'Intimidating' atmospheres at Rangers and Celtic taught Boston United's Alex Penny vital lessons

Old Firm experiences for Pilgrims defender...
Penny slides in against Rangers. Photo: GettyImagesPenny slides in against Rangers. Photo: GettyImages
Penny slides in against Rangers. Photo: GettyImages

It takes a lot to intimidate Alex Penny - after the Boston United defender experienced the raucous atmospheres at Celtic and Rangers first hand.

The 22-year-old spent last season with Scottish Premiership side Hamilton Academical.

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He played in front of a 49,000-strong crowd at Ibrox, and was named on the bench for the Accies at Celtic Park in a campaign where they finished 10th.

Penny in action against Curzon. Photo: Eric BrownPenny in action against Curzon. Photo: Eric Brown
Penny in action against Curzon. Photo: Eric Brown

Experiences which, he says, toughened him up.

While facing League One Rochdale in this season’s FA Cup was a new experience for some Pilgrims, the replay in front of 4,000-plus supporters may not have had the same effect on the 22-year-old defender.

“When you come up against Celtic and Rangers it’s good experience for someone who’s young and learning,” he told The Standard.

“Ibrox and Parkhead, even playing away at clubs like Hearts and Hibs, you go places like that and it’s a great experience. They’re intimidating, you’re going there and they’ll pack stadiums.”

Penny with Craig Elliott.Penny with Craig Elliott.
Penny with Craig Elliott.
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York Street and the away days in the National League North may not offer the same experience as trips to the Old Firm stadiums, but Penny believes his experiences put him in a much stronger position.

“Like I say, you get used to playing in front of big crowds, so when you go to places without the same atmosphere it’s easier,” Penny added.

"But that’s what you aim for. You want to be playing at those big stadiums week-in, week-out.

“It was good to get that under my belt.”

Alex Penny. Photo: Eric BrownAlex Penny. Photo: Eric Brown
Alex Penny. Photo: Eric Brown

Life under the spotlight, however, has its down sides.

Penny - whose career took him to Hamilton via Bedworth United, Hinckley, Nuneaton and, after catching the eye at the Vardy Academy, Peterborough United - knows that all too well.

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With his side looking to have secured a draw against the Gers in October of last season, the defender conceded two late penalties as Rangers went on to win 4-1.

But that loss could turn out to be Boston’s gain.

“I didn’t have the best of games against Rangers,” he said.

“But they’re the things you have to learn from and make sure you become a better player.”