Callum Bates – or @designerb8sy as you may know him from Twitter – is the latest Pilgrims fan to recap the 21/22 season for Trail Of Dead, although if you’re here to find out what his asbolute favourite goal of the season was you may well be disappointed. Callum is of course currently in the middle of writing a book – Tales of a Pilgrim – and if you want to get involved with that project, you can find out more and contribute HERE.
My favourite moment of the season was…
We had to wait a long time for it, but Kidderminster away in the play-offs has to be it. We didn’t expect to be there, nor did we think we’d actually beat them! What made this day special for me was my two mates returning after our previously bad form had put them off – I can’t blame them. Knocking work on the head early to eat in Ellenders before setting off, the incredible atmosphere we created and the journey home. It was the perfect away day.
My player of the season was…
I think Shane Byrne has been the most consistent throughout. His class really has shone through even during the darker times this season. He always seems to have time for the fans and comes across great in his interviews. He’s a real asset to the club.
My goal of the season was…
I’m terrible for remembering goals! Sorry. I know we had a couple of last gasp equalisers/winners in front of the town end when it went mental – one of them!
My favourite away trip of the season was…
Having already mentioned Kidderminster, Fylde was another great trip. Apart from the obvious atmosphere and result I had such a laugh that day. Being on Mick’s bus was entertaining to say the least. The amount of food flying about would make those on the Orient Express a little bit jealous. Plus, having the chance to speak to people you’ve always seen at home games but never spoken to before was great. Oh, and the pub before the game – old school! Had that musky smell, like stepping back in time to a proper working mans’ pub. Again, the atmosphere we created there was special.
I really wish I hadn’t bothered going to…
There were a few home games I questioned why I bother. But, I guess it really doesn’t matter as I’ll always be there.
I think our first proper season at the JCS was…
Overall a success. We all expected a few teething problems and I think over the course of the season they’re being ironed out. David has been very receptive to the feedback and has done his best to make it work. I’ve loved the new match day experience of getting in Ellenders pre-match. There feels a definite buzz around the club, regardless of what happens on the pitch, everyone seems to be buying into the bigger project.
If I could retract one furiously held opinion I had during the season, it’d be…
When Bazza got sent from the dugout for Kettering. From where I stood, it looked very harsh. I felt sorry for him, even tweeting him later that evening. However, when I saw the footage back I have to say he deserved his red as his red mist descended. Still love him though!
If we’re going to get promoted next season, Paul Cox has to…
Really make his stamp on the team. Always hard coming in halfway through a season, not only managing the players but the toxic atmosphere that had engulfed the club in a short space of time. I feel we’ve turned a corner and if he continues on this path of bringing the club together after a tough season, we’ll be alright.
If Boston United could improve one thing off the field next season, it’d be…
The continuation of involving the fans, bridging the gap and making the club feel more like a community. It’s getting better, the events such as the BUSA Hall of Fame night was superb. I left feeling overwhelmed as I couldn’t believe this was my club, the facilities are fantastic – we really need to make the most of them!
My realistic hope for 2022/2023 is…
Of course we all want promotion, that’s a given every year. I would love to see the remainder of the ground completed. I realise given the current situation in the world might mean this isn’t achievable for a while longer yet but we can hope.
Other 2021/2022 recaps
