Church eager for success

Anthony Church

Midfielder Anthony Church hailed the battling qualities of his Boston United team-mates after seeing the Pilgrims secure an epic victory over Buxton on Saturday.

Church was instrumental as the Pilgrims dug deep to record an excellent 2-1 win over the Bucks, despite Gareth Davies’ first half red card.

With the Pilgrims set to face FC Halifax Town on Tuesday evening, Church is now eager to see United enjoy more success on home soil at The Jakemans Stadium.

He told bufc.co.uk: “It was a great game to play in. It’s the reason I play football. The red card triggered a fantastic effort from the boys. We were outstanding and threw everything into the game and thankfully got our rewards.

“We showed massive character after being on the wrong end of a bad decision. I personally did not think it was a red card. We worked hard, stuck at it and showed plenty of character and fight.

“We were not deflated by their equaliser and knew we could not settle for a point. We wanted three points, applied ourselves, pushed on and credit goes to every sinlge player.

“Even when they got the equaliser, I was still confident we would score. We need to get on a run and hopefully that started on Saturday.”

Church had missed the fixtures against Sheffield FC, Durham City and Kendal Town following his Boxing Day red card against Stocksbridge Park Steels.

It was a massive relief for the combative star to be back in action against Buxton.

He added: “I love playing football, regardless of where and when. I love everything about the game, so sitting in the stand is so frustrating. It’s great to be back playing and great to be back winning.”

Asked whether he felt the red card on Boxing Day was justified, Church said: “I do have complaints to be honest. There was a bad tackle on me moments beforehand and although I maybe went in two-footed, I won the ball and the other player did not challenge.

“I did feel aggrieved but that is in the past now.”

Tuesday evening’s Challenge Cup tie against Halifax will evoke memories for Church, who reached the final of the knockout competition with Ilkeston Town last season.

The Robins were beaten 3-2, after extra-time, by Guiseley and Church is hoping to go one better this time around.

“We were unfortunate to lose in the cup final last season, so I really want to win the competition this season.

“It’s what I play football for. I want to be successful and win trophies. It’s pointless sitting in a mid-table side every year. I want to be in a team challenging at the top of leagues and challenging to win cups.

“That’s what we are building for and it all starts again on Tuesday night.”