Church strikes to give Boston United first-day win

Church scored Boston's final goal of last season and the first of this

Anthony Church was on target as Boston United beat Stafford Rangers 1-0 at York Street in Blue Square Bet North.

Midfielder Church netted the winner after 31 minutes, heading home after Jamie Yates' throw was flicked on.

A goal-line clearance denied Kieran Murphy a second goal and Miles Hunter hit the post in the closing moments.

Boston joint-manager Rob Scott told BBC Lincolnshire: "In the first half we were outstanding, we defended very well and were well worth the three points."

Scott added: "Three points are what we set out to achieve. In the second half we created our own problems by dropping very deep, but people have to realise that we're not going to monopolise a game for the full 90 minutes.

"There's plenty to work on but there's plenty to be happy about."

Church, who scored Boston's winning goal in last season's Unibond Premier Division play-off final, said: "It's always a tense affair on the first day of the season but we're pleased with the three points."

The Pilgrims face a quick return to action as they visit Hinckley United on Monday evening.

Gainsborough Trinity also began their season in Blue Square Bet North with victory, with Jefferson Louis and Sam Aiston on target in the first half of their 2-1 win at Worcester City.

Non League results for Saturday, 14 August:

Blue Square Bet North

Boston United 1-0 Stafford Rangers

Worcester City 1-2 Gainsborough Trinity

FA Cup, Extra-preliminary round

Blackstones 1-1 Maltby Main

(Replay at 1945 BST, Tuesday, 17 August)

Gedling Town 2-4 Boston Town

Deeping Rangers 0-2 Gresley Rovers

Holbeach United 0-1 Radcliffe Olympic

Holbrook Sports 4-0 Sleaford Town

Lincoln Moorlands Railway 3-1 Friar Lane & Epworth