Paul Mayo proves that he can still play a role for Boston United

Having made a decent career from chasing fleet-footed wingers, Paul Mayo now spends his time running after criminals.

But for all of the adrenaline rush in tackling villains as a policeman in his hometown of Lincoln, clearly football remains just as intoxicating.

Despite not kicking a ball for two months because of duty, plunging Mayo straight into the heat of a derby might have been considered a risk.

But the former Watford, Lincoln and Gainsborough defender produced an imperious performance proving class is always permanent.

The 31-year-old is determined to make the most of his return having admitted it will only be short term.

"I am only here to help out the manager," he said.

"Graham (Drury) and I go back a long way having played for him at Corby.

"I just said to him that if he needed help then I would be happy to.

"It was nice to be back, although it was not in my normal position of left-back, but left wing. It's not really where I play, but it was an ideal game really because we sat deep.

"It was not about going past people and taking defenders on, but I didn't mind.

"It's not going to be long term because I have a lot of work commitments at the minute.

"I'm pretty much free throughout February and after that it will be twice a month.

"I know Gareth Jelleyman is struggling to play twice a week so if I can help out, I will.

"I really enjoyed it and hopefully I can have a few more games because it still gives me a massive buzz."

Only a goal from Jamie Yates prevented Mayo from tasting derby glory on his return.

The Pilgrims had taken the lead in the first half when Ben Milnes beat Shane Clarke in a challenge before producing a cool finish.

Gainsborough equalised early in the second half when Danny Hone, the former Lincoln defender, raced onto a free-kick to produce a striker's finish.

But despite limited chances, Boston regained the lead when Marc Newsham scored his 24th goal of the season.

But Yates, on as a second-half substitute, returned to haunt his old club with a close-range strike from Josh Wilde's long throw.

Mayo said it was a good point given the Pilgrims went into the game on the back of a 7-1 thumping at Altrincham last Tuesday.

"Having lost so heavily last Tuesday, this was an important game for the players and the fans," he said.

"We had to show our character which we did and I thought it was a good point in the end.

"It was nice to have a hand in one of the goals. It was from the old long throw and I seem to have a made a career out of it.

"It was a pretty even game, although I felt we conceded two sloppy goals.

"But it could have gone either way at the end, but we're happy with the draw.

"It will give us something to build on ahead of the Guiseley game, which will be tough because they are doing well."

Next up

Guiseley (a), Saturday, February 9, 3pm