Westside Rangers were determined to make FC Franco’s work hard to gain their first trophy. But despite their efforts they were unable to stop the continental flair of the Franco’s team in landing the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup via a 6-0 scoreline. The first half was an even affair seeing Franco’s make the most of their efforts while Rangers were denied by the woodwork and the goalkeeper. Franco’s struck early in the game to make their mark, Toni Pascu hitting home – only to see the “goal” ruled out for offside. Just five minutes later, though, they did make the breakthrough, Nathan Hubbert making the most of seeing Chris Moore off his line and hitting a superb lob from 20 yards out after an excellent cross from Pascu. The latter then turned from provider to scorer, sliding the ball home from a tight angle. Franco’s pace and passing movement began to trouble Rangers further but with the latter playing a high defensive line, Franco’s forwards were getting caught offside time and time again. Kev Manning and Rob Masters both missed good chances to reduce the deficit. After the break Franco’s took control of the game and Rangers also lost Michael Burt through injury. Rui Machado managed to beat the offside trap twice in quick succession. Sergio Roquetti added his name to the list of scorers – the ball again supplied by the superb Pascu. And it was Pascu again who crossed the perfect ball for Rafal Kleczyinski to head home. Ian Billinghurst had a glorious long-range effort superbly saved by Nicholls – just tipping it over the bar and Steve Skinner was unlucky to have a goal disallowed due to a handball offence. Rangers kept going up to the final whistle but they acknowledged the skill shown by FC Franco’s who were worthy cup winners by providing some entertaining football. Toni Pascu was deservedly awarded the man of the match trophy

FC Franco’s: G Nicholls, M Horvath, S Kleczyinki, R Kleczyinki, N Percy, S Roquetti, C Shipley, R Machado, N Hubbert, T Pascu, K Kleczyinki. Subs: F Parla, D Revell, S Bursnell.

Westside Rangers Sunday: C Moore, D Burt, M Lee, D Wright, D Naghen, M Haynes, M Burt, M Goddard, K Manning, R Masters, I Billinghurst. Subs: K East, S Skinner, L Vacey.

For May 4

If goals were allowed for style Harchester would have been one up even before the kick off in the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup final – arriving resplendent in black trousers and their kit colours of white shirts and purple ties! Unfortunately for them the only details that count are what happens on the pitch, and from the off the Magnet made their intentions known, pinning Harchester back for the first 20 minutes, but their defence held out well and they had a bit of luck when Simmons thought he had scored in the opening flurry – the ball hitting the underside of the bar and bouncing down outside of the goal to be picked up by a relieved Keightley. With most of the action in the midfield, scoring chances were few and far between but Magnet finally bagged the opening goal just seconds before the half time whistle. A great cross finding Lovelace who made no mistake. After the re-start it was a pretty even game with Harchester working hard to find a way through, but with only one up front they found it difficult to penetrate the Magnet defence, seeing a couple of chances fly over the bar. Tavern sealed the game when Sub Daniel White headed home and the holders retained the Trophy for the third season on the trot.Magnet’s Richard Thompson picked up the man of the match trophy.

Magnet: D Reynolds, M Wakefield, S Cartwright, A Murrell, J Chand, M Thompson, D Maddison, M Lovelace, P Vaughan, J Britton, C Simmons. Subs: D White, L Millar, J Reeson.

Harchester: M Keightley, M Taylor, L Jacklin, A Lester, J Skinner, M Slater, N Stone, M Chester, C Massingham, D Cridland, K Calvert. Subs: A Durrant, D Baxter, D Stevens.

On Sunday it’s the last remaining fixture in the Boston Sunday Football League season with the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup final being contested by FC Franco’s and Westside Rangers Sunday – the match will take place at Wyberton FC with a kick off time of 11am.

For April 27

The Magnet ended the Newcastle’s dream of a double with a solid all round performance in the final of the Workforce Unlimited Shield, netting a 4-0 win. Castle were looking good for the first 25 minutes and had a good penalty appeal turned down, but with Magnet getting into their stride it was the deposed champions who drew first blood – Laszlo Lovas scoring after some neat passing play. The normally dependable Dean Seiner then gave the ball away and Mark Lovelace made him pay to put the Magnet 2-0 up before the break. After the re-start the Magnet upped their game once again and the Castle, struggling to get into the game, conceded two more. Lovelace again finding the mark before Paul Vaughan grabbed the final goal – some good work from Mark Thompson who slotted the ball through to Vaughan’s feet who made no mistake to fire home. A good sporting game well refereed by Simon Howard. Magnet’s Ross Nichols picked up the man of the match trophy.

Magnet: I Brown, M Wakefield, S Cartwright, A Murrell, D Flannigan, L Lovas, M Thompson, R Nichols, M Lovelace, P Vaughan, S Gentle; Subs: J Britton, M Coupland, J Reeson.

The Newcastle: P Cook, J Vaughan, O Pinner, S Hutchinson, D Fenwick, D Seiner, A Brown, J Dixon, M Gardner, L Medina, S Murphy; Subs: L Brittain, M Crozier, S Fulcher.

On Sunday (May 3) we return to cup action with Harchester United featuring in their first final, facing Magnet Tavern in the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup – the match will take place at Boston Town FC with a kick off time of 2.30pm

In the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, AC Burgh finished off their season with a flourish, helped somewhat by the return of regular players having overcome injuries. Mark Love scored three in the first period and Robbie Falconer and Adam Harrison were excellent in the midfield providing superb balls to their front players. With Westside playing ‘pick a shirt,’ Burgh took full advantage and romped home to leap-frog two teams to finish seventh.

For April 20

Harchester showed great determination to overcome Park Avenue in a tight Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup semi-final game. An early penalty for Harchester calmed their nerves, Dom Cridland keeping his cool to slot the ball away. The visitors’ defence stood resolute as Park threw everything at them without managing to do the important bit – score a goal, and it remained 1-0 as the half-time whistle blew. Harchester started pushing as soon as the second half got under way, winning a corner. This was initially cleared but found its way to Antony Slater on the edge of the box and he thumped a half volley into the far top corner. With Park looking deflated, Harchester could have added more but found Ringrose in good form between the sticks. To be fair, while Harchester played well Park lost two influential players – Jason Keal and David Slaughter – through injury early in the first period but they remained magnanimous in defeat adding that their visitors had thoroughly deserved their victory – and a place in the final against Magnet Tavern.

It was ‘pick your own position’ for the Magnet Team in their last Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game, so regular goalie James Doughty started at centre half – and scored a cracking goal. Mark Thompson ran the show in midfield with Simmons and Millar. Dan Maddison was outstanding on the left and also scored with an excellent effort. Jimmy Britton scored five – nothing unusual there! Ash Murrell chose to play in goal and despite not having much to do, still managed to pull off some good saves. Millar and Simmons both got their names on the scoresheet in a good sporting game. Rangers did manage to break through twice to claw goals back, but it was not to be their day. Westside now face AC Burgh in their final league game this week.

For April 13

In the semi-finals of the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup, Harchester got off to the best start possible when they opened the scoring in their semi-final game against FC Franco’s. But their lead was short lived as Nathan Hubbert equalised midway through the first period with a long-range effort. Captain Mario Horvath scored his first goal of the season, and what an important one it was, giving them a lead that they never let go. The score remained 2-1 at the break. When the teams returned for the second half Harchester were powerless to halt the fast flowing football of their hosts who scored four more at regular intervals – Rui Machado claiming two goals with one apiece following from Antonio Pascu and substitute Franco Parla.

Not to be outdone, their rivals for the cup, Westside Rangers Sunday also scored six in an entertaining game against AC Burgh. Rangers took the lead through Kev Manning. Chris Cussins hit a superb lob to beat Moore and level the game but Rangers kept pushing and Manning scored his second. Cussins again scored an equaliser after a good passing move and as the half time whistle blew it was still 2-2. The game continued in a similar fashion with Manning then completing his hat-trick. But Burgh were in a determined mood and they drew level for the third time from a set-piece. With both defences leaking goals, it was inevitable that more would be scored – it was just a question of which end it would be. Unfortunately for Burgh they began to struggle to keep up with the pace and Rangers began to take control with Lee Nicholson, Ian Billinghurst and Matthew Lee all hitting the back of the net for a 6-3 win.

In a close and entertaining Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game it was the Newcastle who claimed all three points and with it the title of league champions. Opponents, the Magnet could have taken the lead early in the first period having been awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. Stacey Cartwright stepped up but his shot was well saved by Peter Cook. Chances at both ends went begging and the score remained 0-0 at the half-time whistle. After the restart the visitors began to push further up but the Castle’s defence stood firm and the home side were restricted to counter attacks, Andy Brown came close, firing over the bar. A mad five minutes saw Doughty in the Tavern goal out of position on a couple of occasions and the home side were unlucky not to capitalise. But moments later Michael Gardner struck a low ball from 35 yards out and the ball bobbled away from Doughty and into the bottom corner of the net. Doughty did stop the Castle from doubling the score by pulling off a super save to tip the ball over the crossbar. Presenting the league title trophy to the Castle, the chairman of the Cropleys Suzuki Sunday Football League, Roger Gell, paid tribute to the hard work and determination shown to take the title along with the club’s excellent progression in the Lincs FA Sunday Cup, reaching the semi-finals of that competition, and also reaching the final of the Workforce Unlimited Shield – where they will also face the Magnet Tavern. He also paid tribute to their excellent goal scoring record. The club having scored a massive 136 league goals this season, which is a terrific achievement.

For April 6

Magnet’s Mark Wakefield put his team 1-0 up in their Workforce Unlimited Shield semi-final against Park Avenue after just five minutes. And with both teams playing some fine football, another goal was only to be expected. Just 10 minutes later, following back-to-back corners, Park levelled the score at the second attempt, Rikky Toyer heading the ball down and under a diving Magnet defender in the absence of their goalie. The equaliser spurred on Park and in the 35th minute, the Magnet found themselves on the wrong side of the 2-1 scoreline – Nathan Stainfield capping a superb personal performance by sending a sublime cross to the edge of the penalty area to meet the incoming Matthew Bates. He twisted round and fired a shot at goal. The ball hit a post and ran along the goal line where Danny Keal found himself in the right position before connecting well to slot the ball home. With the game being played at a high pace, both sides welcomed the half-time whistle. After the break the Magnet came out with all guns blazing and Jimmy Britton found himself unmarked for the first time in the game and made no mistake, scoring just four minutes after the restart. The same player fired home an almost identical goal to put the home side into the lead for the second time. Both sides continued to press, the Magnet attempting to seal the game and Park to draw level. But no more goals were forthcoming. Terry Knott, the referee, paid tribute to both sides for an excellent game that was a credit to local Sunday football. Both teams also commended Terry on a faultless performance in the middle. In the day’s other game in the Shield, a poor turn out saw the Newcastle start their semi-final with just seven players! Even so, they managed to hold off 11-man AC Burgh for the first 30 minutes. The Castle increased their numbers when Sam Louth arrived and his first touch set up Andy Brown who smashed the ball home from 15 yards. Five minutes before the half time whistle, Lee Dakin increased their number further and the additional man seemed to help with Brown grabbing his second two minutes later. The scoreline was 2-0 at the interval. Ten minutes after the restart, the Castle saw their numbers drop by one with Jordan Dixon dismissed. It didn’t seem to affect them, though, as Brown scored two more. Andy Brown then turned goal-maker as his corner kick was brilliantly headed home by Sam Louth to make it 5-0. Burgh managed to pull one back through Aaron Liles, but it was the eight men of the Castle who progressed through to the final to face the mighty Magnet!

In Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, Eagle Harvesters fell behind was early as the fifth minute as Harchester played “pick a shirt.” Antony Slater combined well with Nic Stone to grab an early goal as the visitors were caught napping. The goal seemed to wake up the Eagles but despite piling on the pressure, Browne, Tilley and Good were all wasteful with decent chances. And the scoreline thus remained the same. After the break, Harvesters were again slow off the mark and Harchester took full advantage with their squad settling back into their usual positions. Lee Jacklin rounded the keeper to slot the ball home and Luke Stocks, with his first goal of the season, made it 3-0. The fourth goal was a comical affair – a Tom Deamer back pass hit a “bobble” and “Paul Robinson” also known as Mike Pearson contrived to miss the ball totally and could only watch as it dribbled over the line to make it a 4-0 result.

For March 30

A tight Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game was played out at AC Burgh with the home side coming away with their fourth league victory of this campaign. Chris Cussins was the first player on target but the Carpenters Arms pulled it back to level things up when a sweeping Scott Wiseman cross was tucked home by Declan Wilson. But just before the break Burgh took the lead for a second time through Mark Hardy, and after the break Gary Coghill increased the lead further following a goalmouth scramble. The Carps pulled a second goal back from the penalty spot following a handball offence and Joe Talbot made no mistake to set up an exciting finish. While they piled on the pressure late on, the final whistle came all too early for them in what was a 3-2 scoreline.

Eagle Harvesters were looking for back-to-back wins but put on a below par performance and were well beaten by a well-organised Westside Rangers side. Rangers dominated the play and opened the scoring from a corner, Kev Manning with a superb diving header after Rob Masters had flicked the ball on. Manning doubled his tally when a high ball was floated into the box and the home defenders were guilty of not dealing effectively with it, leaving Manning to curl the ball into the top corner. After the break Harvesters turned in a better performance and created some excellent chances – Tilley and Browne fluffing clear-cut attempts to get their team back into the game. Pushing forward, though, gave Rangers the chance to hit back at them and Manning deservedly completed an excellent performance completing a hat trick and Rob Masters added their fourth. Harvesters threw Steve Siggee forward, but the Eagles rescuer on many previous occasions, had left his shooting boots at home!

FC Franco’s finished their season off in style scoring six for the third game in succession. But opponents Park Avenue still finished in third place. Toni Pascu opened the scoring from the penalty mark but Park stepped up and began to bear pressure almost straight afterwards. Franco’s hit them with their second on the counter attack, Kamil Kleczyknski firing home. It was Pascu who increased the lead further when sneaking the ball home following a throw-in. With Franco’s playing some sublime football, Park were struggling to contain them and Rui Machado scored his first of the game following some neat team work. Park did manage to get a say in it, pulling one back before the break. After the restart the game continued in a similar fashion with the home side continuing to dominate. Sebastian Kleczyknski added his name to the scoresheet with a superb 30-yard unstoppable free-kick. Park continued to press and were again rewarded for their efforts but they were unable to stop Franco’s from scoring again, Machado with a goal identical to his first

It might have ended up with a large goal margin, but Harchester can hold their heads up after a magnificent fight in the first half in particular against Magnet Tavern. Jimmy Britton opened the scoring in the first ten minutes but despite piling on the pressure the home side were shocked when their visitors drew level – Matt Keightley, with his first goal of the season, ramming the ball home. The Magnet soon made amends and retook the lead through Nick Reeson and Reeson was on target shortly after, but a second shock was on the cards with Harchester again pulling a goal back. This time Antony Slater finished well after a fine move. The Magnet upped their pace again and finally took charge of the game running out 6-2 leaders at the break. In the second period Harchester were unable to step up and the Magnet played some excellent one-touch football, scoring six more. Harchester had the final say, though, Matt Taylor climbing well following a corner hit their third. The match was played in good spirit and was well refereed by Terry Knott. Magnet scorers: Jimmy Britton (5), Nick Reeson (3), Mark Wakefield, Callum Simmons, Mark Lovelace, Lathon Millar

The Newcastle kept up their winning streak, ending up seven goals to the good against Black Swan Coningsby – at the same time ensuring that their final game, against the current champions could well decide who will lift the league title! Michael Gardner marked his return to the Castle, following injury, hitting no less than six of their nine goals in a one-sided game! The Swans found themselves 4-0 down by the time the half-time whistle blew and Castle scored five more in the second period. Will Allen reduced the deficit shortly after the restart and Stu Thomson slotted home in the last five minutes to make it 9-2. Other scorers for the Castle were Ollie Pinner (2) and Andy Brown. Nick Markham had a good game with the whistle.

For March 23

All matches postponed due to adverse weather (snow and ice)

For March 16

In the first semi-final of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup, the Newcastle got off to the worst possible start, gifting two goals to the Magnet following defensive lapses. The first came when goalkeeper Cook came off his line and a neat cross from Paul Vaughan led to an easy goal for Ian Dunn whose second came as he rounded the keeper after some great work from Mark Lovelace. But after that wake-up call the Castle upped their pace and for the remainder of the first period the Magnet found themselves camped in their own half! The Castle forwards kept probing their way through and were rewarded for their efforts when Leroy Medina bustled his way through to score. Despite keeping up the pressure the Castle were unable to peg the score back and at half time it was still 2-1 to the visitors. After the break the Magnet upped their pace and began to get back on top, scoring two more courtesy of Lee Orrey and Mark Lovelace. A good game overall played in difficult weather conditions and excellently controlled by Nick Sleaford.

After some intermittent form during the season Franco’s made it three Workforce Unlimited Premier Division wins out of three by adding another six goals to their tally at the same time. Again, despite the blustery conditions both sides put on an excellent display of football in a nine-goal thriller. The first half was a close affair with Danny Revell and Tony Pascu both on target and Rangers replied mid-way through. In the second half Pascu scored four more, including one penalty after one of their foraging forwards had been brought down in the box. Rangers did manage to find the net twice more but Franco’s held on to consolidate their fourth position in the League table.

Due to the poor weather conditions there were only two pitches available and the game between Harchester Utd and Eagle Harvesters had to be postponed and will now be played on April 6.

For March 9

In a one sided Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game, Franco’s reduced the Carpenters Arms to their 10th defeat of the season. The Carps did have the opportunity to pull themselves back into the game at 2-0 down when Scott Wiseman played in a sweet cross for Dex Wilson to score. But unfortunately they had no further clear-cut chances and the visitors romped home 6-1. Scorers for Francos were Tony Pascu (2), Rui Machado (2), Kamil Kleczynski and Sebastian Kleczynski

Eagle Harvesters carried out a smash-and-grab raid on their opponents and in doing so leap-frogged them in the table. Burgh were dominant for large periods of the game but found their chances being on the wild and wide side! Harvesters scored against the run of play – a Phil Marshall free-kick was headed on by Alex Tilley and Martin Good was able to bundle the ball home with the help of the crossbar and the keeper. It was 1-0 at half time. After the re-start Burgh again had the most possession and Harvesters were restricted to counter attacks, then the home side extended their lead out of the blue when Alex Tilley was hacked down by Lee Housley. Tilley picked himself up and brushed himself down before calmly dispatching the resultant penalty. Still Burgh kept surging forward to no avail and Mike Pearson kept a clean sheet making a superb save late on.

Despite the two-goal difference it was another close encounter between Harchester and the Black Swan. The Swans took the lead just 10 minutes into the game when veteran Tony Mumford scored with a low flying free kick, and they doubled their lead by beating the offside trap, Dale Edwards toe-poking the ball towards goal and Harchester’s Lee Jacklin, attempting to clear, sent the ball into his own net. Harchester fought hard and were much better for the remainder of the first half. After the break again Harchester started the brighter and their efforts paid off when Marcus Chester pulled a goal back with a neat finish after breaking through the Swan’s defence. The goal renewed their confidence further but they were unable to find the equaliser. The final goal came just moments before the final whistle, David Blakey completing the score for the Swans.

The Newcastle started off with just nine men in their game against Park and the visitors piled on the pressure taking advantage of having the extra players. Lukasz Gierejkiewicz missed a great chance to put Park in the lead, just slicing his ball wide of the goal. Within 20 minutes Castle had a full compliment and neither team were able to find the net and the score was still 0-0 at half time. Sub Danny Barker then came on and turned the game around, playing the ball out to the left to Danny Keal who made a sweeping run, beat the full back and squared it to Barker who fired home. It was ebb-and-flow stuff after that first goal and a great reaction save from Park’s goalie Mark Ringrose stopped Dean Seiner from scoring, palming the ball away to safety. Newcastle did score the next goal though to bring the teams level and five minutes later they were awarded a corner and the ball was headed home. Barker returned the compliment by breaking through the defence and playing a superb cross to Keal who scored with a powerful header to level the score again at 2-2. In a well balanced game it looked like both teams were going to share the spoils but then, in the final minutes Tony Bates brought Seiner down and a free kick was awarded. Leroy Medina stepped up and cracked the ball through the five-man wall, Ringrose was unlucky as the ball travelled though his arms to give the Castle all three points. Park did have one final chance. Matthew Bates went on an excellent run, beating three defenders, only to see the Castle’s rookie goalie pull off an amazing save. It was 3-2 as the final result.

Westside Rangers were unable to field a team to meet Magnet Tavern and the game was therefore called off.

At the recent management committee meeting the draw for the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup semi-finals was made. Games to be played on March 23 are: FC Francos v Harchester Utd; Westside Rangers Sunday v AC Burgh.

For March 2

The Newcastle suffered Lincs Sunday Cup semi-final heartache by losing to fancied Pepperells. But the 5-1 scoreline flattered the home side as the Boston team played the better for long periods – but they got off to the worst possible start by going behind in the first minute. Castle soon composed themselves, though, and Leroy Medina equalised 15 minutes later. With limited chances at either end, Andy Brown fired just over and the first half came to an end with the teams level. After the break the Castle were still in control but the turning point came when Peter Cook was adjudged to have fouled a Pepperells forward and a penalty was awarded – Cook redeemed himself by saving the strike but was dismayed to see the assistant flagging for an infringement. The penalty was retaken and this time the home team scored. Michael Gardner had a good chance to equalise for a second time and Medina had an effort well saved. Jack Smith saw red for the Castle before three quick goals killed off the Castle’s hopes. Pepperells’ secretary paid tribute to the Castle also admitting that score did not truly reflect the game. The Castle, however, can hold their heads up after an excellent run in this competition – just missing out on an appearance in the final. Team: P Cook, J Vaughan, S Fulcher, S Murphy, D Fenwick, J Smith, A Brown, L Brittain, D Warren, L Medina, J Dixon. Subs: T Fravigar, D Seiner, M Gardner

Park played the first half against Black Swan Coningsby in the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division with the blustery conditions to their advantage. But they failed to take the chances they created. Matthew Bates, Lukesz Gierejkiewicz and Danny Keal all missed one-on-ones to break the deadlock. On 40 minutes the injured Lukasz was replaced by David Slaughter and still no goals were forthcoming and the score was still 0-0 at half time. Finally, five minutes after the restart Slaughter opened Park’s account, latching on to a perfect through ball from Hempsall to calmly slot it past the keeper. Ten minutes later and the score was doubled, Danny Keal beating his marker and chipping the ball into the box for Jason Keal to head home. Slaughter then struck again, firing home at the far post from another Danny Keal cross. The fourth goal came just five minutes from time when sub Paul Barker tapped home from close range after a powerful run from Matthew Bates. Park suffered a late scare, though, as they relaxed and the Swans scored two goals in a minute. But for the travelling Coningsby players it was too little, too late!

Harchester suffered their poorest turnout of the season with only nine players daring to venture out for their game against Magnet Tavern. And the nine men were never going to be able to block the mighty Magnet Tavern for long – although they only conceded the same number of goals as they did with 11 players against the Newcastle and the Magnet applauded their sporting and hard working manner. Harchester managed to hold out for 20 minutes, though. Unfortunately, Magnet then hit five before the break. Lawrence Lambley, playing in his first league game following the FA Carlsberg Cup run, hit a hat-trick. Daniel White, in his first game back following an ankle injury, made some great runs and was rewarded with a goal for his efforts and Mark Lovelace completed the first half 5-0 scoreline. After the break it was all Lambley who never stopped running. He set up a great goal for Lovelace who headed home strongly. Mark Wakefield completed a second half hat-trick before sub Mark Thompson scored with a cheeky drive and Lovelace scored twice more to complete the rout. Harchester’s consolation goal came from Kit Calvert.

For February 24

The Magnet were unable to capture the form they have shown in the earlier rounds of the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup and Brantham started strongly playing some sweet football in the opening 20 minutes of the fifth round tie staged at Boston United’s Staffsmart Stadium. The visitors were stunned when it was the Boston side who scored first. Awarded a free-kick from outside the area the ball was floated in, Graham Bowater picked up the rebound and calmly side footed the ball into the nearside of the net. Both teams had further good spells with Ian Brown pulling of three excellent saves between the Magnet sticks to keep their hopes alive, but on the brink of half-time Brantham got their breakthrough, courtesy of a disputed offside decision. Their striker still had some work to do and although Brown closed down the angle he struck the ball well to pull the scores level. After the break, the Magnet appeared to be distinctly goal shy and the pressure increased upon them, and it was only a matter of time before their defence would be breached. It took the visitors until the 75th minute to score their second and the final goal of the game with Sam Newsome making no mistake. The Tavern then brought on Laszlo Lovas and Lee Orrey to search for the vital equaliser but despite Orrey setting up a great ball Robert Norris could only fire the ball over the bar. Referee S Hutchinson had a fine game in the middle. Magnet team: I Brown, W Lewis, S Cartright, G Bowater, D Flannigan, A Cavill, L Rocco, P Goodhand, T Battersby, L Lambley, R Norris. Subs: L Orrey, L Lovas, A Broom, R Nicholls, D Sturniolo.

Despite Burgh taking an early lead in their Dixie Deane Memorial Cup round one tie, they suffered a fright when Carpenters Arms dragged themselves back into the game to set up a tense end to the game. Burgh scored two quick goals in the opening 10 minutes, Aaron Liles and Adam Harrison both hitting the mark but Joe Talbot stroked the ball home to reduce the deficit. The Carps’ hopes were further dented when Burgh went on to score three more first half goals to leave the Carps reeling at the half time interval. After a good talking-to at half-time the visitors pulled their socks up and got down to the business of getting themselves back into the game, and to their credit they nearly pulled it off. Martin Jolly, Declan Wilson and Talbot again narrowed the goal margin, but Burgh managed to hold on to progress through to the semi-finals of the competition. Harvesters saw a good early chance from Gary Ling well saved from close range by Francos goalkeeper before Francos took the lead on the 12th minute when Eagle keeper Mike Pearson could only push an inswinging corner into his own net. Francos were unlucky not to increase their lead only to see a superb shot rebound to safety off the post and there was only that one goal separating the two teams at half time. No further goals appeared until the last 15 minutes when Tony Pascu made it 2-0 with a 20 yard effort. The visitors then piled on the pressure, scoring a neat goal from just 12 yards out. Unfortunately for the Harvesters there was worse to come as sub Duncan Browne scored an own goal with his first touch of the ball, turning a shot that was going wide into his own net! It helped to make the final score 4-0. Harchester started brightly, opening the Swans up with their first attack. Chris Massingham finding himself one on one with acres of time and space to slot the ball home, for the remainder of the first half though it was a very tight affair played out mainly in the midfield and it was difficult to see where the next goal would come from. After the break Paul Manning should have doubled the lead only to drag his shot wide. Harchester finally put the game to bed with a decisive goal from Dom Cridland, firing low and hard from 25 yards out. Strong defending left the home side with a clean sheet and a place in the semi-finals.

For the second week running Castle hit double figures. This time Westside Rangers were the victims in the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division. The Castle bagged 16 goals without reply — and this despite spurning several other chances while also seeing several good saves and the crossbar also denying them. Leroy Medina followed up his hat trick of last week with another five today and the impressive Danny Warren made three and scored three. Jordan Dixon and Luke Brittain also hit hat-tricks. Andy Brown and Ben Webb completed the rout. Webb with his first goal for the club. Ten-man Westside battled to the end but sturdy defending denied them a consolation goal. An easy game for the league leaders who will undoubtedly face sterner competition in Pepperells next week in the Lincs Sunday Cup.

For February 17

The Newcastle became the first team in five years to break the ton mark of goals scored – what a feat, given that the season has not even finished yet! Harchester were their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division opponents and were unlucky to be missing several first team players for their game against the in-form league leaders. Pete Lovelace started the rout, scoring from 20 yards out. Dan Warren made it 2-0, then it was Andy Brown’s turn and Luke Brittain added their fourth. The only bright point for the home side was seeing Lee Jacklin hit his first goal for the Club. After the re-start the Castle continued in similar fashion with new signings Jason Sullivan and Simon Payling having a hand in the next two goals – Sullivan scoring and Payling with a super cross for Leroy Medina to make it 6-1. Keeper Pete Cook made it 8-1 with two good penalties and both Medina and Lovelace completed hat tricks to make it a miserable morning for Harchester.

For the second week running the Black Swan of Coningsby had to face Magnet Tavern, and it seemed they picked up some tips from their first encounter! While the Magnet raced into a 4-0 lead again with Jimmy Britton scoring twice and Mark Lovelace and John Chand also hitting the target, the Swans did pull one back – the normally dependable James Doughty in goal brought down Bob Chapman but he managed to find his feet as the referee played advantage and scored from a tight angle. The Swans had the slightly better performance in the second half and were unlucky when the Tavern’s linesman ruled out a ‘goal’. Stu Thomson did score their second though, shortly after, following a rebound. With the pitch getting heavier it began to tell on the players and both teams were glad to hear the final whistle with no further goals being scored.

AC Burgh travelled to Sutterton but came away on the wrong end of a 5-1 scoreline. The visitors started off brightly enough, causing problems for the Park defence, but didn’t really capitalise on their chances, and Park ran out comfortable winners in the end. It took Burgh until the 35^th minute to break the deadline, only to see Park haul themselves back into the game with two goals in four minutes just before the break – and Lukasz Gierejkiewicz topped a great personal performance with a well-deserved hat-trick. Gierejkiewicz set up their first, receiving the ball and dummying a Burgh defender he then squared the ball for Danny Keal to fire home. Gierejkiewicz then turned scorer following a sweet cross from David Slaughter, heading the ball low to beat the keeper, the same player completed his hat trick before Rikky Toyer scored the goal of the game. Glen Smith hitting a strong shot that was parried out to the left side of the box where Toyer volleyed it well and the ball rebounded into the back of the net off the crossbar.

It was also five years ago since Carpenters Arms – then known as Nortoft – enjoyed such a large victory. In March 2003 they scored 10 – and they were only one away from matching that score today. Declan Wilson opened the scoring, volleying home from the edge of the area. The lead was doubled when Wilson teed up Joe Talbot who finished calmly. Chris Marshall smashed home a third, and the unlucky Rangers side added to the goal tally against them when Ian Billinghurst turned the ball into his own net! Wilson completed his hat trick before the break, his third following some good work from Scott Wiseman. The Carps continued to dominate in the second half and Wilson added two more. Martin Jolly had the final say with a cool finish. All in all a polished performance from the visitors.

*****

The Boston and District Sunday League wishes to extend best wishes to the Magnet Tavern when they take on Brantham Athletic this weekend (February 24) in the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup, kick-off 2pm at Boston United’s Staffsmart Stadium.

For February 10

The Magnet Tavern are stealthily climbing the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division table and breathing down the necks of the current League leaders. Jimmy Britton firing home two goals in the first 45 minutes. Danny Maddison got Tavern’s third before Britton completed his hat trick to hit the fourth for the visitors – it could have been much worse but the Tavern seemed to be having a quiet day. Carpenters Arms started the match brightly and soon took the lead – a Chris Marshall free kick was headed back across the keeper by Andy James into the bottom corner – his first of the season. Soon after, Conor Wilson played Marshall in down the line and his cross went straight to Leon Pycock’s head to double the lead. Dom Cridland brought the visitors back into the game with a great free kick just before the break, but while the second half started off in a more even fashion the home side scored twice more to put the game beyond doubt – Martin Jolly’s header came from another pinpoint Marshall cross. Their fourth came from the spot, Joe Talbot dusting himself down after being upended in the box to score the resultant penalty. Andy Brown got the Castle off to a great start after just five minutes – beating the Eagle’s keeper with a speculative long range effort, lobbing the wrong footed Mike Pearson. Jack Smith doubled the scoreline just 10 minutes later from the penalty spot. Harvesters were playing on the break but struggled to beat the Castle’s offside trap. Brown grabbed his second of the game and the usually solid Steve Siggee saw his attempted clearance beat his goalie to give the Castle a four nil lead into the interval. After the break Harvesters improved dramatically and pulled a goal back through Alex Tilley, giving them a renewed confidence, however they still squandered several good chances – John Friend and Tilley failing to hit the target from good positions. Gary Ling tapped in from close range to make it 4-2 but Castle, only running in second gear, managed to keep the home side at bay for the remainder of the match. After their recent poor form, FC Franco’s consolidated their fourth position in the league table with a 3-0 victory over A C Burgh – two of their goals coming from the penalty spot. Aaron Liles and Rob Falconer were both guilty of missing good chances for the Skegness team but with Franco’s defence standing firm they could find no way through. Westside Rangers picked up a valuable point against high fliers Park Avenue. Rangers took the lead with a thunderous volley 25 yards out from Ian Billinghurst after he chested down a poor clearance. Rangers doubled their advantage when Kev Manning, on his return to the Club, lobbed the keeper from the edge of the area. The double whammy seemed to perk up the Park players and they stunned their visitors scoring three goals in succession to take the lead for the first time, and looked to be taking all three points – but in the dying seconds Rangers were awarded a free kick, and while the Park players were arguing over the decision Sub Mick Goddard quickly took the free kick and lopped the ball over the home defenders and into the top corner. A deserved point for the battling Rangers team in a thrilling game.

For February 3

Hainton had the better of the earlier exchanges in their Lincs Sunday Cup game against the Newcastle but it was the Boston side who took the lead with their first clear chance – Leroy Medina latching on to a good through ball and poking a shot past the despairing keeper. The Castle were then reduced to 10 men later in the half, Medina seeing red for retaliation. After the break, and despite being one man down, the Castle began to pile on pressure and should easily have made the game safe, Jordan Dixon and Ty Fravigar both going close. Andy Brown beat the offside trap to score a super lob from 30 yards out to give them a deserved 2-0 lead – and then it all went wrong! Hainton looked good going forward and reaped their chances pulling the score level, Rob Peck netting twice for the visitors and keeper Ricky Lovelace also pulled off some stunning saves to keep the Boston side in with a chance to progress to the semi-finals. Castle sub Jamie Hurling retired from the game with a suspected broken ankle and with all subs on, the injured Michael Gardner managed to see the game through. Neither team seemed capable of grabbing the winner and extra time beckoned. With chances going begging for both sides there were no further goals and the result was to be proved from the penalty spot. Jason Vaughan, Ricky Lovelace, Andy Brown and Dean Seiner made no mistake for the Castle - and Lovelace saved two penalties as well to cap a great performance on his debut for the club. The game was well controlled by Mick Brader. The Newcastle will now face a journey to Scunthorpe outfit Pepperells on Sunday March 2 in the semi-final of the competition.

Ten man Harchester lost out in round one of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup to a dominant Westside Rangers side in a match that saw Rangers miss several good chances and Martin Ziller pull off some fine saves to keep the final score down to 3-0. Steve Skinner tapped in from close range from a Michael Burt cross to put them in the lead and the narrow 1-0 lead was taken into the break with a determined Harchester defending well. It took Westside until the 60th minute to double their slender lead, Mick Goddard with a good pass found Rob Masters who made no mistake. Michael Burt scored the final goal, picking up a loose ball in the box he turned gracefully hitting the top corner of the net. Rangers thought they had found the net once more with a stunning ‘goal’ – Masters again, with a powerful volley – the visitors claiming the ball went through the net but with the referee not able to find any loose pegs the ball was deemed to have just gone wide and a corner was given.

The windy conditions served up a Workforce Unlimited Premier Division ‘game of two halves’ between AC Burgh and Black Swan Coningsby with each team gaining the advantage with the wind behind them! Burgh had the better of the first half and took an early lead, but were left ruing several missed chances when they eventually ran out 2-1 losers on the day. A rare goalkeeping error allowed veteran utility man Tony Mumford to score a sweet lob just inside the second half. The Swans welcomed back Johnny Eadsforth from injury and he had an excellent game and Manager for the day, Stu Thomson, got the tactical decisions right to consolidate their fourth position in the league table. It took until just before the final whistle for the Swans to snatch the game – Dale Edwards with a left foot strike sealing the win. FC Franco’s have seen their form slide with their fourth defeat in the last five league games. This time, Magnet hit them with three goals with no reply. Lee Orrey opened the scoring but the goal of the game, and possibly a the strongest contender for the Magnet’s goal of the season, belonged to Mark Lovelace – with a great 35-yard volley. Franco’s did get into the game more in the second half but were unable to penetrate the Magnet defence and Lovelace put the game beyond doubt with his second and the home side’s third mid-way through the second half.

For January 27

With Boston Borough Council only able to facilitate one fixture the league the secretary would like to convey her thanks to vice-chairman Jim Ely and Boston Town Football Club for their support in allowing the game between Harchester Utd and AC Burgh to take place at Tattershall Road. Both teams are also thanked for accepting the re-arranged venue at such short notice.

Black Swan tumbled out of the Workforce Unlimited Shield at the first round hurdle when falling to a determined Newcastle side. Andy Brown started the ball rolling when meeting Dean Seiner’s pinpoint cross to make it 1-0. Mark Crozier made it 2-0. Soon after that Seiner’s corner was met by Luke Brittain to increase their lead still further. Seiner turned from goal maker to goal taker with two quick goals and to cap the home side’s misery an own goal led to a half-time lead of 5-0 to the Boston side. After the re-start Brown and Seiner (2) increased the tally to eight with Leroy Medina adding their final goal. The Swans did grab a consolation goal in a good sporting game well handled by Trevor Basker.

Magnet Tavern had most of the play in their tie with Carpenters Arms with goals coming at regular intervals, and from six different squad members! Jimmy Britton netted twice, Mark Wakefield, Mark Lovelace and Nick Reeson all scored one and Callum Simmons and Daniel Maddison both scored their first goals for the club.

AC Burgh came out on top in their battle with Harchester United, taking a four goal lead into the interval – Aaron Liles hitting two, Robert Falconer striking home and a Adam Harrison header. The home side did pull one back just after the re-start, but any thoughts of a comeback were diminished when the visitors scored again through Liles. Harchester scored a second consolation goal just before the final whistle but it was a question of too little, too late. Burgh put on a disciplined display and Ricky Aspinall and Royston Wilkinson were outstanding on the day.

With four players failing to show, Harvesters played with 10 men for the second week running. The first half was a tight affair. Despite Harvesters hardly ever getting in their opposition’s half, they restricted Park Avenue to efforts outside the box. Park went into the break with a 1-0 lead when one of their long range efforts did manage to hit home. After the break it was a different story as Park stretched their visitors, adding five more goals in the process. Full credit goes to the 10 battlers of the home side, but things have to improve! The game was played in a good manner and well controlled by referee T Horton.

For January 20

With Boston Borough Council calling off all games at Rosebery Avenue due to the heavy rain, only two games were played on Sunday.

In round one of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup, with no recognised keeper and only 10 players Eagle Harvesters knew they were in for a tough time against high flyers The Newcastle. Multi-talented Duncan Browne donned the gloves and the remaining nine defended well to keep the Castle at bay – albeit initially! The Newcastle received a big wake-up call when the underdogs scored first! Halit Gunduz burst through, kept his cool to round the keeper. The Castle switched their formation after the goal and never looked back – they were soon on level terms, but the home side still defended well until the visitors scored their second. Three more quick goals followed to give a half time score of 5-1. Again, in the second half, Harvesters kept their visitors out in the opening attacks. However, it was inevitable that they would increase their lead and they did so a further three times. Harvesters kept working to the final whistle and were well captained by Steve Siggee who was superb at centre half.

With Park Avenue’s pitch unplayable due to the wet weather, together with Black Swan Coningsby, both teams agreed to play their cup fixture at Coningsby – the league wishes to thank both teams for their efforts in getting the game played. Park Avenue also wished to thank Coningsby and the Black Swan for their generous gesture in accommodating them with the use of the pitch and facilities. The pitch, while playable, was heavy going for both sides. Park started off the brighter forcing three corners from goal-bound shots. But it was the Swans who took the lead with their first attack – Tony Mumford striking in from the spot. Ten minutes later Park levelled when Lukasz Gierejkiewicz fired in from 12 yards out. Park then went ahead when Jake Louth latched onto a through ball and squeezed it home from a tight angle. In the second half both sides were searching for the elusive goals but none seemed forthcoming – until the 85^th minute when the Swans levelled following a corner – the ball sliced into the net by a Park defender. The score remained at 2-2 at the full-time whistle. Five minutes into extra time and Park regained the lead, David Slaughter scoring direct from a corner and prolific scorer Matthew Bates tucked in their fourth with Mitchell Johns sliding in at the far post with their fifth. Bates completed the scoreline in the second period of extra time with Park admitting that the scoreline did not fairly reflect the game and paid tribute to the battling Swans.

For January 13

The Magnet Tavern may have been referred to as the minnows of the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup, but on this round four performance they could go all the way. Dogged determination and the will to win overcame a hardworking Nicosia side (from the Liverpool area) and dumped them unceremoniously out of the competition that they have won twice previously by a 2-1 scoreline after extra time. Right from the start it was end-to-end football. Nicosia had the better of the first 10 minutes scoring after just seven minutes, the Boston team’s defence not able to deal with their excellent passing and movement. After the early setback the Magnet began to get more involved but despite the greater possession couldn’t get the ball in the back of the net. Three times the Magnet hit the crossbar, while at the other end Ian Browne made some excellent saves to keep the Magnet in the game. After the re-start Magnet deservedly drew level. Some good work by Tony Battersby in the six-yard area saw him dummy a defender and pass the ball neatly to Josh Sozzo who fired the ball home into the bottom right. Chances then fell to both sides to grab the winner, the Magnet lost the commanding presence of Steve Gentle following a straight red but the Liverpool team could not make the extra man count and the Magnet continued to trouble them. With just a few minutes left on the clock the Magnet’s hearts were in their mouths as Nicosia won two free-kicks just outside the area but their defence stood tall as even the home team’s goalie came up to help. But at the end of 90 minutes it was still one-apiece. The first half of extra time was played out in similar fashion, the heavy pitch beginning to affect players and Nicosia were also reduced to 10 when one of their players received his second yellow card. Just three minutes into the second period, though, it was the Boston team that were celebrating as Sozzo scored his and the club’s second goal – Luigi Rocco, capping an excellent performance, squared the ball to the feet of Sozzo and he made no mistake. The whistle couldn’t come quick enough but eventually after nearly four minutes of stoppage time it was blown and it was time to celebrate in style. An excellent victory for the Boston team that now sees them play in the quarter finals of the competition. Magnet have been drawn at home and they will face the winners of Scafftech UK (Bristol) v Brantham Athletic (Essex) whose game was called off due to a waterlogged pitch and will now be played Sunday 20 January. The quarter final will be played on Sunday February 24. Magnet team: I Browne, S Cartwright, S Gentle, R Miller, L Rocco, J Sozzo, D Flanagan, W Lewis, P Goodhand, L Lambley, A Battersby Subs: D Sturniolo, J Woolf, C Lewis, L Orrey, L Lovas.

Due to prior commitments Harchester were only able to field 10 for their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game against AC Burgh, but were unlucky not to come away with a draw. Rob Falconer put the home side in front in the first half and followed it up with his second after the break, Harchester then pulled one back. Both teams were awarded penalties – and both missed the target! The score remained at 2-1 till the final whistle. After scoring eight goals last week, Park Avenue’s strikers were still on top form and piled home another seven against Eagle Harvesters. The Eagle managed to keep the score down to 2-0 in the first half but once they succumbed to a third after the break they were never really in the game as the home side dominated in all sections. With FC Franco’s still missing players on holiday they were unable to repeat their previous performance against the league leaders, the Newcastle, and succumbed to a 5-1 defeat.

For January 6

The Newcastle progressed into the quarter-finals of the Mason Bros Lincs FA Sunday Cup. But it took them until extra time to seal their success over Bradley Amateurs after missing a hat-trick of chances in the second half. Andy Brown put the Boston side in front midway through the first half only to see the Amateurs equalise soon after. Michael Gardener restored the Castle’s lead but then they succumbed to another goal from their visitors to put the tie into extra time. Substitute Lee Dakin showed his goal touch with a superb hat-trick and Leroy Medina followed up the previous week’s hat trick with the remaining goal. The visitors did manage a consolation goal but could not stop the Castle’s march. The victors are rewarded with another home tie against Hainton Saab of Grimsby to be played on February 3.

In the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division AC Burgh apparently overlooked the fixture their match against Magnet Tavern which thus had to be postponed and will now be dealt with by the management committee. The Carpenters Arms spurned some good early chances against Black Swan Coningsby but it was veteran Tony Mumford who gave the home side a one goal lead with a controversial penalty early in the second half. They doubled their lead, catching Carps on the break through Bob Chapman. Elsewhere, the Eagle took the lead in the second period after opponents FC Franco’s had missed some good chances. Tilley’s shot squirmed through the keeper’s legs for the opening goal. Franco’s equalised soon after, though, with a super long range shot, and then took the lead following a defensive error. The Eagles’ luck came good in the end as the ball came free and Tilley made no mistake to bag a brace. Park Avenue put on a sterling display and came away with eight goals without reply in their game against Harchester United.

For December 23

With three of the day’s scheduled Workforce Unlimited Premier Division fixtures having to be postponed due to the icy conditions, only Tattershall Road survived and Black Swan (Coningsby) came away with another three points under their belt. Dave McDonnell, back from injury, fired home their first goal while Danny Cottingham made it two goals in his first two games when he scored shortly afterwards. In the second period the Swans brought on two of their veteran players – Steve Bowen and Tony Wood and they had a big say in the remaining period of the game. Nathan Turner was fortunate to see his mis-kick lob the keeper to increase their lead further. Bowen added the team’s fourth goal – a stunning 25-yard screamer – for the goal of the game and Wood blasted the ball in to the roof of the net to complete the scoring in a 5-0 success.

For December 16

In a tale of reversed fortunes, FC Franco’s, depleted of their stars and fielding a slightly weaker team, lost only their second Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game while a strengthened Coningsby team won their second one. After a hard fought first half the teams went into the break at 0-0. But in the second half the Swans played some graceful football and their two new signings Bob Chapman and Danny Cottingham began to rule the game. Will Allen scored from a super free-kick into the top corner, giving the Franco’s keeper no chance to give his team the lead. And just 10 minutes later Chapman scored on his debut after latching onto a Dale Edwards pass. Cottingham was deservedly rewarded with the goal of the game, an excellent volley that again flew into the top corner.

The Carpenters Arms only had nine men for their encounter with league leaders, the Newcastle who in turn could only call on the services of 10 men. But the two teams, depleted due to work commitments, produced a 14-goal thriller. Unfortunately for the Carps, 12 of these goals were scored by the Castle! The visitors took the lead from the spot after Medina was fouled in the box – Dean Seiner making no mistake. Luke Brittain made it 2-0 heading in a Steve Fulcher corner. Seiner scored their third from close range and Sam Louth increased the scoreline further in his first game for the club. With 10 minutes until the respite of the half time whistle, Leroy Medina netted with a crisp finish. After the re-start the Carps were rewarded for their dogged determination with a fine individual effort by Joe Bradbury. Seiner completed his hat-trick before Matty Taylor scored the goal of the game for the home side – with an absolute screamer. Unfortunately the Carps could do no more, being reduced to eight men when Joe Talbot was hit hard by the ball in a sensitive area, making him violently ill! The Castle romped home to victory with Seiner adding three more to his personal tally and Sam Louth, Jordan Dixon and Luke Brittain all hitting the net.

With Magnet able to field a full strength side it didn’t bode well for Park Avenue, Mark Lovelace and Ian Dunn combining up front to give the Park defence a torrid time. Chris Rutt had an outstanding game on the left and played the ball superbly in for Mark Lovelace to score the first goal – the only one of the first half. In the second period Magnet upped their game and Dunn scored four with Lovelace completing his hat-trick. It was a good all-round performance from the visitors. Park scored a consolation goal with the last kick of the game, through Danny Keal.

A thrilling eight-goal game was played out at Rosebery Avenue with Westside Rangers and Eagle Harvesters both sharing the spoils. The visitors started out the stronger creating some excellent chances, Owens, Ling and Tilley all guilty of spurning opportunities. However, Tilly made amends for his earlier miss eventually opening the scoring with a good finish. Harvesters eased off the gas and were made to pay, Rangers getting back into the game with a Rob Masters goal from close range. Harvesters started the second half at a blistering pace racing into a 3-1 lead. Mike Pearson, playing out of goal for the first time this season superbly lobbing the keeper after being played in by Tom Deamer, the third followed as Deamer rifled the ball home into the top corner. But Rangers were determined to spoil the party for their visitors and bombarded Derek Twigg between the sticks and they scored three goals without reply, Steve Skinner, Stu Kane and DJ Wright all on target to take the lead for the first time in the game. Their lead was short-lived, though, as the Harvesters Tilley had the final say with an excellent equaliser – racing clear to score from an acute angle.

For December 9

Ten-man Magnet sent Premier Division high-flyers FC Franco’s tumbling out of Workforce Unlimited Shield at the preliminary round stage with a hard fought 3-2 victory. With half of the visiting team seemingly still in the changing room, their hosts played some sweet football to take a two-goal advantage into half-time, an own goal and a strong Jimmy Brittain strike setting them up nicely. After a good talking to by their manager FC Franco’s came out for the second half with all guns blazing and began to dominate the game, deservedly drawing level through goals by Kamil Kleczynski and player-boss Franco Parla himself. With 10 minutes remaining both teams were searching for the winning goal and it went to the Magnet – Paul Vaughan making no mistake with a fine finish. A good match refereed by Edward Andrezjak who kept the game flowing well.

Eagle Harvesters found their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game had to be postponed with Park Avenue’s pitch waterlogged. Elsewhere, AC Burgh travelled to Boston and claimed all three points, leapfrogging their opponents Carpenters Arms, in the process. Aaron Liles stroked the ball home after just 10 minutes and Joe Cousins hit a cracking shot from just outside the box to double their advantage. After the interval the Carps pulled a goal back when Neil Blackman latched onto a cross to tap in from close range. In a see-saw second half Burgh then made it 3-1, Liles again netting before Leon Pycock ran down the right wing and crossed for Declan Wilson to score, 3-2. Liles completed his hat-trick to complete a 4-2 victory. Adam Harrison and Robbie Faulkner combined well in the middle, creating most of Burgh’s chances and Dan Simpson had a good game in goal to deny the Carps any further goals. Ten-man Newcastle strengthened their pole position with an emphatic 12-2 victory over Westside Rangers Sunday. There was not much to choose between the sides in the opening 20 minutes, the Castle taking the lead early on only to see Rangers pull back level soon after. But then the Castle turned on the style and romped to a 6-1 half-time lead. Rangers were unable to lift their heads and the second half was a similar affair to the first, Castle scoring another six with Rangers scoring a second after the Castle had changed their team around. The final score was 12-2. Castle hotshots were Michael Gardner (4), Dan Warren (4), Andy Brown (2), Leroy Medina and Steve Fulcher.

*****

The draw took place for round one of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup. Ties to be played on January 20 are: Eagle Harvesters v The Newcastle; Harchester Utd v Westside Rangers Sunday; Park Avenue Athletic v Black Swan (Coningsby); Magnet Tavern, bye (due to Axe and Cleaver withdrawing from the league)

The draw took place for the Workforce Unlimited Shield Draw. Ties to be played on January 27 are: Park Avenue Athletic v Eagle Harvesters; Harchester Utd v AC Burgh; Carpenters Arms v Magnet Tavern; Black Swan (Coningsby) v The Newcastle.

For December 2

The Boston and District Sunday League had an excellent cup day with victories for both of our travelling teams – Magnet Tavern and the Newcastle. Both sides have now reached the last sixteen in their respective competitions

The Newcastle came back from 2-0 down to progress to the last sixteen of the Lincs Sunday Cup in an entertaining game at Lincoln – but left it late to grab the winner! The Boston side took time to settle and fell to an early goal. Despite this setback, the visitors got stuck in and were beginning to gain ground, only to be dealt with a further blow when their hosts doubled their lead against the run of play with a great finish. Five minutes later, though, and the Castle were rewarded for their determined efforts. The excellent Andy Brown netted with a tap-in after some good work by Michael Gardner. The goal gave them a renewed confidence and they started to control the game but couldn’t add any further goals in the first period. The Castle dominated the second half and Jordan Dixon made it 2-2 with 25 minutes remaining. Luke Brittain then had two good chances to put the Castle in the lead while Peter Cook denied the home side following a rare attack. With just two minutes left on the clock Brittain completed a brace after meeting a Jordan Dixon corner to give them a triumphant end to the game. The Castle have been drawn at home to Grimsby outfit Bradley Amateurs in a tie to be played on January 6.

The Magnet had the perfect start to their re-arranged FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup third round tie away to Pertemps of Tamworth. Playing with a strong wind behind them, Tavern hit their first goal after just 10 minutes – the influential Tony Battersby netting with a 25-yarder into the top right corner. Lee Orrey had an excellent chance to increase the score soon afterwards only to see his effort go just wide. Luigi Rocco, Paul Goodhand and Laszlo Lovas combined well in the middle and gave the home defence a torrid time. Their efforts paid off when Dean Sturniolo lobbed the advancing keeper to double the lead. At the other end James Doughty had little to do in the Magnet goal. The Boston side increased their lead still further following a set piece – Lee Orrey scoring with a powerful header. After the break, manager John Chand changed things around giving the pacy Daniel White his debut in the cup. Unfortunately within 10 minutes he then had to be