Boston United have confirmed that they have parted company with first-team manager Graham Coughlan following Saturday’s 0-0 draw away at Braintree Town.
The decision comes a day after they were involved in a tepid 0-0 draw with Braintree in front of the TV cameras. It brings an end to Coughlan’s spell at the Jakemans Community Stadium with the Pilgrims currently sitting four places and three points clear of the National League relegation zone. His final match in charge came at Cressing Road, with United now preparing for a trip to FC Halifax Town next Saturday under interim arrangements.
Coughlan departs with his reputation at Boston firmly shaped by one of the most remarkable survival stories in the club’s recent history. Appointed in November 2024 with the Pilgrims 23rd in the table and seven points adrift of safety, the 51-year-old oversaw a dramatic turnaround during the 2024-25 campaign. What followed was a run that will be fondly remembered by supporters, as United overturned a double-digit points deficit to preserve their National League status.
That escape was powered by an extraordinary spring run, with ten victories across March and April transforming Boston’s prospects. Coughlan was named National League Manager of the Month for March 2025 after taking 20 points from nine matches, a sequence that ultimately dragged the Pilgrims clear of danger. Safety was secured in the penultimate game of the season, an achievement the manager himself described at the time as “a miracle”.
Club Statement – Graham Coughlan: Boston United have parted company with first team manager Graham Coughlan… https://t.co/L20ZOVjcUs
— Boston United (@bostonunited) January 11, 2026
In a short club statement, Boston United confirmed there would be no further comment at this stage while plans are put in place for a new management team. The club also extended their thanks and best wishes to Coughlan, noting that his contribution to the 2025 survival effort will never be forgotten.
Coughlan arrived at Boston with extensive EFL experience already behind him. He first stepped into management with Bristol Rovers, initially as a defensive coach before taking over as caretaker manager in December 2018 and then being appointed permanently the following month. He stabilised Rovers in League One and guided them away from relegation danger, before later moving on to Mansfield Town in December 2019. His time at Field Mill ended in October 2020 after a difficult start to the season.
Subsequent roles followed with Sheffield United U23 and later Newport County, where he spent just under two seasons in League Two. Newport reached the fourth round of the FA Cup during his tenure, including a high-profile defeat to Manchester United, before Coughlan departed by mutual consent in June 2024.
His appointment at Boston United later that year proved to be one of the most significant chapters of his managerial career. While his time in charge has now come to an end, his role in one of the great escapes in Boston United’s history ensures he leaves with lasting credit in the town.