Pilgrims chasing cup final spot

James Cullingworth

In-form Boston United travel to UniBond Division One North outfit Curzon Ashton on Saturday in the Challenge Cup semi-final.

The match at the Tameside Stadium, kick-off 3.00pm, will decide who progresses into the final of the Challenge Cup against either Retford United or Kendal Town, who meet in the other semi-final at Cannon Park.

Curzon have already won five encounters to reach this stage of the competition, including away wins over Premier Division opposition Marine and Nantwich Town.

The Pilgrims have secured routine home wins over Hucknall Town, Sheffield FC and FC Halifax Town, scoring nine goals in the process.

United will be boosted by the return of midfielder Gareth Davies, who has now completed a three-match suspension, but he will have his work cut out regaining his place after the Pilgrims won all three games during his absence.

The likes of James Cullingworth and Jamie Yates will also be pushing hard for inclusion from the start.

Boston have now won six successive matches for the first time since January 2000 — and will be aiming to record seven consecutive wins in all competitions for the first time since November 1987.

There must be a winner on the day, with extra-time and penalties scheduled, if necessary.

Follow the match via ‘United Live’ matchday updates, with coverage getting under way at 2.00pm.