Wishing the Poachers well

The class of 2001 have given their backing to the current crop as they prepare for their title decider against Hucknall Town.

It was a quarter of a century ago that Boston Town were last crowned league champions.

The captain that season was Dean Elston, who had this message for Chris Funnell’s side: “It’s in your hands now boys so go out there and give it your all and clinch that title.

“Good luck to all associated with a great club that I’m proud to say I played for and captained the side.

Striker Dave Scotney, who was top scorer that season wtih 21 goals, added: “Go on lads, get your day in the sun like we last did for Town in 2001. Hope it inspires you, one more big effort boys.”

The 2000-01 United Counties League title was clinched in nerve-shredding fashion.

On the very last day, the Poachers needed only a point from their final match away at Buckingham to pip Cogenhoe to become champions. To add to the drama, Cogenhoe were upset that the game had been switched to Raunds because Buckingham’s ground was needed for cricket.

At one stage in the second half, the Cooks were 2-0 up, with Town still at 0-0. A Ross Don-Duncan penalty spot seemed to have given the Poachers the title but then two goals from Buckingham left them desperately in search of an equaliser with just minutes to go.

Sub Ian Shooter was the hero as he snatched an all-important goal in stoppage time.

He said: “Hope these lads get their moment of glory.”

Dean Elston recalled: “I remember the last time Boston Town won the league at Raunds against the odds. Last game of the season and the trophy was winging its way somewhere down the A605 when they had to turn it round as Shooter had secured the win and league title!”

There was also a good luck message from Graham Neal, who chipped in with 12 goals in 2000-01.

He said: “I remember the 2001 game as if was yesterday, great game, great bunch of lads. All the best Saturday bring the trophy home.”

The Poachers have even had support from rivals Skegness Town, who lost 4-0 at the Mortgages For You Stadium on Easter Monday.

After that game, their joint manager Chris Rawlinson told Lincolnshire World: “I think Boston will win the league now and fair play to them. They’re a very good side and are very good at what they do.

“Good luck to Boston and I hope they go on and win the league. A lot is said about the Boston and Skegness rivalry but I’ve got some good friends there who are part of their management setup so I’ll be pleased if they do manage to get it over the line and not to have that rivalry next season!”