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THE PILGRIMS
Archive 2005-2006
United news round-up 2005-2006
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MAY 2006 Monday May 29: Pilgrims officials have
announced a change in their pre-season build-up programme in readiness for
the 2006-2007 season. Saturday July 29 will now see the visit of Birmingham
City — newly relegated from the Premiership — for a 3pm kick-off. The
adjustment means that the trip to King’s Lynn scheduled for the same day has
now been brought forward to Monday July 24 and the planned trip to Stevenage
on Tuesday July 25 now cancelled all together. Revised agenda: First team: Saturday
July 8, Ipswich Town (home); Wednesday July 12, Leicester City (home);
Saturday July 15, Boston Town (away); Monday July 17, Scunthorpe United
(home); Wednesday July 19, Barnsley (home); Saturday July 22, Bradford City
(home); Monday July 24: King’s Lynn (away); Saturday July 29, Birmingham City
(home). Reserves-youths:
Friday July 14: Fakenham Town (away); Friday July 21: St Neots Town (away);
Monday July 24: Alfreton Town (away); Friday July 28: Grantham Town (away);
Monday July 31: Stamford AFC (away). Thursday May 18: Striker Francis Green became
the fourth new arrival to Boston United colours since the Pilgrims ended
their 2005-2006 action schedule. The front man was snapped up from neighbours
Lincoln City after ending his contractual obligations with the Imps once
their play-offs mission died at Grimsby. Green spent a one-month loan spell
with United in the season just completed, netting one goal in six outings. Wednesday May 17: Another new defensive
signing has been added to Boston United’s ranks. Mark Albrighton (30) has
been recruited from League One side Doncaster, having also spent part of the
past season on loan at Chester. The centre back’s arrival follows hot on the
heels of United signing full-back Tim Ryan and striker Anthony Elding. Tuesday May 16: Defender Tim Ryan was
unveiled as United’s second new signing in readiness for the 2006-2007
season. The 31-year-old left-back was recruited after a brief spell with
Peterborough having previously enjoyed successive promotion campaigns from
the Conference through to League One with Doncaster Rovers. Ryan, born in
Stockport, began his career with Scunthorpe and then had spells in non-league
football with Altrincham and Southport. He has more than 350 senior career
appearances to his name. Monday May 15: Manager Steve Evans announced
his retained and released list of players for the summer. It is as follows: Existing contracted players: Julian Joachim, Lee
Canoville, Jamie Clarke, Stewart Talbot and Brad Maylett. Agreed new deals: Paul Ellender, Mark Greaves, Chris Holland, Simon Rusk and David Galbraith Turned down new terms: Alan White, Austin McCann and
Danny Thomas. Released: Lawrie Dudfield and Steve Melton. Friday May 12: United officials announced a
major five-figure sponsorship deal with Staffsmart UK for a link-up that will
see the Pilgrims’ long-standing York Street ground renamed the Staffsmart
Stadium for the 2006-2007 season. Chairman Jon Sotnick said: “York Street is a stadium steeped
in tradition and having a company’s title in the name of the ground is a
first for Boston United. However, this venture makes great commercial and
financial sense.” Wednesday May 10: Boston United announced
their programme of action for the 2006-2007 pre-season with six weeks of
build-up games for the first team and reserves/youths. First team: Saturday July 8,
Ipswich Town (home); Wednesday July 12, Leicester City (home); Saturday July
15, Boston Town (away); Monday July 17, Scunthorpe United (home); Wednesday
July 19, Barnsley (home); Saturday July 22, Bradford City (home); Tuesday
July 25, Stevenage Borough (away); Saturday July 29, King’s Lynn (away). Reserves-youths:
Friday July 14: Fakenham Town (away); Friday July 21: St Neots Town (away); Monday
July 24: Alfreton Town (away); Friday July 28: Grantham Town (away); Monday
July 31: Stamford AFC (away). Tuesday May 9: Boston United Supporters
Association officials are launching the organisation’s recruiting
drive for the 2006-2007 season with memberships/renewals of £10 for adults
and £5 for under-16s available at the United York Street ticket office or
Club Shop in Wide Bargate. In addition, any fans signing up before the end of
July will have their names entered into a draw for an autographed Paul
Ellender shirt. Monday May 8: Striker Anthony Elding is back
on Boston United’s books. The 24-year-old front man has re-signed for his
home-town club after seeing out contractual terms with non-league Kettering
Town following a late–season transfer from Stevenage Borough. Elding has
penned a two–year deal with the Pilgrims after initially leaving the York
Street fold early into the club’s first campaign as a Football League outfit
in autumn 2002. He switched to Stevenage where he netted 56 goals in 115
starts and nine substitute outings during three years with the Hertfordshire
side. He originally made his Boston debut as a substitute in September 2000
against Morecambe. He scored on his full debut against Nuneaton Borough in
the Conference Trophy. In his first spell at York Street, Elding scored seven
goals from 18 starting appearances and 24 others as substitute. Of his return to Boston, Elding said: “I
grew up in Boston and it’s fantastic to come back to a club that I know
really well.” Saturday May 6: Boston United completed their
fourth season as a Football League club with a good performance in a 0-0
long-haul away draw with Torquay United. The Pilgrims thus finished 11th
in the League Two table (equal to their best ever finish) with 61 points to
their credit (a best total). |
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APRIL 2006 Saturday April 29: Last-gasp goals from
Lawrie Dudfield and Danny Thomas took Boston United to a record 60-point high
as a League Two club with a 2-0 triumph over Rushden who, by virtue of the
result, now crash into the Conference. Saturday April 29: Defender Alan White was
a four-time winner when Boston United’s end-of-season top player awards were
handed out. He took the overall supporters’ player of the season accolade
(sponsored by Dunmores’ Catering), the prize for most man of the match
nominations (provided by freelance reporter Barbara Singleton), the BUSA best
player trophy and the York Street veteran supporters’ honour. Lee Canoville picked up the players’ player
award, while manager Steve Evans chose Simon
Rusk as his player of the year. Paul Ellender was
named website player of the year and Julian Joachim picked up the BUSA juniors’
player of the year. Club chaplain Rev John
Moore and press officer Craig
Singleton also picked up recognition awards from BUSA. Thursday April 27: Boston United officials
have announced that season tickets for the 2006-2007 season (the Pilgrims’
fifth as a League Two club) will go on sale from May 2 with prices frozen at
current prices for anyone renewing before the end of May. Full details and
pricing structures can be found on the club’s www.bufc.co.uk official
website. Wednesday April 26: The latest sportsman’s
dinner staged by Boston United connections proved a big hit. Former
Manchester United and Scotland boss Tommy Docherty was the celebrity speaker,
supported by comedian Mike Kelly. The function, at the Haven High Technology
College attracted 150 guests. Tuesday April 25: The Sports Bar at York Street
was the venue for a fans’ forum designed to outline the need for Boston
United to move to a new stadium. The meeting attracted around 100 people and
Pilgrims’ chairman Jon Sotnick fronted the top table panel that also
consisted of director of football Jim Rodwell, Boston United Supports’
Association chairman and working board member Dale Allitt plus club
accountant Justin Rushworth. Mr Sotnick said he was happy with the way things
went. He said: “We answered every question and I think our supporters went
home happy with the information that they were given.” The complex planning
application for United’s new stadium off the Boardsides plus a new home for
neighbours Boston Town in addition to housing plans for York Street and
Tattershall Road is expected to be heard by Borough Council planners on June
27. Saturday April 22: Boston United can now
look forward to a fifth successive season in League Two. A 3-1 defeat away to
Bristol Rovers left them all but mathematically ruled out of the play-offs
picture. Julian Joachim’s 16th goal of the season wasn’t enough to
avert another away-day setback as the Pilgrims were left in 13th
place in the table on 57 points — five adrift of seventh placed Lincoln City
with two games left and with a significantly inferior goal difference. Thursday April 20: The Pilgrims have
confirmed the re-signing on emergency loan terms (sanctioned by the Football
League) of keeper Conrad Logan from Leicester City. His return to York Street
coincides with Michel Kuipers having completed his allotted 93 days on United
books from parent club Brighton. The likelihood is that Logan will be able to
renew his new temporary deal for each of the three weeks remaining this term. Monday April 17: Former Boston United boss Jim
Smith was given a warm welcome on his return to York Street where he started
his managerial career in 1969. But his Oxford team slipped to a 1-0 loss
against the Pilgrims who, by virtue of the result, still retain an outside
interest in claiming the final play-off slot. (See reports archives section). Saturday April 15: Second half substitute
Jamie Clarke bagged his first goal for Boston United — and it proved to be
the derby day match-winner away to League Two rivals Peterborough. He was on
target in the 69th minute to settle an otherwise tightly-contested
encounter at London Road. Monday April 10: A Boston United side
comprising a mixture of first teamers and youth team players secured success
in the final of the Lincolnshire Senior Cup with a 2-1 success over
Scunthorpe United at York Street. Pilgrims’ s scorers were Danny Thomas and
Peter Till. Monday April 10: An exact date has been
announced for the proposed fans’ forum to spotlight and discuss United’s
multi-site planning application — envisaged as the forerunner to the switch
to a new purposed-built stadium. It will be held at the United Sports Bar on
Tuesday April 25 from 7.30pm. Saturday
April 8: Boston
United tumbled to their ninth away League Two loss of the season to end all
talk of making a late charge towards the play-off zone. The Pilgrims
succumbed 2-0 against promotion-chasing Leyton Orient. The result left United
in mid-table and with just 14 league goals on their travels to their credit —
the poorest return among the division’s 24 sides. Friday
April 7: Plans
were announced for an additional fans’ forum at the United Sports Bar when
chairman Jon Sotnick will outline the latest developments on the club’s
multi-site planning application — and all the associated costings — designed
to bring about a switch to a new stadium for the Pilgrims in the not too
distant future. Thursday
April 6:
Pilgrims’ manager Steve Evans, assistant boss Paul Raynor and director of
football Jim Rodwell made up the top table panel for a fans’ forum held at
the Sports Bar. Around 100 people attended with questions being directed from
supporters about key football issues affecting the team and club in general.
Aspects such as policies on team selection, style of play, transfer matters
and the size of crowds for home games were among the principal topics
discussed over nearly two hours of debate. The event was hosted and compered
by Dale Allitt, chairman of the Boston United Supporters’ Association. Monday
April 3: Dale
Allitt, chairman of the Boston United Supporters’ Association, delivered a
total of 674 letters of support for the Pilgrims’ quest to win planning
permission for a new stadium as part of a complex four-site application designed
to see Boston United and Boston Town playing at new stadiums off the
Boardsides and Wyberton Low Road with houses being built at the clubs’
present venues of York Street and Tattershall Road respectively. The letters
initiative was launched by BUSA with fans attending the recent home games
against Chester and Barnet signing up in droves. Mr Allitt said: “The
response we had over only a limited time before each match was amazing. We
have outlined to fans what a critical time Boston United is now facing. It’s
not our intention to scaremonger. But given all the evidence and information
we have seen on the matter through our connections with the board of
directors, the club could be in serious danger of folding if planning
permission isn’t granted.” Sunday
April 2:
Confirmation has been received by United officials that the club’s programme
entitled Pilgrims — edited by Craig Singleton — has secured top three status
among all 24 League Two clubs in a poll conducted by the Football Programme
Directory. The publication finished third in the League Two rankings, behind
winners Lincoln City and runners-up Cheltenham. And it came 12th overall out
of the full 92 Premiership and Coca-Cola League clubs. Saturday
April 1: Former
Pilgrims striker James Keene scored in the 26th minute of his competitive
debut for Swedish top division side GAIS Gothenburg on day one of the new
Swedish football season when they defeated Orgryte IS 2-0. Saturday April 1: After three successive
defeats, Boston United bounced back to winning ways with a workmanlike 2-1
York Street success over Barnet. First half goals from Lawrie Dudfield and
Mark Greaves provided a good enough cushion to see off a late Barnet
fightback. The win took the Pilgrims’ points tally up to 51 to sit five
points off the final play-off spot — but equally importantly much further
away from any remote threat of tumbling into the League Two survival fight. |
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MARCH 2006 Friday March 31: Boston United connections
announced plans to hold a fans’ forum on football-only related topics. The
event will go ahead at the Sports Bar on Thursday April 6th from
7.30pm at the Sports Bar. Manager Steve Evans says he, assistant boss Paul
Raynor, skipper Stewart Talbot and director of football Jim Rodwell will be
prepared to answer any questions in respect of the playing side of the club. Wednesday March 29: Boston United crashed
to their fourth defeat in five matches to end any slim and lingering hopes of
figuring in the play-offs race. The Pilgrims crumbled by a 3-1 margin on home
soil to a Chester side who had lost 15 of their previous 17 games. United’s
recent calamitous run has now also seen them concede 14 goals in their last
five outings. Wednesday March 29: The home matches
tonight (Wednesday) and on Saturday against Chester and Barnet respectively
will offer Boston United followers the chance to back the Pilgrims’ planning
application for a new ground. Members of the Boston United Supporters’
Association will be collecting signatures and addresses on letters to be
submitted to the Boston Borough Council in support of the four-site bid which
could see the Pilgrims switching to the Boardsides area to the west of Boston
— and as a consequence of the whole process address the present crippling
financial problems which officials say would otherwise signal the club’s
demise. BUSA chairman Dale Allitt said: “This really is a critical time for
the club. We need fans to support the plans for a new ground. If people want
a club to support, this is basically the only way we can go. Sitting back and
taking no action simply isn’t an option.” Tuesday March 28: Defender Paul Ellender
is back in the Boston United fold after a month on loan at League Two rivals
Chester City. And the 31-year-old player is likely to come into squad
contention for the Pilgrims’ next match — ironically against Chester at York
Street on Wednesday March 29. United boss Steve Evans confirmed that
Ellender’s return would stabilise squad figures, particularly in the
knowledge that midfielder Asa Hall will return to parent club Birmingham
after the April 8 trip to Leyton Orient following the completion of his
permitted three months loan deal. Saturday March 25: Table-topping Carlisle
completed a league double over Boston United with a 4-2 success at Brunton
Park. The Pilgrims leaked a goal after just 90 seconds and were 2-0 adrift at
the break. Despite forcing an own goal reply mid-way through the second half,
United went 3-1 down and finally had their fate seal by a goal in the final
seconds after pressing for an equaliser following Simon Rusk’s 84th
minute goal. Thursday March 23: No new players were
added to the Boston United fold on the final date for loan deals to be
completed. There was, however, one exit from the Pilgrims’ squad with loanee
Jermaine McSporran being allowed to return to Doncaster after failing to make
any real impact in his brief one-month stay at York Street. Wednesday March 22: A goal 11 minutes from
time sentenced Boston United to a 1-0 home loss against Northampton — despite
the Pilgrims more than matching their high-flying visitors for lengthy spells
in the game. The result dealt another blow to United’s play-off hopes as they
still sit eight points away from seventh spot, but now with only nine matches
remaining. Monday March 20: Manager Steve Evans announced that
a deal had been agreed with Brighton for the retained services on loan for
the remainder of the season of goalkeeper Michel Kuipers. Saturday March 18: Striker Lawrie Dudfield
was the stoppage time hero for Boston United as he lashed in what proved the
winning goal to decide the high-profile derby day clash against Lincoln City
at York Street. The result gave Pilgrims fans plenty of joy (and the county
bragging rights) and followed on from a 0-0 draw at Sincil Bank in the
reverse fixture on Boxing Day, meaning United have this season taken four
points out of six against the Imps. Wednesday March 15: Boston United officials
have issued a final reminder to supporters wanting to attend Saturday’s derby
clash with Lincoln City that the fixture has been designated an ALL-TICKET
match. Lincoln are understood to have sold the bulk of their near-2,000
allocation. United followers (except season ticket holders) are advised they MUST
purchase tickets for all areas of the ground from the York Street offices BEFORE
the 5pm close of business on Friday March 17. There will be no tickets on
sale on matchday and entry to the game will not be permitted without a
ticket. Season ticket holders are asked to produce voucher number 20 for the
game and enter the ground as normal. Tuesday March 14: The Boston United squad
travelled into the Midlands for a friendly practice match away to a Derby
County XI. The fixture, played at the Rams’ impressive Moor Farm youth
academy training complex resulted in a 3-1 win for the Pilgrims with goals
from Peter Till, Asa Hall and 18-year-old Chelsea trialist Jack Watkins.
United also gave a run-out to keeper Floyd Croll who is on the books of Wigan
Athletic. Saturday March 11: Boston United turned in
a woeful performance as they slumped to their worst away defeat as a League
Two club when crumbling 5-0 at Mansfield. The Pilgrims had never previously
lost by more than a three-goal margin on their travels. But at Field Mill
they capitulated totally to equal their heaviest loss — defeat by the same
scoreline at York Street on January 18 at the hands of high-riding Carlisle.
United’s demolition at Mansfield left them in the mid-table no-man’s land of
being nine points adrift of the final play-off slot (with a game in hand) and
nine points above the two relegation slots. Tuesday March 7: Former Manchester United
manager Tommy Docherty will be the guest speaker at the next
sportsman’s dinner function to be organised by Boston United connections. The
event will be held at the Haven High Technology College on Wednesday April 26
with a 7pm reception for a 7.30pm start. Full details can be found on
United’s official www.bufc.co.uk website.
Monday March 6: A date has been agreed for the
staging of the Lincolnshire Senior Cup between Boston United and Scunthorpe
United. The tie will be contested at York Street on Monday April 10 with a
7.45pm kick-off. In addition revised dates have been agreed for the Pilgrims’
two recently postponed home League Two matches against Northampton Town and
Chester City. These will now take places on the Wednesday evenings of March
22 and March 29 respectively, each kicking off at 7.45pm. Sunday March 5: Former United striker Noel
Whelan is understood to have attracted interest from Scottish Premier League strugglers
Livingston and could sign on in the near future after undergoing treatment in
an alcoholic rehabilitation clinic. During this time, his contract with the
Pilgrims was cancelled by mutual agreement. Saturday March 4: For the third time this
season, Boston United have seen a home League Two match fall victim to the
weather. Parts of the York Street pitch were deemed dangerously frozen by
match referee Neil Swarbrick from Lancashire on his arrival for a morning
inspection in advance of the scheduled clash with Northampton Town. No new
date has yet been fixed. But the postponement looks like adding to a growing
fixture log-jam for the Pilgrims. In February, a waterlogged surface put paid
to their home midweek match against Chester, which still has not been
re-arranged. Over the Christmas spell, snow and icy conditions meant the
match against Carlisle was postponed — United losing the restaging 5-0. |
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FEBRUARY 2006: Tuesday February 28: Boston United have
announced that midfielder Asa Hall will be staying at York Street for an
additional month on loan from Premiership club Birmingham City. Hall’s
temporary deal had been due to end after the March 4 match against
Northampton. But now agreement has been reached between all parties for an
extended link-up. Monday February 27: Manager Steve Evans
says he intends to request a personal hearing in the wake of being charged by
the FA with making abusive remarks to a match official at Grimsby on February
11. The flashpoint at Blundell Park also led to Evans being ejected from the
ground, actions that left Pilgrims’ chairman Jon Sotnick fuming and demanding
an investigation into the matter. After attending a meeting of the League
Managers’ Association in Leeds, Evans said he had received considerable
support for his situation and proposed course of action. Saturday February 25: Julian Joachim’s 14th
goal of the season earned Boston United a valuable 1-0 away triumph against
Stockport County. The result hoisted the Pilgrims back into the top half of
the table and within seven points of county neighbours Lincoln City in the
final play-off slot but with a game in hand — and with the tasty prospect of
a home derby against the Imps on March 18. (See reports archive section). Thursday February 23: Long-serving defender
Paul Ellender (31) has been allowed to join League Two rivals Chester City on
loan for the remainder of the season — albeit his move including a 24-hour
recall at Boston United’s discretion once the first 28 days has been
completed. Ellender has dropped out of United first team reckoning in recent
weeks and in understood to have sought permission to move. He joins City at a
time when new boss Mark Wright is attempting to halt a slump of 11 losses in
12 games. Ellender originally joined Boston from Scarborough in summer 2001. Thursday February 23: Boston
United today completed the loan signing of 29-year-old striker Jermaine
McSporran from Doncaster Rovers. The Manchester-born forward who began his
career on the books of Oxford City made his name at Football League level by
scoring 30 goals in 158 league outings for Wycombe before a brief spell at
Walsall preceded his move to Doncaster last season. McSporran is expected to
figure in the United squad at Stockport on Saturday. Meanwhile, youth team
defenders Jamie Stevens and Richard Chinn have teamed up with fellow Pilgrim
Lewis Brooks on loan deals with Conference North club Alfreton. All figured
in the Derbyshire side’s 0-0 draw with Leigh in midweek. Saturday February 18: Julian
Joachim’s 13th goal of the season wasn’t quite enough to topple
League Two high-flyers Wycombe. The Pilgrims’ goal poacher put United ahead
at York Street, but the visitors hit back to take a share of the spoils
(their 17th draw 0f the season) via a 71st minute
equaliser. Thursday February 16:
Boston United have re-signed goalkeeper Michel Kuipers (31) on an initial
one-month loan deal from Brighton after Leicester City recalled 19-year-old
Conrad Logan to cover for an injury crisis at the Walker’s Stadium. Kuipers
enjoyed an initial four-game temporary link with United in December but had
recently dropped out of the first team reckoning back at the Withdean
Stadium. Wednesday February 15: A
waterlogged pitch put paid to today’s scheduled League Two match at York
Street between Boston United and Chester City. Referee Eddie
Ilderton carried out a pitch inspection during the afternoon and officially
called the game off at around 2.45pm. No new date has yet been arranged. Saturday February 11: Despite having most of
the play, chances and territorial advantage, Boston United slipped to a 1-0
loss away to county rivals Grimsby in a match that also saw manager Steve
Evans escorted out of the ground by police after a second half incident in
which he was alleged to have used foul and abusive language after a free-kick
claim had been turned down. The result left the Pilgrims hovering in 13th
place, still five points off the play-offs. Friday February 10: Teenager striker Rob Norris
is poised to put his career with Boston United onto a professional footing.
The 18-year-old has agreed a full-time deal at York Street, his contract to
start at the beginning of next season. Norris has made five first team
appearances to date and, on his debut against Bristol Rovers in October 2004,
he etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest player to
represent United in a Football League match, aged 17 years and 18 days. Saturday February 4: Boston United and Darlington
fought out their second 0-0 draw of the season. The York Street clash saw the
Pilgrims turn in a good performance in which only a cutting edge and clinical
finish were missing. Thursday February 2: York Street played
host to the cameras from satellite TV network Sky Sports to film Boston
United players attempting the “crossbar challenge” for screening most
probably on the Soccer AM programme of Saturday February 11 (exact date to be
confirmed). A Boston Buzz representative was there to witness the action. But
fans can see exactly how the Pilgrims stars performed when the footage goes
on air. The Sky cameras also spent time filming around town — presumably in
readiness to enhance Soccer AM’s regular “American-style” fun send-up of its
Boston coverage. Wednesday February 1: Eighteen-year-old
Bobby Smith of Old Leake has joined the coaching staff of Boston United’s
football in the community scheme on a two-year apprenticeship after
impressing on a five-week training programme run in conjunction with Boston
College’s entry to employment scheme and youth career advice organisation
Connexions. Wednesday February 1: Boston United
assistant manager Paul Raynor has taken delivery of a new sponsored car from
Thurlby Motors of Butterwick. He accepted the keys to his new vehicle from
branch sales manager Vince Drury. |
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JANUARY 2006 Tuesday January 30: On transfer deadline
day, Boston United confirmed the extended loan signings of Gary Silk (parent
club Portsmouth) and Peter Till (Birmingham) through to the end of the
season. Meanwhile, Asa Hall has been granted one extra month on loan, also
from Birmingham. Striker James Keene will remain at York Street only for
another couple of weeks, though, in advance of his expected move into senior
football in Europe to further his development. Manager Steve Evans confirmed
he anticipated extra squad strengthening when the next “loan window” opens
towards the end of February. On the outgoings front, United cancelled the
contracts of striker Noel Whelan (still recuperating in an alcohol
rehabilitation clinic) and goalkeeper Nathan Abbey. Saturday January 28: James Keene’s first
strike in Boston United colours gave the Pilgrims a landmark feat when they
visited Rochdale. His eighth minute effort was United’s first goal in four
matches at Spotland. But it wasn’t quite enough as Dale hit back to snatch a
point from a 1-1 draw. (See reports archives section) Saturday January 21: Julian Joachim got back
into the scoring groove after nine blank outings to help Boston United to put
their Carlisle nightmare behind them by defeating Bury 3-1 at York Street.
Loanee Peter Till netted the Pilgrims’ other goal. Friday January 20: United today completed
the signing of 23-year-old midfielder Jamie Clarke from Rochdale. He is expected
to feature in the squad for tomorrow’s home League Two clash with Bury. Wednesday January 18: It was a night of
disaster for Boston United as they crashed to their heaviest loss as a
Football League club when hosting Carlisle in a match re-arranged from a
postponed date of December 28 (frozen pitch). A 5-0 defeat left York Street connections devastated as the
Pilgrims crumbled in a woeful second half display. Tuesday January 16: United officials reported
that Championship side Millwall had made an approach to inquire about signing
striker Julian Joachim. Manager Steve Evans, though, said what amounted to a
sizeable bid had been rejected and that he wanted Joachim to stay at York
street. Monday January 15: United defenders Paul Ellender and Alan
White have both collected accolades. Ellender (31) was named as December’s
star performer in Coca-Cola League Two, following a string of impressive
performances. He will receive his award before the home game against
Darlington on February 4. White (29) was named in the League Two team of the
week for January 14 after his solid display in the Pilgrims’ 1-0 win at
Chester. Colleague Ellender had earned inclusion the previous week. Saturday
January 14: Simon
Rusk’s first league goal of the season enabled Boston United to complete rare
back-to-back victories when they returned from Chester City with a valuable
1-0 conquest to their names. The result enabled the Pilgrims to edge within
three points of the play-off zone. Thursday
January 12: It
has been a hectic day on the transfer front for United with three new
recruits being added to the York Street fold — all on initial one-month loans
but with the possibility of extensions if the various parties agree. Pilgrims
boss Steve Evans has netted two players from Portsmouth in the guise of
full-back or right midfielder Gary Silk (21) and striker James Keene (20).
And Birmingham winger/striker Peter Till (20) has also been recruited. All
three are expected to feature in the squad for the League Two match at
Chester on Saturday. Silk spent most of last season on loan at Wycombe, Keene
has been with Bournemouth (four goals in seven starts) and Till has had a
three-month spell with Scunthorpe this season. On the outgoing front,
defender Ben Futcher has left United and signed a three-year deal with
Grimsby Town. Monday January 9: The Pilgrims parted company with striker Jason Lee who was transferred to Northampton, an exchange due to be completed on Tuesday with David Galbraith cementing a deal to join the York Street fold. Lee had signed for United in the summer of 2004. This season he scored three goals in 14 starts and eight substitute appearances but had recently failed to retain a first team place. It was the second outgoing deal agreed with the Cobblers this season — midfielder Gavin Johnson having made the same switch earlier in the campaign. Saturday January 7: Goals from Stewart Talbot, Lee Canoville and Paul Ellender helped Boston United to their first win in seven League Two matches when shattering Macclesfield’s own 10-game unbeaten run. The victory saw the Pilgrims climb back to 14th in the table. Manager Steve Evans also confirmed his intention to sign loanee David Galbraith from Northampton on a permanent deal through to the end of the season. Friday January 6: Boston United recruited 19-year-old Asa Hall on a month’s loan from Birmingham City. He goes straight into the squad to face Macclesfield on Saturday. Confirmation is received that keeper Conrad Logan has signed extended loan terms until the end of the season. Meanwhile, Pilgrims’ chiefs grant striker Noel Whelan extended compassionate leave to resolve “personal problems.” News subsequently emerged that Whelan had checked into an alcoholic treatment clinic run by the Sporting Chance charity set up by former Arsenal defender Tony Adams. Pilgrims’ chairman Jon Sotnick was reported on the www.bbc.co.uk website as saying the Pilgrims would support the striker through his rehabilitation. Wednesday January 4: Midfielder David Noble (23) officially left Boston United today and signed a permanent deal with League One side Bristol City after spending the past month on loan at Ashton Gate. The Pilgrims received a fee believed to be around £10,000 for the player who originally moved to York Street from West Ham in March 2004.
Tuesday January 3: Boston
United announced a ban on adults standing next to the Spayne Road terrace
perimeter fence for the Saturday January 7 home game against Macclesfield.
This follows recommendations from the club’s safety advisory committee in the
wake of objects allegedly being thrown at a linesman during the December 17
match against Cheltenham. Children, though, will still be able to stand in
the area. Tuesday January 3: A new date was announced for the restaging of Boston United home League Two match against Carlisle that was postponed on December 28. The teams will now meet at York Street on Wednesday January 18 (kick-off 7.45pm). Monday January 2: There was no New Year
cheer for Boston United as they slipped to a 2-1 home York Street loss
against promotion-chasing Leyton Orient. The result left the Pilgrims with
just one win from their last nine league games and Stewart Talbot’s goal was
United’s first in four games. |
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DECEMBER 2005: Saturday December 31: Boston United suffered
a 1-0 loss away to lowly Barnet in their latest League Two encounter and have
now slipped into the bottom half of the League Two table. The Pilgrims have now won only one of
their last eight league matches. Thursday December 29: United were given
permission by the Football League to add a further seven days to the
emergency loan cover arrangement for Leicester City keeper Conrad Logan. Wednesday December 28: Boston
United’s League Two match against Carlisle scheduled for tonight was
postponed after an 11am pitch inspection. The fixture was called off due to
the snow-covered York Street pitch and some areas of terraces that were also
frozen. No new date has yet been arranged. Monday December 26: For the fourth
successive season in the Football League, Boston United clinched an away day
derby point against Lincoln City — a match that saw the Pilgrims give a full
debut to loanee keeper Conrad Logan. (See reports archive section) Saturday December 24: Boston United have signed 19-year-old goalkeeper
Conrad Logan from Championship club Leicester City on seven-day
emergency loan cover forms for the busy festive period. With the loan recall
of Michel Kuipers to Brighton and Nathan Abbey still with Leyton Orient on a
temporary basis, the Pilgrims were in danger of being left with just youth
keeper Chris Wright to cope with the hectic schedule. Saturday December 17: Boston United were
totally out of luck in a 0-0 home League Two draw against Cheltenham. The
Pilgrims rattled the goal frame on four occasions. (See reports archive
section). The match also marked the end of keeper Michel Kuipers’ link with
United, his one-month loan spell from Brighton reaching a conclusion. Saturday December 10: A goal 60 seconds from
time by Noel Whelan gave 10-man Boston United a well-earned League Two point
away to Shrewsbury. Tuesday December 6: A goal on his full
debut by loanee Francis Green put Boston United on course to be the first
team to beat Wycombe in a league match this season. But the sending off of
skipper Stewart Talbot and a second half home equaliser meant the Pilgrims
had to settle for a point. Talbot will now miss Saturday’s game at Shrewsbury.
Sunday December 4: A late Ben Futcher goal
wasn’t enough to sustain Boston United’s run in the FA Cup. The Pilgrims lost
2-1 at home to in-form League One side Doncaster. |
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NOVEMBER 2005: Tuesday November 29: Boston United took part
in a behind-closed-doors friendly away to Rotherham. It was a 4-0 victory for
the Pilgrims with goals by Lawrie Dudfield (2), Francis Green and David
Galbraith. Monday November 28: A meeting to consider establishing
a supporters’ trust for Boston United was held at the Assembly Rooms in
Boston. A 65-strong gathering heard Phil Tooley of Chesterfield FC
supporters’ trust outline the requirements of running such a group, stressing
the need for a minimum of 500 members to make a trust viable. After a
90-minute gathering under the chairmanship of Ron Coley, it was agreed to
press ahead with forming a trust. Further news is now awaited on moves to
elect officials and a committee structure. Saturday November 26: Two superb goals by
Julian Joachim gave Boston United a welcome three-point League Two haul
against Wrexham in a match that also saw a debut for loanee keeper Michel
Kuipers. Disappointingly it was watched by United’s lowest league attendance
of the season — a gate of 1,938. (see United reports archive 2005-2006). The
match also marked the farewell of midfielder Ian Ross whose three-month loan
from Sheffield United reached its conclusion. Thursday November 24: Boston United
undertook more activity in the loan transfer market in a hectic day of
business. Manager Steve Evans recruited Dutch keeper Michel
Kuipers (31) from Brighton and midfielder David Galbraith (21) from
Northampton as well as cementing Francis Green’s move from Lincoln. On the
way out of York Street are David Noble (to Bristol City), Steve Melton (to
Tamworth) and keeper Nathan Abbey — whose form has been indifferent of late —
to Leyton Orient. Wednesday November 23: Boston
United turned in an abysmal display at home to Conference strugglers
Kidderminster and crashed out of the LDV Vans Trophy in a 3-0 York Street
defeat. All the goals came in the first half as the Harriers cruised through
to the north region quarter-finals. Tuesday November 22: It was announced that
midfielder David Noble was being loaned to League One Bristol City with a
view to a permanent move when the January transfer window opens. On the incoming front, manager Steve Evans
announced agreement had been reached with Lincoln City for striker Francis
Green to join the Pilgrims on a similar basis. Monday November 21: Manager Steve Evans
was given a £1,000 suspended sentence by an FA disciplinary committee hearing
and warned about his conduct after comments made to match referee Jonathan
Moss during the October 1 home League Two game against Peterborough in which
the United boss was sent from the dugout. Sunday November 20: Reminders have been
issued by the Working Group for the Inception of a BUFC Supporters’ Trust
that an open public meeting will be held at the Assembly Rooms in Boston on
Monday evening November 28 to outline the workings and possible establishment
of a trust for the Pilgrims. All are welcome to the meeting (8pm). Saturday November 19: Boston United saw their
unbeaten home record shattered when tumbling 2-1 to Notts County at York
Street. A lone Jason Lee goal wasn’t enough to avert defeat. Friday November 18: Final details have been
released concerning Boston United Supporters’ Association’s Christmas party
to be held at the Sports Bar on Friday December 16. There will be a juniors’
session from 5.30pm with any youngsters visiting Santa Claus receiving a
ticket to the January 2 match against Leyton Orient, courtesy of a link-up
with local firm Paragon Labels. After that there will be a disco party for
adults from 7pm. One-priced tickets for all ages are available from the York
Street offices (Mon-Fri) or BUSA representatives in the Sports Bar on
matchdays. They are priced at £4 (non-BUSA members) and £3 (members). Thursday November 17: A Boston United
official club Christmas party will be held on Monday December 19 at the
Assembly Rooms starting at 7pm when a number of first team players are
expected to attend. The evening will also include a four-course Chinese
buffet meal. Ticket details from the commercial department on 08707 579266. Wednesday November 16: Two
goals from Julian Joachim and one apiece by Brad Maylett and Jason Lee
helped to fire Boston United into the second round of the FA Cup with a 4-1
replay demolition of League One side Swindon at York Street. Tuesday November 15: Manager Steve Evans
says he is keen to add at least one new loan recruit to the United squad in
advance of Saturday’s League Two visit by Notts County and said talks had
been undertaken with a clutch of managers with a view to striking possible
deals. Monday November 14: Boston United announce
plans for free admission to under-10s (accompanied by a paying adult), a
policy earmarked to come into action at York Street from the November 26
visit by Wrexham. Chairman Jon Sotnick described the move as an initiative to
develop the interest and support of the club’s fans of the future. The
venture is being run in conjunction with the Pilgrims’ football in the
community programme. Friday November 11: It was a case of 13th
time unlucky as Boston United saw their long unbeaten run come to an end in
Northamptonshire. A last-gasp Phil Gulliver goal in a generally mediocre
match gave Rushden and Diamonds maximum League Two points to deny the
Pilgrims a top seven place. See reports archive 2005-2006. Thursday November 10: Boston United have
appointed Neil Thorpe as centre of excellence manager to assist head of youth
Steve Welsh in the wake of the recent departure of Neil Richardson. Thorpe, a
former Aston Villa trainee and ex-Boston Town player is FA-licensed and takes
up his post with immediate effect. Thursday November 10: Boston United’s
under-18s bowed out of the FA Youth Cup at the first round hurdle in a 2-1
loss away to Cogenhoe. The Pilgrims’ goal in a below-par all-round
performance came from Miles Hunter. Sunday November 6: The Pilgrims were drawn
at home to League One side Doncaster Rovers in the second round of the FA
Cup, providing they conquer Swindon in November 16’s first round replay. The
second round is to be played over the weekend of December 3 and 4. Meanwhile,
Boston United midfielder Ian Ross (19) was today named as League Two’s
player of the month for October. He topped the poll among judges after a
series of fine performances for the Pilgrims on loan from Sheffield United.
The award was announced on Sky Sports’ Goals on Sunday programme. Saturday November 5: A late equaliser denied
Boston United the chance of an instant place in the second round of the FA
Cup. They drew 2-2 away to League One strugglers Swindon Town who forced a
York Street replay on November 16 with an 87th minute leveller
after Boston had led 2-1 at the break through Simon Rusk and Tom Heaton (own
goal). Thursday November 3: There was no shortage
of surprise when the League Two manager of the month award recipient was
announced. Despite having guided Boston United to a second unbeaten calendar
month and five wins from six competitive outings (the best of any side among
all 72 sides in the three Coca-Cola League divisions), Pilgrims’ boss Steve
Evans was overlooked in favour of Martin Ling of Leyton Orient. The United
manager’s impressive and unrivalled record was deemed insufficient to win him
the award that is traditionally given the boss whose team boast the best
monthly statistics. Judges Chris Kamara, John Barnwell and Jack Taylor made
the decision. They are understood to have rated Orient’s win at Grimsby
(where three other sides have also won) as a deciding factor. Tuesday November 1: United boss Steve Evans confirmed interest in signing loan strike cover for Noel Whelan who is recovering from hernia surgery. He said talks had opened with Lincoln City and Sheffield United regarding possible approaches for Francis Green and Jonathan Forte respectively. |
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OCTOBER 2005: Monday October 31: The Pilgrims announce
the departure of physio Lee Taylor due to “personal and family reasons.”
Director of football Jim Rodwell stated new backroom staff would be appointed
soon. Saturday October 29: Goals from midfielder Ian Ross and striker
Julian Joachim fire United up to ninth place in the League Two table. The
Pilgrims defeated Torquay 2-0 at York Street to stretch their unbeaten run to
11 competitive matches. Saturday October 29: United chairman Jon
Sotnick confirmed the departure of the Pilgrims’ head of youth Neil
Richardson, citing a lack of victories as the key reason behind the parting
of ways. Newly-appointed coach Steve Welsh is poised to assume control of the
vacant position. Wednesday October 26: United re-sign midfielder Ian Ross on a third month's loan from
Sheffield United. Striker Lawrie Dudfield agrees a contract extension to the
end of the season having originally signed terms until December. Saturday October 22: The Pilgrims take their unbeaten run to 10
competitive games on the back of a 0-0 League Two draw away to Oxford.
Elsewhere on the same day United are drawn at home to Kidderminster (November
23) in the second round of the LDV Vans Trophy. And in the draw for the first
round of the FA Cup the Pilgrims are handed a trip to face League One
strugglers Swindon Town (November 5). Wednesday October 19: United book their
place in the second round of the LDV Vans Trophy with a fine victory over a Huddersfield
Town side comprising an equal mix of first teamers and reserves. United’s men
on target were Alan White and Brad Maylett. Tuesday October 18: The Pilgrims’ League Two
match away to Rushden and Diamonds (listed for Saturday November 12)
has been brought forward to Friday November 11 (7.45pm
kick-off) to avoid clashing with televised coverage of England's
friendly international against Argentina. Saturday October 15: Keeper Chris
Wright makes his debut as the Pilgrims defeat Bristol Rovers 3-1 at York
Street. Ashley Edkins also made his first League Two appearance, coming on as
a late substitute. Thursday October 13: Teenage duo Chris
Wright and Ashley Edkins were officially included in manager Steve Evans’
squad for the home match against Bristol Rovers on Saturday. Keeper Wright
(19) is likely to stand in for regular goalie Nathan Abbey who serves on
one-match ban. Edkins (18) has been allocated squad number 24 as possible
defensive cover on the bench. Monday October 10: Former Lincoln City
defender Steve Welsh (37) has joined Boston United in a coaching capacity to
help develop closer continuity ties between the Pilgrims’ youth team and
first team. Welsh was most recently manager at Spalding United. Friday October 7: United take their unbeaten
run to seven matches with a 2-1 win at Notts County — a club record since
joining the Football League — despite having Noel Whelan and Nathan Abbey
red-carded. Wednesday October 5: Defender Ben Futcher
is linked with loan move to Rotherham or Yeovil. Pilgrims’ boss Steve Evans
said the potential switch was designed to offer the 6ft 7in centre back match
practice after sitting out United’s latest games. Monday October 3: Brett Whaley, United’s
football in the community officer has announced long-term plans for a
Pilgrims ladies’ football team. A first step on the ladder would be junior
coaching sessions (ages 4 to 11) at Haven High Technology College on October
14 between 6pm and 7pm. Saturday October 1: Teenage
loanee Ian Ross blasted what proved the winning goal from a twice-taken
penalty in a tight 1-0 derby clash victory over Peterborough at York Street. |
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SEPTEMBER 2005 Saturday September 24: Julian Joachim’s
last-gasp equaliser earns 10-man United a point against Grimsby Town. The
result extends the Pilgrims unbeaten sequence and dislodges the mariners from
top spot. Saturday October 17: United chairman Jon
Sotnick explained that too much abuse and insult-trading on the Pilgrims Patter
internet forum had been behind his decision to ask webmaster Ken Fox to shut
down the facility. Saturday October 17: United were handed a
home draw against Huddersfield in the first round of the LDV Vans Trophy. The
tie is due to take place on October 19. Friday September 16: The committee of the
Boston United Supporters’ Association studied the possibility of setting up a
Supporters’ Trust. They met in tandem with
the newly-established Working Group for the Inception of a Boston
United Supporters’ Trust and Jacqui Forster of the Supporters Direct group.
BUSA chairman Dale Allitt said the gathering was worthwhile but stressed a
need for volunteers with a variety of skills to come forward before such a
venture could be more fully pursued. Tuesday September 13: Manager Steve Evans
confirmed that former Middlesbrough defender Dean Gordon (32) and
Huddersfield midfielder Lee Fowler (22) were to have trials with United in
advance of possibly joining the York Street set-up. Saturday September 10: United collected their
first win of the League Two season at the eighth attempt. Alan White’s 76th
minute goal sealed a 3-2 home success over an impressive Rochdale side. Friday September 9: The Boston United
Supporters’ Association announced a new on-line booking facility for away
travel in tandem with the Pilgrims’ www.bufc.co.uk
website. Thursday September 8: Boston United and
local company Paragon Labels have linked up in a sponsorship deal to benefit
the club’s centre of excellence. As part of the tie-up, Paragon Labels will
be distributing free tickets to primary school children to watch the Pilgrims
in action. Sunday September 4: Second half goals by
Brad Maylett and Noel Whelan earned Boston United their first away point of
the season in a 2-2 fightback draw at Macclesfield after trailing by two
goals at the interval. Thursday September 1: Former Stoke manager
Tony Pulis has agreed to spend time with United, assisting manager Steve
Evans and number two Paul Raynor with some coaching sessions. Pulis is
currently out of work having parted company with Stoke in the summer. |
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AUGUST 2005 Wednesday August 31: Transfer deadline day saw
striker Lawrie Dudfield (25) join United from Northampton with midfielder
Gavin Johnson making the reverse switch. Daryl Clare left to sign for
Conference club Crawley in what was understood to be a £40,000 deal. |
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JULY 2005 This section
under construction |
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JUNE 2005 |
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June 7: United manager Steve Evans has announced four new
signings have been made as the Pilgrims’ summer squad strengthening started
in earnest. Striker Noel Whelan (30) has been brought in to add extra
goal power following substantial experience with the likes of Leeds,
Coventry, Middlesbrough and most recently Aberdeen. Midfielder Gavin Johnson (34) arrives from Colchester
with a good record of scoring exploits from the centre of the park. Ben Futcher (24) has been snapped
up from county rivals Lincoln City where the 6ft 7in defender was a key
member of the Imps squad that reached the League Two play-offs for three
successive years. And right-back Lee Canoville (24) has been signed
from Torquay where he made more than 100 appearances. |
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MAY 2005 |
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May 23: Six new recruits have been added to the youth squad at
Boston United. Head of youth Neil Richardson has helped to oversee the
signing of third year scholars Ashley Edkins (from Aston Villa), Ryan Doherty
(Northampton Town) and goalkeeper Chris Wright (Arsenal) and first year
recruits Jamie Stevens (Rushden and Diamonds), Richard Chinn (Preston) and
Tom Martin (Norwich City). May 16: Boston United’s pre-season fixture list has been
announced. The 10-match schedule which includes matches for the Pilgrims’
first team and reserves is as follows: July 9 v Boston Town (away); July 13 v
Braintree (away); July 16 v Ipswich Town (home); July 19 v Sleaford Town
(away); July 22 v Grantham Town (away); July 23 v Nottingham Forest (home);
July 24 v Leicester City (home); July 28 v Leeds United (home); July 29 v
Holbeach United (away); August 1 v Stamford AFC (away). |
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