Boston United... In Focus

Evans... In the dock

Most teams in League 2 have had managerial issues over the course of the season, and second bottom Boston United are no different. However, there issues are rather more complicated than most. Steve Evans, in his second spell at York Street, was given a suspended twelve month prison sentence after tax-evading issues at the start of November, despite pleading guilty. Many believed he should have been sentenced, but his neck is not off the line yet with the Pilgrims poorly placed in 23^rd.

Notts County stole many of Boston's stars over the summer, with Alan White, Austin McCann and Lawrie Dudfield all joining Meadow Lane, alongside Jason Lee, Gary Silk and Ian Ross who all played important roles for United last campaign. Much of their squad has been ripped out, and with little money and off the pitch problems, Evans was unable to replace the spine of his team.

Losing star player Julian Joachim to Darlington only a few weeks into the season certainly did little to help.

Only four wins in nineteen games in a division that is seemingly wide open, represents a poor return. The problem appears to be their defensive record. They have actually managed to score a goal more than second placed Swindon Town. However, with bottom of the table Macclesfield the only side to have conceded more, Evans' priority has to be tightening the back line.

With Torquay in freefall at the moment, and the Pilgrims being only a point off them and safety, Evans must endeavour to bring in a proven defender. This could enable survival.

Manager: Steve Evans

Ryan... Action at both ends

League Position (as of 29 November): 23/24

Top goalscorer: Tim Ryan (4)

Goals For: 24

Goals Against: 34

Player of the season so far: As with most sides at the bottom, picking a stand out player is difficult. However, Tim Ryan's goals from set-pieces have earmarked him as a big threat, particularly when his goals have won games.

V Notts County: Notts threw away a two goal advantage at the Staffsmart Stadium on November 4^th. After going behind to a Jamie Stevens goal, Jason Lee inspired the Magpies with a brace. Alan White also scored in between Lee's goals to give Notts a 3-1 advantage. However, with time running out, Boston clawed their way back into it with Anthony Elding and Francis Green on the score sheet. The Pilgrims travel to Meadow Lane on April 7.

Drapes' Prediction: I believe Boston can get their way out of trouble, more so because of the inadequacies of other sides than their own fortunes. I'd say 22^nd.