WITTON ALBION 4 BOSTON UNITED 2: Pilgrims knocked out of FA Trophy as defensive issues raise their head again

The Pilgrims were quick out of the blocks, storming to a 2-0 lead within six minutes thanks to goals from Joe Maguire and Marcus Marshall.

But from then on it was the Albs who took control, the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League First Division (South) outfit responding with four goals in the space of 25 minutes to earn a commanding half time lead.

And with a goalless second 45, it will be Witton who host National League Chester FC in the first round on Saturday.

With just four minutes gone Maguire met Taylor Miles’ corner and fired high into the net.

That lead was doubled just two minutes later as Marshall finished from close range.

But then, once again, Boston’s defensive frailties began to show.

Those four goals shipped at Witton mean the Pilgrims have now picked the ball out of their net 19 times in their past four fixtures.

United weren’t handed the best of starts as Nat Brown was replaced prior to kick off, but their implosion was still eyebrow-raising.

Bradley Bauress pulled the hosts back into the game on 20 minutes with a strike from distance which nicked the post on its way in.

The Albs were level five minutes later as Rob Hopley - who netted in that first encounter which was abandoned at half time - forced home Bauress’ cross.

Nine minutes before the break and the turnaround was complete.

Thomas Owens finished clinically after Witton sliced their way through the away team with ease.

And on the stroke of half time Owens was on the scoresheet again to ensure a safe passage for the hosts.

The second half continued with Witton looking to add to their advantage.

Emery denied Hopley and Bauress, the latter also seeing a free kick whizz wide, while Tolani Omotola struck the post.

For Boston, Ben Clappison headed wide, Miles saw a strike comfortably saved and Callum Chippendale’s effort was deflected wide.

WITTON: Roberts, Lycett, Devine, Wilson, Brown, Haywood, Noon, Owens, Hopley, Omotola (Hickman 90), Bauress; Subs (not used): Adigun, Hickman, Eves, Garner.

UNITED: Emery, Clappison, Josh Robinson (Vince 56), Joe Robinson, Gordon (Hilliard 74), Maguire, Marshall (Chippendale 67), Miles, Fairhurst, Smith, Rollins; Subs (not used): Wildin, Payne GK.

Att: 194.