Boston United 2-1 Stamford AFC

FA Cup

Boston United booked their place in the third qualifying round draw of the FA Cup with a narrow victory over fellow Lincolnshire side Stamford. Boston's starting line-up was the same as that which had won at Buxton in midweek, but with seven substitutes allowed in the Cup, veteran striker Mickey Nuttell was called upon to make the numbers up. Boston dominated the opening proceedings. They eventually took the lead in the 14th minute when Jon FROGGATT lobbed the Stamford 'keeper from 20 yards out with a well struck shot. Further efforts by Kieran Leabon, Jon Rowan and Froggatt came close to extending Boston's lead. But in the 35th minute Stamford stunned the home supporters by equalising when Jamie CLARKE scored from close range after getting on the end of a cross by Adam Cunnington. Just before half time Stamford should have taken the lead, but Chris Wright made a pair of brilliant saves before Matt Bloomer cleared the final effort off the line.

FROGGATT scored his second goal early in the second half when he headed home following a corner taken by Liam Green. A header by Ollie Ryan then hit the bar. Boston should have increased their lead in the 75th minute when Ryan was pushed to the ground as he ran into the box, but his resultant penalty kick was saved. Leabon hit the bar with a long range shot ten minutes from the end. Jon Froggatt then had a goal disallowed for offside. But Boston held on for the win and gained their place in the next round draw on Monday. After the match Tommy Taylor said: "Full credit to Stamford, I think they come and give us a good game and it was a credit to the manager for putting a good side out. I said to the boys all we need to do is be in the hat. But make sure we don't need to play in midweek. I don't care who we get as long as we can get them at home and play well."

Boston United: Chris Wright, Liam Parker, Liam Green (Stewart Talbot 84), Ryan Clarke, Matt Bloomer, David Farrell, Steve Melton, Kieran Leabon, Jon Rowan, Jon Froggatt (Adam Millson 88), Ollie Ryan (Lee Beeson 75). Subs not used: Martyn Margarson, Nick Reeson, Mickey Nuttell, Mitchell Griffiths.