by Charlie Fytche
Poachers climb into playoff spots with dominant display
Boston Town put on a commanding performance at the Mortgages for You Stadium, securing a 4-1 victory over Melton Town to move up to fourth place in the league and into the playoff positions for the first time since the beginning of the season!
First half
The Poachers started on the front foot, creating problems for Melton from the first whistle. An early goalmouth scramble nearly gave Boston the lead, but the visitors managed to clear their lines.
In the 11th minute, Ted Gibbons had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock. The forward showed his class by flicking the ball over the defender before striking a volley just wide of the post.
Melton were dealt an early blow after 20 minutes when their number 3 was forced off with what appeared to be a dislocated finger. We wish him a speedy recovery.
Poachers take control
The breakthrough came when Jordan Nuttall (sponsored by Greenyard Frozen) finished off a well-worked team move to put Boston 1-0 up.
Melton’s frustration grew, and moments later, they were temporarily reduced to 10 men when a player was sin-binned for dissent.
Boston capitalized on their advantage with a second goal before the break. Ted Gibbons (sponsored by Prestige Body & Paint Lincolnshire) opened his account for the club with a composed finish, sending the Poachers into half-time with a 2-0 lead.
Second half
Melton came out fighting, and in the 52nd minute, they were handed a lifeline when a penalty was awarded following a foul by Hudson. The visitors converted from the spot to make it 2-1.
Boston responded well, increasing the tempo and putting pressure back on Melton. A few half-chances followed before another moment of controversy. The Melton goalkeeper was sin-binned for dissent, leaving them with an outfield player in goal.
Boston wasted no time in punishing the situation. Jordan Tate (sponsored by DWB Timber Engineering) reacted quickest to a loose ball at the back post to restore the two-goal cushion, despite protests from the Melton supporters claiming offside.
With Melton’s stand-in keeper still between the sticks, Ted Gibbons struck again, completing his brace with a well-taken finish to seal the victory.
Poachers on the rise
The final minutes saw Harry Limb cause problems down the right, while the Boston defence stood strong against Melton’s aerial bombardment.
At the final whistle, Boston Town celebrated a crucial three points that lifted them into the playoff spots for the first time since September!
A huge thank you to our match sponsors, Neil and George Wright, for their continued support!
Final score: Boston Town 4-1 Melton Town
Goalscorers:
⚽ Jordan Nuttall (sponsored by Greenyard Frozen)
⚽ Ted Gibbons (2) (sponsored by Prestige Body & Paint Lincolnshire)
⚽ Jordan Tate (sponsored by DWB Timber Engineering)
Boston now look ahead to their next fixture at home versus Wisbech Town (Sat 15 Feb, 3pm) as they aim to solidify their place in the top four.
Boston Town FC 