“They no longer feel like a bogey team!” Boston United boss Craig Elliott looking forward to National League North opener at Leamington

Jay Rollins will be a doubt to face Leamington.

Manager off the mark against Brakes...

Boston United face a tough National League North opener at Leamington, but Craig Elliott says they no-longer feel like a bogey team.

Following two defeats and a draw, the Pilgrims boss got his first win over the Brakes last season.

Jordan Thewlis’ penalty proved the difference at York Street in a contest which saw four players - including United’s Thewlis and Jay Rollins - red carded following a brawl.

“It was quite a controversial game towards the end but I was just happy to beat Leamington for once and get one over Paul (Holleran, manager).

“They no longer feel like a bogey team after that.

“Leamington is always a difficult place to go any time of the season. I’m glad were going there early and getting it out the way as it is a fixture that’s difficult for any team.

“But we’ve got a good group of lads and there’s a lot of excitement.”

Tonight’s game kicks off at 7.45pm and will be available to watch via live stream.It poses a long trek for the majority of the Pilgrims’ squad, most of whom are based in Yorkshire and the north west.

Brakes boss Holleran is a popular figure in non-league and although Elliott admits to having a lot of respect for his opposite number, he doesn’t want to let him have the bragging rights back any time soon.

He added: “I’ve got a lot of time for Paul, he does a great job down there.

“He knows what they are and plays that part well, being the underdogs week-in and week-out.

“He’s a great manager and, like I said, they’ve recruited well again.

“They’ve god good lads from the last few years as well, we know what to expect.”

United are hoping Scott Garner (rib) will be available after missing Saturday’s FA Cup win against AFC Mansfield.

Jay Rollins (toe) looks set to miss out while the club are keeping tabs On Luke Shiels.MORE PILGRIMS: National League South opponents up next in FA CupMORE PILGRIMS: Government aid ‘essential’ for club’s survival - NewtonMORE PILGRIMS: Hawkridge wants to make more FA Cup memories