Boston United maintained their pre-season preparations by drawing 0-0 against the Mariners in a closely contested match at the Jakemans Community Stadium. The game saw a blend of youth and experience from both teams as they prepared for the upcoming season.
The home side, led by former Grimsby boss Paul Hurst, started brightly but were unable to break through Harvey Cartwright's goal in his first appearance since rejoining Boston United on loan from Hull City. The visiting Mariners also struggled to find a breakthrough, despite creating several chances and forcing multiple saves from Louis Chadwick.
New signings Cian Doyle and Harvey Cartwright featured for the first time in David Artell’s starting XI. Cartwright played between the posts as Joe Foulkes, Edon Pruti, Charlie Elliott, and Tyler Pratt formed the defence. Kristian Catchpole started behind a midfield of Elliot Smith, Doyle, Lennon Peterson, and Henry Brown, with Jaze Kabia leading the attack.
The first half saw Boston United dominate possession but fail to convert their opportunities into goals. Jack Holmes' early corner was cleared by Pruti, and Cartwright made an excellent save from a Holmes shot. The Mariners also had chances, including a 20-yard strike from Catchpole that went over the bar. Smith's cross led to a powerful low strike that Chadwick parried away.
The second half began with more changes for both teams. Auton replaced Cartwright in goal, while Terrell Agyemang came on for Boston. The Mariners made three substitutions at the hour mark, bringing on Ted Sharp and Josh Edwards as substitutes. Despite several chances, neither side could find a winner, leading to a 0-0 draw.
The match ended with both teams showing promise but ultimately unable to break through each other's defences. Boston United’s next pre-season friendly will be against Wigan Athletic at Blundell Park on Saturday.
