Freddie Draper scored the only goal as Lincoln City secured a 1-0 away win against Bristol City on Tuesday evening. The victory moves Chris Cohen's side up to 16th place in the Championship, now on eight points from their opening six matches.
Draper struck in the 53rd minute, finishing off a move created by Ben House. It was the striker's second goal in as many games, following his winner against Preston North End last weekend. The Imps defended resolutely thereafter to see out a result built on a clinical edge, despite being out-possessed 67% to 33% and facing 18 shots from the hosts.
A disciplined defensive effort
Lincoln set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation and had to absorb significant pressure from the start. Goalkeeper George Wickens made four saves, while the back three of Deji Elerewe, Sean Bradley and Ryley Towler were kept busy. The visitors' discipline was tested, resulting in five yellow cards, including one for Draper just before half-time and another for Wickens for time-wasting in the second period.
Ben House received an early booking for a foul in the 14th minute. Bristol City's best chances came from their 13 corners, but they managed only four shots on target. Lincoln's own threat was more direct, registering three efforts on target from nine attempts.
Chris Cohen made his first change just after the hour mark, bringing on Reeco Hackett-Fairchild for Chiedozie Ogbene. Draper and Adam Reach were then replaced by Robert Nicholas Street and Daniel Oyegoke in a double substitution after 71 minutes. The result extends Lincoln's recent form to two wins and a draw from their last three league outings.
With key players like Tom Hamer and Tendayi Darikwa still sidelined, the squad depth was utilised. The team now turns its attention to a home fixture against Swansea City this Saturday. A look at the standings shows the Imps are now six points off the top of the table.
