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Michael O’Connor was delighted to get on the scoresheet in Lincoln’s opening day fixture against Accrington Stanley, after scoring City's Sky Bet League One opener on Saturday.

The Imps picked up their first set of three points for the season thanks to goals from O’Connor and John Akinde.

The Northern Irish midfielder explained how it was important for City to get the goal before half time if they wanted to control the game: “I thought it was a good first day performance, the clean sheet was massive for us, especially being at home and the first half goal was important.

“When John scored the second goal we were comfortable to see the game out for the last ten minutes.”

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Mickey went on to praise his teammates for their performances on Saturday discussing the talent in Lincoln’s squad this season following an active transfer window.

“I think it is a good squad, look at Jack Payne he has won promotions to the Premier League and we have Jorge Grant who is an outstanding player. With no offence to last season’s side I think this year we have a much stronger squad and I know the gaffer wants to add a few more for depth. 

“We have some top players, in fact we have some boys who are Championship players. Payney (Jack Payne) is unbelievable on and off the ball, Tyler (Walker) had a number of chances but their goalkeeper made some amazing stops.

 “Joe (Morrell) is only small but he played really well and Jorge (Grant) has also showed his quality. The league is a big jump but we have a lot of quality in a small squad but it is a good start for us and great to get off the mark ahead of a tough game next week.”

O’Connor finished by speaking about his opening goal explaining how he had scored a similar one in training during the week.

“On Wednesday, the gaffer pulled me aside and asked for 60 minutes from me, I said I’d give it a go but today I lasted over 70 so I was happy with that,” said the midfielder.

“I’m feeling good now though and I was ready to go for the first game of the season. I felt great in training and I wanted to play on the opening day.

“I also scored in training in the week which was similar to Saturday’s goal but it was great to score and especially the first goal back in League One with the club."

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