Lincoln City's Unbeaten Run Ends in Defeat to Middlesbrough
Lincoln City's remarkable 29-game unbeaten streak came to an end on Saturday, August 15, 2026, as Middlesbrough secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory at the Riverside Stadium.
What Happened?
The Imps made a strong start, opening the scoring in the 12th minute through Adam Reach. However, Middlesbrough fought back, with Will Lankshear notching a second-half double to seal the comeback victory.
Why It Matters for Lincoln City
The defeat marks the end of Lincoln City's nine-month unbeaten run, which had seen them win 29 games in all competitions since early December. The Imps' high-intensity start paid off, but they were unable to hold on for the win.
What Comes Next?
Lincoln City will look to bounce back from the defeat, but it will be a tough task ahead. The Imps face a challenging schedule in the coming weeks, with several tough fixtures on the horizon.
The Lincoln side selected for their first Championship match since 1961 bore a far more familiar look, with all 11 starters having been part of the squad that cruised to the League One title last term. The Imps' high-intensity start paid off when they took the lead with a goal involving both of their wing-backs. Captain Tendayi Darikwa was released down the right and his firm delivery across the box was met by Reach, who arrived from the left to rasp a ferocious left-footed shot beyond Vitek from 15 yards out.
Boro tried to summon a response and Leo Castledine and Kante both threatened from distance, while Adilson Malanda then saw a header held by George Wickens. The visitors remained a threat, however, and Dom Jefferies had two opportunities midway through the half. Boro cranked up the pressure towards the interval, with Lankshear threatening on a couple of occasions before Joseph's close-range shot was brilliantly pushed behind by Wickens.
The hosts continued to knock on the door after the break and Lankshear had a shot blocked by Wickens before Morgan Whittaker curled a free-kick just over. Boro levelled in the 62nd minute when Callum Brittain's cross from the right was headed out by Deji Elerewe but only as far as Castledine whose angled drive across goal was diverted home instinctively from six yards out by Lankshear. It looked like the hosts were going to be left frustrated when Lankshear hit the bar in the closing stages. But Boro's new striker provided the game's decisive moment as it entered added time when he turned the ball home at the near post after brilliant work on the right by sub Riley McGree to set him up.
The Imps' run of 29 games undefeated in all competitions since early December was brought to a halt in their first league match since their new joint head coach partnership of Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw stepped up to take the reins following the departure of boss Michael Skubala to Bristol City in May. The defeat marks a tough start to the season for Lincoln City, but they will look to bounce back in the coming weeks.
