The management committee of the Boston Sunday Football League met following the deadline for entries to be received for the season 2009-2010. While interest was received from five clubs, it was felt that this was too low a number to make it viable to run the Sunday League. It was with great regret that the committee agreed to suspend Sunday football for one season. The committee will start promotional work for the 2010-2011 season early next year.

REVIEW OF SEASON 2008-2009

For the second successive season the committee was to see only one Sunday League division running. However, there had been some doubt that enough teams would commit themselves. After much hard work, nine teams completed application forms and season 2008-09 began. Seven teams from the previous season continued – AC Burgh, Black Swan Coningsby, FC Franco’s, Harchester United, Magnet Tavern, Park Avenue Athletic and the New Castle. They were joined by two new teams – Billinghay Athletic Sunday and Britannia Revolution.

Given the lower number of teams, it was to be expected that a lesser number of players registered and indeed only 321 players were registered during season 08-09 (down 94 on the previous year with 12 teams). FC Franco’s fielded the smallest squad with 26 and the Magnet Tavern had the largest with 71. Interestingly the average worked out at 36 players per club, slightly increased upon last year.

The previous season had seen some interesting battles between Magnet Tavern, the New Castle, FC Franco’s and Park Avenue Athletic. And with all four teams competing again, we were expecting some interesting results – but things never pan out as you think! The New Castle inflicted a 14-0 defeat over Fenway in the second round of the Lincs Sunday Cup. However, by the time they got to the next round they were suffering the old problem of players not turning up. They lost out in round three in extra time and managed to field only one more side in the league before deciding to fold. It was a huge disappointment to lose the champions so early in the season. It wasn’t long before they were joined by a second casualty – Black Swan Coningsby had been forced to withdraw from two games in December and officially pulled out of the league in January, leaving just seven teams. And there was worse to come when the much-fancied FC Franco’s also dropped out in March – despite them enjoying good runs in the league and the Lincs Sunday Cup as well as being commended for their excellent football. Losing three teams had a huge impact on the cup draws, so much so that AC Burgh reached the final of the Workforce Unlimited Shield without even kicking a ball! However, in the final they did themselves proud and while the final score was 5-0 in favour of Britannia Revolution, Burgh worked hard and it was down to an excellent second half performance that won Britannia Revolution the shield. Britannia Revolution made it a cup double as they also won the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup (beating Harchester United 3-0), capping an excellent run in this competition having already beaten Magnet Tavern 2-0 in the semi-final. The club also secured runners-up spot in the league – a tremendous achievement in their first season. Harchester United can also feel proud of their achievements this season. Despite suffering a three-point penalty, they finished third in the league and they also reached two cup finals. Despite losing them both, they put up spirited performances.

The Magnet Tavern did enjoy a share of the spoils, winning the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup and also the Premier Division – but by their normal standards it was a disappointing year. By the middle of March they had lost vital games in the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup, the Lincs Sunday Cup, the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup and the Workforce Unlimited Shield. The Rooney family helped dispose them from a chance to play at Anfield. Their team, Oyster Martyrs, reached the final but lost out. Poor substitutions by the Boston side gave FC Milan the edge in the semi-final of the Lincs Sunday Cup during which the Magnet had had a two goal cushion and were looking like comfortable winners – but they eventually lost the game 3-2. The Britannia Revolution convincingly beat the Magnet 2-0 in the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup and Billinghay Athletic were the surprise winners in their encounter in round one of the Workforce Unlimited Shield. The Magnet would no doubt feel that they were hampered by inconsistency in the number of league games they actually played – on five occasions their opponents declined to field a team – the only team to suffer this number of no-shows!

Despite this, it was a Magnet Tavern player who took the trophy for leading goalscorer - Mark Lovelace winning it by having scored 28 goals, three more than his nearest rival.

Once again, the league again wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Boston Town, hosts of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup final and the Workforce Unlimited Shield and thanks are also extended to Wyberton FC for staging the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup final.

Thanks are also expressed to all of the league’s sponsors and advertisers for their support and also to Derek Andrew, the Lincs FA delegate, who is always on hand to provide help to clubs and the committee alike throughout the season.

On a final note we have to express our deepest disappointment that we have been forced to suspend Sunday league football for one season. Despite press releases, statements, posters and promotion of the league, too few teams completed application forms for season 2009-10. It is a huge blow for local football and we can only hope that players and club officials alike will miss it enough to help us re-start again for season 2010-11. It is vital that we receive support and we will be looking to promote the Sunday League early next year. The Sunday League was originally formed back in 1963 – what a great shame it would be if this was indeed our final chapter – only you can help to prevent it!

For May 10

Dixie Deane Memorial Cup final

Harchester United 1, Magnet Tavern 3

Both teams started off brightly but chances were not converted. Harchester’s Dom Cridland went close when heading just wide of a post. But it was the Magnet who took the lead when Lathon Millar scored with a 20-yard bullet which left the Harchester keeper a mere spectator, and midway through the first period they had doubled their advantage. Some good passing moves followed, with Jimmy Britton side-footing to Steve Murphy before he passed to Jon Macleod on the right wing. He then landed a superb ball across the box to Lee Orrey for a simple tap-in. Harchester then began to find their feet and started to test the Magnet, putting together some neat passes and after several half chances they did pull one back six minutes from the half-time whistle through Joe Bradbury

In the second half it was a more even affair with both teams playing and defending well. Chris Massingham could have levelled the game only to be denied by a good save from Doughty. Gradually the Magnet began to apply more pressure pushing Harchester back into their half, and they were finally rewarded for their efforts with a third and final goal which came in the 80^th minute from a corner, with Ash Murrell heading into the net to make the final score 3-1. Man of the match was Magnet Tavern’s captain, Steve Appleby.

Harchester Utd: M Keightley, J Andrew, J Bradbury, J Skinner, D Allerton, A Brighton, M Baker, M Chester, C Massingham, C Parker, D Cridland. Subs: D Stevens, M Taylor.

Magnet Tavern: J Doughty, B Murrell, L Millar, J Macleod, A Murrell, S Murphy, S Appleby, L Lambley, L Orrey, J Dixon, J Britton. Subs: C Simmons, P Vaughan, J Hallam.

For May 3

The only match scheduled for this date, a Workforce Unlimited Premier Division encounter between Britannia Revolution and Magnet Tavern, was postponed.

For April 26

AC Burgh enjoyed the early action in the Workforce Unlimited Shield final with some good attacks, forcing the Britannia Revolution to defend, and it took the Boston side a good 30 minutes to settle into their playing pattern, with Gary Hayes and David Noel both having efforts cleared off the line by Dan Simpson. The Brit finally got their breakthrough. A great cross by Chris Moore found the head of Richard Stukins who powered the ball into the top corner. The goal brought Burgh into life and they had an excellent chance to pull level – only to see Chris Moore clear off the line with a strong header. The Brit had more chances before the break to increase their advantage but found Simpson to be in superb form between the sticks denying them time after time. After the inteval, Brit manager Nigel Masters made an inspired triple substitution sending on Paul Clarke, Karl Melton and Rob Masters. And straight away the trio made an impact with forward Masters scoring with his first touch. The Brit took full possession of the match and were firmly camped in Burgh’s half for most of the second period and a third goal was inevitable. Melton should also have got his name on the scoresheet – but could only head onto the bar from six yards out, the ball rebounding out to safety. Noel provided a pinpoint cross into the path of Masters, his shot was too strong for Simpson and the ball squirmed through his legs to make it 3-0. Burgh did launch an attack on the break but great defending from Nathan Stainfield and Benn Houghton kept the Skegness team out. A fast Brit attack saw Melton fouled on the edge of the box, and up stepped Masters who converted the free kick to complete a hat trick. The final goal of the game came from Noel who deservedly scored following a fine solo run. Burgh continued to battle until the final whistle but could not find enough firepower to break through the Brit’s solid defence to make the final score 5-0. Man of the match award went to Britannia Revolution’s Rob Masters

AC Burgh: D Simpson, L Housley, J Bond, A Harrison, G Willis, M Santini, M Harvey, R Aspinal, A Verheul, R Falconer, C Cussons. Subs: G Cogan, N Lemon, M Love, M Parnham.

Britannia Revolution: A Stukins, G Hayes, N Stainfield, DJ Wright, B Houghton, T Tyler, D Noel, R Stukins, L Sanderson, C Langham, C Moore. Subs: P Clarke, K Melton, R Masters.

We return to Boston Sunday League action on Sunday (May 3) with the final game of the season and in order to ensure that league officials can present the trophies to the winners and runners-up on Sunday, an emergency committee meeting was held on Sunday April 26 to discuss the Premier Division fixture of April 12 between Billinghay Athletic Sunday and Magnet Tavern. Billinghay Athletic were unable to field a team on the day. As per rule Billinghay Athletic are fined £40 and the three points are awarded to Magnet Tavern, officially handing the title to Magnet Tavern.

For April 19

Britannia Revolution 3, Harchester United 0

In a closely fought first half neither side created many chances in this Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup final, easily the best chance early on fell to Britannia’s Robbie Masters who was clean through after Harchester’s keeper Lee Drury misjudged the bounce, leaving Masters an empty net to slot the ball home – but he somehow managed to place his shot wide of the goal! Ten minutes before the break, though, the Brit did manage to open the scoring. Karl Melton and Richard Stukins combined to provide a superb ball through to Tim Tyler to volley home from 12 yards. Harchester raced out of the blocks after the interval and should have equalised through Dom Cridland – but his attempted lob was excellently saved by Brit keeper Andy Stukins. Christian Parker’s excellent work by the touchline 10 minutes later allowed Ant Slater to send over a perfect cross for Cridland but his header went wide of the post. This proved to be a wake-up call and the Brit began to raise their game. The next goal was always going to be decisive – and it was the Revolutionaries who got it – Richard Stukins scoring a tap-in following a defensive error by Harchester. This knocked the wind out of Harchester’s sails and their problems increased when the Brit were awarded a penalty. After his early mistake, though, Drury, on superb form, pulled off a double save, also blocking the rebound that fell to Nathan Stainfield. The Brit finished the game off with 10 minutes left on the clock. Sub Matt Taylor received his marching orders after pulling down a marauding Brit forward. David Noel was determined to atone for his earlier spot-kick miss. He placed the ball down and calmly sent Drury the wrong way to make the final score 3-0. Man of the match was Harchester’s Christian Parker

Britannia Revolution: A Stukins, G Hayes, N Stainfield, B Houghton, S Byrne, P Clarke, T Tyler, K Melton, D Noel, R Masters, R Stukins. Subs: L Sanderson, C Langham, David Wright.

Harchester United: L Drury, J Andrew, J Bradbury, M Slater, D Allerton, A Slater, M Baker, M Chester, C Massingham, C Parker, D Cridland. Subs: M Keightley, M Taylor.

There’s a return to knockout final action on Sunday (April 26) when the newly crowned Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup holders will face AC Burgh in the Workforce Unlimited Shield. The game will again take place at Boston Town FC, Tattershall Road, kick-off 2.00pm. Admission is £1.00 for adults while children’s entry is free.

For April 12

With Billinghay Athletic forced to call off their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division match against Magnet Tavern, mainly due to injuries suffered, the latter are crowned Boston Sunday League champions without even having to kick a ball.

Sunday April 19 sees the first Sunday League Cup final of the season – the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup. Britannia Revolution take on Harchester United at Tattershall Road, kick-off 2pm. Admission price is £1.00 for adults with children being allowed in free of charge. Both clubs have reached the finals of two of the league’s KO competitions. Having secured the runners-up position in the league table and having enjoyed a strong run-in, Britannia Revolution will no doubt be the favourites for the cup on paper. But Harchester will inevitably provide strong opposition coming into the game on a high after an excellent performance against newly-crowned league champions Magnet recently.

For April 5

Britannia Revolution booked their second cup final appearance with a convincing Workforce Unlimited Shield semi-final win over Billinghay Athletic. Richard Stukins opened the scoring after 20 minutes. Rising majestically over Billinghay’s defence, he fired the ball into the top corner of the net. Within five minutes he should have scored again, but after the hard work had been done he tamely hit the ball into the keeper’s grateful arms. The Brit got their second goal following an infringement outside the box. Rob Masters and David Noel stood over the ball. And when the referee blew his whistle, it was Noel who fired a screamer of a shot into the net to double their advantage. It being one-way traffic for much of the first period, the home side could have put the game beyond doubt. But stout defending from the visitors kept it to 2-0 at the interval. Following the re-start, the Brit again took charge of the game and within five minutes their lead was increased further – a great one-two between Stukins and Noel provided a superb ball for Rob Masters to nod home from two yards out. Stukins then made it 4-0 with a neat strike following some good play, completing his hat trick almost immediately, prodding the ball home from close range. With 20 minutes left, Stukins scored his and his club’s final goal. The ball was provided for him from his brother Andy with a long goal kick. He fired the ball in from the right side into the bottom left corner. Billinghay left it late but enjoyed some good possession towards the end, coming close to scoring twice in quick succession. Andy Stukins fisted one effort over the bar. Rob Masters came close to scoring his second seeing a great strike rebound off the bar to safety. The final score was 6-0. Trevor Basker had a fine game with the whistle. Britannia will face AC Burgh in the final. Burgh had been due to face FC Franco’s in the other semi-final but Franco’s have already withdrawn from the league.

Magnet Tavern reclaimed top spot in the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division following their win over Harchester United – but it wasn’t without a few jitters at the end with Harchester finishing the game strongly. The home side scored their first after 15 minutes, Lathon Millar latching on to a through ball and slotting the ball home neatly. Fifteen minutes later they doubled their lead with a Steve Murphy strike, thus going into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead with Harchester having struggled to make much headway. After the interval and it was much the same, with the Magnet taking control of the game. Substitute Dean Seiner scored in his first goal for the club to give them a three-goal cushion. But Harchester were not done and they brought on “super-sub” Dom Cridland. Thrown straight into the fray, he scored with almost his first touch of the ball, And it was Cridland who scored again giving the visitors inspiration. It was all pressure from Harchester at the end but the Magnet defence stood firm and they claimed all three points.

For March 29

With Burgh players late arriving for their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division home game against the title contenders, the match finally kicked off half an hour later than normal. And the game turned out to be a formality for the traveling Magnet Tavern. They pretty much passed the ball around themselves for the first half and took a 2-0 lead into the break. The game continued in a similar fashion for the second half with Burgh struggling to make any significant breakthroughs and the Boston side scored four more at regular intervals. Manager John Chand was signed on prior to the game and scored two, Steven Murphy also scored a brace and Steve Appleby and Loz Lambley both got their names on the scoresheet. The result leaves the Magnet one point behind the league leaders Britannia Revolution with two games in hand.

For March 22

With regular players unavailable due to holidays and injuries, Park were once again forced to take to the field with a severely depleted team, and after suffering their worst run of form in years the Magnet turned in a much improved performance against the eight men of Park to reach the Dixie Deane Memorial Cup final. Michael Gardner was up front for the visitors and he added fire and pace to the team, scoring the opening goal, and Jordan Dixon worked hard in midfield setting up Mark Wakefield who chipped the ball over the keeper. Mark Lovelace added another four goals to his personal tally, improving his chances of taking away the top scorer for the season, while Jack Smith scored from a corner, side-footing the ball home, Jon Jefferys scored with a neat 25-yarder and Jordan Dixon fired the final goal in after beating two tiring Park defenders. The Magnet paid credit to the Park side, who never gave up until the final whistle.

Despite taking a three goal lead AC Burgh failed to hang on to their advantage and with Harchester making a brave comeback it was the visitors who progressed to the Final to meet the Magnet Tavern. Adam Harrison fired two goals in 20 minutes and Ricky Aspinall netted their third before Harchester finally woke from their slumber and Ashley Brushton hit a sweet shot from the edge of the box that flew into the top corner, 3-1 the half time score. After the break and the visitors began to play some neat football, soon levelling the match through Dom Cridland and a Craig Slater header. Burgh momentarily regained the lead when Gary Coggan fired home but Harchester were not done yet with Chris Massingham nearly tearing the roof of the net off with his powerful shot to bring them back level. This time though it was Harchester who stormed into the lead – and they held on to it – James Andrew scoring with an easy tap in and Cridland saving the best till last with a stunning strike almost from the halfway line.

For March 15

Despite the end result, it was a close Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup semi-final tie between Billinghay and Harchester with both teams enjoying some good spells. The home side took the lead within the first 15 minutes, Paul Baxter’s pass finding the head of Adam Weston who turned the ball into the net. This spurred on the visitors who finally began to get into their stride and 20 minutes later they had deservedly equalised through Chris Massingham with a sublime finish from an acute angle into the top corner – giving the home keeper no chance. With Harchester taking a firm grip of the game it was against the run of play when Billinghay scored their second, Adam Burrows providing a superb ball for Weston to strike, the ball then rebounding into the net off the post. It was 2-1 at half-time. The teams fought out a stalemate for the first 20 minutes of the second period before a penalty was awarded to the home side. Weston stepped up and neatly converted to complete his hat-trick. With Harchester struggling to get back into the game, Billinghay’s Tom Moor broke free and rifled home from 10 yards out to complete the score. Until the first day of February the Magnet Tavern were flying high in the league and were in four cup competitions. Fast forward seven weeks and they find themselves in the unenviable position of having been knocked out of all four of them, also succumbing to their third defeat on the trot, their worst run of form for several seasons. This time the defeat was at the hands of the hard working Britannia Revolution – who are enjoying a good run. The game started off evenly enough with neither side creating any real chances, and while it was the visitors who put the ball in the back of the net first, it was ruled out following an infringement in the box. With the Magnet slow to get back, the Brit immediately took full advantage of their pacy forwards and Rob Masters sent a superb ball down the pitch into the path of Richard Stukins, who controlled well and slipped the ball around the advancing keeper. The Magnet almost pulled it back when Matt Kennedy fired a good ball in, with the keeper stranded defender Paul Clarke cleared off the line and the Brit held on to their slender 1-0 lead as the half-time whistle blew. In the second period the Brit seemed to lose their shape and while the Magnet began to look more menacing, they were unable to capitalise. The impressive David Noel should have added his name to the scoresheet but despite showing some silky skills throughout the match he somehow managed to turn an easy shot on goal wide of the mark. But the home side deservedly took a two-goal lead when again they broke quickly, with two on two Noel’s miss-hit landed perfectly for Masters and he poked the ball home to make the final score 2-0.

For March 8

Park Avenue lost the influential Danny Keal just 10 minutes into their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division match away to Britannia Revolution at the North Sea Camp when he pulled up with a hamstring. Luckily this week, Park had 12 players at their disposal and Dean Fisher came on in place of Keal. Their woes continued though with the Brit getting off to a flying start. The hosts’ first goal came courtesy of a defensive error with two defenders coming out to block, they both managed to misjudge the ball and Mark Ringrose was given no chance when Richard Stukins pounced on the free ball and bundled it into the net. It was Stukins again who doubled their lead with Ringrose making a hash of an easy catch, dropping the ball for Stukins to again fire home. Park did manage to claw their way back into the game and began to pass the ball around, a superb pass from Ty Fravigar found Leroy Medina on the edge of the box, he got passed his marker and planted in a terrific goal, and in the 30^th minute when Park were awarded a penalty, Medina spotted the ball and blasted it in to the net to send the teams in level pegging at the break. Almost immediately after the restart both sides won penalties, the first one in favour of the Brit, which David Noel converted with ease and then when Jamie Kuhn was fouled inside the area Medina again stepped up and made no mistake. Rob Masters got his name on the scoresheet when he headed home following some superb control, but Park were still not giving up and the goal of the game belonged to the visitors’ Ty Fravigar. Running in from 10 yards inside the Brit’s half, he took the ball passed two defenders, cutting in across the box he rifled in a strong right foot shot – the power carried the ball into the back of the net despite Andy Stukins getting his fingers to the ball. With both sides putting on a good display a draw would have been a fair result, but the Brit’s David Noel had the final say when yet another penalty was awarded and he scored to give a 5-4 victory to the home side.

For March 1

The Magnet threw away their chance to play in the Lincs Sunday Cup final. After taking a 2-0 lead, they succumbed to a late 3-2 defeat again FC Milan. The Boston side had had the best possible start. With only one minute on the clock, a great ball from Paul Goodhand landed in the path of Jermaine Palmer. He rounded the keeper and coolly slotted the ball home. But after that early goal, neither team were able to create any clear-cut chances and it was a pretty even midfield battle until the break. After the interval, Milan came out the strongest, playing some first class football and the Magnet were left to chase the ball for long spells, but on the 70th minute Palmer scored again to give the Magnet a two-goal cushion. But with two substitutions and a re-arrangement of the team, it seemed the self-destruct button had been pressed and the Magnet were at sixes and sevens. Milan continued to push forward and in the 75th minute they were finally rewarded for their efforts, a superb goal in to the top left corner. The goal gave the visitors an added sense of urgency and instead of the Magnet defending in numbers as they had in the first half, when Milan surged forward on another attack it was two-on-two and another good strike from 25 yards out gave Nick Maddison in the home goal no chance as Milan levelled the score. From being in control of the game, the Magnet found themselves needing to hang on with extra time beckoning. But their hearts were broken when some sloppy passing gifted the ball to the marauding Milan team and they made no mistake scoring their third goal in injury time to take FC Milan through to their first Lincs Sunday Cup final. The game was excellently controlled by referee Anthony Howitt who was assisted by Steven Beswick and Boston man Mark Bruntlett – after Simon Carter was forced to pull out on the morning through injury.

Even with only 10 men FC Francos put up a great battle in the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division and produced some good spells of football. But with a strong second half performance it was Billinghay who walked away with all three points with another good all round display. Adam Burrows fired home their first two goals to give them a two goal lead but Rui Machado matched him by hitting two before the break to send both teams in at 2-2 as the half-time whistle blew. After the break, Machado completed his hat-trick to give the visitors the lead for the first time in the game, but then Billinghay pulled it back with Burrows also completing a hat-trick. The third goal seemed to set them going and there was no looking back, the club’s top scorer, Adam Weston then scored two, one from the penalty spot following a foul in the box and Burrows made it 6-3. Substitute Ben Miles scored the final goal. With 10 minutes to go Franco’s were then reduced to nine, with Machado having been fouled just outside the box he received a red card for retaliation. Elsewhere, Park Avenue struggled to raise a side for their game against Harchester, with several players letting them down at the last minute. Park gamely took to the pitch with just seven players but still managed to frustrate the home side with some stout defending and a sterling performance from Mark Ringrose in goal, keeping the goal tally down to just four. Ryan Barker hit a brace with Christian Parker and sub Dom Cridland also notching. Referee Chris Reeson had a fine game with the whistle.

For February 22

Billinghay Athletic inflicted the first defeat over Magnet Tavern this season in local league/cup competitions. And it was a victory they were well worthy of in their Workforce Unlimited Shield first round tie. While there was no dramatic action in the first period, it was the home side who opened the scoring after 30 minutes of second half play. Adam Weston striking his 20^th goal of the season from inside the box to give the home side an unlikely lead. Billinghay should have doubled their lead but failed to capitalise and Magnet finally drew level with 10 minutes remaining, the reliable Mark Lovelace stroking the ball home. With just two minutes remaining, and extra time beckoning, the Magnet’s Mark Wakefield, in his first game back following suspension, somehow managed to fire the ball home past his own keeper – to clear the ball would have been easier! Billinghay were left to celebrate and the Magnet were unceremoniously dumped out of the competition. The Magnet will now have to pick themselves up as they face stiff competition in FC Milan in the semi-final of the Lincs Sunday Cup next Sunday. The game will be played at Garfit’s Lane with a kick off time of 10.45am. The Magnet will be looking to secure a place in the Final for the second time in four years.

With only one Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game remaining, AC Burgh were left firmly rooted to the bottom of the table following their 3-0 defeat at the hands of Harchester United. All three goals came in the first half – Ryan Barker could not fail to miss his chance from just two yards out and Dom Cridland bagged a brace, his first a delightful lob from just inside the edge of the 18-yard area and his second when he side-footed home following a well placed cross. A superb game of football was played out at Sutterton between Park Avenue and FC Franco’s with both sides playing some neat moves. Rui Machado had given the visitors a slender one goal lead at the interval but after the restart Park’s top scorer Danny Keal soon levelled. Franco’s regained the lead immediately from the kick-off, Paulo Sandulesco netting his first club goal. But once again Park pulled level – Matthew Bates making a good run on the right made it to the dead-ball line before pulling the ball back sweetly into the path of Keal who toe-poked home. In an end-to-end tussle the points could have gone either way, but it was Franco’s who came away with the victory, Toni Pascu netting to make it 3-2. Terry Knott had a fine game with the whistle.

For February 15

Just one Workforce Unlimited Premier Division fixture survived the weather conditions this Sunday – AC Burgh v Billinghay Athletic. And in a close encounter, it was Billinghay who stole all three points. Adam Weston scored the first goal for the visitors prodding home from close range after a good early build up and he doubled the scoreline with a penalty kick following a foul in the box. With Burgh having three walking wounded amongst their team they continued to apply pressure but struggled in the final third and it was Billinghay again who found the net, the ball hitting Ed Creasey – and winding him – before it went over the line. That made it 3-1 as the half time score. After the break Burgh started to pass the ball around with more confidence and they were rewarded when Ady Verheml took advantage of seeing the keeper off his line and hit a superb ball from all of 30 yards out to fire home. This fired up the home team and they reduced the deficit further from the edge of the box, Adam Harrison hitting a low drive. Billinghay then had a player dismissed following a two-footed challenge on Ricky Aspinall (though luckily no bones appear to have been broken). With chances going to both teams and the clock running down, it was Billinghay who had the final say with the Burgh keeper coming out of goal Alex Gammon hit a sweet lob to score the final goal – 4-2 to the Sleaford-area team. Both teams commended feferee Simon Howard on his handling of the game.

For February 8

No report: all matches postponed due to snow and ice.

For February 1

So near but so far. The Lincs Sunday Cup journey ended for the talented FC Franco’s team at the quarter-final stage away to FC Milan in a close encounter. The Boston side enjoyed the better of the play in the first period but were unable to take a goal advantage. And it was Milan who opened the scoring 10 minutes into the second half. Franco’s continued to push forward and were rewarded for their efforts when Laszlo Lovas was hauled down in the box. Goal machine Rui Machado stepped up and made no mistake from the spot and the game headed into extra time. Unfortunately for Franco’s, they lost the influential Rafal Kleczynski through an ankle injury and they then began to tire, leaving themselves open at the back after succumbing to a second goal in the second period of extra time. As Franco’s pushed forward, Milan were able to take advantage and scored a killer third goal. Referee Patrick Wyatt had an excellent game in the middle. Elsewhere, with just five minutes gone on the clock the Magnet were reduced to ten men in their match against St Giles when Jermaine Palmer was adjudged to have committed a foul and received a red card for his efforts. But a cool free-kick from Stacey Cartwright put the Boston side one up. Shortly afterwards, Mark Lovelace made it 2-0 after a fine pass from Ben Brown found him in space and he turned neatly to fire home. St Giles pulled one back with a superb strike that left James Doughty with no chance. And it remained 2-1 at the interval. In the second half, it was 10-man Magnet who had most of the play, Lovelace again finding the net. Paul Vaughan went close, but it was left to “super-sub” Lee Orrey to complete the scoring with just 10 minutes remaining. The Magnet have been drawn at home for the semi-final and will play Franco’s victors – FC Milan. The tie will be played on Sunday March 1. The other semi-final will be contested between the Aul South Yorkshire and Welton Sports and Leisure.

With AC Burgh pulling out of their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game against the Britannia Revolution, there was only one Premier Division match and that was a close one! It was all Billinghay for most of the first period against Harchester with first Paul Baxter and then Simon Creasey both hitting superb strikes from 25 yards out, and then Alex Gammon stuck his foot out in a congested box to increase their lead still further. Harchester finally got themselves into the game – but it took until the stroke of half-time when Chris Massingham coolly slotted home a penalty into the bottom left corner. After the break, there was a dramatic change of fortunes and Billinghay were forced to defend in numbers. And between the keeper and the woodwork, Harchester were unable to make their chances count! Sub Kit Calvert did manage to reduce the deficit with his first touch – a looping ball gave the keeper no chance. And with just minutes left Billinghay keeper Steve Scott made yet another fine save, tipping the ball over the bar, and the visitors clung on to end to take all three points.

REFEREES’ TRAINING COURSE

The details of the next referees’ training course are now available and once again this will take place at the Swineshead Institute meeting room. The course will run over four days – Saturday February 21 and Sunday February 22 plus the following weekend of Saturday February 28 and Sunday March 1. Any interested parties should contact the Lincolnshire FA delegate Derek Andrew on 01205 760055 (leaving all contact details on the answer phone).

For January 25

Billinghay were forced to call off their Workforce Unlimited Shield round one game against Magnet Tavern with their pitch under water. But despite poor playing conditions Park Avenue and Britannia Revolution managed to get their game played with the hosts suffering their heaviest defeat of the season — a 12-1 reverse. Richard Stukins did most of the damage with five goals and Rob Masters and Benn Houghton each grabbed a hat-trick. Substitute Mark Ledger scored a goal with only his second touch of the game to complete the Brit’s scorers. Richard Barker hit Park’s solitary goal and the visitors paid tribute to Park who battled right to the end without any further joy.

In Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, Burgh slumped to a 9-2 defeat against high-flyers FC Franco’s. Franco’s were already three up at the break despite missing a penalty kick and they went on to score five more without reply. Robbie Falconer finally made a break through for the visitors after some fine work from Dan Simpson scoring two goals in quick succession but Franco’s went on to score one more. Franco’s scorers were Franco Parla (3), Rui Machado (3), Nathan Hubbert, Danny Maddison and Kamil Kleczynski.

For January 18

A nine-goal Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup thriller was played out at Garfit’s Lane with the Magnet seemingly all set to cruise to victory against FC Franco’s after taking a 5-1 first half scoreline. Mark Lovelace netted four and Loz Lambley ran the length of the pitch to fire in a fantastic solo goal. Rui Machado netted Franco’s only goal in the first 45 minutes. But after the break, the Magnet made two substitutions that affected their team play and Franco’s finally started to play some neat football. Machado netted his second and with the visitors piling on the pressure Laszlo Lovas added one before sub Franco Parla hit their fourth to mount a great cup comeback. Unfortunately, time ran out for Franco’s and the Magnet were relieved to hear the final whistle to reach the next round of the competition by virtue of a 5-4 win.

Billinghay Athletic joined the holders, Magnet Tavern in the next round of the cup with a 3-0 win over AC Burgh. Billinghay took the lead straight from the kick-off with Burgh still in the starting blocks. Adam Weston went straight through beating three defenders before rounding the keeper with a superb solo effort, and just 15 minutes later he added a second following a free-kick. The home side were in complete control and should have scored more but they had to wait until midway through the second period to kill off Burgh’s resurgence with Weston completing a hat trick from the spot.

Harchester’s excellent run of form continued with a 7-0 thrashing over a normally resilient Park Avenue. Dom Cridland scored six of the seven, his first coming after just 20 seconds with a 30-yard bullet into the top corner leaving the Park Keeper stranded. Cridland added three more headers – all from crosses supplied by Mark Baker, and Baker notched one himself before the break, giving them a five-goal lead at the interval. After the re-start, it was still all one-way traffic and Cridland added two more to his tally to seal a 7-0 win.

For January 11

Magnet Tavern’s man of the match in their fourth round FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup tie against Oyster Martyrs was brilliant keeper James Doughty, who pulled off some fine saves. For the second week running it took the Boston side time to find any sort of rhythm, giving the Liverpudlians the chance to pass the ball with ease and they had the edge for the first 15 minutes. The Magnet finally got going and Loz Lambley’s shot was well saved by the Oyster keeper. Not long after, Matt Kennedy fed a super ball through to Paul Goodhand who saw his low shot saved. Unfortunately for the Boston side they then found themselves 1-0 down with Oyster scoring following a good breakaway. The Magnet fought to get back in the game and were themselves rewarded when Josh Sozzo fired home five minutes before the break. In the second half it was ebb-and-flow play with both teams looking to grab the winner. The Magnet had three good chances to go in front and enjoyed some good possession for the first 20 minutes after the re-start. but found the visiting keeper in outstanding form. The heavy pitch at Holbeach United FC started to take its toll on the Magnet and the Liverpool side seemed to find an extra strength, Graham Rooney causing all sorts of problems to the Magnet defence. One attack led to Doughty coming out of goal only to back pedal when a superb lob was played over him. But by moving fast, he got back and made a brilliant fingertip save to keep the scores level. But 15 minutes from the end and the Magnet dream was over when Oyster scored from a goalmouth scramble, after the ball appeared to have been kicked out of Doughty’s hands on the floor. But the decisive goal stood.

The Lincs Sunday Cup dream continues for FC Franco’s – in their first season in this competition the team progressed through to the quarter-finals with a good 3-1 victory over an organised Holbeach side. Franco’s started brightly and Toni Pascu put the Boston side one up from close range after 15 minutes, but sloppy defending saw their visitors draw level. With Holbeach closing Franco’s down, the pressure on the home side began to build but it was still level pegging at the break. From the re-start, Holbeach began to pass the ball around but Franco’s finally regained their form and after some neat passing the ball seemed to sit in the mud in front of goal, Kamil Kleczynski was the first to pounce and managed to turn the ball into the net. This spurred the home side on and 10 minutes before the end Pascu had made it 3-1. It was an excellent victory. Franco’s will now face FC Milan in an away match.

In the only Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game of the day, Harchester and Britannia Revolution fought out a 0-0 draw. Neither team created many chances, although Rob Masters’ Britannia side had a penalty claim turned down in the first half. A midfield battle between the sides made it difficult to break the deadlock and overall a point each was a fair result.

For January 4

With Rosebery Avenue deemed too frozen to play, FC Franco’s will now hopefully conclude their Lincs Sunday Cup round five game against Holbeach St John Exchange this Sunday. Should they win through to the next round, Franco’s have been drawn away to FC Milan. Meanwhile, after being the losing finalists for the last two seasons GE Millers Arms travelled to Boston aiming to make it third time lucky in their quest to lift the Lincs Sunday Cup. But they did not count on the Magnet Tavern’s determined attitude! Magnet were slow out of the blocks, allowing their visitors to play some neat football which resulted in Millers scoring after just 10 minutes with a strong volley beating Doughty following his attempted clearance. The early goal seemed to wake up the Boston side who then threatened with some good chances. Mark Lovelace turned in a fine performance up front, always causing problems to the Millers’ defence and on the 44th minute he and the Magnet were rewarded for their efforts. An Ash Murrell through ball found Lovelace who flicked the ball around the Millers’ keeper to even the score at the half-time interval. After the break, the Magnet had most of ball, defending in numbers and again creating half chances. A great run from Loz Lambley produced a superb pass for Liam Nimmo who was brought down in the box. Stacy Cartwright stepped up and slotted the ball home with fantastic composure, sending the keeper the wrong way. The Magnet now face St Giles FC away. The latter beat last year’s winners Pepperells.

An even first half was played out between Britannia Revolution and AC Burgh In the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division with both teams scoring one a-piece. Rob Masters opened the scoring for the home side and JJ Donnelly equalised, but in the second half the Brit took control of the game enjoying most of the possession and managing to grab a further two goals through Benn Houghton and Casey Kemp – both coming from corners. Burgh enjoyed possession on the break but failed to create strong chances and all-in-all it was an entertaining game played in good spirits.

For December 21

Suffering from a lack of players, Black Swan Coningsby were forced to withdraw from their game against Magnet Tavern, leaving two Workforce Unlimited Premier Division fixtures remaining. Britannia Revolution won in convincing fashion by inflicting a 7-1 defeat upon Billinghay Athletic. Karl Melton popped up with a hat-trick, Rob Masters hit a brace and Tim Tyler got their final goal. Billinghay’s Adam Weston hit one in reply from the penalty spot. A seven-goal thriller was played out a Rosebery Avenue between FC Franco’s and Harchester United. Kamil Kleczynski hit two, Rui Machado and new signing Matthew Inman got one apiece for the home side with Jamie Skinner (one) and Dom Cridland hitting two in reply.

For December 14

Louth United took the lead against Magnet Tavern in the Lincs Sunday Cup, but not before they had seen James Doughty pull off a fine save from the penalty spot following a foul in the box. Both sides created chances but with both defences standing firm, the teams were locked in a stalemate for much of the first half. Some good work from Paul Vaughan on the right then found Mark Lovelace who made no mistake to pull the Boston side level. Captain Steve Appleby drove his team on and they soon found the net again, Lovelace with his second, but on the 75^th minute. Louth came back and levelled the game at 2-2. With extra time looming manager John Chand sent on Jimmy Britton and within a minute he showed great strength to beat a defender before pulling the ball back and firing it passed the outstretched Louth keeper and into the net – a goal worthy of higher level football! Almost from the off the Magnet pushed forward and Britton claimed two more quick goals to net a super late hat-trick. Magnet Tavern have been drawn at home in the next round on January 4 and face GE Millers Arms of Lincoln.

Despite the 3-0 end result in the preliminary round of the Workforce Unlimited Shield, it was a fairly even contest between Billinghay and Harchester. Midway through the first half the home side managed to break the deadlock after a good passing move found Adam Weston who slammed the ball home, and just before the break Weston hit his second — a Simon Creasey free-kick from 30 yards out was misjudged by the Harchester keeper and the ball bounced over him, leaving Weston to pounce, heading the ball home. In the second half Harchester enjoyed the better play and were unlucky not to pull a goal back, finding the home side’s keeper in fine form. The visitors were denied time and time again and were unlucky to concede a third just before the final whistle. Simon Creasey, with another free kick, floated the ball into the box finding Weston who headed home to complete a fine performance.

A depleted 10-man Park Avenue side travelled to Burgh for their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game and despite taking the lead they succumbed to a 4-2 defeat! Park started off the brighter and no less than six players contributed to a good move that saw Danny Keal finish sweetly to give them a 1-0l lead, and 10 minutes later they had doubled their advantage. Keeper Scott Hempsall palmed the ball out down the left flank and a good pass found Paul Barker on the edge of the box and he fired the ball home well from a tight angle. After the break Burgh pulled a goal back, an innocuous challenge seeing the home side awarded a penalty, Chris Cussons stepped up and made no mistake. This gave the home side a much-needed lift and they soon drew level. A ball bounced awkwardly over a Park defender and Ady Verheml found himself with a one-on-one with the Park goalie and he coolly slotted home. With Burgh hearts lifted they pressed further and Verheml snatched his second and Burgh’s third before Cussons also completed a brace when he fired the ball home following a corner that was headed away from goal to make the final score 4-2.

For December 7

The Magnet Tavern continued their FA Carlsberg Cup run with an emphatic third round victory over Warstones Wanderers of Wolverhampton, and that despite the visitors arriving with a tremendous record of having not been beaten in their last 30 matches! The game started with both teams cancelling each other out with good defensive displays. But finally the Magnet snatched the lead on the 33rd minute, Paul Goodhand beating two defenders to set up Josh Sozzo. With a slender 1-0 half-time lead, the Magnet still had it all to play for in the second half. And they produced a sublime performance. Once again it was the passing ability of Goodhand who this time set up a chance for Loz Lambley to make no mistake with a 25-yard stunner. This spurred the Magnet on and they scored two more quick goals, Goodhand deservedly getting his name on the scoresheet and Lambley hitting his second. After some excellent football to retain the ball, Lambley completed a hat-trick and substitute Mark Lovelace hit their sixth with an exquisite chip from 20 yards. Warstones scored a consolation goal with a 20-yard Briggs free-kick. Magnet have been rewarded with a home tie in the next round and will face Liverpool side Oyster Martyrs, who feature Wayne Rooney’s brother Thomas within their squad. The tie will be played on January 11. Magnet team: J Doughty, C Lewis, S Cartwright, B Brown, R Nicholls, S Appleby, L Lambley, P Goodhand, W Lewis, J Sozzo, M Kennedy. Subs: M Lovelace, P Vaughan, A Baker

FC Francos reached the last sixteen of the Lincolnshire Sunday Cup with a superb round four victory over Friendship FC – who won the trophy in 2002! Franco’s started the stronger from the outset, Kamil Kleczynski picking up a poor pass back stole the lead for the Boston side and Rui Machado, on his return from suspension, smashed the ball home to give them a two goal cushion. With the Boston side out-playing their visitors, Friendship were then reduced to nine men just before the break, one player red carded for a high tackle and a second for arguing against the decision! After the break Franco’s continued to run riot and Machado scored an identical goal to his first to increase their lead still further. Kleczynski completed a brace with a fine header and Machado completed a hat trick with a late penalty after Kamil Kleczynski had been upturned in the box. Franco’s will now face Holbeach St John’s Exchange at home in the next round on January 4. FC Franco’s team: K Parker, R Cappelini, R Kleczynski, M Horvath, C Ripley, S Kleczynski, L Lovas, N Hubbert, K Kleczynski, R Machado, D Maddison. Subs: T Pascu, F Parla, B Kowalski

Elsewhere in the same competition, though, it’s a case of the “Revolution” being over! Britannia Revolution travelled to Grimsby for the second time on the trot in the cup but sadly came away on the wrong end of a 6-2 scoreline.

In the only Workforce Unlimited Premier Division fixture of the day, Park Avenue started off the brighter having a strong opening 20 minutes. Glen Smith produced a sweet cross from the right to the edge of the box and Danny Keal fired the ball home to give them a deserved lead, but just ten minutes later and it was all square when Alex Gammon equalised. Park came back at Billinghay and re-took the lead when play maker Smith turned goal taker with a powerful shot giving the visitors’ keeper no chance. But in a see-saw first half new signing Richard Meldrum again got the visitors onto an even keel and the half-time score was level pegging at 2-2. After the break, Park again took the game to Billinghay and were rewarded when a corner ball was eventually headed out to Matthew Bates and he fired the ball into the bottom left corner. This time, Park managed to hold onto the lead and in the 75th minute the lead was further stretched when Park were awarded a penalty after Paul Barker was upended in the box. Skipper Scott Hempsall stepped up and placed the ball into the bottom right corner.

The following cup draws took place at the recent management committee meeting:

Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup round one, to be played on January 18: Magnet Tavern v FC Franco’s; Billinghay Athletic Sunday v AC Burgh; Park Avenue Athletic v Harchester Utd; Britannia Revolution received a bye

Workforce Unlimited Shield round one to be played on January 25: Billinghay Athletic Sunday or Harchester Utd v Magnet Tavern; Black Swan Coningsby v FC Franco’s; Park Avenue Athletic v Britannia Revolution; AC Burgh received a bye.

With the Newcastle withdrawing from the league their results have now been expunged.

For November 30

Chris Massingham opened the scoring for Harchester in what proved to be an easy first half for the home side against AC Burgh in their Workforce Unlimited Premier Division encounter, scoring his team’s three goals in quick succession. Mark Baker scored his first goal for the club and Joe Bradbury also netted his first of the season with a curling 18-yard effort into the top corner. AC Burgh claimed a goal back just before the interval after Harchester failed to clear their lines following a free-kick that had been awarded to their opposition. New signing Adrian Verheml fired home. The second half proved to be a different story – Burgh started off the brighter and created a couple of half chances but were unable to convert. In the 85th minute Verheml scored Burgh’s second to complete a brace but it wasn’t enough and the Boston side managed to hang on till the final whistle to secure all three points. Neither Park Avenue or FC Franco’s were able to field a side to meet their opponents therefore only one fixture was actually completed on the day.

This coming week (December 6) sees a return to knockout action – FC Franco’s and Britannia Revolution featuring in Lincs County Cup matches while the Magnet Tavern are involved in the FA Carlsberg Cup.

For November 23

While the weather put paid to any football games on Sunday, the Newcastle had already pulled out of their fixture due to a lack of players available for their game against Britannia Revolution.

For November 16

At the third attempt Britannia Revolution finally faced the Jubilee Inn in round three of the Lincs Sunday Cup and despite being without several key players the Boston side started off the brighter and after just 10 minutes took the lead with good build-up of play resulting in Richard Stukins calmly finishing a one-on-one. Unfortunately, after this good start Jubilee got into their stride and began to win the midfield battle resulting in them deservedly equalising with a stunning free-kick into the far top corner, giving Andy Stukins no chance, Stukins then picked up an injury to his arm and before he was replaced the home side took the lead heading in from a corner. It was 2-1 at half time. Michael Emery was brought on for the injured Andrew Stukins and shortly after the re-start the Brit were forced to make a second substitution – Mark Ledger for Lloyd Sanderson. The Brit started to play some good football and were rewarded when Rob Masters coolly slotted home, 2-2, but within minutes of the equaliser the Jubilee regained the lead by converting a hotly disputed penalty. Feeling hard done by, the Brit dug their heels in and again leveled the score, this time through a Paul Clarke long throw in flicked on to Mark Ledger, a good ball from him found Cliff Langham’s head and he made no mistake, 3-3. Chances fell for both teams but at the final whistle the score was deadlocked. Within minutes of the first period of extra time the Brit were fortunate to be awarded a penalty, which Paul Clarke converted. Jubilee were still very much in the game and managed to break the Brit’s heart’s by equalising with just two minutes left in the second period of extra time. The score at the end of extra time was 4-4 and penalties followed. Emery produced a sterling performance saving the first two Jubilee kicks before converting one himself, Karl Melton, Nathan Stainfield and Paul Clarke all converted with only Rob Masters being denied by the Jubilee keeper. At 4-2 in the penalty shoot, out the Brit fully deserved their place in the next round and will now face top Grimsby side Seven Seas.

The Magnet Tavern eased their way into round three of the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup with a winning first half performance, strikers Mark Lovelace and Matt Kennedy each scored two in the first half with the first goal within the first four minutes. The Boston side dominated the first period but took their foot off the gas after the break. Despite enjoying the greater possession in the second half , the Travellers could not find their way through a solid Magnet defence and the scoreline remained the same until the final whistle blew.

Billinghay grabbed their third win of the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division season by inflicting another defeat upon Black Swan Coningsby. Adam Weston headed in after some good build up to give the home side a one-nil lead at the half time interval and it was the same man again who doubled his and Billinghay’s tally in the second half. Edward Creasey hit their third following a corner kick. Billinghay put in a strong performance and were only denied further goals by an outstanding performance from Andy ‘The Cat’ Yeomans between the sticks. In a close game which had a draw written all over it, Park Avenue came away with all three points! Both sides created chances in the first half and the only surprise was that at half time it was still 0-0. The game was mainly a midfield battle with the strikers limited to long shots but in the 80^th minute the home side managed to break the deadlock. Jake Louth’s shot was deflected back into the path of Danny Keal and he made no mistake, hitting his sixth goal of the season. Harchester battled to the end and had chances to equalise but failed to make the most them.

For November 9

Having been forced to postpone their league fixture, Britannia Revolution’s saw their Lincs Sunday Cup round three trip to Grimsby side Jubilee called off for the second week running due to a waterlogged pitch. It has now been scheduled for this Sunday (November 16). The Lincs FA have yet to confirm where the game will be played. The winners will face top Grimsby side Seven Seas at Grimsby.

Park Avenue claimed all three Workforce Unlimited Premier Division points with a narrow victory over Premier Division strugglers Black Swan Coningsby. Paul Barker tapped the ball home from close range to give the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead, and following some good play in the second half they doubled their tally with a Dean Fisher header. Park were made to sweat in the final minutes. With five minutes left on the clock Jonathan Eadsforth pulled one back for the Swans, but they were unable to find the net again giving Park their third win of the season.

FC Franco’s were made to work hard for this victory, which saw them jump up two places in the league table. Adam Weston put Billinghay in front early on but Franco’s’ leading scorer Kamil Kleczynski levelled before half-time. After the break Weston completed a brace and Sam Miller added one to give the visitors a healthy two goal lead, but two goals from the hard-working Franco Parla set up an enthralling end to the game setting the score at 3-3 and it was Franco’s who had the final say when Kleczynski popped up again to grab the winning goal for the Boston side. The game was well refereed by Simon Howard.

League leaders Magnet Tavern earned three valuable points over close rivals The Newcastle. The home side took the lead after just four minutes. Keeper James Doughty’s long punt carved through the Castle defence and Mark Lovelace shrugged off two challenges to fire home. Midway through the first half Andy Brown equalised after some strong play down the right flank. The Magnet had a mighty let-off 10 minutes later, following a foul just outside the area Michael Gardner struck a sweet ball firmly in the back of the net only to see the referee pull the game back and award the Castle a free-kick, which they failed to convert. At the other end Stacey Cartwright fizzed a ball just wide and it was all-square at the half time break. The Magnet were more superior in the second half – but it wasn’t without its moments. The Magnet re-took the lead four minutes after the re-start, again through Lovelace, Ty Fravigar then saved a blinding effort off the line but Jimmy Britton made it 3-1 soon after. It should have been 3-2 when the ball appeared to have been scooped out of the net by the Magnet’s Cartwright but no goal was given and Cartwright when on to net the home sides fourth. The Castle kept probing and after a foul in the box they were awarded a penalty. Michael Gardner stepped up, but found Doughty in fine form, making a vital stop and the rebound was fired over the bar. Gardner made amends with a well-taken goal to pull it back to 4-2 but with the Magnet producing a fine defensive performance, no more goals were forthcoming and on the whole the home side deserved their victory.

For November 2

Franco’s sailed through to the next round of the Lincs Sunday Cup with a comfortable 7-1 win over Grantham side Warthogs. Franco Parla opened the scoring early on for the Boston side with a 20-yard effort that the visitors goalie failed to hold on to. Goal machine Kamil Kleczynski then added a second after some good work from midfield. But after some good play Warthogs found a way back into the game, clawing a goal back. The score was 2-1 at half-time. After the break, Franco’s picked up the pace and should have been 3-1 up – scoring well but having the goal ruled offside. Not letting the decision get to them, Laszlo Lovas struck a superb shot and the watching crowd could only look on in amazement as the ball hit the underside of the bar, bounced onto the back of the keeper and rebounded into the net! Kleczynski then scored twice more to complete his hat-trick. Pop Bogdan hit their sixth when his free-kick flew through the outstretched hands of the hapless keeper. Parla then hit his second of the game, dummying his marker he tapped the ball home to complete the scoring. Franco’s secured a home tie in the next round and will face tough opposition in Friendship. Magnet Tavern players came up against a very strong Gainsborough Trinity Supporters Club side but a good all-round performance saw the Boston side win through. Jon Macleod put the Magnet one nil to the good on the 18^th minute, turning well and firing low and hard, and with the Tavern defence proving to be rock solid the home side failed to penetrate. In the second half, Gainsborough began to put pressure on their visitors but again failed to make any headway. Finally, on the 80^th minute the Magnet made the game safe, Mark Lovelace finding Loz Lambley in space and he made no mistake firing the ball into the bottom right corner to make the final score 2-0. The Magnet have been rewarded with a home tie in the next round – facing Louth United (Sunday). Last year’s losing semi-finalists, the Newcastle, travelled to a high-flying Lincoln side – Welton Sports and Social – with several key players missing. And despite coming out on the losing side they can hold their heads up high having put up a valiant fight. The Castle had a penalty awarded against them after only five minutes but Peter Cook made a great save to deny the home side, but just five minutes later the home side did take the lead. The lead, though, was short lived as Pete Lovelace equalised shortly after and then Steve Fulcher gave the Boston side a 2-1 lead with a great strike from 25 yards. Welton always looked dangerous on the break and their efforts paid off as they pulled the score level at 2-2. After the break both sides continued to look for the winning goal and the Castle hoped they had secured it when the hardworking Michael Gardner put them back in the lead following some good work by Ty Fravigar. Daniel “Beef” Hurling nearly scored a debut goal, only to see the ball drift agonisingly past the post. Welton continued to push and were again rewarded with a goal, taking the game into extra time. With no subs the heavy pitch began to tell on the players and Welton scored twice in the first period. Ty Fravigar deservedly pulled it back to 5-4, but in the second period of extra time it was the home side who scored again to kill off any lingering hopes for the Boston side. The Britannia Revolution’s trip to Grimsby side Jubilee was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch and will now be played on this Sunday. The winners will face top Grimsby side Seven Seas (Sunday) at Grimsby.

For October 26

With Black Swan Coningsby forced to pull out of the Sharman Burgess Sunday Cup due to a lack of playing staff, opponents Britannia Revolution will proceed into the first round proper as a result of their preliminary round tie being called off.

In Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, continuing their good run AC Burgh picked up another point and jumped up a place in the league table following their entertaining game away to Billinghay Athletic (Sunday). End to end action saw the balance of power tip first one way and then another but the 3-3 draw was a fair result in the end. Burgh saw a goal disallowed early on before the home side took the lead through a sizzling free kick from Simon Pugh – nicely squeezed into the top corner. Straight from the re-start the action was at the other end of the pitch with Lee Housley equalising. A midfield battle ensued and no further goals were produced in the first period. After the break and it was similar stuff, Billinghay’s Adam Smith picked himself up after a push in the box and fired home the resulting penalty but their lead was once again short lived as Sub Rikky Bexon again levelled the score. Bexon completed a brace to give Burgh the lead for the first time but Billinghay pressurized and when the ball fell kindly to him Kieran Robson took the ball down and left footed the ball home from inside the box. The game was played in excellent spirits and was expertly refereed by Terry Knott. The Magnet consolidated their position at the top of the table outplaying their hosts for the whole game. John and Nick Reeson played well in midfield whilst Bradley Murrell was brought in to keep a clean sheet with regular Keeper James Doughty being rested with the Sunday Cup competition in mind – but Murrell did not have to be called upon as Harchester were unable to create any real chances. Jimmy Britton set up goals for Stacey Cartwright and John Reeson – but failed to score himself! Goals came at regular intervals courtesy of S Cartwright (2), Ashley Murrell, Steve Appleby, J Reeson and D Maddison. The league committee wishes all four of the Boston League sides the best of luck in the Lincs County Sunday Cup on Sunday.

For October 19

Magnet Tavern produced a fine display to progress through to the next round of the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup. It was an easy victory with the Magnet camped in their visitors half for much of the game. Lawrence Lambley and Josh Sozzo had given the Boston side a 2-0 lead within the first three minutes and they scored twice more before the break. Four more goals came in the second period and Grafham failed to make even one shot on target. Adam Broom had an excellent game scoring twice and proving troublesome to the visiting defenders. Team Captain Paul Goodhand marshalled his team well throughout the 90 minutes and Jimmy Britton capped a fine debut performance also scoring twice late on in the game. Scorers: Adam Broom (2), Josh Sozzo (2), Lawrence Lambley (2), Jimmy Britton (2). The Magnet have been awarded another home tie which will be played on November 16, this time facing Birmingham side the Travellers. The Magnet wished to extend their warm thanks to Boston Town for allowing them to use their facilities.

In Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, AC Burgh were left celebrating their first victory when relegating their opponents, the Black Swan Coningsby, to the bottom spot in the same process! In a very close first half Burgh broke the deadlock with a sublime Mark Harvey free-kick on the edge of the box, the ball clipping the underside of the bar. Both sides had their chances but no more goals were forthcoming in the first period. After the re-start the Swans found themselves down to 10 through injury and the home side took advantage, this time Robbie Falconer with a superb lob which beat the keeper and Defender Carl Wall, making a desperate attempt to get his head behind the ball failed to stop it from going in 2-0. Burgh stretched the lead still further when Falconer hit one from the spot following a trip in the area. Park Avenue made it two wins out of two with a hard worked for victory against FC Franco’s in an even game which was more of a midfield tussle! Park took the lead early on as they worked the ball down the left side and Dan Barker cut the ball in to the edge of the box where Danny Keal was waiting, he managed to lose his marker and poked the ball home from close range. Straight from the re-start there was a second goal – this time Kamil Kleczynski levelling the score for Franco’s and this seemed to spur the home side on and they began to look even more menacing. Second before the half time whistle and Franco’s made their efforts pay off – a corner floated in from the right fell to Bartcomiej Kowalski who made no mistake to send the visitors into the break with a 2-1 deficit. After the break Park started the brighter and the usually dependable Jake Louth missed three golden opportunities to equalise. Dan Keal made no mistake though, following a one-on-one with the keeper he sliced the ball home. And it was that man Keal again who completed a hat trick 15 minutes from the end to wrap up the game. Franco’s did pile on the pressure but Park’s defence held firm a scoreline of 3-2 was the final score. The Castle took the lead after just 15 minutes against Harchester, Pete Lovelace scoring from close range, and he should have made it 2-0, only to see his effort cleared off the line! And the Castle were initially left ruing the missed chance as the hardworking Harchester side deservedly equalised late on in the first half through Anthony Slater. After the break and the home side piled on the pressure but it was the visitors who came closest to scoring, Pete Cook saving well and Pete Lovelace also making a goal line clearance. The Castle finally retook the lead with a Michael Gardner free kick which gave the Harchester Keeper no chance. With no further goals the Castle grimly held on to their slender lead and were relieved to hear the final whistle. An excellent game handled very well by referee Phil Brooks.

For October 12

The Newcastle became the fourth Boston side to progress into the third round of the Lincs Sunday Cup with an emphatic 14-0 win over Spalding side Fenway. Leroy Medina started the ball rolling after five minutes and Danny Warren soon made it 2-0. Michael Gardner then scored a great goal to make it 3-0 and soon after he made it 4-0 with a superb header. In the second half more goals followed, Gardner completed a hat-trick, Dan Warren, Andy Brown (2), Leroy Medina, Luke Brittain, Ollie Pinner and Dan Fenwick all got their names on the scoresheet. Sixteen-year-old Jimmy Nuttell should have also scored a hat-trick but had to be happy with just the brace after missing a sitter! With the draw already made, the Britannia Revolution have the toughest tie with a trip to Grimsby to face Jubilee Inn; the Magnet and the Newcastle will also be on their travels – Magnet away to Gainsborough Trinity Supporters Club and Castle away to Lincoln’s Welton Sports and Social. FC Franco’s were the only Boston side drawn at home and they face relative unknowns Warthogs.

In the Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, FC Franco’s continued on their winning ways, this time inflicting defeat upon Harchester United. Kamil Kleczynski netted twice in the first 45 minutes. After the break they continued to play their flowing football and goals came at regular intervals, Mario Horvath and Pop Bogdan goals helped them to record their first goals of the season, the club’s top goal scorer Rui Machado hit the target and Chris Shipley hit his debut and their final goal. Dom Cridland hit one back in reply for the home side. The Magnet Tavern and Britannia Revolution provided an entertaining game at Garfit’s Lane with both teams fighting hard to control the game the action was end to end! The Brit’s Leigh Taylor earned himself a straight red card for foul language early on and the extra man paid off for the home side, Loz Lambley firing the Tavern ahead in the 35th minute, with the visitors claiming offside. With only a few minutes left in the first period the player numbers were levelled when Steve Murphy was also dismissed for foul language. After the re-start the home side had the better chances and Stacey Cartwright’s shot was deflected in for a 2-0 lead. The Magnet continued to pressurise but were unable to beat Andy Stukins who was having a good game between the sticks. With 10 minutes remaining the Brit began to climb their way back into the game and were unlucky not to pull one back. Some great work from Lewis Brooks stopped the ball from going over the line following a Richard Stukins shot.

AC Burgh travelled to Sutterton to face Park Avenue with both teams having lost all of their previous games, and all of the action took place in the first half. Park hit four goals in quick succession. Robbie Falconer got the singular goal for the visitors. No further goals were forthcoming in the second half and Park recorded their first victory of the season.

For October 5

Spalding’s Fenway were forced to call off their Lincs Sunday Cup game against the Newcastle due to a waterlogged pitch – this fixture is now scheduled for the forthcoming weekend (October 12). FC Franco’s, playing their first game in the competition, entertained an organised Coach House of Scunthorpe, and Franco’s were under pressure from the start with the visitors putting in some strong challenges while enjoying the better of the opening exchanges. It was the visitors who got the ball into the back of the net first – only for it to be disallowed by referee Rod Crozier. As the Boston side got more into the game playing some good flowing football with some excellent ball control one particular challenge left Pop Bogdan limping so badly that sub Franco Parla had to replace him. Moments after and another altercation left Franco’s down to 10 men after Sergio Roquetti’s retaliation earned him an early bath! Five minutes before the half-time break, the Coach House were also down to 10 when their keeper came out with studs up taking out the marauding Tony Pascu. The game was temporarily halted as an ambulance winged its way to the ground, but once the game was re-started Kamil Kleczynski stepped up to take the resultant free-kick from just outside the box – and planted the ball firmly into the net. 1-0 was the half time score. The second half kicked off with nine-man Franco’s hoping to kill off the game but poor finishing and some poorer defending allowed the visitors to claw their way back into the game succumbing to two quick goals, Coach House forward Bushell putting them in front with a superb long range shot. The Boston side retaliated well though and deservedly drew level, Kleczynski completing a brace and with no further score in normal time extra time was got under way. In the first half the teams were pretty even but to the delight of the home side Nathan Hubbert stabbed the ball home to put Franco’s through to the next round. The Black Swan may have had a poor start to the season, but they enjoyed a close encounter away to Gatehouse, and perhaps could have come away with a better result if were not for a strange decision from the referee! The Swans should have clearly been rewarded with a penalty following a foul in the box, with both sides expecting it the Coningsby side were stunned when nothing was given. A relieved Gatehouse went on to take a one nil lead into the break. They doubled their advantage in the second half and despite some strong pressure the Swans could not find a way through the sturdy defence. Ali Smith did fire home in the latter stages to reduce the deficit but the home side hung on to claw their way through. Mark Thompson with a resounding performance was Magnet Tavern’s man of the match scoring two goals in the first half. Playing some sweet football against Wybers, the Tavern continually pressed forward and on the 20 minute mark they were awarded a free-kick, Thompson’s strike was too hard for Wybers keeper to hold and the ball fired into the net. Wybers started to find the game harder when the Boston side were awarded a penalty, Thompson stepping up and firing home on the second attempt. In the second half Wybers began to look more menacing and a sloppy back pass gave them the chance they needed to fire home. The home side were then reduced to 10 men in the 75^th minute when Stacey Cartwright was dismissed. The Tavern altered their formation and it paid off when Steve Appleby found Liam Nimmo in space who rounded Wybers keeper to slot the ball home and put the Magnet through to the next stage of the competition. The Brit cruised through their game against Mayfair 18-0. Goals came at regular intervals: Tim Tyler (4), Richard Stukins, Lloyd Sanderson and Paul Clarke all scored a hat-trick apiece, Leigh Taylor, Rob Masters, Michael Emery, Cliff Langham and Andy Stukins all got one each – the goal of the game – a 30-yard bullet of a free-kick from keeper Andy Stukins which flew into the top left corner.

In Workforce Unlimited Premier Division, Billinghay inflicted Parks fourth defeat of the season, leading by two goals going into the break. Their game was the second one of the day to be delayed while waiting for an ambulance when Sam Elliff suffered a badly torn calf following a challenge from 16-year-old Lewis Mundt. When the second half started the home side scored twice more – Adam Weston netting all of their goals. Matthew Bates hit one in reply for Park late on.

For September 28

Harchester played their first Workforce Unlimited Premier Division game at the North Sea Camp and should have opened the scoring, poor finishing letting them down. It was against the run of play that home side Britannia Revolution went ahead, Tim Tyler seeing his 20 yard strike hit home. The Brit doubled their advantage following some good work on the left from Rob Masters who set up D J Wright, but his shot was deflected into the path of Tyler who made no mistake. Luck was also on the home team’s side when David Noel’s low, long range shot appeared to slip through Andy Stukins’ hands. It was 3-0 at half-time. Harchester again started the brighter after the break but again failed to make the most of their chances. Noel inflicted more agony with a superb strike into the top corner leaving the keeper rooted. In confident mood. the Brit then lifted their foot off the gas and Harchester were finally rewarded for their efforts, Dom Cridland scoring twice in quick succession. But it was the home side who had the final say with substitute Gary Hayes heading home from close range and Noel completing a fine hat trick to make the final score 6-2. Billinghay Athletic recorded their first ever Sunday League victory at the expense of Black Swan Coningsby who have now lost all four of their opening games. Adam Weston headed the home side in front after just 10 minutes before Sam Miller scored with a sublime 25-yard free-kick. But in a fast flowing game the Swans retaliated and hit back with two fine goals from Daniel Scott. With the scores level at the half-time break, it was all to play for in the second half. But unfortunately for the visitors, it didn’t go their way. A foul in the box gave Billinghay the chance to regain the lead from the spot, Weston coolly slotting home. With the home side gaining momentum, the goal of the game undoubtedly belonged to their new signing Kieron Robson. He chested the ball down and struck in a volley to seal the game and give all three points to the Sleaford side. An exciting game was in store for the spectators at Rosebery Avenue with the entertaining FC Franco’s playing host to the mighty Magnet Tavern, and it was the home side who drew first blood – Loz Lambley upending a Franco’s forward to make it an easy decision for referee Paul Revell to point to the spot. Rui Machado stepped up and coolly slotted the ball into the left side of the net. Franco’s should have increased the score further, poor finishing letting them down. And they were left to rue their missed chances, one good effort saw them hit a post only for the ball to rebound to safety. A neat knock-down from Lambley, made amends for his earlier error. He set up Lee Orrey who lashed the ball home to pull the scores level. And just five minutes before the end of the first period, Steve Appleby unleashed an unstoppable 20-yard shot to give the visitors a 2-1 half-time lead. After the break it was the Magnet who enjoyed the better play, Liam Nimmo seeing a shot go just wide of the post, on the 60th minute though he made no mistake with the Keeper misjudging the ball Nimmo increase the score to 3-1. Franco’s were then awarded a second penalty, this time Ash Murrell the villain, and again Machado made no mistake to set up a potentially thrilling end to the game. The Magnet almost scored straight from the kick off but with the ball bouncing awkwardly Nicholls in goal made the save. Nimmo completed a brace with fifteen minutes remaining to again give the visitors a two goal advantage. Both sides continued to push forward, but whilst no more goals were forthcoming an off the ball incident saw Machado dismissed from the field of play with Ashley Murrell receiving yellow for his part. Referee Revell had an excellent game in the middle, communicating well with both teams.

For September 21

Terry Knott kindly stepped into the breach after the nominated referee for the Magnet Tavern v AC Burgh match failed to show and both clubs thanked Terry for his unscheduled appearance. Burgh arrived, with just eleven men and two of them walking wounded, and they found themselves facing a strong Magnet side. Within five minutes the expected onslaught began, Stacey Cartwright hitting the first two, the second of which was an exquisite lob. Burgh did respond with Chris Cussons being denied by the woodwork, and then Burgh were down to 10 when one of the walking wounded could take no further part. Adam Broom, playing his first game for the home side travelled well down the left flank and floated the ball across the goal into the path of Mark Lovelace who tapped home from two yards out. Some good interaction between Mark Thompson and Jon Macleod led to Cartwright completing his hat-trick. Macleod almost scored himself just before the break, but saw his shot rebound out after an excellent save from Dan Simpson in the Burgh goal, only to see goal poacher Cartwright looming for the Magnet’s fifth. After the break the game continued in a similar fashion with the Burgh players beginning to tire and three more carrying injuries they tried to defend in greater numbers and despite the heroics of Simpson who undoubtedly denied the Boston side of a further hatful of goals, they were unable to stop the Magnet from extending their lead. Cartwright added another to his tally, Sub Jimmy Britton hit a brace, Lovelace hit a second half hat-trick, Thompson, Ash Murrell and Macleod all hit home. Burgh’s Adam Harrison scored a consolation goal midway through the second period, and Burgh played out the last ten minutes of the game with just eight as injuries took their toll. The Magnet paid full credit to their visitors for their perseverance throughout.

For September 14

In the latest Workforce Unlimited Premier Division programme, Paul Clarke broke away quickly and passed the ball neatly to Rob Masters who placed a pin-point cross back into the path of Clarke who headed neatly home. This helped to continue the Britannia’s perfect start to the season, this time on their travels to Billinghay. Their second goal came courtesy of a low driven pass to the feet of Gary Hayes who made no mistake. After the break Clarke and Masters again linked up, with Clarke providing the perfect ball for man of the match Hayes to grab his second of the game, Clarke then scored the Brit’s fourth to also complete a brace with a calm finish under pressure. After some good pressure Billinghay did pull one back but it was too little too late for the League newcomers and Richard Stukins compounded their misery squeezing the ball just inside the post from close range, 5-1 the final score. In a close encounter, Boston side Harchester United came away from Coningsby with all three points in the bag, the Black Swan continuing their miserable start to the season. The only goal of the game came midway through the first period from Alex Tilley. The Harchester defence held strong as the Swans had much the better of the second half but failed to find the net, even when awarded a penalty. The Magnet players were all out of sync in the first half of their game against Park Avenue Athletic and at half time it was the home side who had taken a one nil lead. But the second half was all the Magnet – good work on the right from Loz Lambley set up Tavern’s first, Mark Lovelace finding the net. Stacey Cartwright grabbed two – taking his goals well. Steve Appleby found Mark Thompson who passed to Lovelace who fired home. Liam Nimmo hit two and Lambley turned from goal provider to goal taker to score his first of the season. The final Magnet goal came from Lovelace again with Park hitting a second consolation goal. An injury-ravaged Newcastle team took to the pitch against the entertaining Franco’s FC. Daniel White almost gave the visitors an early lead, his ball running across the face of the goal. Almost immediately the play was at the other end and Franco’s did score – only for it to be ruled offside. This spurred the Castle on and Michael Gardner also came close. On the 30 minute mark the home side got their noses in front with the Castle defence going AWOL, Franco Parla was given time and space to fire off a sensational 25-yarder into the top left corner. With the Castle wobbling at the back Franco’s started to turn on the style and were unlucky not to take the lead still further. It was 1-0 at half-time. After the re-start the home side started off how they finished the first half and the Castle were under pressure, Rui Machado dribbled the ball round three defenders only to find Cook in the Castle goal in his way, he managed to scuffle the ball to his right and Nathan Hubbert was in the right place to scramble the ball home. The Castle were frantic in their efforts to get back into the game and they were rewarded when the ball fell kindly for Jimmy Nuttall who looped the ball over the advancing goalie. Straight back at the other end, though, Machado deservedly scored to settle the home side’s nerves as the visitors became more menacing. Andy Brown and Gardner again came close for the Castle but Franco’s were having none of it and Kamil Kleczynski prodded in their fourth. Tony Pascu notched in the fifth before White pulled it back to 5-2 five minutes before the end. It was an entertaining game with referee Simon Howard having an excellent game in the middle.

For September 7

FC Franco’s kicked their season off with a fine display despite a stuttering start away to AC Burgh! Mark Harvey put the home side one goal to the good, but their lead was to be short-lived as prolific Rui Machado and Toni Pascu had their goal scoring boots on to turn the match around. Machado hit two and Pascu one to give the visitors a half time 3-1 lead. After the break, Burgh succumbed to three quick goals with Franco’s once again turning in a sublime performance, Machado and Pascu were again on target and a Burgh defender deflected into his own net. The normally dependable Pascu missed his chance of a hat trick – stepping up to take a penalty, he only succeeded in hitting a post, the ball rebounding safely away. At 6-1 the game should have been over but Burgh found some steely determination and clawed their way back to 6-3, courtesy of Nick Lemon and Franco’s Rached Benameur. The final goal came initially from a free-kick, Kamil Kleczynski striking home with an excellent volley. The Britannia made it two wins out of two with another convincing victory in their first league campaign. Against the Black Swan Coningsby, Richard Stukins opened the scoring following a good team move. Meeting a perfectly placed cross, he headed the ball back across the goal giving the Swans’ keeper no chance. After spurning two good chances against Park last week, David Noel made amends by scoring his first goal for the club with a 25-yard screamer after a quickly taken free kick. Despite the Swans not being able to hit the back of the net they did have some good chances to pull a goal back, an excellent effort saw defender Leigh Taylor save off the line to spare Andy Stukins’ blushes! After the break the home side soon added two more courtesy of Rob Masters, with the Swan’s defence crumbling Masters piped up with two tap-ins. Stukins completed the scoring with a fine solo goal. Andy Stukins made sure the home side kept a clean sheet, pulling off two great saves from one-on-ones. 5-0 the final score. Despite not playing their best football the Magnet Tavern against Billinghay, they also put five past their opponents. Jimmy Britton was guilty of missing from the spot for the second time in two weeks when the home side were awarded a penalty after an early foul in the box. But ten minutes later and they were in front with Britton providing a pass for Mark Lovelace to slide the ball home. With Billinghay throwing themselves at the Magnet the home side struggled to settle and but for poor finishing the visitors could have scored. Liam Nimmo helped to settle the nerves midway through the first period. After a good talking-to at the break, the Magnet upped their game and Billinghay spent long spells camped in their own half, Mark Thompson and Britton increased the scoreline, but again the visitors kept coming back. They should really have scored in front of an open goal but agonizingly their forward slipped on the rain-soaked surface and could only slide the ball wide of the post. A torrential downpour dampened the spirits of the players and spectators alike but Lovelace showed pace and skill that belied the weather and produced a stunning 20-yard scoring lob just before the final whistle. Billinghay can hold their heads up high after a good spirited performance. If a man of the match award was given, it would surely have gone to the visitors’ goalkeeper – Steve Scott - who kept the score down with a string of excellent saves. Park Avenue could have taken the lead in the first minute against The Newcastle but Peter Cook saved well after a Park forward had been put clean through. Moments later, the action was at the other end as Michael Gardner put the Castle in front. The Castle continued to surge forward and enjoyed plenty of possession but Park equalised after 30 minutes. And that was how it stayed until the half time break. After the re-start the Castle took the game to their visitors and it was soon 3-1, through 16 year old starlet Jimmy Nuttell, scoring with just his second touch of the game, and Luke Brittain. Goal machine Andy Brown hit their fourth after some great work by Jamie Kuhn down the left, and five minutes before the end Kuhn played the supporting role again for Brown to notch his second and the Castle’s fifth. Referee Nick Markham had a good game in the middle.

For August 31

The Newcastle got their season under way with an emphatic 10-1 win over 10-man AC Burgh. It took the visitors 20 minutes to find the back of the net, Michael Gardner putting them in front. But after gaining the lead, they then scored at regular intervals. Gardner went on to score three more, including one from the spot – and saw the Burgh keeper deny him a second penalty! Last season’s top goal scorer Andy Brown, started his mission to retain that trophy by scoring a hat-trick. Luke Brittain and subs Aston Chase and Aaron Nuttell added one apiece – Chase with a superb volley. The Castle could have made it more but for a combination of poor finishing, the woodwork and the Burgh goalie. Burgh were rewarded for their efforts with a consolation goal. A sporting game was well refereed by Simon Howard.

New team Billinghay Athletic tasted defeat in their opening game against Harchester United. The visitors started brightly and were rewarded with a goal from Max Slater following a corner kick. They doubled the lead shortly afterwards with Dom Cridland converting. The home side conceded a third goal before the break from another set play, this time the ball fell neatly at Paul Hyde’s feet and he made no mistake to score his first goal for the club. With the score 3-0 at the half-time whistle Billinghay had it all to do in the second period, but despite creating more chances it was Harchester who extended their lead still further, Cridland completing a brace to help Harchester record a comfortable victory.

The Magnet Tavern also got off to a good start with a 7–0 win over a hard working Black Swan team. Mark Lovelace scoring on the 14th minute and Lee Orrey making it 2-0 just before the break. In the second half the Tavern upped their pace and some good work from Steve Appleby saw some neat passes flow through to their strike force. Ross Nicholls and Mark Thompson set up Jimmy Britton’s first goal. Liam Nimmo also had an excellent game scoring from close range. Lovelace and Orrey doubled their personal goal tallies and Jon Macleod also netted to complete the scoring. Mark Bruntlett had an excellent game with the whistle.

Park Avenue got off to a perfect start in their game against Britannia Revolution, debutant Jack Houghton giving them the lead after just 10 minutes. But the lead was to be short-lived and the home team ended up on the wrong side of a 3-1 scoreline. Ben Houghton levelled soon after they had conceded, making the most of a mis-handled ball by the Park keeper, the usually dependable, Steve Bursnell. Failing to collect a free-kick, the ball seemed to go through him and a grateful Houghton could not fail to miss. It was an entertaining game with chances going begging at either end and Bursnell pulled off no less than three finger-tip saves. It looked like the score would remain the same. But the dogged determination of the visiting team won through in the end and in the final 15 minutes Rob Masters sliced the ball into the top corner and Tim Tyler finished off the scoring.