BOSTON TOWN manager Martyn Lakin refused to be drawn on the importance of his team's 100 per cent pre-season record and insisted "points on the board" is all he is focused on.

The Poachers have notched up four wins from four friendlies so far this summer, scoring eight goals and failing to concede in the process,

writes Beren Cross.

But despite being encouraged by his team's displays, Lakin has placed all focus on the new season and the pursuit of points in the United Counties League Premier Division.

"I have been encouraged by what I've seen in the friendlies but at the moment it's all about points on the board for us when August 7 arrives," said the former Bourne Town manager.

"The friendlies have been good run-outs for us and have proved useful in telling us where we are as a team. Each game has given us an opportunity to determine the mix of players we have, as well as an opportunity for some of the new players to stake their claim for a place in the starting XI."

Lakin has used the club's pre-season friendlies as opportunities to showcase his eight new summer signings, although it is ex-professionals Gary Bull and Matt Hocking who have caught the manager's eye especially.

Although it is likely that Hocking will be absent for Town's opening fixture at home to Irchester United on August 7, Paul Goodhand (pictured) should recover from an ankle injury in time for the new season.

"Gary Bull, our captain, has looked very fit and appears to have a string appetitie for success this season. He's been a stand-out player for us in these friendlies," explained Lakin.

"Matt Hocking has looked steady for us, which is what we have come to expect from an ex-professional.

"However, I think it looks as though he will miss the first month of the season because he is away coaching in America.

"But Paul Goodhand should be fit and ready if not for the first match of the season then the week after following his turned ankle in pre-season."

The Poachers entertained Bedford Town from the Zamaretto Premier League on Saturday and clinched a 1-0 victory.

Town carved out early chances that saw the ball cleared off the line as they dominated the early stages. The visitors failed to breach the Boston back line despite a period of pressure midway through the first half. Town took the lead with Ollie Pinner's bullet header from a Lewis Brooks corner on 22 minutes.

POACHERS: Doughty, Thompson, Matt Hocking, Stainsfield, Foster, Pinner, Brooks, Beck, Bull, Nimmo, Jackson. Subs: Orrey, Baker, Lambley, Lovas, Schiavi, Carr

On Saturday (July 31, 3pm) Town entertain Wyberton FC in their final pre-season game.