AP Sports Preview

Boston United FC vs. Hartlepool United When: Saturday, April 25, 2026 Where: Jakemans Community Stadium, Boston, England League: National League

BOSTON (Interstat) — Boston United FC hosts Hartlepool United on Saturday in a National League clash that pits two mid-table sides searching for momentum in the final weeks of the season.

The Pilgrims enter the match on a high note after a convincing 3-0 victory at Solihull Moors on April 18. That result ended a four-game winless streak for Boston, which had drawn two and lost one since early April. Manager Ian Culverhouse’s side has shown resilience but inconsistency, with a 6-2 loss at Carlisle United on March 21 still fresh. Their strength has been at home, where they earned a 2-1 win over Yeovil Town on March 14 and a 3-2 victory over Forest Green Rovers on Feb. 24.

Hartlepool United arrives following a 4-3 win at Southend United on Tuesday, a result that snapped a five-match winless run. That stretch included a 7-0 mauling by Wealdstone on March 31 and a 3-0 loss at Boreham Wood on April 11, but also showcased an ability to score in bursts. Manager Kevin Phillips’ squad has been defensively inconsistent, allowing three or more goals in three of their last nine matches.

The teams last met Sept. 3, 2025, in Hartlepool, playing to a 1-1 draw. In that match, Boston struck first before Hartlepool equalized late. The two sides have a history of close contests, with three of the last four meetings decided by a single goal or ending in a draw.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 1-1 draw.

Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. local time.