Pilgrims and Poachers to meet again

Jamie McGhee and Simon Ashton tussle during last season's encounter.

The Poachers and Pilgrims will once again lock horns as Nathan Collins’ and Dennis Greene’s squads are given the chance to show what they can offer in a match scenario.

Last season United won the fixture 6-1 after a hat-trick from Dayle Southwell and finishes from debutant Jay Rollins and Kaine Felix handed them a 5-0 interval lead.

Aaron Eyett reduced the arrears before Scott Garner had the final say for the Pilgrims.

Greene will miss the contest as he is away on a coaching course.

However, he has hinted he will use the exercise to gel his new team and perhaps give trialists the chance to prove their worth.

He said: “ The first game’s against Boston Town and it will be a chance for the lads to get back into playing matches

“It’s a good chance for our team to get to know one another out there.

“I think both teams will look at the game in the same manner and want to see what the players can do and not risk any injuries.

“It’s also a chance for us to have a look at a few young lads and see what they can offer us.”

As the season draws ever-closer, Greene admits he is quietly confident that the team he is putting together could have a good campaign in the National League North.

“I’m really pleased with the squad we’re putting together,” he continued.

“We’re covering all the positions and we’ve got back up in every position as well.

“When we get a keeper in I think we’ll look like a complete squad - and then it’s about how the new players and our old squad members all gel.

“Every new player you bring in is a gamble as you never quite know exactly how they’ll fit in.

“But I think we’ve got a good track record of getting it right.

“Hopefully, it’ll be the same again this time.”

Kick off will be at 7.45pm.

Boston United’s youth team will be handed the chance to test their skills against a Liverpool XI.

Martyn Bunce’s youngsters will welcome a Reds side to the Jakemans Stadium for a pre-season friendly.

The match will take place on Sunday, August 21.

Admission details will be announced in due course.