Express yourselves! Boston United squad told to make the most of the opportunity to continue playing

Manager Elliott wants side to enjoy their football in difficult season...
Craig Elliott wants the Pilgrims to make the most of being allowed to continue playing. Photo: Oliver Atkin.Craig Elliott wants the Pilgrims to make the most of being allowed to continue playing. Photo: Oliver Atkin.
Craig Elliott wants the Pilgrims to make the most of being allowed to continue playing. Photo: Oliver Atkin.

Craig Elliott has told his Boston United squad to express themselves and make the most of being allowed to continue playing football.

With the National League North falling into the elite sport category, the Pilgrims will continue their season during lockdown while all levels below have been forced to suspend their campaigns.Elliott has reminded his players they are among the fortunate ones able to continue doing what they love - and to seize the opportunity.

"For us, I just say enjoy playing," he told The Standard.

"I keep trying to say that to the players - we're very fortunate to keep playing football and doing what we're doing.

"We've just got to show that in the way we play, express ourselves and look like we're enjoying football."

Elliott, however, has no doubts that his squad - still unbeaten this season - will deliver on that front.

He spoke glowingly of his side's character and attitude this week, and adds that has been evident once again through these difficult times.

"I have to say this group this year has been brilliant, the training and games, there's a positive attitude to it all," he said.

"I've not picked up any negativity, not one bit. I just hope that continues and I have confidence that'll keep coming across in performances and results.

The Pilgrims are without a fixture today due to Chorley's involvement in the FA Cup.

United have already missed a fortnight's action after being forced to self isolate due to positive Covid tests, as well as seeing the midweek fixture at Bradford Park Avenue put back and then postponed due to floodlight problems at the Horsfall Stadium.

Add to that the fact the club have been playing at Gainsborough Trinity's Northolme Stadium so far this season as their Jakemans Community Stadium is still under construction, and it's been an odd start to the campaign, which kicked off in October.

Elliott believes these changes will eventually take their toll on all clubs.

"There's a lot of difficult games for different reasons, a lot of challenges," he added.

"There'll be no doubt about it, people will drop points as there's a lot of good teams out there."