“I want a run in the FA Trophy this year!” Craig Elliott targeting knockout success as Boston United head to Evesham

The FA Trophy no longer feels like a distraction for Craig Elliott, and the Boston United boss is determined to put together a good run in the competition.

In previous seasons the FA Cup has been prioritised by the Pilgrims boss, none more so than last year when a makeshift side was knocked out of the Trophy 1-0 at Atherton Collieries as focus was very much on the following week’s glamour tie at League One Rochdale.

But after his side were forced to withdraw from the FA Cup this season due to positive Covid-19 tests, and with county cups on hold, Elliott wants to see how far his side can go in a different knockout competition.

“The good thing with how the season’s panned out, we’ve got no Lincolnshire Cup, we’ve got no FA Cup, any sort of distractions,” Elliott said.

“For the first time in a few years I want to really take the FA Trophy seriously.”

Boston kick off their campaign at Evesham United of the Southern League South tomorrow (KO 7.45pm).

Due to Worcestershire’s tier two status, the contest will see the Pilgrims play in front of fans for the first time since March, although there will be no away supporters permitted entry to the Jubilee Stadium.

Following Saturday’s goalless draw with Chester, Elliott stated changes will be made to his starting line up, but he expects his side to be competitive.

“I will be putting some of the lads on the bench in. But they’re good players, it’s not rotating,” he said.

“So, 100 per cent I want to get a run in the FA Trophy this year.”

Jordan Thewlis and Mitch Rose, who were both sent off on Saturday, will be eligible to feature.

Evesham play two levels below Boston and, with the Southern League currently suspended, the Robins have only played once since October 31, December 5’s first round victory over Bideford.

Evesham won 5-4 on penalties to progress following a 1-1 draw.

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