Lincoln City 1 Torquay 1

Last updated : 03 May 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Lincoln City snatched a last-gasp equaliser to reach the promotion play-offs.

The Red Imps needed just a point, but looked to have missed out after a desperate performance, but just four minutes from time substitute Simon Yeo emerged as the hero with a cracking 25-yard shot.

His effort flew in to the top corner ending his seven-month run without a goal.

It was just enough to keep Lincoln above Oxford setting up a play off semi-final clash with neighbours Scunthorpe.

Torquay, who themselves were in contention for play-off place until a week ago battled hard and perhaps deserved more than a point.

They went in front in the 31st minute when striker Martin Gritton forced his way between City skipper Paul Morgan and keeper Alan Marriott to net his 13th league goal of the season.

Gritton had a second chance two minutes later when he got behind the Lincoln defence, but this time Morgan recovered to make a last-ditch tackle.

Lincoln's Peter Gain tried his luck with a 30-yarder, but Torquay keeper Arjan Van Heusden made an easy save.

Then City's leading scorer, Ben Futcher, saw a header blocked by Gulls defender Reuben Hazell.

Lincoln looked doomed three minutes into the second half when Mark Bailey conceded a penalty after pulling back Gritton.

Alex Russell tried to chip Marriott with the spot-kick, but mishit his effort and the ball went at the keeper who made an easy save.

Yeo was introduced in the 51st minute in place of defender Simon Weaver and gave a boost to the Imps attack.

He had a chance within three minutes of coming on the pitch, but his close-range shot was blocked by Russell.

Moments later Van Heusden fumbled a free-kick inside his six-yard box, but Futcher was crowded out as he tried to find the net.

Yeo had a superb chance to score in the 65th minute, but lifted his shot over the bar from ten yards, before becoming the Imps hero late in the game.