Lincoln City's Sam Szmodics scores a stunning volley in a 2-1 win over Derby County in the Carabao Cup. The Imps will be eager to get off to a good start in the new season, but must overcome fellow Championship side Lincoln who secured the League One title last season.
What happened?
Derby County were dumped out of the Carabao Cup as Lincoln City secured a 2-1 win in the season's curtain raiser this afternoon. Derby attempted to engineer a response as Sam Szmodics saw a shot deflected behind for a corner, but it was Lincoln who looked a threat owed to their sharpness in both physical duels and winning second balls.
Why it matters for Lincoln City
Derby County's loss will be a blow to their chances of getting reinforcements in the transfer market. The Rams will need to add some pace to their squad if they want to compete with the likes of Lincoln City.
What comes next?
Lincoln City will look to build on their win and move up the table in the Championship. They will face a tough test against Derby County again in the second leg of the Carabao Cup, but will be confident after this win.
Derby County's struggles
Derby County's loss will be a blow to their chances of getting off to a good start in the new season. They will need to regroup and refocus if they want to compete with the likes of Lincoln City.
The impact of the win
Lincoln City's win will be a boost to their confidence and will give them a much-needed win in the new season. They will look to build on this win and move up the table in the Championship.
Image Prompt
See a photograph of Derby County's Sam Szmodics celebrating his goal with his teammates in the background, with a stunning volley in mid-air. The image should be taken from a tight action crop, showing Szmodics' face and the ball in focus. The background should be thrown out of focus, with the Derby County players in the background.
