for Spalding Town Reserves in their 4-0 home win against Mareham United Reserves. Paul Ryan and Micky Handford were also on target for Spalding. Simon Hyland was on target again for Fishtoft Reserves when they recorded a 3-2 away win at Holbeach Bank Reserves. Matthew Parnham and Conrad Louth also got on the scoresheet for Fishtoft. The home side replied through Mark Williams and Matthew Brady. After a goal-less first half at Rosebery Avenue, Swineshead Reserves edged through by the odd goal in five as Mark Ledger, Richard Barker and Harry Houghton helped the visitors to the next round after a 3-2 away win against Westside Rangers Reserves. Tom Ruck and Jake Cawthorne replied for Rangers. Woodhall Spa United Reserves almost pulled out of their home tie with Pointon Reserves due to a shortage of players but some frantic last-minute calls helped them get a side together and avoid a certain fine from the league. Unfortunately all Woodhall’s efforts were to no avail as Pointon returned home with a 6-0 away win under their belts. Pointon produced some excellent one touch football throughout the whole side and although Bill Sadler set up all six of their goals the man of the match award went to Simon Long who scored five. Michael Pullem hit a superb first-time drive into the bottom corner for the other goal. Two goals from Jamie Beamish helped Division One side, Coningsby Reserves through to the next round against a plucky Freiston Reserves side from Division Three. Coningsby needed extra time to finish off The Freiston side in a 3-2 score-line and it was a Beamish penalty, which did the damage in extra time. Chris Chew hit the other Coningsby goal while Freiston went close with replies from Dave Whalley and Sam Hill, who also received his marching orders for a second bookable offence. There was another tie involving a division one side and a third division side at Graves Park where underdogs, Kirton Town Reserves acquitted themselves well during the early stages of their match against Wyberton Reserves. A hotly disputed opening goal put Wyberton ahead and Kirton were visibly shaken as they struggled to get back into the game. The visitors took full advantage hitting five more goals to run out 6-0 winners. Wyberton’s goals came from Chris Rutt, Danny Mindham Steve Burdass, Sam Louth, Robert Adamiak and Matthew Crunkhorn.

In the Inter-Services Trophy, Curtis Lane hit four goals for Old Doningtonians in ther all-First Divison clash at Holbeach Bank. Mark Sharman grabbed two goals, which meant that the striker has now scored in every outing this season. The other goals in a thumping 8-0 away win came from Aidan Moor and Chris Wing. There was another hatful of goals in the other tie involving a Boston League side when unfortunately for Tydd St Mary, they suffered a heavy defeat as Sutton Bridge United hit 10 goals without reply.

News for October 24

There was only one game in the Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division and that was at Woodhall Spa United who entertained Kirton Town in a closely fought encounter. Andrew Money struck first for Woodhall before Town replied. James Melia then popped up with the winning goal to make the final score 2-1.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Wyberton Reserves and Sutterton served up a feast of goals at The Causeway with the home side coming out on top following a 7-4 victory. Three Wyberton players helped themselves to double strikes – Chris Rutt, Mark Lovelace and Danny Mindham all grabbed a brace each while Steve Kemp completed the scoring for the home side. Old Leake finally got their act together at home to record a long-awaited three points – their first home win of the season. Chris Baker struck twice while Simon Hippisley and Luke Stocks hit the crucial goals for the jubilant home side. Coningsby took the lead before Chris Baker equalised for Old Leake. Luke Stocks then made it 2-1 for Leake and Chris Baker got his second goal of the game to put the home side 3-1in front at the interval. Simon Hippisley made it 4-1 and that should have signalled ‘game over’ for Coningsby but they showed great character to comeback and score twice in the final 10 minutes to make for a nail-biting finish. Old Leake hung onto their slender lead and they ran out 4-3 winners. Coningsby went close to salvaging some reward with goals from Lee Scanlon who scored twice and Martin Lynch. Tomasz Rabiega hit both goals for Spalding Town in their 2-2 home draw with Pointon. Shane Jordan and David Cook replied for the visitors. Marcin Minczyski hit a fine hat-trick for Spalding Harriers in their 5-0 mauling of Nortoft United. A Lewis Field penalty and an Allan Lawrence strike sent Nortoft home empty-handed. Nortoft’s cause wasn’t helped with the sending off of Paul Chester. Harry Houghton also hit a superb treble in Swineshead Reserves 4-2 home win against Holbeach Bank. Mark Ledger scored the other goal from the penalty spot.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Simon Hyland rediscovered his firepower for Fishtoft Reserves when he struck three of his side’s goals in a 4-1 home win against Sportsman. Last season’s leading goalscorer struck first with a free-kick to open the scoring for the home side before Sam Wright made it 2-0 at the interval. Hyland drove home a half volley into the top corner for the third goal and he completed his hat-trick when he broke through on a one-on-one with the keeper before slotting the ball home. Sportsman grabbed a consolation late on to make the final score 4-1. Mareham United raised their game to provide Boston Town Old Boys with a hard fought encounter at Tattershall Road. Boston Town eventually snatched the points with goals from James Wright and Scott Palmer as the home side recorded a 2-1 victory to keep them in top-spot. Another visiting side who played their part in a closely fought affair before ending up empty-handed was Fosdyke who will feel bitterly disappointed not to have gained some reward for their sterling efforts at Billinghay Athletic Reserves. Fosdyke had deservedly taken the lead through a Chris Bell shot and they held their lead until the 70th minute when a 35-yard free-kick flew into the net to level the scores. A downpour left areas of the pitch under water but this only added to the excitement with both sides looking for a winner. Fosdyke appeared to be heading home with a point until deep into added time when a corner was poked home after a goalmouth scramble to give Billinghay the three points. Rick Harrod and Danny Long hit the match-winning goals for the home side to keep them in contention for promotion. Final score was 2-1. Castle Colts remain in third place following a thumping 6-1 home win against Spalding Town Reserves with Craig Spooner hitting two of their goals. The other Castle goals came from Danny White, Danny Warren, Ben Jacques and Leon Marsh. Westside Rangers Reserves moved into fifth place following a 3-0 home win against Old Doningtonians Reserves. Ben Carr, Chris Smith and Neil Skinner grabbed the Rangers’ goals. Skegness Working Men’s Club’s recent problems weren’t helped with their forced postponement last Saturday due to a chronic shortage of players. Their daunting trek to Tydd St. Mary was called of at the eleventh hour leaving Carl Wilson’s side without a game. The expected outcome will be a walk-over to Tydd along with the award of the three points.

One of the most impressive individual goal-scoring feats of the day came from Woodhall Spa United Reserves’ Nathan Thompson in Cropleys Suzuki Division Three. The Woodhall hit-man struck five of his side’s goals in their 7-1 home win against Freiston Reserves. Leon Learney grabbed the other two Spa goals. Freiston’s consolation goal came from veteran utility man Marcus Reeson. Holbeach Bank Reserves chalked up their first victory of the season when they defeated Mareham United Reserves 4-2 at home. Dave Pell (2), Simon Hall and Michael Ocock hit the crucial goals for Bank. Spalding Harriers Reserves also recorded their first victory the season with a 2-1 away against Kirton Town Reserves at Graves Park and in doing so moved off the foot of the table with Pointon Reserves replacing them on goal difference. Ben Bloodworth’s hat-trick helped Skegness Town A to maximum points following their 6-0 home win against Eastville, Midville & New Leake. Josh Whittam, Andy Parish and Josh White were also on target for Town. There was another 6-0 scoreline, this time at Pointon Reserves who suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Boston United Community. Tom Barkworth did most of the damage for Boston with a fine hat-trick while Joe Dobson struck twice. United’s other goal came from Aldo Simao. Friskney are still looking down on the rest of the table following their 5-0 home win against Park United. John Rutherford (2), Craig Mountain, Perrie Dale and Glenn Hislop hit the goals for the table-toppers. The first half was tight affair with Friskney edging in front following John Rutherford’s header from a Marcus De Vivar corner. Friskney decided on a half-time reshuffle and this sparked a marked improvement in their play as they controlled possession throughout the second period. Rutherford was entrusted with a penalty kick after his glaring miss seven days earlier only this time he converted in clinical fashion. Craig Mountain then made it 3-0 with a rare goal - a glancing effort from another De Vivar corner before Perrie Dale continued his hot goalscoring streak with a fine individual goal. Glen Hislop entered the action and his contribution was instant as he fired home a powerful volley with his first touch to cap a fine second half team performance. FC Kirton came up against an in-form Benington last Saturday. Nine goals found The Kirton net as the visitors keep the pressure on Friskney at the top of the table. Kirton’s only reward came from Daniel Bourne’s consolation goal. Benington’s own goal-machine, Tim Bell was again firing on all cylinders scoring five of his side’s. The other match-winning efforts came from Tom Baxter and Scott Dawson and two own goals.

In an all-Premier Division clash in the quarter-finals of the Fishtoft Cup at Freiston, the home side were rather fortunate to squeeze through to the next round at the expense of Spilsby Town. The home side opened the scoring after 40 minutes when Curtis Yeatman’s cross was deflected into his own net by an unlucky Spilsby defender. The home side made it 2-0 on the hour mark when Scott Hutchinson knocked the ball home after the opposing keeper failed to hold onto a cross. Spilsby were finally rewarded for their efforts fifteen minutes from time when a high ball eluded everyone including the keeper. Final score 2-1. Skegness Town Reserves and Swineshead produced an exciting cup-tie which could have gone either way. Swineshead took the lead after 32 minutes with a Bert Snaith volley from 20 yards before Town levelled the scores midway through the second half from the penalty spot. The tie went into extra time and Skegness looked to have secured their place in the semi final when they scored with a free header following a corner but Swineshead equalised through Paul Clarke who was felled in the box and he himself got up, dusted himself down and fired home the spot-kick. Swineshead were finishing the tie strongly now and they snatched a winner with five minutes of extra time remaining and again it was Paul Clarke who produced a cool finish from close range. Final score 3-2. In the other two ties Premier sides Billinghay Athletic and Wyberton went through at the expense of First Division opposition – Old Doningtonians and Fishtoft.

News for October 17

Freiston remain in second place in the Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division table after a 5-2 victory against Kirton Town at Graves Park. Kirton struck first after 20 minutes when a quickly taken free-kick caught Freiston on the hop and the ball was neatly tucked away before the visitors levelled the scores 15 minutes later when Aston Chase converted from the penalty spot. Freiston went 2-1 in front before the interval when Curtis Yeatman rifled home a low shot. A rare Ty Fravigar goal then put Freiston ahead ten minutes into the second half before Kirton pulled a goal back from the penalty spot to make it 3-2. Yeatman grabbed his second goal of the game to restore his side’s two-goal advantage and Dean Seiner completed the scoring with fifteen minutes remaining to make the final score 5-2. Champions Coningsby continue to struggle as they attempt to defend their title – a 2-0 home defeat means that they remain in the bottom half of the table. Skegness Town Reserves took the honours thanks to goals from Royston Wilkinson and Danny Leighton. Just when you thought Westside Rangers’ season couldn’t get any worse, it most certainly did last Saturday – in a big way. The score at Swineshead told its own story with no less than 24 goals finding the Rangers’ net! Only four Swineshead players failed to register their names on the scoresheet. For the record, the goalscorers were as follows: Benn Houghton (6), Bert Snaith (5), Paul Clarke (3), Martin North (2), James Andrew, Scott Hempsall, Tim Tyler, Ryan Barker, Karl Melton and three own goals.

Old Doningtonians still remain the surprise package of the season in Cropleys Suzuki Division One when a fantastic 3-2 away win at Pointon kept the visitors firmly on top of the table. Mark Sharman and Aidan Moore hit the first two goals for the Dons before a Giles Favell penalty secured the three crucial points. Pointon replied through Jamie Andrews and Mark Smith. Holbeach Bank got back to playing football after their recent upheavals but unfortunately they went down 3-0 at home against Spalding Town. John Turner, Aiden Doherty and Tom Elderkin hit the vital goals for the visitors. Swineshead Reserves got back to winning ways with a 4-1 away win at Sutterton. Leading scorer, Andy Brown grabbed Sutterton’s goal from the penalty spot while Mark Ledger struck twice for a relieved Swineshead side. Richard Barker and Harry Houghton were also on target for the visitors. For once Old Leake came unstuck on their travels at Nortoft United after some recent impressive away performances. Levi Emmanuel, Nathan Bourne, Lewis Emmanuel and Stevie Murphy hit Nortoft’s goals in a 4-2 home win while Old Leake replied through Chris Baker and Danny Keal. Nortoft’s win was slightly tarnished with an injury to goalkeeper, Aiden Keal who cracked some ribs in a sickening collision. Referee Graham Slater had a fine game in the middle and he kept the game flowing with some common sense officiating. Marcin Minczynski hit two goals for Spalding Harriers in their 5-0 home win against Wainfleet United while Jason Haytree, Adam Thompson and James Smith completed the scoring.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys stay top of the table following a 6-0 away win at Westside Rangers Reserves. Tom Maher hit a hat-trick for Town while Spencer Swadling, James Wright and Micky Nuttell also got on the scoresheet. Rick Harrod produced a five-star performance for Billinghay Athletic Reserves last Saturday when they entertained Sportsman. The in-form striker hit all five of his goals in a 5-1 home win to keep his side on the same points as the leaders. Two goals from Dan Maddison helped Castle Colts to an impressive 3-1 away win at Kirton Leisure. Ben Jacques grabbed the other Castle goal. Fishtoft Reserves are now fourth in the table after a 5-2 away win at Spalding Town Reserves. Adam Vinters hit two of The Fishtoft goals while Matthew Parnham, Diogo Garcia and Tom Smith were also on target. Dave Beament and Joe Chapman grabbed a goal apiece for Fosdyke in their 2-0 home win over Tydd St Mary. Skegness Working Men’s Club were involved in a serious incident at Mareham United which resulted in the abandonment of the game. Mareham were leading 2-0 thanks to goals from Tom Sewell and Michael Johnson before the referee dismissed the visiting goalkeeper for fouling an opponent who had broken clean through. The match official adjudged that the keeper was the last man and therefore had to issue him with marching orders. The player saw red, however, and allegedly had to be restrained by surrounding players from attacking the referee and the match was drawn to a halt. The Lincolnshire Football Association will therefore now be studying the referee’s report before deciding on what action to take.

A Josh Whittam hat-trick helped Skegness Town A to a 5-0 home Cropleys Suzuki Division Three win against Holbeach Bank Reserves. Charlie Whittama and Jamie Epton were also on target for Town. There was another hat-trick at Friskeny where Perrie Dale hit his third treble in three games, this time against Mareham United Reserves. The springboard of the performance came from the midfield pairing of Marcus De Vivar and John Rutherford who controlled the game throughout. John Rutherford’s efforts were rewarded with a goal after an uncharacteristic penalty miss when his spot kick sailed high over the bar and nestled into the top of a tree! Shaun Tebbutt showed his experience with an accomplished game at right back. Referee Tony Taupin had a fine game in the middle. Final score 4-0. Tim Bell struck twice for Benington in their 5-4 home win against Woodhall Spa United Reserves. The other match-winning goals came from Jonathan Cheer, Ben Hardstaff and Matthew Hood. The win meant that Benington swapped places with Woodhall to move into second place. Park United’s recent good run continued with a 3-1 home win against Spalding Harriers Reserves. Alex Limb struck twice while a Chris Wright penalty wrapped up the three points. Spalding hit back with a goal from Craig Lawrence. Sam Hill scored twice for Freiston Reserves in their 4-2 home win against Pointon Reserves. Troy Ayton and Joe Pitcher hit the other goals for Freiston while Bill Sadler and Cryss Stoffel replied for the visitors.

CARLTON COLTS RE-UNION

A date has now been arranged for the Carlton Colts FC re-union function. It will be at the Queen of Spades on November 14 starting at 7pm. It would be appreciated if all ex-players, officials and supporters who are anticipating attending the event could contact one of the following telephone numbers. This would help with the catering arrangements. Jim Ely 363984, Dave Bark 369303, Denis Limb 290750, Dave Coulson 360970.

News for October 10

As a mark of respect, Holbeach Bank requested permission to postpone their Cropleys Suzuki Division One first team match at Wainfleet United and their reserve fixture against Freiston Reserves because of the sudden death of their first team manager, Graham Franklin. Graham, who was only 52, was a well known figure in the area and had been 1st team Manager for the past three seasons. Old Doningtonians 3-2 home win was somewhat soured by the unfortunate sending off of Andy Barnett who had only just come off the bench before getting involved in an unfortunate skirmish. James Malkin had earlier put The Dons in front during the first half from the penalty spot and the same player grabbed his second goal of the game with a 30- yarder over the stranded keeper. Swinesehad, who also had Dan Ash and Richard Barker dismissed, during a heated match did recover in the second half to bring the scores level at 2-2 following goals from Andy Thompson and Harry Houghton. Old Dons snatched a winner through Mark Sharman’s looping effort to earn maximum points and retain their place at the top of the table. Old Leake continued to disappoint at home when Pointon made their lengthy journey worthwhile following a 2-1 away win. Greg Brown grabbed the home side’s goal but Pointon snatched victory with goals from Dan Wright and Sam Husband. Spalding Town won 4-2 at home against Coningsby Reserves thanks to goals from Aiden Doherty, Tom Elderkin, Martin Gordon and Thomas Rabiega. Coningsby replied through Kirk Llewlyn and Martin Lynch. A single Allan Lawrence goal was enough to decide the outcome between Wyberton Reserves and Spalding Harriers. Lawrence’s goal meant that The Spalding side moved above Wyberton in the table.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys remain top after a 4-2 home win against Spalding Town Reserves. Micky Nuttell hit two of Town’s goals while Tom Crozier and Lee Hoff also got on the scoresheet. Castle Colts moved up to third place after a 6-2 home win against Old Doningtonians Reserves. Danny Warren and Craig Spooner hit double strikes for The Castle while Danny White and Danny Maddison also scored to help get The Colts back on track after the previous weeks disappointment. Danny Cottingham hit two goals for Mareham United in their home game against Fishtoft Reserves but it wasn’t enough to earn them any reward as they went down 4-3. Jimmy Harris hit the other Mareham goal while Pete Coonan proved to be Fishtoft’s Talisman hitting all four of his side’s goals. Jamie Turner also struck twice for Skegness Working Men’s Club but, they too, went down 5-2 at home at the hands of Westside Rangers Reserves. After the previous weeks five-star performance Sportsman were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Fosdyke who, ironically, put their previous week's below-par performance behind them with a much improved display this time. Sportsman went in front with a superb goal from Jake Louth but Fosdyke recovered and could so easily have won it with Andy Thorpe squandering two golden chances before substitute, Chris Rollings finally found the net with a cross-cum-shot from the left. Fosdyke laid seige to the home defence in the final twenty minutes but failed to conjure up a winner.

Eastville is certainly the place to be for goal entertainment these days as another eight-goal thriller saw Woodhall Spa United Reserves return home with a share of the Cropleys Suzuki Division Three spoils. Eastville, Midville and New Leake manager David Bowers declared afterwards, however, that the recent high-scoring bonanzas are doing his blood pressure no good at all. Amazingly the first half failed to produce any goals although Micky Head, George Patman and Ben Lyons had good chances to put Eastville in front. Woodhall opened the scoring eleven minutes into the second half before Jed Stainton levelled the scores four minutes later with a shot across the goal which took a slight deflection on the way in. Jamie Appleby then put Eastville ahead after sixty five minutes before the visitors levelled from the penalty spot. In an end-to-end game Woodhall soon edged in front before Micky Head levelled the scores at 3-3 following good work from Kris Holland. Jamie Appleby flashed home a header to make it 4-3 but Woodhall rescued a point with an equaliser ten minutes from time. Final score was 4-4. Skegness Town A had a comfortable 7-2 home win against Mareham United Reserves with Andy Parish and Ryan Beresford both scoring twice. Josh Whittam, Josh Bartlett and Jamie Epton completed the scoring for Skegness. James Todd hit both of The Mareham goals. There was another seven goal haul for the home side at Friskney where Perrie Dale hit a hat-trick for his side in a 7-0 demolition of Pointon Reserves. Neil Allen, Thiago Da Silva, Jamie Lawson and Richie Hatch were also on target for the home side. The opening exchanges were even and Friskney keeper, Rob Holland saved brilliantly when Pointon broke through on a one on one before the home side responded to edge in front. First Perrie Dale got on the scoresheet and then Jamie Lawson gave Friskney a comfortable two-goal cushion at the interval. The second half was all Friskney as they dominated affairs from thereon and Dale completed his hat-trick before Thiago Da Silva came off the bench to score with a fine finish. New signing, Richard Hatch also came off the bench to score on his debut and veteran Johnny Redford also made a welcome return to the fold before Neil Allen netted a seventh. Referee Ray Chadwick had a superb match in the middle. Park United almost repeated the feats of Skegness and Friskney but had to be content with six goals when they entertained Kirton Town Reserves. Sam Veasey hit the opening goal in a first half which ended 1-0 before Park forced the floodgates to open after the break. Alex Limb struck with the next two goals to put the home side 3-0 ahead before Ben Liu added a fourth. Chris Wright made it 5-0 but Alex Limb had the final say to complete his hat-trick to make the final score 6-0. Leading scorer Tim Bell was firing on all cylinders once more when he hit a fine hat-trick for Benington in their 5-2 away win at Boston United Community. Ian Morris and Jonathan Cheer were also on target for the visitors.

In the Lincs Junior Cup, In an all-Boston Premier League encounter, Spilsby Town, who included six 18-year olds in their line-up, were eventually dumped out of the competition when they entertained Freiston. The young Town side managed to keep Freiston out for the first 20 minutes but then gifted their former striker, Jordan Wood the opening goal following a defensive error. The home side continued to frustrate Freiston for the remainder of the first period as the interval scoreline remained at 1-0. Within 15 minutes of the restart the Freiston rattled in three more goals - Jordan Wood hitting two more to complete his hat-trick and Scott Hutchinson rifling home a shot from the edge of the area. Freiston added two more goals to make the score-line somewhat flattering - Dean Seiner and 16-year-old substitute, Ben Reeson completing the scoring. Final score was 6-0. In another all-Premier clash, Swineshead squeezed through to the next round at the expense of Kirton Town at Graves Park. Swineshead thought that they had the tie won in normal time when they scored in the 89th minute - Bert Snaith netting after some fine work from Paul Clarke. But Kirton were not to be denied and they took the match into extra time when they scrambled the ball home after Swineshead failed to clear. There was hardly time for the game to be restarted. Extra time failed to produce a winner before Swineshead keeper, Andrew Stukins proved to be Swineshead's hero in the penalty shoot-out making two vital saves to send his side through. Billinghay Athletic came up against one of the top sides in the competition when they played hosts to Lincs League Champions, CGB Humbertherm of Louth. The Louth team who were missing several key players due to injury were still far too strong for Billinghay running out 4-2 winners. Pete Dickinson and Adam Burrows hit the goals for The Boston League side. In some of the other ties, Fishtoft went down 4-2 at Langtoft United and Coningsby lost at Holton-le-Clay by a single goal.

News for October 3

In a wind-affected Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division match at Billinghay Athletic, where Wyberton toiled in the blustery conditions, both sides won their respective halves 3-1 as the game finished all-square at 4-4. Billinghay trailed 3-1 at the break as they battled against the elements but the home side turned things around in the second period to grab a share of the points. Gary Cochrane scored twice for Billinghay while Mark Wheatley and Pete Dickinson also got on the scoresheet. Wyberton’s goals came from Ben Parkinson 2, Jim Britton and John Reeson. Spilsby Town and Coningsby also finished locked together in a draw at Ancaster Avenue. Matty Barker scored Town’s goal in a 1-1 home draw. Swineshead were involved in another tight game but took the three vital points to move to the top of the table following their visit to Kirton Town. Although Swineshead enjoyed the majority of possession during the first half it was Kirton who took an interval lead following a counter-attack. Swineshead finally levelled the scores after 67 minutes following several missed chances when Bert Snaith netted an excellent solo effort. Just when it looked like Kirton were heading for a share of the points up popped Matt Bates who fastened onto a through ball from Karl Melton before slotting past the advancing keeper. Final score was 2-1. Poor Westside Rangers are still waiting for their season to get off the ground after another heavy defeat left them firmly at the foot of the table. Skegness Town Reserves inflicted the pain last Saturday with a 5-0 away win. Josh Bartlett struck twice for Skegness while Danny Leighton, Rob Jackson and Mitchell Tipper were also on target for the visitors.

There was also a 4-4 draw in Cropleys Suzuki Division One where Old Doningtonians and Coningsby Reserves shared the points in a game which witnessed several spectacular strikes. Tom Wilkerson hit the Dons’ first goal with a fine strike from just outside the box while Curtis Lane thumped home two fine headers. The home side’s other goal came from the boot of Mark Sharman who struck a superb shot from distance. Another high-scoring encounter, this time at Sutterton, saw Nortoft United come back from 3-2 down at the interval to end up 9-5 winners and the player mostly responsible for causing such a turnaround was recent transfer capture, Nathan Bourne who blitzed his opponents with a fantastic seven-goal haul. Paul Chester and Levi Emmanuel also got on the score-sheet for a rampant Nortoft side. The wind played its part in the game as Sutterton edged in front with the wind at their backs during the first half but they couldn’t contain Nortoft’s speedy attack after the break and the goals just flowed – mainly from the boot of Bomber-Bourne! For Sutterton, Sergio Roquetti hit four of his side’s goals while Carl Appleyard also scored but amazingly, it still wasn’t enough to earn any reward. Fishtoft Reserves kept Holbeach Bank languishing at the foot of the table when they came away with a 3-1 away win under their belts. Simon Collins struck first for Fishtoft before Ady Almond and John McGarel secured victory. Old Leake’s impressive away form continued with a 2-0 victory on their travels at Spalding Harriers. Greg Brown and Chris Mitchell hit the goals to keep Old Leake in touching distance at the top of the table.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys remain top of the table following a 3-0 home win against Old Doningtonians Reserves but their opponents certainly made them fight all the way for their reward. The Dons pushed Town all the way before a crucial turning point decided the outcome when Boston keeper, Scott Drury pulled off a fine penalty save with the scores standing at 2-0. Dons would have got a foothold in the game at that point but the save proved crucial and The Old Boys didn’t look back after that and they sealed victory with a third. Lee Hoff was again amongst the goals while Micky Nuttell and Mark Wakefield completed the scoring. There was a major upset at Rosebery Avenue where Sportsman went goal crazy against Castle Colts who before Saturday had boasted a 100 percent record. Chris Bray helped himself to a hat-trick – his third in four games in his side’s comfortable 8-2 home win while Fernandes Johnson struck twice. You knew it wasn’t going to be Castle’s day from the moment a Fernandes Johnson cross was turned into his own net by Gary Frost and it was Johnson again who set up Bray for his first goal. Castle Colts were still creating chances and Craig Spooner headed them back into the game to make it 2-1. Johnson was rewarded for his efforts with a superb third goal before the Colts showed that they were still in the game when Dan White reduced the arrears at 3-2. Sportsman then stepped up a gear and the Castle struggled to cope with the strength and pace of Johnson and he again provided the cross for Bray to notch his second before completing his hat-trick following good work from Wayne Pelling and Johnson. Three more goals followed after the break - Aron Russell’s superb run from the right back position ended with him firing home a sixth and a fierce free-kick from skipper Fernando Cuvma made it 7-2. Man of the match Johnson capped a fine performance when he fired home from close range to make the final score 8-2. Even though Castle had to play without a recognised keeper, the outcome wouldn’t have been much different with Sportsman in such red-hot form. Fishtoft Reserves recorded their second win of the season following their promotion to move up to second place in the table. Last season’s leading scorer, Simon Hyland finally got off the mark with his first goal of the campaign following a fine free-kick while Jimmy Nuttell, Carl Tate and Shane Brackenbury also scored for the home side in a comfortable victory against Kirton Leisure. The margin could have been greater but Brackenbury missed from the penalty spot. Final score was 4-0. Micky Handford and Josh Faulkner both hit double strikes for Spalding Town Reserves in their 5-2 home win against Skegness Working Mens Club. Tom Cherry was also on target for Spalding. After Fosdyke’s excellent display at Spilsby Town seven days earlier, Andy Hardstaff’s side failed to repeat their performance in their home match against Westside Rangers Reserves. Having withstood the fierce headwind during the first half, Fosdyke were unable to adapt to the conditions after the break although it was a harshly awarded free-kick which got Rangers off the mark five minutes after the restart. The home side did manage to get the ball into their opponents’ net on two occasions but their joy was short-lived by late flags from the assistant. Fosdyke’s misery was complete when keeper, Scott Ekins’ misdirected pass to his full-back ended up at the feet of a surprised Rangers’ forward and he calmly chipped the ball over the red-faced custodian and into the back of the net. Final score was 2-0.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Park United stormed into a three-goal lead by half time in their home game against Boston United Community thanks to goals from Tom Flatters, Ben Liu and Alex Limb. Boston United Community almost turned the scores round after the break with two goals but they ran out of time and Park took the three points in a 3-2 victory. Mareham United Reserves heaped more misery on basement side, Spalding Harriers Reserves when they inflicted a painful 8-3 home win on the unfortunate visitors. James Todd hit a hat-trick for Mareham while Stuart Bunn and Daniel Garnett both grabbed two goals apiece. Luke Shepherd completed the scoring for the home side. Nathan Thompson and Alex Behar hit the match-winning goals for Woodhall Spa United Reserves in their 2-0 home win against Skegness Town A. Eastville, Midville and New Leake finally managed to hold onto a lead to record their second win of the season when they entertained Holbeach Bank Reserves. After recent late collapses, Eastville controlled the game for long periods although a late surge from the visitors had Dave Bowers’ team on the tenterhooks. After George Patman had struck the bar for Eastville, Micky Head opened the scoring after 25 minutes when he cut in from the flank before beating two defenders and scoring. Jed Stainton then made it 2-0 seven minutes later when some slick passing allowed the striker to chip a superb shot into the top corner from 22 yards out. Eastville added a third after sixty seven minutes when Phil Hodgson and George Patman opened up the Holbeach defence for Micky Head to cut in once more before firing home a cross shot into the far corner. The Bank pulled a goal back after seventy eight minutes before a hotly disputed penalty gave the visitors a glimmer of hope with four minutes remaining – Eastville thought Phil Hodgson had executed a good clean tackle but the referee pointed to the spot and The Bank converted to make it 3-2. Thankfully, for David Bowers and his team, Eastville stood firm and held out to take three vital points. Final score was 3-2. In very windy conditions out at Friskney, visitors Kirton Town stormed into a 2-0 lead following a free-kick which took a wicked deflection off Craig Mountain and a neat side footed finish. Friskney repsonded well, however, to draw level before the break thanks to two Perrie Dale goals. Friskney dominated proceedings in the second half and Perrie Dale continued in red-hot form scoring twice more to take his personal tally to four. Neil Allen grabbed two goals including a superb bullet-like header. Dan Fox also got on the scoresheet but his main contribution was his involvement in five assists. John Rutherford completed the scoring from the penalty spot to make the final score 8-2.

In the Sharman Burgess Sports Cup, Tim Bell and Ian Morris both scored twice in Benington’s 6-2 away win at FC Kirton. Ross Don-Duncan and Ben Hardstaff were also on target for the visitors. In the only other first round tie Pointon eased through at the expense of Mareham United. Dan Wright, Sam Husband, Nathan Wilson and Mark Smith hit the match-winning goals for Pointon.

News for October 1

The draw for the second round of the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, to be played on Saturday, November 14 (1.45 p.m. kick-off), was made by the competition’s management committee on Wednesday, September 30. Ties are: Boston Town Old Boys v Wainfleet United; Castle Colts v Sportsman; Fosdyke v Pointon; Kirton Leisure v Spalding Harriers; Old Doningtonians v Fishtoft; Old Leake v Boston United Community; Skegness Town A v Holbeach Bank; Spalding Town v Benington.

Round-up for September 26

There weren’t many major giant-killing performances in the first round of the Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, although Skegness Town A from Division Three ousted Division Two side Mareham United quite emphatically by winning 6-0 with James Whittam hitting four of his side’s goals. Nathan Wetton and Sam Sleight completed the scoring for Skegness. There was another 6-0 scoreline when Wainfleet United eased through to the next round when they travelled to Park United. The visitors opened the scoring through an own goal following Gary Coggan’s cross and it was the same player who supplied the cross for Matt Broome to make it 2-0. Lee Johnson made it 3-0 following good work from Dale Crich and the same combination resulted in a fourth. Ashley Rasmussen beat two players before firing home a fifth and man of the match, Lee Johnson completed his hat-trick with the sixth and final goal following a shot from Dale Crich which had rebounded to the lurking striker.

Eastville, Midville and New Leake, from Division Three will still be wondering how they failed to get through in their home tie against Division One outfit Holbeach Bank after scoring five goals at home and still losing! Eastville started well and had two early chances, one which struck the crossbar before they found the target when Jed Stainton opened the scoring. The home side, who have found it difficult to defend a lead in recent weeks, then conceded two goals to trail 2-1 at the break. Jamie Appleby got Eastville back on level terms in the second half before The Bank caught their opponents out with two counter-attacks to lead 4-2 on the hour mark. A freak goal got the home side back in the game when Stainton’s high cross was fumbled by the keeper and the ball ended up in the back of the net. Holbeach restored their two-goal lead soon after before Eastville pulled it back to 5-4 with another fortunate effort when Phil Hodgson cut in from the flank and his high ball somehow spun into the net. Eastville exerted a spell of pressure then before The Bank scored a crucial sixth goal with two minutes remaining although there was still time for Jamie Appleby to make the final score 6-5 in the dying moments. Skegness Working Men’s Club also went out despite scoring four goals when they entertained Sportsman. The visitors hit eight goals to run out comfortable 8-4 winners. Scorers for Sportsman were Chris Bray 3, Ruslan Dukalsky 2, Wayne Pelling 2 and Fernandes Johnson. Nortoft United went out by the odd goal in seven against Kirton Leisure. Lewis Emmanuel, Nathan Bourne and Chris Massingham scored the goals for Nortoft but it wasn’t enough on the day. Kirton Leisure’s goals came from Adam Abell 2, Paul Sims and Liam Shinn. Goals from Tom Maher and James Wright secured a place in the next round for Boston Town Old Boys when they played hosts to Tydd St Mary. It was yet another close game for the Tydd boys but no cigar at the end of it! The visitors thought they had a perfectly good goal disallowed after 53 minutes when the referee appeared to have signalled for play to go on after the linesman flagged and Tydd scored but it was eventually ruled out. Tydd were still unsettled after their disappointment and it was made worse two minutes later when Old Boys scored to make it 1-0. Tydd pushed for the equaliser and were denied by some good goalkeeping and Old Boys scored their second to seal the match seven minutes from time after a defensive blunder by the Saints. The encounter had proved to be another close game between two sides who have now met six times in league and cup during the past twelve months and Boston Town hold the bragging rights at four wins to two. Final score, on this occasion, was 2-0. Martin Gordon, Aiden Doherty and an own goal ensured Spalding Town’s safe passage to the next round following a 3-1 home win against FC Kirton. In a close physical game at Friskney, the home side gifted Spalding Harriers all three goals as long balls caught defenders out on each occasion. Spalding were the better side during the first half and were deservedly 2-0 ahead inside the first twenty five minutes. Friskney improved after the break and Perrie Dale reduced the arrears following a slick move. Unfortunately for the home side, Neil Allen wasn’t firing on all cylinders up front squandering four decent chances and also somehow firing over the bar from just a yard out before Spalding secured victory with a third. Referee Trevor Basker had a fine game in the middle playing some good advantage decisions to keep the game flowing.

Woodhall Spa United and Freiston shared the Cropleys Suzuki Premier Divison points following a 3-3 draw. Feiston suffered a setback just before the game started when keeper, Chris Spiller, injured his foot in the warm-up and Jim Portas was forced to deputise in goal. The re-shuffle didn’t seem to upset the visitors as they enjoyed most of the early possession but couldn't find a way through a well organised Woodhall defence. Woodhall bounced back to take the lead after 25 minutes with a free-kick before Aston Chase levelled the scores just before half time with a shot from the edge of the area following a goalmouth scramble. Woodhall stepped up the
pace after the break and stunned their opponents with two goals to lead 3-1. Jordan Wood got Freiston back into the game when he took advantage of a defensive mistake to knock home a loose ball after seventy five minutes and a few minutes later the visitors drew level with an Aston Chase penalty. Woodhall had their keeper to thank for preserving their point with two fine saves in the last five minutes. Swineshead and Spilsby produced a close fought encounter before the outcome was settled by a single Jack Houghton goal on seventy minutes. Swineshead probably had the better chances during an even first half and the second period followed much the same pattern until Houghton popped up to fire home from the edge of the box. This maybe Houghton's last piece of action for Swineshead for a while as stories are linking him to a move to Bourne Town this week. Westside Rangers had a bad day at the office, conceding double figure at Wyberton. Mark Lovelace and Jim Britton proved far too hot to handle for Rangers as both strikers hit four goals apiece in an 11-1 scoreline. Chris Rutt, John Reeson and an own goal completed the scoring.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Wyberton Reserves snatched victory at Coningsby Reserves with a goal 10 minutes from time despite playing with just ten men when James Payling was dismissed on the hour mark. The all-important goal came from Oliver Wareing. Old Leake continue to struggle at home although the signs seemed promising at half time when they found themselves leading 1-0 at the break against Old Doningtonians following a goal from Adam Tempest. The home side lost their way after the break, however, and they conceded three goals without any reply. Mark Sharman struck twice for the Dons while James Malkin was also on target in a 3-1 away win. Fishtoft inflicted a third defeat upon Swineshead Reserves. Harry Houghton hit the Swineshead goal during the first half which finished all square at 1-1, but Fishtoft took maximum points with the crucial winning goal after the break. Mark Ryan hit one of the goals for Fishtoft.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Castle Colts continue to go from strength to strength with an 8-0 away win at Westside Rangers Reserves. Rangers had no answer to The Colts’ powerful display as Daniel White and Daniel Maddison both grabbed two goals apiece while Craig Spooner, Leon Marsh, Ben Jacques and Nicky De Vries completed the rout. Billinghay Athletic Reserves seem to be enjoying life in Division Two following their promotion with a 4-1 home win against Fishtoft Reserves. Rick Harrod struck twice for Billinghay while Adam Weston and Jasper Caudwell also got on the scoresheet. Old Doningtonians Reserves defeated Spalding Town Reserves 3-1 at home thanks to goals from David Slaughter, Andrew Slaughter and Mark Stanhope.

Boston United Community were held to a 2-2 Cropleys Suzuki Division Three draw by Woodhall Spa United Reserves. Aldo Simao and a Gavin Gregory penalty earned a point for The Boston side. There was another draw at Holbeach Bank Reserves where Benington shared the points in a 3-3 score-line. Amer Pahal hit two of the Bank’s goals while Gary Walker grabbed the other. Benington replied through Steve Woodcock, Scott Dawson and Matthew Hood. Shaun Smith hit a fine hat-trick for Mareham United Reserves in their 4-1 home win against Freiston Reserves. James Todd was also on target for Mareham.

Round-up for September 19

Swineshead Reserves finally got their season up and running in Cropleys Suzuki Division One with a 3-2 home win against Sutterton. Richard Stukins, Harry Houghton and Richard Barker scored the all-important goals to give the home side their first points of the season. Old Doningtonians’ impressive start continued with a 2-1 home win against Spalding Town. Mark Sharman and James Malkin hit the decisive goals for the home side while Town’s reply came courtesy of an uncharacteristic mistake by keeper Andy Barnett who mis-kicked the ball allowing Spalding to get back into the game. The Dons, who had concerns about their squad at the start of the season, held out to hang onto three valuable points and force their way to the top of the table. Spalding Harriers enjoyed a 3-1 away win at Nortoft United thanks to goals from Lewis Field, James Smith and Marcin Minczynski. Coningsby Reserves got their first points on the scoreboard following a 2-0 away win at Holbeach Bank Reserves. Cameron Robertson and Carl Wall hit the crucial goals for the visitors.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Boston Town Old Boys heaped more misery on Skegness Working Men’s Club when they returned home with a 7-0 away win under their belts. Thomas Crozier struck twice while Alex Tilley, Lee Hoff, Micky Nuttell, Spencer Swadling and James Maher hit the magnificent seven for Town. Aiden Doherty and Josh Falkner hit the match-winning goals for Spalding Town Reserves in their 2-1 home win against Sportsman. Two goals from Danny White helped Castle Colts to 4-1 home win against Fishtoft Reserves. Danny Maddison and Nicky De Vries hit the other goals to make it two wins out of two for the new boys.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Tim Bell continued in a rich vein of goal-scoring with another hatful of goals for Benington. The in-form striker struck four of his side’s goals in a thrilling 5-5 home draw against Park United while Ben Hardstaff completed the scoring for the home side. Park’s goals came from Sam Veasey (2), Thomas Flatters, Alex Limb and Ben Liu There were another 10 goals at Mareham United Reserves where the home side defeated Pointon Reserves 7-3. James Todd hit a hat-trick for United while Jamie Lewis grabbed two goals. Shaun Smith and Michael Johnson completed the scoring. Pointon replied through Bill Sadler, Sam Husband and Simon Long. Friskney took all three points in a 3-2 away win at Spalding Harriers Reserves. Spalding went close to gaining some reward with goals from Adam Thompson and Dilip Tamang but Friskney snatched victory with a winning goal from Neil Allen. Friskeny started well and enjoyed plenty of possession but were, once again, wasteful in front of goal. It was a long range effort which got Friskney off the mark when Marcus De Vivar’s powerful strike flew into the net. Spalding equalised just after the break with a great header following a deep cross before the visitors regained their lead through Mikel Saskowski’s free-kick. Spalding refused to buckle and their efforts were rewarded with another equaliser. The home side handed their opponents the initiative, however, shortly afterwards when they had a player dismissed for a reckless tackle and Friskney took advantage to dominate the final twenty minutes. Neil Allen finally put away one of many chances to give his side victory and three valuable points. Both sides produced a sporting encounter which was well controlled by referee, Barrie Ingham. Final score was 3-2. Kirton Town Reserves produced the fight-back of the day when they travelled to Eastville, Midville and New Leake. The visitors found themselves trailing 4-1 with just five minutes remaining before somehow staged an amazing comeback to rescue a point. Eastville started strongly and they opened the scoring on the half hour mark when Phil Hodgson cut in from the flank before unleashing a scorching effort which flew into the top right hand corner. The home side increased their lead after sixty five minutes when Junior Singh’s free-kick struck the angle of post and crossbar and the ball eventually dropped for Kane Watson to knock the rebound in. Kirton pulled a goal back five minutes later before Micky Head made it 3-1 following good work from Watson. Head, who had also three efforts ruled out, added a fourth on eighty minutes following Jamie Appleby’s assist and the game looked all over for Kirton. But then Kirton staged their stirring fightback to salvage an impressive point. Town’s saviours were new signing, Lee Jackson, Ian Chapman and Ashley Hughes who bagged two goals. Final score was 4-4. Recent signing, Sam Hill hit the match-winner for Freiston Reserves in their 1-0 home win against Skegness Town A. Holbeach Bank, still looking for their first points of the season went down away from home against Boston United Community. Simon Hall hit The Bank’s goal but it wasn’t enough to get them off the mark as they went down to a 2-1 defeat.

In round one of the Fishtoft Cup, Pete Dickinson was again amongst the goals with a fine hat-trick for Billinghay Athletic in their 5-1 home win against Woodhall Spa United. The other two goals came from Adam Burrows. Spilsby Town needed extra time before putting an end to Fosdyke’s brave effort. The visitors from Division Two held Premier side, Spilsby to a goal-less draw during normal time before Spilsby finally sneaked through to the next round with Matt Barker and an own goal securing victory. Final score was 2-0. Skegness Town Reserves had a comfortable passage through to the next round when they entertained Mareham United. Darren Walker and Josh Bartlett both scored twice in an 8-0 home win. The other goals came from Royston Wilkinson, John Courtney, Rob Jackson and Wes Sutton. Freiston booked their place in the next round following a comfortable 5-0 away win at Westside Rangers. The home side defended well early on but then gifted the visitors an early lead with an own goal after 20 minutes. The setback affected Rangers’ confidence and they conceded two quick-fire goals inside two minutes around the half hour mark to trail 3-0 at the break - Peter Lovelace and Dean Seiner capitalising on poor clearances to put Freiston well in control at the halfway stage. Freiston continued to press after the break and after hitting the post twice, Aston Chase converted a penalty for the fourth. Lee Dakin completed the scoring when he followed up a rebound when a shot had come back off the crossbar with ten minutes remaining. A late Jack Houghton goal denied Kirton Town extra time when they entertained Swineshead at Graves Park. Kirton had rocked their opponents early in the tie with an opening goal after just ten minutes when the ball was bundled over the line by Callum MacDonald following a corner kick. Swineshead levelled ten minutes before the break when Bert Snaith beat two players before firing into the net. There were chances at both ends during the second half but both keepers were in fine form and just when the tie looked like going into extra time Swineshead dealt a cruel blow when Jack Houghton scored from close range after good work from Snaith. There was still time, however, for Kirton to almost draw level in the dying seconds when a corner was headed against the bar by Tosh Bates. Final score was 2-1. Wyberton edged through to the next round following a 3-2 home win against Coningsby. Jim Britton gave Wyberton the lead after fifteen minutes but two quick-fire replies from Coningsby turned the match in the visitor’s favour. Another excellent strike from Britton put Wyberton on level terms on the stroke of half-time before the winning goal came five minutes after the break when Joe Hallam fired through a crowded goalmouth.

Round-up for September 12

Goals from Matt Barker and Adam Dales helped Spilsby Town to a 2-0 away Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division win at Westside Rangers. Billinghay Athletic also secured an away win when a single Mark Wheatley goal made it a miserable day for Swineshead. The goal came quite early on and was a direct result of Billinghay’s height advantage at dead ball situations – man of the match Wheatley getting on the end of a corner to head home what proved to be the winning goal. Swineshead improved after the break and they created a few useful chances with the closest coming from substitute Bert Snaith who struck the crossbar from long range. Jack Houghton had a late chance in the dying minutes but his cross-shot from a tight angle flew across the face of the goal.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Old Doningtonians produced a storming second half display to overpower Holbeach Bank. After a goalless first half, The Dons found their goalscoring boots in the second half with the first two goals being created by the goal-kicking of keeper, Andy Barnett who launched two superb punts up field for Aidan Moore and Curtis Lane to fasten onto before firing their side into a 2-0 lead. Liam Pitts added a third before Tom Wilkerson and Mark Sharman completed the rout. Final score 5-0. Fishtoft hit two first half goals through Leon Pycock and Declan Wilson at Old Leake to give them a comfortable interval lead. Rob Staples pulled a goal back for Old Leake after the break to make it a nervous finale for the visitors. Fishtoft held on, however, to record their first win of the season. Final score was 2-1. Coningsby Reserves suffered another heavy defeat, this time at the hands of Wainfleet United. The game was all but over by half time as Wainfleet stormed into a 3-0 lead. Man of the match Alex Clarke hit two goals while Adam Rasmussen’s 30-yard pile-driver put the game beyond Coningsby. Wainfleet managed just one more goal after the break when Matt Broome hit the fourth following good work from Clarke. Final score was 4-0. Swineshead Reserves are still waiting to rediscover their championship-winning formula following a second successive defeat. Spalding Town inflicted a painful defeat on last season’s champions with a 4-1 home win. Martin Gordon hit two of The Spalding goals while Tom Cherry and David Ball also scored. Sutterton made it three wins out of three following victory in a seven-goal thriller at home to Pointon. The home side fell behind after just six minutes when a harsh handball decision went against defender Nigel Daubney and the spot-kick was duly despatched. Sutterton got back on level terms after 35 minutes when James Bruns clipped a ball forward for Andy Brown to race onto and their ace marksman lifted the ball over the advancing keeper and into the net. Sutterton went ahead five minutes before the break when Brown burst through Pointon’s rearguard once more before calmly beating the keeper. Brown turned provider five minutes into the second half when his low cross was smashed home from close range by Scott Creek who registered his first goal for the club. Pointon refused to surrender and, after a good spell of possession, they pulled a goal back before Brown completed his hat-trick to make it 4-2 with 20 minutes remaining. A late Scott Creek own goal set up a tense finale but Sutterton held out to preserve their 100 percent record. Final score was 4-3.

There was rugby-style scoreline at Mareham United where Kirton Leisure will be puzzling how they scored six times and still ended up on the losing side in their Cropley Suzuki Division Two encounter. Mareham took the points in an amazing 7-6 victory with Tom Sewell and Michael Johnson scoring two goals apiece. The other match-winning goals came from Daniel Garnett, Craig Newstead and Danny Cottingham.

Alex Gammon also struck two goals for Billinghay Athletic Reserves in their 4-1 home win against Saplding Town Reserves. Danny Long and Stuart Fullerton also got on the scoresheet for the home side. Fishtoft Reserves recorded their first win of the season with a 3-1 home win against Old Doningtonians Reserves. Tom Adams, Luke Perkins and Joe Bradbury hit the crucial goals. Boston Town Old Boys made it two wins out of two following a 3-1 home win against Tydd St. Mary. Lee Hoff was once again on target for Town while Steffan Furnell and Thomas Maher grabbed the other goals. Castle Colts, still trying to put last week’s debacle behind them, had a comfortable 5-1 away win at Fosdyke who took a while to get going. Fosdyke trailed by just a single goal at the break before Castle Colts doubled their advantage on the hour mark. The game appeared to be out of the home side’s reach when a third goal went in before Dave Beament reduced the arrears with a superb strike from 30 yards out. Any glimmer of hope Fosdyke may have had was immediately extinguished with a fourth goal and The Castle added a fifth in the final minutes. Craig Spooner hit a hat-trick for The Castle while Danny Maddison and Danny White completed the scoring. Sportsman’s Chris Bray hit four goals as his side sunk Skegness Working Men’s Club 6-2. The in-form striker, who has been away from the game for a couple of years showed he had lost none of predatory instinct with all four of his side’s first half goals. Bray’s first being the pick of the bunch when he fastened onto a Wayne Pelling pass before unleashing an unstoppable shot from twenty yards out. Despite the 4-0 interval score-line Skegness had created a couple of fine chances which they squandered. The visitors fared better after the break as Sportsman took their foot off the gas and Skegness grabbed two goals to spur the home side into action. Man of the match, Wayne Pelling made it 5-2 before the industrious Aron Russell lobbed home the sixth and final goal. Sportsman’s right back, Dave Ruduks also impressed in the defence.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Benington’s Tim Bell hit five of his side’s goals in a 6-2 home win against Mareham United Reserves. Ross Don-Duncan completed the scoring . Josh Whittam struck twice for Skegness Town A in their 5-0 home win against Park United. The other goals came from Andy Parish, Michael Parnham and Dan Starkey. Eastville, Midville and New Leake will still be wondering how they managed to return home from their away trip to FC Kirton without any reward. Despite being down to the bare XI players and having to play their ace goalscorer, Micky Head in goal, Eastville gave a good account of themselves in a 2-1 defeat. Eastville’s regular goalkeeper was otherwise occupied representing the County at cricket but even he would have been struggling to get near to Kirton’s opening goal – a screaming shot from Rhys Cox which flew into the net after just 12 minutes. Eastville’s response was instant when a through ball from Lucky Singh found Kane Watson and he slotted the ball home just thirty seconds later. The visitors seem to have a habit of switching off during the half-time break and they came out for the second half on the back foot as Kirton dominated for a while. The game appeared to be heading for a draw until 10 minutes from time when the home side were awarded a penalty which Cox converted for his second goal of the game. Eastville decided to throw caution to the wind and swapped stand-in keeper, Head with another novice, Junior Singh, and the switch almost worked as the visitors went close to snatching a draw when they had two goalbound efforts cleared off the line but it was all in vain and they finished up empty-handed. Final score was 2-1. Friskney got their season back on track with their first win of the campaign following a 4-2 away win at Holbeach Bank Reserves. The visitors went ahead through Marcus De Vivar who netted after good work from Perrie Dale. The Bank levelled with a hotly disputed goal after the referee ruled out Pete Holland’s offside flag. The setback affected Friskney and they conceded again before the break to trail 2-1. Friskney dominated the second half, however, and wrapped up the points with three goals to run out comfortable winners. First, Mikel Saskowski finished off a fine move to level the scores and then Neil Allen put his side ahead with a 30-yard curler. Dan Fox made sure of victory with a fourth following a close range effort. Friskney’s Stewart Lyons enjoyed an impressive baptism to men’s football.

In the preliminary round of the Mason Bros Lincs Junior Cup, Coningsby somehow came back from the dead to earn their passage through to the first round when they entertained City Electrical. With twenty minutes left to play, despite two goals from Danny Barker and Daniel Daubney, Coningsby were 2-4 down. Somehow the Coningsby team turned what was looking like a sure defeat into an astounding victory by putting away three more goals inside the last 15 minutes. Two from Robbie Holderness and the goal of the match - a 25yard screamer from Tom Dickinson sent the Coningsby camp into celebration-mode. Final score was 5-4. Wyberton had the unenviable task of travelling to last season’s finalists, AFC Brumby and although they battled well they returned home on the end of a 4-0 defeat. On the adjacent pitch, Skegness Town fared somewhat better when they easily disposed of Ascunthorpe Rangers by a massive 14-0 margin! Kirton Town also made it through following a 5-1 home win against Barnetby United. Chris Hilton grabbed a hat-trick for Town while Martin Durrant scored twice. Barnetby were slightly hampered by having to field a stand-in goalkeeper after the original keeper failed to show.

CARLTON COLTS REUNION

Former Boston Saturday League club Carlton Colts FC are planning a reunion and Boston League vice-chairman, Jim Ely (former player and secretary) is hoping to attract some interest from anyone with past involvement with the club. Here are some contact numbers of some of the ‘golden-oldies’ who would like to get the event off the ground: Jim Ely 363984; Dave Bark 369303; Denis Limb 290750; Dave Coulson 360970.

Round-up for September 5

Billinghay Athletic striker, Pete Dickinson proved his worth to the team with two goals in his side’s 4-1 home Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division win over Skegness Town Reserves. Adam Burrows and Steve Rowland hit the other goals in a convincing home win. Champions Coningsby got their season up and running but unfortunately for them Freiston spoiled their party with a 2-1 away win. Freiston, although below strength themselves, were still strong enough to make it a miserable start for the home side, who are clearly missing the goalscoring prowess of Pete Dickinson. Coningsby opened the scoring from the penalty spot through Robin Holderness after just five minutes before the visitors were forced to introduce veteran striker, Jim Portas to the action. The ever-green front man soon rolled back the years, however, with the equaliser on the hour mark. It stayed all-square at 1-1 until five minutes from time when Freiston’s Dean Seiner struck the all-important winner. Final score was 2-1. Swineshead will be the first to admit that they were probably lucky to take all three points in their away match at the Causeway, where Wyberton missed two penalties. Swineshead went ahead after 15 minutes with a scrappy goal when Jack Houghton pounced onto a loose ball to score from close range. The first penalty miss came on the half hour mark when Wyberton were awarded a spot-kick when Paul Clarke was adjudged to have handled in the box but Andrew Stukins came to his side's rescue with a great save. Swineshead made their opponents pay 10 minutes later for that costly miss when they added a second after good work from James Andrew down the left flank and his cross was headed home by Martin North. Wyberton pulled a goal back eight minutes after the break with a far post header from Sam Louth following a corner. The home side then had a golden chance to draw level on seventy seven minutes when the referee awarded another penalty for a foul in the area but this time the spot kick was blazed high over the crossbar. Final score was 2-1

Last season’s Cropleys Suzuki Division One champions Swineshead Reserves were humbled in their first outing of the season when Old Leake were the visitors. Both sides were locked together all-square at 1-1 at the halfway stage with Harry Houghton grabbing Swineshead’s goal and Adam Tempest replying for the visitors. It was Tempest who struck again in the second half when he popped up with the winning goal to give Old Leake the three points. Final score was 2-1. A single Andy Brown strike was enough to give Sutterton three valuable away points at Spalding Harriers. Sutterton started positively and the crucial goal came after just 12 minutes when Micky Hill crossed from the right flank and the ball fell invitingly for the visitors’ ace marksman and he had time for a first touch before firing past the keeper. The Spalding side rallied and they enjoyed plenty of possession but they couldn’t find a way past Sutterton’s resilient defence. The second half followed in much the same vein with the Harriers having plenty of the ball and Sutterton looking dangerous on the counter-attack. Long range efforts from Brown, Povey and Creek were as close Sutterton came to adding to their tally while the home side continued to throw men forward at every opportunity. It only seemed a matter of time before Spalding would drew level as Sutterton defended desperately with full backs, Smalley and Kane producing important goal-line clearances. The Harriers’ best chance came on 80 minutes when striker Steve Carn was put clean through on goal and the speeding forward had time to pick his spot but thankfully for Sutterton, their keeper, Scott Williams pulled off an amazing save to preserve his side’s lead. The victory made it two wins out of two for the visitors but Spalding Harriers were left wondering how they finished up empty-handed. Final score was 1-0. Goals from Jason Skinner and Jamie Cox secured a 2-0 away win for Wyberton Reserves at Wainfleet United. Levi Emmanuel hit four goals four for Nortoft United in their convincing 6-0 home win against Coningsby Reserves. Callum Bates and Jamie Elston completed the scoring for the home side.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, the game between Castle Colts and Billinghay Athletic Reserves was brought to a premature end following a disgraceful incident just after the hour mark. A mindless supporter is understood to have run onto the field of play to assault a Billinghay player and following the ensuing free-for-all between both sets of players, the referee abandoned the game with the scores standing at

3-3. The referee’s report will obviously spark a full enquiry by the Lincolnshire Football Association. For the record, the Castle Colts goals had come from Gary Frost, Daniel White and Daniel Maddison but they will, more than likely, become null and void. Tom Laverack and Chris Cousins both scored twice in Skegness Working Men’s Club’s 4-4 home draw against Fosdyke. Although the scoreline suggests an exciting game the encounter was anything but as an awful playing surface put paid to any flowing football. The long grass and rabbit holes welcomed Fosdyke after their lengthy journey and they soon fell 2-0 behind before Andy Thorpe pulled a goal back on the half hour mark. Skegness regained their two-goal advantage early in the second half when Robbie Curle conceded a penalty but, coincidentally, the same player then made amends when he converted a penalty after Thorpe had been felled in the box. Fosdyke levelled the scores at 3-3 when Chris Rollings’ floating effort somehow eluded everyone before finding the net. Fosdyke’s amazing comeback looked complete when Dan Sansam made it 4-3 with a superb effort but with just minutes remaining the home side triggered the offside trap before scoring a late equaliser. Final score was 4-4. Unfortunately for Skegness WMC they were told that they could no longer use their original pitch at St Clements College and they had to find an alternative venue which is currently at Burgh-Le-Marsh (where Croft Cobras FC used to play). Boston Town Old Boys hit Kirton Leisure for six in their away match at Rosebery Avenue. Lee Hoff did most of the damage for The Old Boys scoring a fine hat-trick while Scott Palmer, Thomas Crozier and Alex Tilley completed the scoring. Final score was 6-0. Old Doningtonians Reserves and Sportsman shared the points in a 2-2 draw. Andrew Slaughter and Chris Wing hit the Dons’ goals while Eluisio Lucaras and Avelino Vieira replied for the visitors. D J Wright and Adam Gallagher scored in Westside Rangers Reserves’ home game against Mareham United but it wasn’t enough to earn any reward as Mareham replied five times to run out 5-2 winners.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, Freiston Reserves gained their first points of the season when they were involved in an entertaining home game against Kirton Town Reserves. Play ebbed and flowed during the first half but neither side could conjure up the breakthrough. Freiston eventually took the lead after sixty five minutes when David Whalley’s neat finish put his side in front and recent signing Joe Pitcher grabbed the decisive second goal a few minutes later when the new signing’s shot from the edge of the area gave the keeper no chance. Final score was 2-0. Pointon Reserves bounced back from their opening day mauling to record their first point of the season following a 2-2 home draw against Eastville, Midville & New Leake. It was the home side who struck first before Eastville responded with, what they thought was a goal, but was ruled out for offside. Micky Head did eventually equalise for Eastville shortly afterwards with a somewhat fortunate effort when his shot squeezed through the arms and legs of the embarrassed keeper. It was Head again who was on target before the break when he scored from close range following a fine cross from Jed Stainton. Pointon levelled the scores in the second half before Eastville thought they had come up with the winning goal when Micky Head thought he had scored but, after consulting his assistant, the referee disallowed the goal much to the dismay of the visiting camp. David Cook and Mark Smith hit the Pointon goals. New side, Skegness Town A got their season off to a flying start with a 2-0 away win against Benington at Main Road Wrangle. Josh Whittam and Jason Reid hit the match-winning goals. A Sam Veasey hat-trick helped Park United to maximum points in a seven-goal thriller at Holbeach Bank Reserves. Ben Liu was also on target for Park while Gary Walker, Mick Ocock and Amer Pahal replied for the Bank. Final score was 4-3.

Round-up for August 29

There were only two games in the Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division on the opening day of the season and one of the early favourites for honours, Freiston, made a decent start by edging through in a seven-goal thriller when they entertained Billinghay Athletic. The home side set off at a blistering pace scoring twice in the opening four minutes but full credit to Billinghay for producing a storming fight-back and, in the end, were unfortunate not to return home with some reward. Freiston included three 16-year olds in their line-up as well as five new signings but it was two of their more established players who put them into a very strong position early on. Dean Seiner, with two goals and Aston Chase with another made it 3-0 after just 20 minutes and although Billinghay reduced the arrears, Freiston regained their three-goal advantage just before the break when new capture, Jordan Wood grabbed his first goal for the club with a 20-yard strike. Billinghay came out after the break facing a mountain to climb as they trailed 4-1 but a strong breeze at their backs helped them peg their opponents into their own half. The visitors made it 4-2 within 10 minutes of the restart and then proceeded to squander several good chances before finally making it 4-3 with 10 minutes remaining. Freiston somehow managed to cling on to their slender lead and gain three valuable points in a sporting encounter which was well controlled by referee, Ray Chadwick. Newly promoted, Woodhall Spa United made a promising start when they played hosts to Wyberton and a 1-1 scoreline will give them an early season boost. Both side produced an excellent encounter and it was the visitors who struck first with a goal from Steve Melady and it stayed that way until the second half. Woodhall deservedly equalised after the break when Jason Cooke scored to make the final score 1-1.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division One, Old Doningtonians went down to a single-goal defeat at home to newly promoted Spalding Harriers. The Dons missed some golden chances whereas The Spalding side’s striker, Dawid Kantak showed his opponents how it should be done with the all-important winning goal. Final score was 1-0. Pointon got their season off to a great start with a 5-1 home win against Nortoft United. Goals from Dan Wright, Tom Zealand, Shane Jordan, Mark Smith and Paul McGugh did the damage. Nortoft had no answer to a strong Pointon outfit. Sutterton also hit five goals in their home encounter against Wainfleet United. Andy Brown and Sergio Roqueti both grabbed two goals apiece while Nigel Edison also got on the scoresheet. Matthew Broome replied for Wainfleet. It was Edison who got the scoreboard rolling after just thirty seconds when he lashed home a loose ball and the newly promoted Sutterton went 2-0 ahead three minutes later when Sergio Roqueti met Andy Brown’s corner to send his header into the top corner. Wainfleet responded well and they created a couple of good chances before Andy Brown fired home from the edge of the box to make it 3-0. Wainfleet got themselves on the scoresheet immediately afterwards to make the half time score 3-1. The game was all but over within a minute of the restart when a free-kick from the left flank eluded everyone leaving Roqueti unmarked and he walked the ball over the line for the fourth. There was no way back for Wainfleet now and with Daubney in commanding form at the back, Sutterton were home and dry. Brown wrapped up the scoring with twenty minutes remaining to make the final score 5-1. Wyberton and Spalding Town produced an exciting seven-goal thriller at The Causeway with the visitors snatching victory 4-3. Tom Cherry grabbed two of the goals for Spalding while Martin Gordon was also on target – the other came courtesy of an own goal. Wyberton went close to salvaging some reward with goals from Adrian Dobrianski, who also struck twice and Danny Mindham.

In Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, Rick Harrod and Simon Fullerton both hit hat-tricks for Billinghay Athletic Reserves in their 7-0 home win against Skegness Working Men’s Club. Daniel Long weighed in with the other goal. Fosdyke eventually found the all-important breakthrough after long periods of domination when they opened the scoring against Old Doningtonians Reserves midway through the second half. After a goal-less first half Andy Thorpe struck first when he cut in from the right flank before firing home and within two minutes Fosdyke grabbed a crucial second with The Dons still reeling. Centre back, Chris Bell powered through and following some neat passing, he rifled home a fine shot high to the keeper’s left to make the final score 2-0. Spalding Town Reserves struck twice in their home game against Westside Rangers Reserves through Simon Webb and Josh Faulkner but it wasn’t enough to prevent them from going down 5-2 to a strong Rangers side. Sportsman were victorious in the other remaining game defeating Kirton Leisure 3-1

Benington enjoyed their first game in Cropleys Suzuki Division Three of the Boston Saturday League when they entertained Spalding Harriers Reserves. Wiles and Veale both grabbed two goals apiece while Rob Grant, Matthew Hood and Ian Morris also scored in a thumping 7-1 home win. Spalding replied through Craig Lawrence. There were some other big scores in the division with Kirton Town Reserves taking top billing with double figures in their home match against Pointon Reserves. The Grantham-based side started the day badly with seven players pulling out of the game and they were always going to be up against it and so it showed as they conceded 10 goals. Sam Husband grabbed two consolation goals for Pointon in a 10-2 defeat. Newcomers, FC Kirton almost equalled their neighbours’ feat with eight against Freiston Reserves although their opponents did reply four times in an 8-4 scoreline.

Eastville, Midville and New Leake did no favours for another of the newly formed sides as Boston United Community went down 3-0 away from home.

Round-up for August 10

The Boston Saturday League has been rocked by the demise of one its most successful teams in the 1970s and 80s.

Wrangle United FC have decided to pack in before the season starts because they have been unable to replace long-serving secretary Nigel Birtwistle who decided to retire at the end of last season.

Wrangle United were league champions nine times between 1971 and 1984 and also won the Lincolnshire Junior Cup in 1980 and 1981. They won the Boston Sports Cup a record seven times on the trot between1974 to 1980 beating the previous record of six wins on the trot by that other now defunct famous local side Bicker Rangers, who flourished during the late 50s and early 60s.

Wrangle United's most recent success was in 2005 when they regained their Premier Division status by winning Division One. The writing was probably on the wall last season when, mid-way through the season they were forced to withdraw their reserve side.

They have found success harder to come by in the most recent seasons and they have been unable to find a replacement for Nigel Birtwistle.

The League understands that the Club had sufficient players interested but nobody prepared to take on the administration. It's a sad day when one of the longest established clubs folds and it is to be hoped that a team will come from Wrangle in the future.

On a brighter note, a public meeting held in Spilsby earlier this week has seen the future of Spilsby Town FC secured although they have been forced to withdraw their reserve team from Division One.

The draw has been made for the Preliminary Round of The LFA Junior County Cup (holders Swineshead Institute FC) to be played on September12 along with the draw for the first round to be played on October10.

Below is the attached the revised first month's fixtures and the draw for the County Junior Cup first round. Wyberton have a tough draw playing last seasons Runners-up AFC Brumby away. Boston League champions Coningsby have been drawn at home to City Electrical and Kirton Town have a home tie against Barnetby United.

Saturday, August 29^th 2009, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division

Freiston v Billinghay Athletic

Woodhall Spa United v Wyberton

Cropleys Suzuki Division One

Old Doningtonians v Spalding Harriers

Pointon v Nortoft United

Sutterton v Wainfleet United

Wyberton Reserves v Spalding Town

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Skegness Working Mens Club

Fosdyke v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Spalding Town Reserves v Westside Rangers Reserves

Sportsman v Kirton Leisure

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three

Benington v Spalding Harriers Reserves

Eastville, Midville & New Leake v Boston United Community

F.C. Kirton v Freiston Reserves

Kirton Town Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Saturday, September 5^th 2009, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division

Billinghay Athletic v Skegness Town Reserves

Coningsby v Freiston

Kirton Town v Westside Rangers

Spilsby Town v Woodhall Spa United

Wyberton v Swineshead Institute

Cropleys Suzuki Division One

Fishtoft v Old Doningtonians

Nortoft United v Coningsby Reserves

Spalding Harriers v Sutterton

Swineshead Institute Reserves v Old Leake

Wainfleet United v Wyberton Reserves

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two

Castle Colts v Billinghay Athletic Reserves

Kirton Leisure v Boston Town Old Boys

Old Doningtonians Reserves v Sportsman

Skegness Working Mens Club v Fosdyke

Tydd St Mary v Fishtoft Reserves

Westside Rangers Reserves v Mareham United

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three

Boston United Community v Friskney

Freiston Reserves v Kirton Town Reserves

Mareham United Reserves v F.C. Kirton

Park United v Holbeach Bank Reserves

Pointon Reserves v Eastville, Midville & New Leake

Skegness Town “A” v Benington

Woodhall Spa United Reserves v Spalding Harriers Reserves

Saturday, September 12^th 2009

Mason Bros. Lincolnshire Junior Cup, Preliminary Round, 3.00 p.m. kick-off

A.F.C. Brumby v Wyberton

A.F.C. Friendship v North Somercotes United

Alford Town v Immingham Blossom Way

Barrowby v North Lindum Hawks

Beehive United v Barkston & Syston

Coningsby v City Electrical

F.B. Old Boys v M.P. Dons

F.S.R.C.-G.F.L. v Immingham Bluestone

Heckington United v Nicol Construction

Kirton Town v Barnetby United

Long Sutton Athletic v Caistor Tennyson

Rustons United v Epworth Town

Scunthorpe Rangers v Skegness Town

Sutton Bridge United v Harvest

Tetford United v Langtoft United

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Swineshead Institute v Billinghay Athletic

Westside Rangers v Spilsby Town

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Old Doningtonians v Holbeach Bank

Old Leake v Fishtoft

Spalding Town v Swineshead Institute Reserves

Sutterton v Pointon

Wainfleet United v Coningsby Reserves

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Spalding Town Reserves

Boston Town Old Boys v Tydd St.Mary

Fishtoft Reserves v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Fosdyke v Castle Colts

Mareham United v Kirton Leisure

Sportsman v Skegness Working Mens Club

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Benington v Mareham United Reserves

F.C. Kirton v Eastville, Midville & New Leake

Holbeach Bank Reserves v Friskney

Park United v Skegness Town “A”

Pointon Reserves v Woodhall Spa United Reserves

Saturday, September 19^th 2009

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Holbeach Bank v Coningsby Reserves

Nortoft United v Spalding Harriers

Old Doningtonians v Spalding Town**16/01/10

Swineshead Institute Reserves v Sutterton

Wyberton Reserves v Old Leake

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Castle Colts v Fishtoft Reserves

Kirton Leisure v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Skegness Working Mens Club v Boston Town Old Boys

Spalding Town Reserves v Sportsman

Tydd St.Mary v Westside Rangers Reserves

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Benington v Park United

Boston United Community v Holbeach Bank Reserves

Eastville, Mid & New Leake v Kirton Town Reserves

Freiston Reserves v Skegness Town “A”

Mareham United Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Spalding Harriers Reserves v Friskney

Woodhall Spa United Reserves v F.C. Kirton

Fishtoft Cup, Round One, 2.00 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic v Woodhall Spa United

Fishtoft v Wainfleet United

Kirton Town v Swineshead Institute

Skegness Town Reserves v Mareham United

Spilsby Town v Fosdyke

Westside Rangers v Freiston

Wyberton v Coningsby

Saturday, September 26^h 2009

Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, Round One, 2.00 p.m. kick-off

Boston Town Old Boys v Tydd St.Mary

Eastville, Mid & New Leake v Holbeach Bank

Friskney v Spalding Harriers

Kirton Leisure v Nortoft United

Park United v Wainfleet United

Pointon v Sutterton

Skegness Town “A” v Mareham United

Skegness Working Mens Club v Sportsman

Spalding Town v F.C. Kirton

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Kirton Town v Coningsby

Swineshead Institute v Spilsby Town

Woodhall Spa United v Freiston

Wyberton v Westside Rangers

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Coningsby Reserves v Wyberton Reserves

Fishtoft v Swineshead Institute Reserves

Old Leake v Old Doningtonians

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Fishtoft Reserves

Old Doningtonians Reserves v Spalding Town Reserves

Westside Rangers Reserves v Castle Colts

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Boston United Community v Woodhall Spa United Reserves

Holbeach Bank Reserves v Benington

Mareham United Reserves v Freiston Reserves

Spalding Harriers Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Saturday, October 10^h 2009

Mason Bros. Lincolnshire Junior Cup, Round One, 2.15 p.m. kick-off

A.F.C. Brumby or Wyberton v Car Services

A.S. Motors v Cleethorpes Town

Alford Town or Immingham Blossom Way v Scunthonians

B.B.M. v A. & G. Auto Repairs

Barrowby or North Lindum v Westside Rangers

Beehive United or Barkston & Syston v N.E.L.C.

Billinghay Athletic v C.G.B. Humbertherm

Crosby Colts v Fizz

Deeping Sports v Moulton Harrox

F.S.R.C.-G.F.L. or Immingham Bluestone v Crowland Town

Gainsborough Town Canutes v Ancaster Rovers

Haxey Town v F.C. Hunters Leap

Holton le Clay v Coningsby or City Electrical

Horncastle Town v Red Lion

Keelby United v Hykeham Town

Kirton Town or Barnetby United v Swineshead Institute

Long Sutton Athletic or Caistor Tennyson v Heckington United or Nicol Construction

Louth United v Woodhall Spa United

Messingham Junior v Scunthorpe Rangers or Skegness Town

Metheringham v Fulbeck United

No.1 Pub v F.B. Old Boys or M.P. Dons

Pinchbeck United v Stamford Belvedere

Ruskington Rovers v Chapel Swifts

Ruston Sports v Rustons United or Epworth Town

Saltfleet United v Ivy Tavern C.S.A.

Scotter United v Mitchells

Skellingthorpe v A.F.C. Friendship or North Somercotes United

Spilsby Town v Freiston

Sutton Bridge United or Harvest v Limestone Rangers

Tetford United or Langtoft United v Fishtoft

Waddington United v Grantham Squash Club

Waltham Tea Gardens v Everyone Active

Round-up for July 31

The Saturday League has just released its fixtures for the forthcoming season, kicking off on Saturday August 29. Because it is a Bank Holiday weekend a number of clubs have asked not to play and the first full week is the following Saturday September 5. Full details for these two weeks are attached

On the opening day, new clubs Kirton Leisure start away to Sportsman in Division Two while in Division Three Benington start at home to Spalding Harriers Reserves, Boston United Community travel to Eastville, Midville and New Leake and FC Kirton start at home to Freiston Reserves.

The other new teams start on September 5 with Castle Colts at home to Billinghay Athletic Reserves in Division Two and in Division Three Holbeach Bank Reserves travel to Park United and Skegness Town A entertain Benington.

Before then, a very important meeting is to be held to discuss the future of one of the oldest clubs in the county. On Tuesday, July 28 at The White Hart Hotel, Spilsby a meeting will be held to discuss the future of Spilsby Town FC Formed in 1881 the club competed in The FA Cup in 1885 and won the inaugural Lincolnshire County Cup and did so for three years running. The club is struggling to replace the departure of long-serving manager Bob Green who, after 11 years has decided to retire and the club is struggling to find a successor. Spilsby Town were Boston and District Premier Division champions as recently as 2004 and the League will be very sad to see a club with such a marvellous history disappear and it is to be hoped that the football supporting public in Spilsby go along to this important meeting and support their local club.

For initial fixtures, see complete list below (in round-up for July 14)

Round-up for July 14

The first month’s fixtures in the Boston Saturday Football League are listed below:

Saturday, August 29^th 2009, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division

Freiston v Billinghay Athletic

Westside Rangers v Wrangle United

Woodhall Spa United v Wyberton

Cropleys Suzuki Division One

Old Doningtonians v Spalding Harriers

Pointon v Nortoft United

Sutterton v Wainfleet United

Wyberton Reserves v Spalding Town

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Skegness Working Mens Club

Fosdyke v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Spalding Town Reserves v Westside Rangers Reserves

Sportsman v Kirton Leisure

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three

Benington v Spalding Harriers Reserves

Eastville, Midville & N Leake v Boston United Community

F.C. Kirton v Freiston Reserves

Kirton Town Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Saturday, September 5^th 2009, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division

Billinghay Athletic v Skegness Town Reserves

Coningsby v Freiston

Kirton Town v Westside Rangers

Spilsby Town v Woodhall Spa United

Wyberton v Swineshead Institute

Cropleys Suzuki Division One

Fishtoft v Old Doningtonians

Holbeach Bank v Spilsby Town Reserves

Nortoft United v Coningsby Reserves

Spalding Harriers v Sutterton

Swineshead Institute Res v Old Leake

Wainfleet United v Wyberton Reserves

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two

Castle Colts v Billinghay Athletic Reserves

Kirton Leisure v Boston Town Old Boys

Old Doningtonians Reserves v Sportsman

Skegness Working Men’s Club v Fosdyke

Tydd St Mary v Fishtoft Reserves

Westside Rangers Reserves v Mareham United

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three

Boston United Community v Friskney

Freiston Reserves v Kirton Town Reserves

Mareham United Reserves v FC Kirton

Park United v Holbeach Bank Reserves

Pointon Reserves v Eastville, Midville & New Leake

Skegness Town A v Benington

Woodhall Spa United Reserves v Spalding Harriers Reserves

Saturday, September 12^th 2009

Mason Bros. Lincolnshire Junior Cup, Preliminary Round, 3.00 p.m. kick-off

No ties yet drawn

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Freiston v Wyberton

Swineshead Institute v Billinghay Athletic

Westside Rangers v Spilsby Town

Woodhall Spa United v Kirton Town

Wrangle United v Coningsby

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Coningsby Reserves v Wainfleet United

Old Doningtonians v Holbeach Bank

Old Leake v Fishtoft

Spalding Town v Swineshead Institute Reserves

Spilsby Town Reserves v Nortoft United

Sutterton v Pointon

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Spalding Town Reserves

Boston Town Old Boys v Tydd St Mary

Fishtoft Reserves v Old Doningtonians Reserves

Fosdyke v Castle Colts

Mareham United v Kirton Leisure

Sportsman v Skegness Working Men’s Club

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Benington v Mareham United Reserves

F.C. Kirton v Eastville, Midville & New Leake

Holbeach Bank Reserves v Friskney

Kirton Town Reserves v Boston United Community

Park United v Skegness Town A

Pointon Reserves v Woodhall Spa United Reserves

Saturday, September 19^th 2009

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Holbeach Bank v Coningsby Reserves

Nortoft United v Spalding Harriers

Pointon v Spilsby Town Reserves

Swineshead Institute Reserves v Sutterton

Wyberton Reserves v Old Leake

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Castle Colts v Fishtoft Reserves

Kirton Leisure v Old Donington Reserves

Skegness Working Mens Club v Boston Town Old Boys

Spalding Town Reserves v Sportsman

Tydd St.Mary v Westside Rangers Reserves

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Benington v Park United

Boston United Community v Holbeach Bank Reserves

Eastville, Midville & New Leake v Kirton Town Reserves

Freiston Reserves v Skegness Town A

Mareham United Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Spalding Harriers Reserves v Friskney

Woodhall Spa United Reserves v F.C. Kirton

Fishtoft Cup, Round One, 2.00 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic v Woodhall Spa United

Fishtoft v Wainfleet United

Kirton Town v Swineshead Institute

Old Doningtonians v Wrangle United

Skegness Town Reserves v Mareham United

Spilsby Town v Fosdyke

Westside Rangers v Freiston

Wyberton v Coningsby

Saturday, September 26^h 2009

Target Newspapers Challenge Cup, Round One, 2.00 p.m. kick-off

Boston Town Old Boys v Tydd St Mary

Eastville, Midville & New Leake v Holbeach Bank

Friskney v Spalding Harriers

Kirton Leisure v Nortoft United

Park United v Wainfleet United

Pointon v Sutterton

Skegness Town A v Mareham United

Skegness Working Mens Club v Sportsman

Spalding Town v FC Kirton

Cropleys Suzuki Premier Division, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Kirton Town v Coningsby

Skegness Town Reserves v Wrangle United

Swineshead Institute v Spilsby Town

Woodhall Spa United v Freiston

Wyberton v Westside Rangers

Cropleys Suzuki Division One, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Coningsby Reserves v Wyberton Reserves

Fishtoft v Swineshead Institute Reserves

Old Leake v Old Doningtonians

Cropleys Suzuki Division Two, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Billinghay Athletic Reserves v Fishtoft Reserves

Old Doningtonians Reserves v Spalding Town Reserves

Westside Rangers Reserves v Castle Colts

Cropleys Suzuki Division Three, 2.30 p.m. kick-off

Boston United Community v Woodhall Spa United Reserves

Holbeach Bank Reserves v Benington

Mareham United Reserves v Freiston Reserves

Spalding Harriers Reserves v Pointon Reserves

Round-up for July 7

Boston Saturday League annual meeting report

The meeting kicked off with the chairman Roger Gell announcing the welcome return of secretary Steve Morrison who had spent two spells in hospital during the latter half of the season. Roger also extended special thanks to Sunday League secretary Elaine Wilson who had stepped in to help with some of the administration during Steve’s absence.

Westside Rangers were the only club not to appear and they received the statutory £30 fine. North Sea United were also absent but unfortunately for the prison side they will not be competing in the Boston League next season. The Camp has seen a new area manager come in and because of budget restraints, it had been decided to withdraw the side from competitive football. Park Road Old Boys and Holbeach St Marks were also not present and will also not be participating next season.

David Stone, son of the late treasurer Alf Stones presented the first award of the night and that went to Pete Holland of Friskney FC who received the Alf Stones Secretary of the Year Award. This was followed by Park United who picked up the Eric Johnson Fair Play award for the second successive season. Boston League President and Lincolnshire

FA vice-chairman Ray Tinkler then presented the referee of the year trophy to Paul Revell.

The leading goalscorers for each division then received their individual awards: Premier – Pete Dickinson (Coningsby) 32 goals, Div One – Harry Houghton (Swineshead Res) 29, Div Two – Andy Brown (Sutterton) 36, Div Three – Rick Harrod (Billinghay Res) 28.

All existing officers agreed to remain in post and were accepted en-bloc although there was a newly created post – that of fixture secretary and it was agreed to appoint Ian Cant in that role.

The election of new clubs saw five newcomers being accepted by the member clubs – Benington FC, Boston United Community FC, Castle Colts FC, FC Kirton and Kirton Leisure FC. But unfortunately for one of the new applicants, Pro-Evolution FC, they were refused entry to the league due to the past disciplinary record of their appointed chairman. Two new sides from existing clubs were also accepted – Holbeach Bank Reserves and Skegness Town A.

Pointon successfully defended their appalling administration record of last season with their new club secretary assuring the meeting that new measures had been implemented in order to prevent a recurrence of last term’s debacle.

The league constitution attracted plenty of debate after the entry refusal of Pro-Evolution FC and the end result saw a Premier Division containing 11 teams, Division One with 14 teams, Division Two with 13 teams and Division Three with 14 teams. Although new sides are generally installed in the lower tier, Kirton Leisure and Castle Colts were accepted straight into Division Two. Pete Holland of Friskney FC confirmed, after some lengthy deep thought, his club wished to drop down into Division Three (they finished fourth bottom in Division Two last term) but still thought a season in the lower tier would benefit them.

The start and finish dates for next season were agreed at Saturday August 29 2009 through to May 22, 2010.

The Main Ridge Take Away Reserve Cup first round draw was made:

Woodhall Spa Utd Reserves v Pointon Reserves
Billinghay Ath Reserves v Spalding Harriers Reserves
Kirton Town Reserves v Wyberton Reserves
Westside Rangers Reserves v Swineshead Reserves
Spalding Town Reserves v Mareham Utd Reserves
Coningsby Reserves v Freiston Reserves
Old Dons Reserves v Spilsby Town Reserves
Holbeach Bank Reserves v Fishtoft Reserves
Ties to be played on Saturday October 31, 2pm kick-off.

Target Newspapers Challenge Cup first round draw :
Pointon v Sutterton
Kirton Leisure v Nortoft Utd
Spalding Town v FC Kirton
Skegness Town A v Mareham Utd
Skegness WMC v Sportsman
Eastville, Midville & New Leake v Holbeach Bank
Friskney v Spalding Harriers
Boston Town Old Boys v Tydd St Mary
Park Utd v Wainfleet Utd

Ties to be played on Saturday September 26, 2pm kick-off.

The Sports Cup and Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup and Shield competition sub-meetings saw Freiston FC thrown out of all three competitions during next season after the club were found guilty of violating the no-smoking laws at both the Sports Cup and Willoughby Cup finals which were staged at Boston Town’s Tattershall Road ground. Freiston's Reserve side were also eliminated from the Willoughby Shield competition for the next term.

The Sports Cup also has a new sponsor - Sharman Burgess. The draw for
the two first round ties is:
FC Kirton v Benington
Pointon v Mareham Utd
Ties to be played on Saturday October 3, 2pm kick-off.

The second round draw was also made:
Spalding Town v Tydd St. Mary
Swineshead Institute v Old Leake
Kirton Leisure v Park Utd
Holbeach Bank v Wyberton
Fishtoft v Wainfleet Utd
Nortoft Utd v Skegness Town Reserves
Wrangle Utd v Westside rangers
Sutterton v Spalding Harriers
Friskney v FC Kirton or Benington
Woodhall Spa Utd v Coningsby
Billinghay Ath v Castle Colts
Eastville, Midville & New Leake v Boston United Community
Fosdyke v Pointon or Mareham Utd
Old Dons v Spilsby Town
Sportsman v Skegness W.M.C.
Kirton Town v Boston Town Old Boys
Ties to played on Saturday November 21, 1.45 pm kick-off.

The Barclays Brokers Willoughby Cup first round draw:
Fishtoft v Wyberton
Wrangle Utd v Spilsby Town
Kirton Town v Skegness Town Res
Swineshead Institute v Coningsby
Park Utd v Billinghay Ath
Old Leake v Mareham Utd
Fosdyke v Wainfleet Utd
Old Dons received a bye
Ties to be played on Saturday January 23, 1.30pm kick-off.

Willoughby Shield first round draw:
Kirton Town Res v Fishtoft Res
The tie is to be played on Saturday February 13, 1.45pm kick-off.

The second round draw will be made after this date.