The Pilgrims were 2-1 victors over neighbours Boston Town at Tattershall Road - as Ian Culverhouse fielded two different XIs.
Ward emerged at half-time to open his scoring account within eight minutes - before adding his and United’s second goal five minutes later.
Fraser Bayliss reduced the arrears in the 64th minute, but the Pilgrims held on to secure an opening pre-season win.
United (first half): Cameron Gregory, Brad Nicholson, Michael Bostwick, Martin Woods, Kelsey Mooney, Keziah Martin, Sam McLintock, Zak Mills, Sam Essien, Trialist A, Trialist B.
United (second half): Jake Lovelace, Ethan Sephton, Tom Leak, Keaton Ward, Jimmy Knowles, Tom Edge, Jordan Richards, Will Hall, Oliver Wilson, Trialist C, Trialist D.
Referee: Alastair Wilson.
Attendance: 620.
PIC: Tim Hoff.