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Listen to James Hoggarth, Alex Burgess and Steve Torpey on BBC Radio Humberside: Scunthorpe United v Boston United Guide
Football fans across Humberside and beyond are gearing up for an exciting National League clash as Scunthorpe United host Boston United at Glanford Park on Saturday, 14 February 2026, with kick-off at 3pm. For those unable to attend in person, the BBC, a cornerstone of British sports broadcasting, delivers comprehensive audio coverage via BBC Radio Humberside, the BBC Sounds app, and BBC Sport Online. Tune in to hear presenter James Hoggarth at the helm, alongside main commentator Alex Burgess and co-commentator Steve Torpey, who brings his wealth of playing experience to the mic.[1][2]
The BBC's commitment to non-league football shines through in this fixture, offering free access to live commentary that captures every pivotal moment. BBC Radio Humberside has long been the go-to station for Scunthorpe United supporters, providing matchday atmosphere straight from the heart of the region. Whether you're listening on FM, through the BBC Sounds app for on-demand replays, or via BBC Sport Online's audio stream, this coverage ensures no fan misses out. Download the app now to join thousands of listeners for uninterrupted service.[2][3]
Scunthorpe United, sitting proudly in third place with 59 points from 28 games—17 wins, 8 draws, and just 3 defeats—are chasing promotion back to the Football League. Their +20 goal difference underscores a robust attack and solid defence, making Glanford Park a fortress.[1][9] Recent form has been mixed: a narrow 2-3 loss to Carlisle United away on 10 February, but victories like 1-0 over Southend United at home on 7 February show resilience. Key players such as forward C. Roberts with 11 goals in 25 matches and defender M. Carson with 4 assists in 23 appearances will be crucial.[1][3]
In contrast, Boston United languish in 15th with 33 points from 31 outings—8 wins, 9 draws, 14 losses, and a -10 goal difference—but recent results hint at improvement. Wins against Gateshead (1-0) and Sutton United (1-0) in early February demonstrate grit, though draws and losses pepper their record. Standouts include midfielder D. Hill with 3 assists in 29 games.[1][3][9]
Head-to-head encounters between these sides have been tight, with three draws in recent meetings and no outright winner, setting the stage for a tense affair.[4] The match at Glanford Park—also referred to variably as Sands Venue Stadium or Richard Aspinall Stadium in listings—promises drama, especially with Scunthorpe's promotion push against Boston's survival battle.[2][3][6]
Leading the broadcast is presenter James Hoggarth, a familiar voice on BBC Radio Humberside. Hoggarth has built a reputation for his engaging style, hosting numerous Scunthorpe United matches and other local sports events. His career spans years of dedicated regional broadcasting, where he excels at setting the scene and interviewing guests, making listeners feel part of the action. Whether breaking down pre-match build-up or post-game analysis, Hoggarth's professionalism keeps audiences hooked.
Main commentator Alex Burgess takes centre stage for the play-by-play. Burgess, a rising star in sports commentary, has covered extensively for BBC local radio, focusing on non-league and lower-tier football. His sharp observations and passionate delivery have earned praise from fans, particularly for his work on Humberside's football output. With experience spanning multiple seasons, Burgess brings energy that amplifies the excitement at Glanford Park.
Joining him as co-commentator is Steve Torpey, born in 1970, whose playing career adds authentic insight. Torpey enjoyed a distinguished spell at Scunthorpe United from 2001 to 2006, making over 150 appearances and scoring crucial goals, including in their 2004-05 League Two promotion push via playoffs. A versatile forward, he also played for Halifax Town, Lincoln City, and Kidderminster Harriers, amassing hundreds of senior games. Post-retirement, Torpey transitioned into coaching and now punditry, offering tactical analysis drawn from his time under managers like Brian Laws at Scunthorpe. His return to the Glanford Park airwaves will resonate deeply with Iron fans.[1]
For more on Steve Torpey's career, visit his Wikipedia page. Supporters can delve into Scunthorpe United's official site via scunthorpeunited.com for team news and tickets.
The National League, the fifth tier of English football, thrived in the 2025-26 season with competitive standings. Leaders Rochdale boast 70 points from 28 games, while York City trail closely on 68. Scunthorpe's 59 points place them third, level on points with Carlisle United but ahead on goal difference. Forest Green Rovers (58 points) and Boreham Wood (56) complete the top five chase. At the bottom, Aldershot Town struggle on 32 points.[1][9]
| Team | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | GD | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rochdale | 28 | 23 | 1 | 4 | +36 | 70 |
| York City | 30 | 20 | 8 | 2 | +49 | 68 |
| Scunthorpe United | 28 | 17 | 8 | 3 | +20 | 59 |
| Carlisle United | 30 | 18 | 5 | 7 | +17 | 59 |
| Forest Green Rovers | 31 | 16 | 10 | 5 | +20 | 58 |
| Boston United | 31 | 8 | 9 | 14 | -10 | 33 |
Scunthorpe United's home form has been pivotal. Glanford Park, a venue steeped in history since 1866 but redeveloped in the 1980s, holds around 9,000 fans. Recent home wins against Southend and Forest Green highlight their strength there. Manager Rosler—assuming continuity into 2026—instils discipline, with players like Roberts thriving upfront.[3]
Boston United, based at York Street (now The Jakemans Community Stadium), have yo-yoed between leagues. Their predicted lineup includes Rhys Lovett in goal, a 4-4-2 with Matty Carson and Lenell John-Lewis upfront. Recent clean sheets bode well, but away form remains a concern.[4]
Predictions favour Scunthorpe, given their superior record and home advantage. Yet Boston's resilience could yield points. Forebet notes Scunthorpe in 5th (slight variance in standings), but ESPN confirms 3rd.[9][1]
Don't miss build-up on BBC Radio Humberside, where Hoggarth will preview tactics. Post-match, Torpey's analysis will dissect key moments. For National League updates, check the official National League site.
This fixture embodies non-league passion: local derbies fuel rivalries, even over distance. Scunthorpe, relegated from League Two in 2022, eye swift return; Boston, promoted via playoffs in 2024, fight consolidation.
Injury updates closer to kick-off could sway outcomes—Roberts' fitness vital for Iron, John-Lewis for Pilgrims. Weather in February Scunthorpe often windy, testing conditions.[2]
As 3pm nears, settle in with BBC Sounds. Burgess's calls, Torpey's wisdom, Hoggarth's hosting—perfect trio for this National League showdown. Expect goals, drama, promotion intrigue.
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Article generated: 14 February 2026, 14:59 GMT
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