Boston United Squad 1999/2000
Management and Support Staff
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JOHN BLACKWELL b. 15/9/47 General Manager
Born: Kirton
Now lives: Boston
Status: Married to Maureen
Children: Lisa and Katie
Car: A Proton sponsored by Cropley Motors
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John Blackwell has been involved with the club for many years, helping with
the coaching in the seventies, as Club Secretary from 1978 onwards and as
General Manager since 1998. He has even been on the substitute's bench three
time for the Pilgrims. He was a member of the Vauxhall Conference Management
Committee for nine years and the Unibond League Management Commitee for five
years. His biggest disappointment is that he was not good enough to play
football at a top level. The match he most remembers is the FA Trophy
semi-final against Altrincham at York Street back in 1985. He thinks that
the standard of football played in the Dr. Martens League is very good, being
the closest of the three feeder leagues to that played in the Conference. In
his leisure time he enjoys watching sport on TV, reading the Saturday evening
football papers and being with his family.
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STEVE EVANS b. 30/10/62 Manager
Born: Glasgow
Now lives: Peterborough
Status: Has two children (Nicole and Shannon) with partner Sarah-Jane
Occupation: Business Consultant
Previous clubs: Bolton Wanderers, Clyde, St. Johnstone and Ayr United as a player and
Stamford A.F.C as manager.
Car: A Saab.
Appointed manager in October 98, following the resignation of Greg Fee.
Previously manager of Dr. Martens Midland Division side Stamford AFC,
where he enjoyed huge success, bringing them the United Counties League
Title in both 96/7 and 97/8 and promotion to the Dr. Martens League.
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Hailing from Scotland, he began his playing career with Bolton Wanderers,
but he soon moved back north of the border to play for Clyde, St. Johnstone
and then Ayr United. He was forced to give up playing football at the age
of twenty eight, by a cruciate knee-ligament injury. His dramatic impact on
United's fortunes in transforming them from relegation candidates to title
challengers and ultimately the runners-up spot last season has made him a
cult hero with the fans on the terraces.
The players that Steve most admires are Kenny Dalglish and Roy Keane. His
favourite grounds are Celtic Park and Sheepy Road, Atherstone. His least
favourite grounds are Ibrox and the South Kesteven Sports Stadium, Grantham.
The advice that he would give to a youngster who wants to make a career in
football is to work hard and always listen. He plays golf in his spare time.
Steve thinks that the standard of football in the Dr. Martens League is high
and that any of the top four teams could play in the Conference.
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TREVOR QUOW b. 28/9/61 Defender and Assistant Manager
Born: Peterborough
Now lives: Peterborough
Status: Engaged
Children Louis
Occupation: Works for T-N-T
Previous clubs: Peterborough United, Gillingham, Northampton Town
and Hong Kong Rangers.
Car: Renault
A defender brought to the club by Steve Evans to become assistant manager
following Chris Cook's retirement last season. Formerly with Peterborough
United, Gillingham and Northampton Town, playing over 350 League games and
scoring 22 goals. He also gained four England Youth International caps.
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Had a spell in Hong Kong before returning to England in 1996 to join up
with Steve Evans at Stamford, where he played in the club's championship
winning sides. The biggest influences on his career have been the managers
and coaches he has worked with. These include Peter Morris, John Gorman, Keith
Peacock and Terry Venables. His favourite grounds are Peterborough's London
Road Ground, White Hart Lane and Villa Park. The players he most admires are
Pele, Bryan Robson, Glenn Hoddle and Mick Gynn. His most memorable games
are his Football League debut for Peterborough United, his England Youth
debut, and a win against Sunderland when playing for Gillingham in the Third
Division Promotion Playoff semi-final in 1987. One of his biggest
disappointments was losing to Swindon in the 1987 Promotion Playoff Final, in
a replay after the first two games had finished level on aggregate. Other
disappointments include breaking his legs three times and other assorted
injuries. He hopes to become a full-time manager / coach one day. He likes
watching basketball, cricket, rugby and kung fu, and in his spare time also
plays cricket.
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JOHN LUFFMAN Reserve Team Manager
Born: Spilsby
Now lives: Boston
Status: Married to Ann
Children: Jack and Tom
Occupation: School Teacher
Car: A Fiesta
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John claims his greatest achievement was playing six games without getting
booked. His biggest disappointment was getting booked in the 7th game! In his
leisure time he likes playing cricket, golf and basketball and having a few
beers with friends. Former England international goalkeeper Chris Woods was
a pupil of his. His only superstition is that he wears an old club tracksuit
at all matches.
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PETER JELLETT b. 9/10/55 Club Physiotherapist
Born: Farnham, Surrey
Now lives: Louth
Status: Partner Catie
Children: None
Occupation: Physiotherapist
Car: Vauxhall Astra Sport
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Previously with Grimsby Town, Peter returned to being a football physio
with Boston United in 1997, after a period away from the game. He treats
the players for any injuries they may have, and advises on home exercise and
medication. Treatments include electrical therapy, ultrasound, use of the
interfrential machine and muscle rubs. He keeps himself fit, as on match days
he likes to be able to get to an injured player as fast as he can. He also
runs his own chartered physiotherapy practice from his home in Louth.
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Playing Staff
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PAUL BASTOCK b. 19/5/70 Goalkeeper
Born: Leamington Spa
Now lives: Boston
Status: Married to Ann
Children: Laura and Callum
Occupation: Care Assistant
Previous clubs: Coventry City, Cambridge United, Sabah(Malaysia),
Fisher Athletic, Kettering Town.
Paul is one of the most highly regarded goalkeepers in non-league football
and is now in his eighth season with the club after joining United from
Kettering Town in 92-3.
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As he used to live a few miles down the road from Birmingham it is no
surprise that he supports Birmingham City. Paul believes that you should
support your local team. "Bazza" enjoyed his schooldays although he came away
with no qualifications, as he spent most of his final year training with
Coventry City.
Paul is one of the few United players to have settled locally, working as a
care assistant at Willoughby Grange Nursing Home and living in the town with
wife Ann (a Bostonian), and children Laura and Callum. He said "becoming a
father has changed me because I have grown up and steadied down and it has
taught me a lot about myself."
Away from football his main priority is his family but he also likes to play
golf and snooker. One of the sporting events outside football Paul would like
to go and see is the Ryder Cup.
It is not surprising that when he was younger he admired Peter Shilton and
Neville Southall and nowadays one of his favourite players is Chris Woods,
all great international goalkeepers in their time.
During the earlier part of his career Paul spent six months playing football
in Malaysia, which he enjoyed considerably. He said it was a fantastic
experience, but the standard was only about Vauxhall Conference level.
Paul's advice to any youngsters who want to make a career in football is to
get an education and prepare for the high points when they come because you
can suffer a lot more low points.
After "Bazza" has finished playing football he would like to coach boys
football teams. He says that an advantage of being a footballer is that you
become a bit of a personality and you get a lot of free time, but a
disadvantage is that you never get to celebrate at Christmas and the New
Year.
Paul does have a superstition, which is that he does everything three times,
for example if the ball is coming towards him in a game he will touch his
gloves three times.
When asked what he thought about the Boston fans he said: "The majority are
critical, but the youth element of the crowd are the supportive ones. They
all pay their money so they are entitled to have their say." Paul also said
he would like to hear the fans get behind the team more. He would like to
be remembered as a steady goalkeeper who was always committed to the team.
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NICK MADDISON Goalkeeper
Outstanding 18 year old reserve keeper who came through the Pilgrims'
"Football For Life" scheme. Achieved celebrity status after
saving three penalties in the Lincolnshire Services League Cup Final
in the 1997/8 season.
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LEE CREW b. 4/9/80 Goalkeeper
Born: Louth
Now lives: Grimoldby, Louth
Status: Single
Children: None
Occupation: A Finance Assistant with ELDC
Car: Peugeot 205
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Lee's greatest achievement to date has been his selection for England
Schoolboy Trials. His most memorable match was playing for the Grimsby Town
Youth Team against Arsenal. His biggest disappointment has been not being able
to prove himself at professional level due to prolonged knee injuries. The
players he most admires are Peter Schmeichel and David Seaman. In his spare
time he likes playing tennis and basketball and having a laugh with his
mates. He has two superstitions. He always puts his right glove on before his
left glove and he has also started wearing a very dodgy psychdelic shirt
underneath his goalkeeping jersey. He has trained with former England
international keeper Chris Woods, and cleaned his boots! He has passed 7
GCSEs and also gained his FA Preliminary Coaching Badge.
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ANDY LODGE b. 17/5/78 Defender
Born: Peterborough
Now lives: Peterborough
Status: Single
Occupation: Customer contact representative for Coca-Cola & Schweppes
Previous clubs: Spalding United, Whittlesey United, Bury Town and
Stamford A.F.C.
Signed in January 2000 from Stamford AFC. The player he most admires is Ryan
Giggs. Away from football he likes playing snooker and pool and watching
boxing.
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JOBY GOWSHALL b. 7/8/75 Defender
Born: Louth, Lincs
Now lives: Alford, Lincs
Status: Single
Children: None
Occupation: Postman
Previous clubs: Grimsby Town, Lincoln City.
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One of the local younger, players who has managed to secure a regular first
team place, is Joby Gowshall who joined us from Lincoln City. Joby said that
he left Lincoln because he didn't enjoy his time there, and he wasn't
guaranteed a place in the first team. He is enjoying his time with United
because he has become regular in the starting eleven.
At school, he enjoyed sport and thinks that he did "alright" as he came away
with five GCSE qualifications. Joby's favourite football team is Leeds United,
who he has supported since he was a boy. His footballing hero is Diego
Maradona.
Away from football he likes to socialise and eat out. After finishing playing
football Joby would like to establish a career in the fire service. The
sporting event Joby would like to go and see is the World Cup.
His advice to a youngster wanting to make a career in football is :-
"Work hard, believe in yourself and enjoy it." Joby says that an advantage of
playing football is winning games, but a disadvantage is that you can't
celebrate Christmas or New Year as others who have less commitments are able
to.
Talking of commitments, you'd be hard - pressed to find any player in any
team, with a more dedicated attitude to playing attractive, successful
football. And United fans can count their blessings that they are currently
benefiting from this exciting player.
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LEN CURTIS b. 2/1/73 Defender
Born: Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
Now lives: Sheffield
Status: Girlfriend, Jane.
Children: None
Occupation: Sales Rep.
Previous clubs: Leeds United, Rotherham United, Shamrock Rovers,
Stalybridge Celtic, Gainsborough Trinity.
Car: Audi A4
"Work very, very hard and be dedicated", is Len Curtis' advice to
someone who wants to pursue a career in football. This attitude has clearly
been seen in his own very impressive performances for Boston United since he
joined us in November 97.
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Len started his career with Leeds United (where he became friends with
ex-United Manager Mel Sterland), and after a spell at Rotherham, Len returned
to the Republic of Ireland to play for Premier Division side Shamrock Rovers.
He returned to England and moved to Sheffield, so he could see his girlfriend
more often. As he said "We were commuting between Sheffield and Dublin which
wasn't easy, I like it here (in England) and have become very settled". After
spending some time playing at Stalybridge, Len contacted Greg Fee who was now
the United Manager, who invited him to come and play for us. Since his arrival
at the club he has found he likes the club a great deal, and considers the
players are looked after as well as a Conference side.
Len says that an advantage of being a footballer is that you get great
enjoyment out of playing the game. But a disadvantage he says is :-"that
playing at Non-League level it is hard to have a good job, because you often
have to have afternoons off to be able to travel to midweek away fixtures".
Away from football he likes to play golf and he has a handicap of nine. As
he likes to play golf Len would like to play in the U.S. Masters. He would
also like to play Gaelic Football in an all Ireland Final in Dublin.
His favourite football team is Arsenal whom he first watched in 1979 when they
reached the F.A. Cup Final, his Dad is also a supporter of "The Gunners".
Len had a chance as a youngster to sign YTS forms with the Highbury outfit,
as well as Queens Park Rangers. However his father told him not to sign, but
to carry on with his education and take his A-Levels to give him something to
fall back on if he didn't make it as a footballer. These were wise words from
Mr. Curtis Senior as Len added three A-Level passes in English, French and
Accountancy to his total of nine GCSE passes.
After he has finished playing football Len would like to remain associated
with the game in an off the field capacity.
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COLIN HOYLE b. 15/1/72 Defender
Signed pre-season on a free transfer from King's Lynn. Previously with
Arsenal, Chesterfield, Barnsley, Bradford City, Notts County and Mansfield
Town. Has made 73 League appearances, scoring 1 goal (for Bradford City).
Born in Derby.
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PAUL WILSON b. 2/8/68 Defender
Born: Bradford
Now lives: Northampton
Status: Married to Sue
Children: Thomas and Jaime
Occupation: Factory worker
Previous clubs: Huddersfield Town, Norwich City, Northampton Town,
Halifax Town, Burnley, York City, Scunthorpe United, Cambridge United and
Aylesbury United.
Car: Citreon
Signed from Ryman League side Aylesbury United at the end of last season.
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Previously with Huddersfield Town, Norwich City, who signed him up for
£30,000 in July 1987, Northampton Town, Halifax Town, Burnley,
York City, Scunthorpe United and Cambridge United. Made a total of
369 League appearances, scoring 20 goals.
The player he most admires is Stuart Pearce. His biggest disappointment was
not playing in the play-off final at Wembley for Burnley in 1994. He likes
playing golf in his spare time and would enjoy a trip to the US to watch the
Ryder Cup. When he has finished playing football he plans to become a driving
instructor. He has a couple of superstitions. He always puts his right boot,
sock and shin pad on before his left, and likes to be the last player to come
out on to the pitch.
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STEVE APPLEBY b. 24/5/67 Midfield
Local lad Steve joined his home town club in the 1994-95 season after
previously playing in the Conference for Kettering Town and captaining UCL
side Bourne Town. Voted "Player of the Year" in his first season
and again in 97/8. He is clearly a big favourite with the fans who
appreciate his non-stop efforts. Has also played for an FA XI against the
Combined Services. In November 1998, Steve suffered a broken leg playing
against Halesowen, causing him to miss the rest of the season. However, he
is now back to full fitness and completed his first full ninety minutes since
breaking his leg in a pre-season match.
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DAVID RENNIE b. 29/8/64 Defender
Born: Edinburgh
Now lives: Leicester
Status: Married with three children
Occupation: Stunt double for Tom Cruise
Previous clubs: Leicester City, Leeds United, Bristol City,
Birmingham City, Coventry City, Northampton Town and Peterborough United.
Car: A Rolls Royce for himself and a Lada for his wife.
An experienced defender, signed up after being released by Peterborough
United at the end of last season. Has made over 400 League appearances,
scoring 24 goals.
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David is a great fan of Roy of the Rovers. He thinks that the most memorable
match ever played was between Melchester Rovers and Everpool Town, where Roy
Race played a blinder. David suspects that Steve Evans and Trevor Quow always
read Roy of the Rovers before deciding the team's tactics.
The biggest influence on his career was Dave Richardson, the youth team
manager at Leicester City when he played for them. The players that he most
admired are Kenny Dalglish and German international Franz Beckenbauer.
David thinks that his greatest achievement is that he can still hear after the
manager's team talks. His claim to fame is that he once saw Steve Evans buy a
drink, but he thinks that Steve found the money though. His biggest
disappointment was letting Steve Evans into his house, as he is still paying
for all the drinks. The sporting event outside of football that he would most
like to see is Steve Evans running a marathon. He is not superstitious, touch
wood.
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CRAIG ALLARDYCE b. 9/6/75 Defender
Signed from Mansfield Town in March 2000. Previous clubs include Preston North
End, Blackpool, Chesterfield and Peterborough United. Born in Bolton.
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MARK MELSON b. 7/3/73 Utility
Born: Boston
Now lives: Boston
Status: Engaged to Lynne
Children: Ben
Occupation: Sports Coach
Car: Fiesta S1
A product of the reserve side who has always done well in the first team
colours. Outstanding control and ball skills and possesses an explosive long
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The player that Mark most admires is Roy Keane. The most memorable match that
he has played in was the Unibond League Cup final against Gainsborough Trinity
in 1997. His advice to youngsters who want to make a career in football is to
come along to CMS Sports & Leisure for coaching sessions. Away from football
he likes playing tennis and badminton.
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ROSS NICHOLLS Utility
Ross Nicholls showed lots of potential in his first season with the club
whilst in the "Football for Life" team. He made the breakthrough into the
first team squad last season, providing useful cover on quite a few occasions.
Hailing from the Ipswich area Ross has now settled in Boston and would like
to become a regular first team player.
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NEIL TIMBY Utility
One of the first products of United's successful reserve side. Neil played
a few games for the first team in 96/7 and showed his versatility by
acquitting himself very well in a variety of positions when called upon to do
so. He moved on to play for Boston Town for a couple of seasons before
moving back to the Pilgrims at the start of this season. He is also a three
handicap golfer and is the current holder of the club championship at Boston
Golf Club.
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STEVE CHARLES b. 10/5/60 Utility
Born: Sheffield
Now lives: Dronfield near Sheffield
Status: Married to Cheryl
Children: Jonathan and Rachel
Occupation: Sports Science Lecturer
Previous clubs: Sheffield United, Wrexham, Mansfield Town,
Scunthorpe United, Scarborough, Stalybridge Celtic.
Car: Vauxhall Cavalier
Steve Charles started at Boston United by scoring three goals in as many
games, continuing his rich vein of goalscoring which made him leading scorer
for Stalybridge Celtic in 96/7. It also vindicated Greg Fee's signing of
this vastly experienced midfielder, with whom he and Chris Withe were
team-mates at Mansfield Town. He was United's top scorer in 97/8.
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Steve left school, which he enjoyed, with nine O-Levels and four A-Levels. He
has also gained a Degree in Maths, a Diploma in Marketing and a Masters
Degree in Sports Science.
He started his career with Sheffield United, because of this he has
supported them ever since. It is not surprising then that one of his
favourite players of all time is Tony Currie, whom he admires because of the
skill he possessed when playing. Steve's other favourite player is Johnny
Giles formerly of Leeds United.
Away from football Steve enjoys playing any racket sport, swimming, and
spending time with his family. Steve would like to keep playing
football for as long as he can, and he has already surpassed the length
of career most players achieve.
Having played in the GM Vauxhall Conference, I asked Steve what he thought
the difference was in the way the game is played between the Conference
and the feeder leagues. He said that players had more time
with the ball, whereas in the feeder leagues players are on to you a lot
quicker, and the football played seems more end to end as well.
At the end of last season he left the Pilgrims to sign up with local rivals
Gainsborough Trinity. He returned to the club in October 99, following a
change of management at the Blues.
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IAN STRINGFELLOW b. 8/5/69 Midfield
Ian Stringfellow joined Mansfield Town as an apprentice and soon graduated to
the first team. After making over 160 League appearances for the Stags he was
transferred to Kettering Town for £5,000 in 1994. He only stayed with
the Poppies for a year before going to Dagenham and Redbridge, then King's
Lynn, where he was top scorer in 96/7. He left the Pilgrims at the start of
the 99/2000 season to sign up with Cambridge City, but returned in March
2000.
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ADIE HAYES b. 22/5/78 Midfield
Born: Norwich
Now lives: Norwich
Status: Girlfriend, Caroline.
Children: None
Occupation: Football Coach
Previous clubs: Cambridge United, Kettering Town and Diss Town.
Car: Vauxhall Astra
Signed from Jewson Eastern Counties League Premier Division side Diss Town
in February 2000 for £4,000.
Previously with Cambridge United, where he made 34 Football League
appearances, and Kettering Town. His most memorable match to-date was for
Cambridge United against Carlisle, which was shown live on Sky Sport. The
players he most admires are Ryan Giggs and David Ginola. In his spare time
he likes playing golf and watching boxing.
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PAUL RAYNOR b. 29/4/66 Midfield
Born: Nottingham
Now lives: Sheffield
Status: Married to Karen.
Children: Three
Occupation: Football Coach at Sheffield United
Previous clubs: Nottingham Forest, Bristol Rovers, Huddersfield Town,
Swansea, Wrexham, Cambridge United, Preston North End, Leyton Orient,
Kettering Town and Ilkeston Town.
Car: Fiat Brava
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Signed from Ilkeston Town in February 2000. He has made 478 League appearances,
for a variety of clubs, scoring 54 goals. He also has an F.A. coaching badge.
In his leisure time he plays tennis and golf. His favourite ground is
Nottingham Forest's City Ground. The player he admires most is Glenn Hoddle.
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ANDREW STANHOPE b. 2/1/76 Midfield
Born: Boston
Now lives: Wyberton
Status: Girlfriend, Becky
Occupation: Printer
Previous clubs: Peterborough United and King's Lynn.
Car: Peugeot 306 Turbo
Local lad signed two seasons ago from King's Lynn. Joined Peterborough
United straight from school, making two first team appearances. Moved on to
King's Lynn FC before joining The Pilgrims in December 1996.
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He became a regular member of the first team with some impressive performances
and some important goals. Last season he was selected to represent the
Football Association in a match against the British Universities.
In his spare time he enjoys watching boxing and playing badminton. His
favourite ground is Old Trafford, his least favourite is the Barton Stadium,
Winsford. The player he most admires is David Ginola.
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GARY CHILDS b. 19/4/64 Midfield
Born: Birmingham
Now lives: Grimsby
Status: Girlfriend, Andrea
Occupations: Coaching, selling sportswear and catering
Previous clubs: West Bromwich Albion, Walsall, Birmingham City,
Grimsby Town and Wisbech Town.
Car: Honda HRV
Signed in the middle of last season following his dismissal as player manager
at Wisbech Town. Childs had taken the "Fenmen" to the Second Round Proper of
the FA Cup in the previous season, but the club's good form was not maintained
resulting in his departure.
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Prior to joining Wisbech he had played for a number of League clubs. In total
he has made over 400 League appearances and scored 45 goals. He was also
an England Youth International. The most memorable match he has played in was
the League Cup semi-final against Liverpool, in 1984 when he was with Walsall.
The players he most admires are Glen Hoddle and Bryan Robson. He says his
biggest disappointment is having to play with Shaun Keeble! His claim to fame
is that he has chased Ruud Gullit around Stamford Bridge (but never caught
him). In his leisure time he likes to play golf.
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ANTHONY ELDING b. 16/4/82 Forward
Born: Boston
Now lives: Boston
Status: Single
Children: None
Occupation: College Student
Previous clubs: Wyberton Colts, the Nottingham Forest Centre of
Excellence, Grimsby Town Academy and Lincoln City Academy.
Youngster who joined the Boston United Academy at
the end of the 1998/9 season.
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His impressive goal scoring with Boston United Reserves
soon resulted in a call up to the first team squad. He has also scored nine
goals in five games when playing for the Lincolnshire FA Under 18 side.
Anthony says that it is all down to Chris Cook that he is at Boston United.
He is also pleased that Steve Evans is taking an interest in the young players
at the club, giving them an opportunity to succeed. He is being sponsored by
United director Roy Hackford, for which Anthony is very thankful. His most
memorable match to date was when he played for the Nottingham Forest youth
team in a match against Liverpool, which Forest won 2-1 with Anthony scoring
one of the goals. The player he admires most is David Ginola. Outside of
football, the sporting event he would most like to see is a Formula One
Grand Prix.
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LEIGH TAYLOR b. 30/4/81 Utility
Born: Boston
Now lives: Boston
Status: Girlfriend, Diana
Occupations: Student & Supermarket assistant at Iceland.
Car: Vauxhall Nova
Towards the end of the 1996-97 season, Boston United were chosen as one of a select
band of clubs in the country to pioneer the unique "Football for Life" scheme.
The scheme was run under the guidance of Bedford College and gave young
footballers the chance to play football with a semi-professional club and
also study for a Diploma in Sports Science.
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Boston United attracted
youngsters from as far away as London, Ipswich, Barnsley and Melton Mowbray,
as well as quite a number of local lads. Most have already made an appearance
for the reserve team and one player who has made his first team debut
is teenager Leigh Taylor.
Leigh is a local lad who has rapidly graduated from Nortoft Boys and Wyberton
Colts via the "Football for Life" scheme into United's reserve team side and
finally made it into the first team in January 98, aged just sixteen. He has
also represented the Lincs Under 15 team.
He said that he was astounded when he found out he would be making his full
first team debut in the match against Guiseley. But he did say that he was
quite satisfied with his performance for the Pilgrims and that his Mum and Dad
thought he played really well. Leigh would love to become a first team regular
and this aspiration could well be realised if his impressive debut is followed
by equally impressive repeat performances.
When I asked Leigh how he got on with the first team players he said: "They
made me very welcome, and I got on really well with them." Leigh's favourite
football team is Liverpool, explaining he supports them because they play
exciting football. It is probably no surprise then that his favourite
footballer is Paul Ince because "he works very hard at his game."
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MARK RAWLE b. 27/4/79 Forward
Born: Leicester
Now lives: Leicester
Status: Girlfriend, Claire
Occupation: College Student
Previous clubs: Rushden & Diamonds.
Car: Mk1 Golf
Young striker signed last season from Nationwide Conference side Rushden &
Diamonds. He scored on his debut for the Pilgrims.
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Mark is a fan of Italian football, his favourite players being Roberto Baggio,
Alessandro Del Piero, Zinedine Zidane and George Weah. His biggest
disappointment so far was missing out on the FA Cup game against Leeds United
through injury whilst at Rushden & Diamonds. He enjoys playing basketball
in his leisure time and would like to go to the US to watch the basketball
playoffs some time.
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MICK NUTTELL b. 22/11/68 Forward
Born: Boston
Now lives: Boston
Status: Married to Louise
Children: Jordan
Occupation: Printer
Previous clubs: Peterborough United, Crewe Alexandra, Carlisle United,
Cheltenham Town, Wycombe Wanderers, Kettering Town, Dagenham & Redbridge,
Rushden & Diamonds, Burton Albion and King's Lynn.
Car: Toyota Celica.
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Born in Boston and a former pupil at Boston Grammar School where he obtained
six O-levels. Signed up for the Pilgrims for the third time during the
close season. He first played for Boston in 91/2 when he became the Pilgrims
record signing following a £14,000 move from Wycombe Wanderers.
He later joined Rushden and Diamonds for £10,000 where he was top
scorer in 1993/4 with 39 goals.
His most memorable match was when he scored a hat-trick for Wycombe Wanderers
in a 4-2 win against Altrincham in the Conference in August 91. The players
that Mick most admires are Kenny Dalglish and Paul Gascoigne. The greatest
influence on his career was Martin O'Neill when he was Mick's manager at
Wycombe Wanderers. He likes playing squash in his spare time. The only
superstition that he has is that he makes sure he puts his shirt on last
before going out to play.
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PETER COSTELLO b. 31/10/69 Forward
Born: Halifax
Now lives: Peterborough
Status: Married to Rosemary
Children: A daughter - Hope
Occupation: Double Glazing Company
Previous clubs: Bradford City (where he played with Greg Abbott!),
Rochdale, Peterborough United, Lincoln City and Kettering Town.
Car: Ford Orion.
Signed after returning from a spell in Hong Kong. Has made over 100 League
appearances, scoring 19 goals.
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His most memorable match was when he played for Bradford City against Leeds
United at Elland Road in March 1989. The match, in the old Second Division,
was played in front of a crowd of 33,325. It ended in a 3-3 draw and Peter
scored the second Bradford goal with a stunning 25 yard volley. The biggest
influence on his career has been Geoff Lee, the Bradford City youth team
coach. The footballers he has most admired are Stuart McCall (Bradford City)
and Mick Halsall (Peterborough United). His only current superstition is that
he goes out behind Mick Nuttell, both at the start of the game and at
half-time and pats him on the back and wishes him well. In his spare time he
likes playing golf, watching horse racing and most of all, spending time with
his daughter Hope. When he has finished playing he hopes to stay in the game,
either as a coach or a manager, he is currently taking his UEFA B. Badge.
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SHAUN KEEBLE b. 18/7/68 Forward
Born: Holbeach
Now lives: Holbeach
Status: Married to Lisa
Children: Jordan & Jack
Occupation: Company Accountant
Previous clubs: Holbeach United, Wisbech Town, Corby, Eynesbury Rovers,
Raunds Town and King's Lynn.
Car: Renault Laguna
A prolific striker signed up in February 2000 after being released by King's
Lynn.
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Previous clubs include Holbeach United, where he was a member of their
1990 United Counties League title winning side and Raunds Town where he scored
31 goals to help them win the United Counties League title in 95/6 and
promotion to the Dr. Martens League. He is also the career goalscoring record
holder for Raunds Town with 208 goals. His biggest disappointment was losing
to Arlesey Town in the FA Vase semi-final in 94/5 when playing for Raunds Town.
The players he most admires are Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker. He enjoys playing
cricket, golf and fishing in his spare time and would like to go and watch the
Cricket World Cup Final one day.
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PAUL WATTS b. 11/4/78 Forward
Born: Pontefract
Now lives: Skegness
Status: Single
Children: None
Occupation: Student
Previous clubs: Grantham Town
During the past couple of years Skegness Grammar School has been the
source of a number of possible stars of the future. John Oster, who
joined Grimsby Town, moved to FA Carling Premiership side Everton,
where he has already played for them a number of times. Simon Armstrong,
who was also with the Pilgrims, was signed up by Nationwide Division
One side Port Vale. The third, Paul Watts is still with Boston United
.... could he go on to greater things?. |
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Paul enjoyed his schooldays and left with six GCSEs and a GNVQ
Advanced qualification, which is the equivalent to two A-Levels.
He is now studying Sports Science and Coaching at Lincoln College.
In 1996 Paul was picked to represent Lincolnshire at the English
Schools' Footballing Festival at Lowestoft. Whilst he was there he
impressed the England U-18 Schoolboys' coach and was picked to play
for them, only to find out that he was a few days too old to represent
them.
Away from Football and studying at College, in his spare time Paul
likes to socialise with his friends.
When I asked him what advice he would give to a youngster who was
thinking of making a career out of football / sport he replied:
"You've got to stick at it, work hard and always listen to advice".
He says that the transition from playing in the Reserve team to
playing in the First team was hard because the UniBond League is
a lot quicker and more physical than the Lincolnshire League.
But he thinks that the appearances that he has made for the First
team have been steady and competent.
Paul's favourite football team is Liverpool - he was brought up on a
diet of the Anfield outfit as his father is an avid fan of "The Reds".
Paul's hero was Ian Rush and he would like nothing more than to be
able to emulate the goal-scoring feats of this lethal striker, if
given a sustained run of first team appearances for "The Pilgrims".
Last season Paul scored 15 goals for the first team to make him
second highest scorer. This goalscoring prowess attracted the attention
of a number of League clubs, including Bolton Wanderers, Bristol City,
Northampton Town and Carlisle United. Steve Evans has attached a £70,000
price tag to Paul, but will only sell him if the deal is right for both him
and the club.
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LEE POWER b. 30/6/72 Forward
Born: Lewisham, London
Now lives: Huntingdon
Status: One child with partner Jo.
Occupation: Football Agent
Previous clubs: Norwich City, Bradford City, Peterborough United,
Hibernian, Plymouth Argyle and Halifax Town.
Cars: A Jaguar and a Mercedes.
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A much travelled striker, who never quite achieved his full potential after
a promising start to his career with Norwich City. As a teenager, he broke
into the Norwich first team and also made a number of appearances for the
Republic of Ireland Under-21 side where he was their young "player of the
year" in 1994. He played in the Norwich side which reached
the third round of the UEFA Cup in 93/4, where they were narrowly beaten by an
Inter Milan side containing the likes of Bergkamp, Schillaci, Zenga and Bergomi.
After scoring 10 goals in 44 League appearances for the Canaries he became
Bradford City's record signing for £200,000 in March 1994. Despite
scoring in his first two matches for the Bantams he could not maintain his
form and he left the Valley Parade Ground after one season
to join up with Peterborough United for £80,000. A move north of the
border to play for Hibernian for a transfer fee of £100,000 soon
followed, but he fell out of favour following a change of management and a
free transfer to Plymouth Argyle beckoned. A further free transfer to Halifax
Town followed, before he was snapped up for £15,000 by the Pilgrims in
November 99 to become their record signing. In total he has made 180 League
appearances and scored 32 goals in the English and Scottish Leagues. He
scored on his debut for the Pilgrims.
Lee claims that one of the advantages of being a footballer is that you become
super fit and gain a six pack, but the downside of this is the diet of pasta
and water. The sporting event that he would most like to see is Steve Evans
and David Rennie mud wrestling. One of his most memorable achievements was
scoring from 30 yards out past Manchester United's Peter Schmeichel in his
first season at Norwich.
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DANNY SEAGER Defender MOVED ON TO BOREHAM WOOD
Another product of the highly successful "Football For Life" scheme.
Danny is from London, but he moved to Boston to take part in the scheme and
quickly became a prominent figure in the "Academy" setup. Last season he
captained this youth side to victory in the Lincolnshire Services League Cup
Final, which led to him signing a contract with "The Pilgrims" for this season.
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ANDY KIWOMYA b. 1/10/67 Forward MOVED ON TO ILKESTON TOWN
Signed up pre-season from Nuneaton Borough, he scored 19 goals last season
in the Dr. Martens League. Previously with Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday,
Dundee, Rotherham United, Halifax Town, Scunthorpe United, Bradford City
and Cambridge City. Born in Huddersfield, he is the brother of
former Arsenal forward Chris Kiwomya.
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DAVID NORRIS b. 20/2/81 Forward TRANSFERRED TO BOLTON WANDERERS
Signed up from Dr. Martens League Midland Division side Stamford AFC at the
start of the season after impressing in pre-season trials. He previously
played in the Peterborough Sunday League.
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KEVIN NOTEMAN b. 15/10/69 Forward LEFT THE CLUB
Signed in September 99 from Ilkeston Town, where he had scored the winning
goal against the Pilgrims in their match earlier in the season. He started
his football career with Leeds United, at the same time that David Rennie was
with the club, but he moved on to Doncaster Rovers after making only one
first team appearance. He made over 100 League appearances for Doncaster
before moving on to Mansfield Town for £25,000 and then to Chester City.
Overall he has made 274 League appearances and scored 54 goals. Last season
he played for Maltese side Hibernians. Born in Preston.
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KEVIN SLINN Forward TRANSFERRED TO RAUNDS TOWN
A young striker signed up from Dr. Martens League Southern Division side
Raunds Town where he had been top scorer with 33 goals in 98/9. Previously
with Cogenhoe in the United Counties League.
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JOE VAUGHAN Forward MOVED ON TO BOSTON TOWN
Another product of The Pilgrims' reserve side. Made a few Unibond
appearances as substitute towards the end of the 1996/7 season. He now works
on CMS Sports as a football coach as well as appearing in a rock band.
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DARREN CLYDE b. 26/3/76 Defender MOVED ON TO STAMFORD AFC
Born in Barnsley. Returned to York Street last season after
spending a two month loan period with "The Pilgrims" in the 1996-97 season.
Previously with Barnsley, he also had spells with Gateshead and Emley. |
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ANDY TAYLOR Defender MOVED ON TO WISBECH TOWN
Signed up from Crawley Town at the end of last season after his contract
expired. Based in Cambridge, Andy had joined Crawley at the start of last
season after playing with Cambridge City for three seasons. Prior to that
he had played for Bury Town and Sudbury Town, both sides being in the Eastern
Counties League.
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JASON SEDLAM b. 5/8/79 Midfield MOVED ON TO WISBECH TOWN
Previously with Mansfield, where he played six League games in 98/9. He
was signed after extensive trials with the reserves. Born in Peterborough.
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GARY PORTER b. 6/3/66 Midfield RELEASED BY THE CLUB
Signed up after being released by Scarborough following their relegation
to the Conference. Gary started his football career as an apprentice at
Watford. He graduated to the first team in 1984 after representing England
at Youth and Under 21 levels. He made 472 appearances and scored 55 goals in
13 seasons for the Hornets. He signed up with Walsall in 1997 making 63
appearances and scoring 3 goals before being loaned out to Scarborough for
the last four months of last season. He was born in Sunderland.
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MARTIN HARDY b. 12/12/62 Defender MOVED ON TO STAMFORD AFC
Born: Worksop
Now lives: Worksop
Status: Married to Tracie
Children: Luke
Occupation: Fork Truck Instructor
Previous clubs: Notts County, Worksop Town, Matlock Town.
Genuine clubmen are always well appreciated by Pilgrims' followers
and Martin Hardy is one such person. Joining United in 1988 from
Worksop Town for £10,000 - a huge amount in those days - he was
one of a number of "big money" signings for United at that time.
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However United's investment in Martin was money well spent as it
has resulted in many years sterling service to the club. He has
been present ever since, except for one season when released by
manager Peter Morris but quickly returned to the club,
to the supporters' delight, following Morris's departure. He also
had a brief spell at Worksop Town at the start of the current season.
Martin's philosophy towards football is always give 100% and be
dedicated - which is probably why he is so well appreciated by the
supporters. No doubt his commendable attitude comes from his boyhood
following of Liverpool and their own legend, and his hero, Tommy Smith.
At school Martin enjoyed games and left with two O-Level qualifications in
Geography and Technical Drawing.
Away from football Martin likes to play golf and to spend time with
his son Luke.
Many people know Martin's nickname is "Tex" but where did it come
from? After taking much time and trouble of finding out (I asked him!)
here is his answer: "There was a group of us who used to go into a pub in
Sheffield, but it closed down for refurbishment so we had to go somewhere
else. We went into a posh winebar and I was wearing a checked shirt, jeans
and riding boots everybody turned round and thought I looked like a cowboy
and that's where the nickname came from."
Tex started his footballing career with Notts County where he spent
three years. He then moved onto Worksop Town. He said that at the
time he was disappointed that he didn't make it as a Professional
footballer, but now looking back he doesn't have any regrets.
He enjoys playing Non-League football and one of the benefits
he has received playing at this level is that he has toured with
Middlesex Wanderers and has represented the FA.
Martin's passion on the field is shown in his physical assault on
whoever scores for United. This leads to Pilgrims' goal
celebrations often being a manoeuvre in "Tex - avoidance!"
Martin was awarded a deserved testimonial last season.
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JASON BURNHAM b. 8/5/73 Defender MOVED ON TO CAMBRIDGE CITY
Signed pre-season for £5,000 from Worcester City, where he had been
Player of the Year in 97/8. He started his footballing career as a trainee at
Notts County before moving to Northampton in 1991. He played for the
"Cobblers" for three seasons, making 88 League appearances and scoring 2
goals. He was transferred to Chester City in 1994 and then to Worcester
City in August 1996. Born in Mansfield.
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JOHN WALKER b. 12/12/73 Midfield SIGNED ON-LOAN BY ROTHWELL TOWN
Signed up from Kingstonian as midfield cover in October 99 following injuries
to key players. Born in Glasgow, he started his footballing career by signing
up with Rangers, but left to join Clydebank without making any first team
appearances. He made 27 appearances for Clydebank before moving across the
border to play for both Grimsby and Mansfield. He made 74 appearances, scoring
4 goals before moving on to Kingstonian at the start of the 99/2000 season.
JIM DOBBIN b. 11/9/63 Midfield MOVED ON TO WHITBY TOWN
Much travelled midfielder, signed up in September 99 from Gainsborough Trinity.
He started his footballing career in Scotland, playing for both Celtic and
Motherwell. He then moved south of the border to play for Doncaster Rovers,
Barnsley, Rotherham United, Scarborough and Grimsby Town. Overall he has
made over 400 League appearances and scored 46 goals. Born in Dunfermline.
Player interviews by: Becky Thompson.
Photographs copyright © Ken Fox and Roy Hackford, 1999.