Boston United victory dedicated to recovering Paul Holden

GRAHAM Drury dedicated his first victory as Boston United boss to convalescing number two Paul Holden.

The Pilgrims' assistant manager suffered a heart attack on Christmas Day, but is on the mend and was discharged from hospital over the weekend.

"Those three points are for Paul," said Drury following Boston's 3-1 victory over Oxford City on Saturday.

"Obviously the players don't know Paul like I do, but I know he'll be jumping up and down in his chair after this result."

Lawn Mowing

BCS Ltd Turf

View details

Print voucher

bcs

Contact: 01522 705130

Valid until: Saturday, June 29 2013

Drury recounted how Holden – who is a physical training instructor in the army – survived after falling ill at his home.

"He was at home on his own," said Drury.

"He was lighting the fire after doing a bit of house cleaning apparently.

"He went to light the fire and just collapsed.

"He's only just moved into the house but didn't have a landline and couldn't get a signal on his mobile.

"So, and maybe this is where his army training came in, he had to get to his car to get out of the village so he could get a signal.

"It's remarkable he's still here because he passed away twice in the ambulance.

"After all that and having had a major operation, he still rang me on Boxing Day morning to see if we had the set-plays sorted because he had the notes in his car.

"That's the man for you. He's organised and he's passionate about football.

"He lives and breathes the game, just like me.

"It's been sad to not have him alongside me, but I'm sure he'll be back in a few weeks."

In Holden's absence, Drury has been supported by first-team coach Dean West and head of youth Steve Welsh.