Boston United sack Graham Coughlan amid National League survival fight

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Boston United have sacked first-team manager Graham Coughlan following Saturday evening’s goalless draw away at Braintree Town.

The result proved to be the 51-year-old’s final match in charge, bringing an end to a spell of 418 days – just over a year – at the helm of the Pilgrims.

Coughlan departs with the club sitting just above the relegation zone and without a win in their last five league matches.

He led Boston to survival with a memorable great escape in the previous campaign, clawing the Pilgrims back from a position that many had condemned them to relegation, preserving their National League status.

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Remembered fondly

However, the board have opted against waiting to see whether he could repeat that feat this season and secure safety once more.

A statement from the club announced: “Boston United have parted company with first team manager Graham Coughlan.

“The 51-year-old leaves his post following Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Braintree Town, with the Pilgrims four places and three points clear of the relegation positions ahead of their encounter at FC Halifax Town next Saturday.

“Coughlan will be fondly remembered for masterminding the Pilgrims’ great escape from relegation in 2024-2025, which saw United overturn a double digits point deficit to stay up, with 10 victories across March and April sealing a remarkable turnaround.

“Coughlan collected the March manager of the month award after taking 20 points from nine matches.”

Tough

The statement continued: “The club extend their thanks and best wishes to Graham, whose contribution to a stunning survival effort in 2025 will never be forgotten.

“There will be no further comment at this stage – as the club formulate their new management team.”

Boston face a tough run of games, with play-off chasing Halifax and Southend United up next before ending January with a trip to title-fighting Boreham Wood.

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