Steve Adamson’s interview with Boro skipper Will Thornton - Part 2

Having just missed out on a play-off place in their first season in National League North (2022-23), followed by two mid-table finishes, there was massive uncertainty ahead of Boro’s 2025-26 campaign, with the club playing in exile in Bridlington, and some bookmakers tipping them as probable relegation candidates.

Thornton admits: “We had no idea how the season would go, with us playing in exile, having a small squad, and facing the prospect of lower crowds in Bridlington.

"I think the main aim for the club was simply to stay in the league, but us players knew we have some very good players and a fantastic team spirit, so we were determined to give a good account of ourselves.”

Two new arrivals in pre-season were giant centre-back Jake Hull, and exciting young striker Rio Allan.

Will was impressed by the contributions of both, adding: “I knew Jake from playing against him when he was on loan at Buxton from Rotherham. He had been on trial at Hartlepool in the summer, but they didn’t sign him, and he came to us.

"It was an absolute pleasure to play alongside him, we worked well together, and I think we formed a great partnership.

"Rio made the huge step up from the NCEL, and seemed to get better as the season progressed. I think he has a very bright future ahead of him.”

After exciting FA Cup runs the previous two seasons, Boro made early exits from the cups this season, with Will missing the FA Cup defeat at Ashton United due to a family event that had been arranged for 18 months, the only match he missed all season.

He said: “It was disappointing not to do well in the cups, but maybe that helped us focus on the league, and we certainly did ourselves proud with some fantastic league wins during the season.

"I think my stand-out memories were scoring the winning goals at home to Oxford City and the last-minute winner at Darlington, while possibly our best team performance was the 4-1 win at Radcliffe, when Ste Walker scored an incredible individual goal.”

The pitch at Bridlington was heavily criticised, and Will admits the players prefer to play on flat, even pitches, saying: “We have some very skilful players like Luca (Colville), Wilesey (Alex Wiles), Purvs (Alex Purver), Lewie (Maloney), Rio (Allan) and Wakka (Ste Walker), who all like to get the ball down and play, and the Brid pitch made that difficult, but we all knuckled down and gave our all in every game.

"Despite the pitch, and lots of injuries throughout the season, I think reaching the play-offs was testament to our fighting qualities and our great team spirit, inspired by the management team.”

Will ended a magnificent season by scooping four trophies - manager’s, player’s and supporter’s Player of Year awards, as well as Clubman of the Year trophy.

He said: “I was so proud and honoured to receive such recognition.

"At the time of receiving the awards, it didn’t really sink in, as we still had one final league game (at Bedford) to play, and were striving to qualify for the play offs, but now the season is over, I can appreciate what a great season it has been for me and the club.

"I loved every minute, and look forward to us getting back home to Scarborough next season, and hopefully achieving further success for our wonderful supporters.”