Boston United planning exciting pre-season schedule to welcome fans to Jakemans Community Stadium

Pilgrims want fans to enjoy first experiences of new stadium...
Fans are yet to see Boston in their new home. Photo: Oliver AtkinFans are yet to see Boston in their new home. Photo: Oliver Atkin
Fans are yet to see Boston in their new home. Photo: Oliver Atkin

Boston United are hoping to put together an eyecatching pre-season schedule to finally welcome supporters to the Jakemans Community Stadium in style.

The Pilgrims' moved to their new multi-million-pound stadium in December, but it has been more than a year since United fans last watched a home game in the town.

But with Covid-19 restrictions in England planned to be lifted by June, it is hoped supporters will be allowed to return as normal for the 2021-22 campaign.

Manager Craig Elliott believes a tough series of warm-up matches down Pilgrim Way can only benefit the club as a whole.

"I've had talks with Craig (Singleton, secretary) and that was a big thing," he said.

"I'm never usually a fan of too many friendlies if I'm honest, but I think this year will be an exception.

"We need to get home games, and against good opposition if we can, because of two things really.

"The players will need the games. We need to get used to the home ground, we've not had enough games to make it familiar.

"Also we want the fans engaged as quickly as possible in terms of coming to the ground when it's safe to do so."

Welcoming the fanbase to the stadium is a top priority for the club after their frustrating exile.

"I've had discussions with the chairman (David Newton) about how I see things for next season," Elliott added.

"Life looks a bit more positive and the big thing is engaging with the fans and community again. That's the big thing for me.

"I think that's off the pitch more than on the pitch. We want the fans to come back and we want more fans to come back now we're in a new stadium.

"We need to make sure the fans feel engaged with the team and the club. Obviously there'll be one or two who think they've got other things to do, they've found another life, as such.

"But I think, once football comes back, that routine and excitement will kick in. I think we're going to get a really good pull of fans."

Elliott and his squad have been excited by the move to the Jakemans Community Stadium, and now the manager hopes the supporters can enjoy the same buzz.

"We're lucky enough to have been in the stadium and when fans come in they'll realise how lucky they are. It'll be an unbelievable experience for them.

"It's a place they can come to and socialise and get back to doing whatever they've missed."

MORE PILGRIMS: Ex-winger makes USA move - news

MORE PILGRIMS: United identify transfer targets - news

MORE PILGRIMS: United fans on the road - in pictures