Bristol Rovers 2 Lincoln City 1

14th May 2007

Lincoln City FC face an awkward challenge on Thursday evening to progress to the League Two Play-off Final after this defeat on Saturday.

The Imps made the worst possible start when they conceded after just nine minutes of the match, when Craig Disley rose highest to head Richard Lambert's cross past Alan Marriott for 1-0 to Bristol Rovers.

Despite this early setback, Lincoln remained composed and continued to play neat passing football. They gained their reward in the 29th minute when they won a free-kick. The ball was steadied for Jeff Hughes, who provided an excellent cross towards goal. Lee Beevers jumped to flick the ball on but apparently missed, and the ball went straight into the net from Hughes' free-kick.

The remainder of the first half saw chances for both sides in a fairly even contest. However, eight minutes into the second half it became 2-1 to Bristol Rovers when they won a free-kick. The Imps' defence switched off for a second and by then it was too late as Steve Elliott had spotted Richard Walker's drift into space. Elliott's pass went to Walker, who volleyed past Marriott.

Lincoln's answer was to bring on forgotten man Martin Gritton for Mark Stallard in the 62nd minute. Twelve minutes later, Jamie Forrester made way for Junior Mendes. As often has been the case this season, the second half saw The Imps change the style of their play, as they then launched long ball after long ball. Neither Gritton nor Mendes could gather any of the long balls. Instead, Lincoln just played themselves under pressure with this tactic and in the end were fortunate to escape with a one goal deficit.

To qualify after ninety minutes of play on Thursday, Lincoln City must win by at least two clear goals as away goals do not count double under play-off rules. Should Lincoln win the match after ninety minutes by only one goal then thirty minutes of extra time will be played and if necessary, penalty kicks. However, one thing is certain: that Lincoln must drop the Plan B of long ball if they are to progress.

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