Boston United

Boston United Football Club, affectionately known as “The Pilgrims,” boasts a long history, mainly as part of the non-league system.

Founded in 1933, Boston United has carved out a legacy in non-league football, earning respect for its community and competitive spirit on the pitch. Currently competing in the National League, the fifth tier of English football, the club is currently battling against relegation to retain its position.

Historically, whether battling for promotion or delivering memorable cup runs, Boston United remains a reputable name in English football’s non-league setup. For more on lower-league football, visit The Real EFL.

Boston United Football Club Updates

As of February 2025, Boston United is competing in the National League, the fifth tier of English football, following their promotion from the National League North at the end of the 2023–24 season.

The team has faced challenges this season and is currently positioned 23rd in the league table with 20 points from 28 matches. Recent fixtures include a 1-0 defeat to FC Halifax Town on 15 February 2025, where Jamie Cooke’s second-half goal secured the win for Halifax. However, Boston United bounced back with a 2-1 victory over AFC Fylde on 18 February 2025, thanks to two first-half goals from Jacob Hazel.

Injuries have impacted the squad, notably the loss of midfielder Dan Adshead, who sustained a fractured right tibia during a match against Ebbsfleet United in January 2025. Despite these setbacks, the team’s morale received a boost with the recent win over AFC Fylde, providing optimism for the remaining fixtures as they strive to improve their league standing.

Boston United Transfer News and Rumours

As of February 2025, Boston United continues to strengthen its squad by targeting reputable non-league talents. A notable acquisition is striker Adam Marriott, who rejoined the Pilgrims permanently in June 2024. Marriott, renowned for his prolific scoring record at King’s Lynn Town, brings valuable experience and a proven goal-scoring ability to the team. His return is expected to significantly bolster Boston United’s attacking options.

In addition to Marriott, the club has secured the services of defender Mitchell Roberts from Oxford City and versatile midfielder Martin Woods from Brackley Town. These signings reflect Boston United’s strategic focus on recruiting seasoned non-league players to enhance squad depth and performance. By comparing their transfer activity with other National League clubs, it’s evident that Boston United is committed to building a competitive team through astute acquisitions, aiming to make a substantial impact in the current season.

Boston United Signings

Boston United has been active in the transfer market ahead of the 2024–25 season, focusing on acquiring reputable non-league talents and boosting squad depth. Key signings include the experienced striker Adam Marriott and defender Mitchell Roberts. The Pilgrims have also secured several promising young talents on loan, showing a strategic approach to building a balanced and competitive squad.

Player	Age	Nationality	Left	Fee	Contract Duration
Kieran Coates	22	England	Chester FC National League North	Free Transfer	2 years
Adam Marriott	33	England	Bromley FC League Two	Free Transfer	1 year
Cameron Green	25	England	Welling United National League South	Free Transfer	1 year
Sam Osborne	25	England	Buxton FC National League North	Free Transfer	1 year
Dan Mooney	24	Wales	Altrincham FC National League	Free Transfer	1 year
Mitchell Roberts	23	England	Oxford City National League North	Free Transfer	2 years
Frankie Maguire	20	England	Sheff Utd U21 England	Free Transfer	2 years
Jude Frostick	–	England	Fakenham Town FC England	Free Transfer	1 year
Oliver Green	21	England	Livingston FC Scottish Championship	Undisclosed	2 years
Brad Nicholson	26	England	Scunthorpe United National League North	Undisclosed	1 year
Connor Teale	22	England	Altrincham FC National League	Undisclosed	1 year
Aidan Stone	25	England	Notts County League Two	Loan Transfer	6 months
Jimmy Knowles	23	England	Accrington Stanley League Two	Loan Transfer	6 months
Tony Weston	20	England	Derby County U21 Premier League 2	Loan Transfer	6 months
Oisín Gallagher	20	Ireland	Lincoln City League One	Loan Transfer	6 months
Billy Chadwick	24	England	York City National League	Loan Transfer	6 months
Tom Donaghy	21	England	Fleetwood Town U21 England	Loan Transfer	6 months
Sam Reed	21	England	Sheff Wed U21 England	Loan Transfer	6 months
Daniel Adshead	23	England	Without Club Free Agent	Free Transfer	1 year
Harvey Tomlinson	20	England	Without Club Free Agent	Free Transfer	1 year

Boston United Key Matches of the Season

This season, Boston United has faced pivotal clashes, particularly against Gainsborough, York, Halifax, Barnet, and Oldham. These fixtures have tested the Pilgrims’ resilience, offering crucial opportunities to gain points and build momentum.

Below is a list of ten key matches showcasing past and upcoming fixtures that could define their campaign.

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Boston United Key Achievements

Boston United Football Club has a storied history marked by significant accomplishments:

• Historic FA Cup Victory (1955–56): Achieved a remarkable 6–1 win over Derby County at the Baseball Ground, setting a record for the largest away victory by a non-league team against Football League opposition.
• Northern Premier League Dominance (1970s): Secured the league title four times (1972–73, 1973–74, 1976–77, 1977–78), showcasing consistent excellence.
• FA Trophy Finalists (1984–85): Reached Wembley Stadium for the first time, finishing as runners-up in the FA Trophy.
• Promotion to the Football League (2001–02): Won the Football Conference, elevating the club to the Football League for the first time.
• National League North Play-off Champions (2023–24): Triumphed in the play-offs to secure promotion back to the National League.

These milestones reflect Boston United’s enduring legacy and competitive spirit in English football.

Boston United Current Squad

Boston United’s squad for the 2024/25 season is a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, contributing across all positions to ensure a competitive edge in the National League.

Boston United Attackers

The Pilgrims’ attack is spearheaded by Jacob Hazel, who has been a standout performer with 21 starts, contributing nine goals. Adam Marriott and Samuel Osborne also add depth, with Marriott netting one goal from 16 appearances and Osborne delivering three goals from 11 starts. The forward line has shown versatility and goal-scoring prowess, playing a crucial role in securing vital points throughout the season.

Boston United Midfielders

The midfield features dynamic talents such as Dylan Hill, who has made 25 starts, and Frankie Maguire, contributing one goal from 21 starts. Jordan Richards also stands out with 22 starts, offering stability and creativity. The midfielders have been instrumental in maintaining possession, setting the pace of play, and supporting both defence and attack effectively.

Boston United Defenders

Defensive stability comes from Zak Mills, who has consistently started 22 matches, and Michael Bostwick with 17 starts. Jai Rowe contributes both defensively and offensively, with 26 starts and two goals. The backline’s strong performances have been vital in keeping matches competitive and offering a solid foundation for the team.

Boston United Goal Keepers

Between the sticks, Cameron Gregory leads with 14 starts, while Aidan Stone follows closely with 13 appearances. Both goalkeepers have shown reliability and command in the box, making crucial saves and maintaining composure under pressure. Their contributions are critical to Boston United’s defensive record this season.

Boston United Managing and Coaching Staff

Boston United boasts an experienced and dedicated coaching staff that underpins the club’s ambition to thrive in the National League. The team is led by seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge, tactical acumen, and development focus to the club.

Manager: Graham Coughlan

Graham Coughlan, a former central defender with a strong playing career in English football, has brought a disciplined and pragmatic approach to Boston United. Known for his tactical flexibility, Coughlan often favours a balanced formation, combining a solid defensive base with quick transitions in attack. His coaching philosophy emphasises resilience, teamwork, and maintaining shape both with and without the ball. Coughlan’s managerial journey includes successful stints with Bristol Rovers and Mansfield Town, where he developed a reputation for maximising squad potential and guiding teams through challenging campaigns. His focus at Boston United is clear: establish consistency and build a foundation for future success.

Assistant Manager: Lee Bullen

Lee Bullen brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career as both a player and coach. Previously associated with Sheffield Wednesday, Bullen has a hands-on approach to coaching and works closely with Coughlan to implement tactical strategies. His expertise in defensive organisation and player development makes him a vital asset to the coaching team.

First Team Coach and Youth Team Head Coach: Jamie Raynor

Jamie Raynor serves dual roles, bridging the gap between the first team and youth development. His approach focuses on nurturing young talent and ensuring a seamless transition of academy players into the senior squad. Raynor’s emphasis on technical development and match readiness strengthens both the senior and youth setups.

Head of Medical Services: Carol Holland

Carol Holland oversees the club’s medical department, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and maintaining player fitness. Her experience ensures that Boston United’s players remain in peak condition, contributing to overall team performance.

This experienced and cohesive coaching unit is crucial to driving Boston United’s ambitions and building a resilient and competitive team.

Boston United Former Managers & Key Coaches

Boston United has seen several notable managers who contributed to the club’s legacy and development. Here’s a look back at some of the key figures and their achievements:

• Dennis Greene (2013–2016): Greene led Boston United to consistent finishes in the National League North play-off positions. His tenure was marked by attacking football and the development of young talent, keeping the club competitive in the league.
• Adam Murray (2016–2017): Murray brought fresh ideas and stability to the team, focusing on defensive organisation. Though his spell was relatively short, he maintained a solid league position and laid the groundwork for his successor.
• Craig Elliott (2017–2022): One of the longest-serving managers in recent history, Elliott guided Boston United to the 2020 National League North play-off final. His era was characterised by steady progress, a strong team ethos, and tactical versatility, earning him respect from fans and peers.
• Ian Culverhouse (2022–2024): Culverhouse led Boston United to promotion to the National League in the 2023–24 season. Known for his strategic acumen and focus on possession-based football, he played a key role in the club’s recent resurgence and left a lasting legacy.

These managers each contributed to the club’s journey, helping to shape Boston United’s identity and progress through the English football pyramid.

Boston United Legends

Boston United Football Club has been graced by numerous iconic players who have significantly contributed to its rich history. Below are some of the most celebrated figures:

Paul Bastock (1992–2004)

A legendary goalkeeper, Bastock made a record 679 appearances for Boston United. His exceptional shot-stopping abilities and leadership from the back were instrumental in the club’s successes during his tenure.

Chris Cook (1985–1987, 1994–1996)

A versatile midfielder, Cook was honoured as the club’s Player of the Year in both 1986–87 and 1995–96. His consistent performances and midfield dominance made him a fan favourite.

Martin Hardy (1998–2000)

A commanding presence in midfield, Hardy’s contributions were pivotal during his time at the club. He was recognised as Player of the Year in the 1998–99 season, highlighting his impact on the team’s performance.

Jim Kabia (1980s)

 A prolific striker, Kabia’s goal-scoring prowess made him one of the most feared forwards in the league during his era. His knack for finding the net was crucial for Boston United’s attacking strength.

Dan Mooney (2022–2024)

An attacking midfielder known for his creativity and vision, Mooney’s flair added a new dimension to Boston’s play. His ability to unlock defences made him a key player during his spell.

Jai Rowe (2023–present)

 A versatile defender, Rowe’s adaptability across the backline has been invaluable. His defensive solidity and occasional forward runs have contributed to both the defence and attack.

Cameron Gregory (2023–present)

As the current first-choice goalkeeper, Gregory has showcased remarkable reflexes and composure, earning multiple clean sheets and becoming a reliable last line of defence.

Tom Leak (2023–present)

A steadfast defender, Leak’s aerial prowess and tackling have fortified Boston’s defence. His leadership qualities have also been evident, as he organised the backline effectively.

Boston United Team Metrics and Performance

In the 2023–24 season, Boston United achieved a commendable 6th-place finish in the National League North, amassing 75 points from 21 wins, 12 draws, and 13 losses. The team demonstrated offensive strength, netting 68 goals while maintaining a solid defence with 46 goals conceded. This performance secured them a spot in the promotion play-offs, where they triumphed and earned promotion to the National League for the 2024–25 season.

As of February 2025, the current season in the National League has been challenging. Boston United stands 23rd in the league, with four wins, eight draws, and 15 losses, totalling 20 points. The team has scored 24 goals and conceded 44, reflecting a need for improved defensive solidity and offensive efficiency. Despite the hurdles, the club remains determined to enhance performance in the remaining fixtures to secure league safety.

Historically, Boston United has experienced fluctuations in league standings. Notably, they were members of the Football League from 2002 to 2007, reaching as high as 11th place in the 2005–06 League Two season. Following relegation due to financial difficulties, the club navigated through the lower tiers, including stints in the Northern Premier League and National League North. The recent promotion back to the National League signifies a positive trajectory, aiming to re-establish the club’s status in higher divisions.

Looking ahead, the focus remains on improving current form to avoid relegation. Strengthening both defence and attack will be crucial in climbing the league table and ensuring stability in the National League.

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Boston United Pitch and Amenities

The Jakemans Community Stadium, home to Boston United, is a modern and vibrant venue that opened in 2020. Located at The Quadrant development in Wyberton, the stadium replaced the iconic York Street ground, which had hosted the Pilgrims since 1933. With a seating capacity of 6,643, the stadium offers a mix of seated and standing areas, providing an excellent matchday experience for fans.

The facility features modern amenities, including hospitality suites, community spaces, and advanced training facilities. It serves as more than just a football ground, playing a vital role in community engagement and hosting events beyond matchdays. The Jakemans Community Stadium symbolises a new era for Boston United, reflecting the club’s ambitions and commitment to long-term growth. Its significance lies not only in offering a top-class footballing environment but also in strengthening the club’s ties with its supporters and the wider Boston community.

Boston United Fan Base and Support

Boston United, affectionately known as “The Pilgrims,” boasts a passionate fan base considering the size of the town. Central to this community is the Boston United Supporters Association (BUSA), established over 20 years ago to foster unity among fans and support the club through various initiatives, including subsidised away travel. BUSA plays a pivotal role in enhancing the matchday experience and organising events that strengthen the bond between supporters and the club.

For more information about BUSA and their activities, visit the Boston United Supporters Association.

Boston United Rivalries and Notable Matches

Boston United maintains fierce rivalries with two key clubs: Lincoln City and Gainsborough Trinity. These matchups have provided thrilling encounters and memorable moments for fans.

• Lincoln City Rivalry: The head-to-head record is tightly contested, with Lincoln holding a slight edge (four wins) over Boston United’s three wins and four draws. Memorable matches include:
  • 26 Dec 2006: Lincoln 2 – 1 Boston United (Football League Two)
  • 18 Mar 2006: Boston United 2 – 1 Lincoln (Football League Two)
  • 24 Aug 2002: Boston United 2 – 0 Lincoln (Football League Division 3)
  • 30 Jan 1976: Boston United 0 – 1 Lincoln (FA Cup)
• Gainsborough Trinity Rivalry: Boston United has a strong record against Gainsborough in recent years, with 12 wins, five draws, and five losses across competitions. Key clashes include:
  • 15 Oct 2024: Boston United 0 – 4 Gainsborough (FA Cup)
  • 12 Oct 2024: Gainsborough 2 – 2 Boston United (FA Cup)
  • 01 Feb 2014: Boston United 6 – 0 Gainsborough (Conference North)
  • 08 Feb 2011: Gainsborough 0 – 3 Boston United (Blue Sq North)

Boston United Facts

Boston United History

Founded in 1933, Boston United Football Club, known as “The Pilgrims,” has built a proud legacy in English non-league football. The club’s early vision focused on community representation and building a competitive team in non-league football. Boston United made national headlines in 1956 by defeating Derby County 6-1 in the FA Cup at the Baseball Ground, setting a record for the biggest away win by a non-league club against Football League opposition.

The 1980s marked a golden era, with the club reaching Wembley in 1985 as FA Trophy finalists, although they fell short of lifting the trophy. Under the management of Steve Evans in the early 2000s, Boston achieved its greatest milestone by winning the Football Conference in the 2001–02 season, securing promotion to the Football League. However, Evans’ tenure ended in controversy, as he was embroiled in a financial scandal involving contract and payment irregularities, resulting in fines and tarnishing the club’s reputation.

Financial mismanagement led to Boston United’s relegation from the Football League in 2007 and a subsequent drop to the Northern Premier League due to financial administration. The club fought through the leagues, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to rebuilding both financially and competitively.

Boston United has strong rivalries, particularly with Lincoln City and Gainsborough Trinity, adding passion to local derbies and enriching the club’s culture. The club plays a significant role in the community, with initiatives promoting youth development, health, and education through its community foundation.

Recent years have seen positive momentum, highlighted by promotion to the National League in the 2023–24 season under Ian Culverhouse. The modern era is marked by a return to stability, with new leadership and a focus on sustainable growth. The Jakemans Community Stadium, opened in 2020, symbolises a fresh chapter for the Pilgrims, blending tradition with ambition as they strive for future successes.

Boston United Social Media Links

Staying connected with Boston United through social media is a fantastic way for fans to get the latest news, match updates, and behind-the-scenes content and engage with the Pilgrims’ community. Following the club ensures you never miss out on important announcements and exclusive insights.

Stay updated by following them on Twitter @bostonunited and visiting their official website www.bostonunited.co.uk.

Boston United Outlook and Forecast

Boston United faces a challenging yet pivotal season in the National League, with survival and stability as the primary objectives. Currently struggling in the lower reaches of the table, the Pilgrims need to find consistency to avoid relegation. Manager Graham Coughlan’s pragmatic approach and tactical adaptability will be crucial in guiding the team through a demanding fixture list.

The club’s transfer strategy may focus on bolstering the squad with experienced non-league players and potential loan signings from higher divisions. Reinforcing the defence and adding creative options in midfield could enhance the team’s overall balance and threat going forward. Striker Jacob Hazel remains key to scoring goals, while experienced heads like Michael Bostwick and Zak Mills will play critical roles in maintaining defensive stability.

Strategically, Boston United may adopt a more disciplined, counter-attacking style to maximise points against stronger opposition. The return of injured players and maintaining squad fitness will be vital as the club navigates the latter part of the season.

While promotion may be out of reach this season, achieving league safety and laying a foundation for next season would be a successful outcome. Building on recent positive performances and maintaining strong community support could be instrumental in driving the team forward.

Frequently Asked Questions on Boston United Football Club.

How much would it cost to buy Boston United Football Club?

The exact cost to purchase Boston United Football Club is not publicly disclosed. The value of a football club depends on various factors, including its assets, debts, league status, and commercial potential. For a more accurate valuation, it is recommended to consult with sports finance professionals.

Has Boston United ever been in the Football League?

Yes, Boston United played in the Football League from 2002 to 2007. The club was promoted to the Football League Division Three (now League Two) in 2002 but was relegated back to the National League in 2007.

Where is Boston United?

Boston United Football Club is based in Boston, Lincolnshire, in the East Midlands of England. The club currently plays its home matches at the Jakemans Community Stadium, which opened in 2020.

Did Boston United get promoted?

Boston United’s most recent promotion was to the National League last season. The club has a history of promotions and relegations, often competing in the National League system.

Who owns Boston United FC?

Boston United FC is owned by David Newton and the Chestnut Homes group. They have been involved with the club since 2007, playing a key role in the club’s development, including the move to the new Jakemans Community Stadium.

Is Boston United FC a big club?

While Boston United is not considered a big club in terms of national or international football, it has a strong local following and a rich history. The club has a reputation for passionate support and has had success in non-league competitions.

Where to watch Boston United FC?

You can watch Boston United FC home matches at the Jakemans Community Stadium in Boston, Lincolnshire. Matches are also occasionally streamed online, and highlights can often be found on the club’s official website and social media channels.