Citys best chance in 20 years?

A footballers footballer - Brimming with confidence and skill.

Saturdays 3-0 win over Oxford finally showed the doubters exactly what Lincoln are capable of. Systematically City took their opponents apart, not giving and inch at the back whilst attacking with pace, vigour and flair. Fans across the county have been talking this Monday about a performance that finally shows City are ready for the step up, perhaps for the first time since 1984-85 which was the last time City were able to hold their own above the basement league.

The manner of the victory certainly raised a few eyebrows. Oxford’s Ramon Diaz, the South American version of Alex Ferguson admitted that his side were well beaten. Diaz has won South American titles with River Plate and played for the very best in Inter Milan, and finally he became the first League Two manager to lose gracefully and honestly at Sincil Bank.

Managers such as Ian Atkins, Brian Laws and Leroy Rosenior have been quick to knock the City game but Keith has always maintained that his side were capable of so much more. In 135 minutes against Mansfield and The ‘U’s City have looked virtually unstoppable. On the pitch all is rosy.

A look back in time sees City sat amongst the forerunners on a few occasions. There’s the last two seasons, 1997/98 season, 1980/81, 82/83 and obviously the 1974 season. The factor that has nearly always held us back is events off the field. John Becks promotion side won elevation to a higher league after Beck left in a boardroom bust up. Gilbert Blades was unceremoniously rejected as City chairman midway through our centenary year after being accused of having no ambition. Even the last two years have been beset with cash cuts and vital players (Bailey and Bimson) being allowed to depart following their rejection of low contracts. Players such as Peter Gain however opted to stay on less money.

6 goals in 4 games - The first to hit 20 a season since Ainsworth?

This time round things are much brighter. Today the club announced Keith Alexander had been given a budget with the aim of ‘League One’ football next season. That means retaining crucial players and rewarding the earlier loyalty. Players like Peter Gain, Paul Morgan and Simon Yeo can be offered more money to reflect their achievements on the field. Keith may even have a little in the bank to find fresh blood to push competition for places.

The playing staff is also stronger this year than before. Finally City have three high quality midfield players, all capable of scoring goals and all battle with true grit and steel. The forwards are scoring relatively freely. Taylor Fletcher is a true ‘footballer’ in every sense of the word whilst Yeo is a 20 goal a season cult hero. Across the back Morgan, McAuley and Futcher form as formidable backline as any other to pull on the City shirts since the days of Sam Ellis and Dennis Booth.


With five winnable games ahead and every else falling into place, can City finally look to achieve their first non relegation finish out of the league basement league since 1985?