Boston United are looking to build on a midweek draw as they prepare to host newly-promoted AFC Hornchurch on Monday. The Pilgrims secured a point away at Tamworth on Thursday, with Lenell John-Lewis netting a second-half equaliser in a 2-2 result.
According to the club's official match report, Boston United twice came from behind to earn a draw at the Lamb Ground. Former Pilgrim Kieren Donnelly gave Tamworth the lead in the 23rd minute, but Boston's Tom Grimes levelled the scores nine minutes later. Morgan Roberts restored the hosts' advantage ten minutes into the second half, only for Lenell John-Lewis to equalise for United in the 63rd minute. The match, officiated by Scott Jackson, was watched by 1,242 spectators, including 173 travelling Boston fans.
The result continues a positive recent run for the Pilgrims, whose form at the end of the 2025 season was strong. They finished 12th in the England National League, securing 59 points from 46 games with a record of 15 wins, 14 draws, and 17 losses. Their final five matches yielded three wins and two draws, a sequence they will aim to replicate as they build towards the new campaign.
Monday's visitors, AFC Hornchurch, have adapted impressively to life in the National League following their promotion via the South division play-offs in May. The club's website preview notes they have won three of their opening four matches at Step 1. Their away form is already proven, having secured a 2-1 victory at Barrow, though they suffered a 4-1 defeat at Carlisle United in their second road trip.
This will be only the second-ever meeting between the two clubs. The sole previous encounter came in November 2004 at York Street in the FA Cup first round, where Boston United ran out 5-2 winners. For the Pilgrims, the match offers a chance to record consecutive home victories following their 1-0 win over Altrincham on August 22nd. Connor McBride, who has been dealing with a hamstring issue, was on the bench for the Tamworth game and could be in contention for a return against Daryl McMahon's side.
The match at the Jakemans Community Stadium is not all-ticket, but advance purchase is recommended. Tickets bought online are £1 cheaper than contactless payments at the turnstiles. Allocated seating is in operation in the Acorn Taxis Stand, with specific blocks advised for contactless admissions. A range of family discounts are available and applied at the online checkout.
For supporters travelling to the game, the club has provided a full transport guide on its website. Car parking is reserved for seasonal pass holders and club guests. An enhanced shuttle bus service will run from the Len Medlock Voluntary Centre in the town centre, with journeys costing £1.50. The club also reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on anti-social and discriminatory language, providing dedicated phone and text lines for supporters to report any incidents.
Live coverage of the match will be provided by National League TV. BBC Radio Lincolnshire will offer full-match commentary online through Rob Makepeace and Peter Costello. The club's official X account, @bostonunited, will provide updates throughout the afternoon. The Pilgrims ended last season with 63 goals scored and 67 conceded, giving them a -4 goal difference. They finished 49 points behind champions York City. The full squad available for Monday's fixture can be viewed on the squad page.
