Northampton Town 0, Lincoln City 1
City head coach Michael Skubala felt his side showed their battling qualities to secure all three points at Northampton Town.
Tendayi Darikwa's goal late in the first half sealed an important victory for City with players fighting hard to keep a clean sheet and grind out the win.
The right wing-back's first-half strike on 38 minutes sealed a deserved three points as Skubala’s men built on the positive aspects seen in the performances against Birmingham City and Bolton Wanderers.
"We knew it would be a tough game and it wouldn't be a pretty one but you have to be patient and wait for your moments. For the goal we scored, we managed to settle, get the ball out, switch it and get in behind them,” said the Imps’ boss.
Conor McGrandles and Ben House returned to the starting XI as Skubala made those two changes from the midweek Vertu Trophy game against Bolton Wanderers. Zach Jeacock kept his place in goal with George Wickens missing due to a shoulder injury.
Bailey Cadamarteri was absent after picking up an injury, with the Imps waiting for the results of a scan. He has passed the cut-off point where his parent club Sheffield Wednesday can recall him, meaning he will remain in Lincolnshire until the conclusion of the season.
Lincoln did not have it all their own way as the Cobblers piled on the pressure in the second half, but the esolute in defence and limited the home side's chances
"We knew it was going to be a battle of attrition and we'd have to stand up to it, even up to the last moments. I felt the back three were brilliant, and we were resilient and structured.
"We felt if we could keep a clean sheet we'd get that win today, and it was great to get it. I'm just pleased the travelling fans managed to see us get the three points."
Reflecting on the results leading up to the victory at Sixfields Stadium, he said: "It's been small margins. The lads have been frustrated like the fans have been because we want to win like everyone else.
"We know it'll be a tough game against Peterborough at home next Saturday but we want to give our fans something to shout about. There is hard work to do in the week because the aim is to keep improving, but it's three points and we want to kick on now."
Talking about the injury that forced Jack Moylan off midway through the first half, Skubala added: "He went up for a header and looked to land on an ankle. He's rolled it quite badly so we'll see on that, but it could be a bit of time."
Picture: Vaughan Photography
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