Pre-season Fixtures

Lincoln City’s U18 side, known as the Young Imps, will kick off their pre-season campaign with a match against Lincoln United on Friday 10 July. The game will be played at the Sun-Hat Villas and Resorts Stadium, with a 7:45 PM kick-off. Ten days later, the Young Imps will travel to Skegness Town for a second senior-side encounter on Tuesday 21 July, scheduled to start at 7:00 PM.

These fixtures are part of the club’s preparation for the 2026/27 season. By facing established senior teams, the U18 players will gain valuable experience and test themselves against higher-level opposition.

Coach’s Perspective

Head coach Sam Tillen expressed excitement about the two upcoming matches. He highlighted that playing against senior sides will present a different challenge for the players, helping them gauge their progress. Tillen said the games are crucial for assessing the team’s readiness for the competitive season ahead.

Tillen also noted that the Young Imps will engage in several behind-closed-doors matches before the Youth Alliance North campaign begins. These additional games will further ensure the squad is well-prepared for the demands of the league.

Preparing for the Season

The pre-season schedule, including the two senior-side fixtures and the behind-closed-doors matches, is designed to build fitness, sharpen tactical understanding, and foster team cohesion. The Young Imps will use these opportunities to fine-tune their performance and address any areas that need improvement.

With the Youth Alliance North campaign on the horizon, the club’s focus remains on developing the next generation of talent. The combination of competitive matches against senior opposition and controlled training sessions aims to provide a solid foundation for the upcoming season.

The Young Imps’ preparation strategy underscores Lincoln City’s commitment to nurturing young players and ensuring they are ready to step up when needed. The club’s structured approach to pre-season development reflects a long-term vision for success both on and off the pitch.