The Imps’ manager Michael Appleton was delighted to see his side come from behind at LNER Stadium this afternoon to defeat Peterborough United.
After conceding the opening goal, Michael challenged his players to fightback at half time to go and get three points against Darren Ferguson’s side in the second half and he says it’s an indication of the growing belief in the building.
“I used the word character, quite a bit on Sunday which was needed to win the game against Ipswich but the one test we hadn’t passed, which I said to the players yesterday was going behind then winning the game and I reminded them of that at half time.
“I felt we were more than good value of being in the game at half time and should have been at least level but the performance and discipline in the second half was more than enough to take the three points.”
Michael said that there were some honest words spoken in the dressing room following the goal which had allowed the visitors to take the lead, but it showed the responsible nature amongst the players who always want the best.
“We have an honest group, and we are honest with each other and we challenge each other. That was one thing but for me, the thing I concentrate on is that the second half performance both against eleven men and then ten men was very good.”
Ahead of the second half, Jack Payne was introduced for Michael O’Connor in midfield and although it was a tough decision it was one of those that had to be made.
“I had to make a bit of a switch at half time, it was tactical and we needed to win the game. There’s no point of just trying to stay in the game, we wanted to win it. I felt Jorge, with his ability on the ball would give us something a little different to Michael. Michael has been great for us and was fine in the first half but sometimes you just have to make those decisions.”
Jorge Grant of course curled home the winning goal in the last minute of the game, and the City boss wasn’t surprised to see it ripple the net.
“It’s the last minute of the game, you almost know if you put it in the net you’re going to win the game. So, your concentration levels are absolutely spot on and it was great technique. As soon as it left his foot I knew it was going in and I think all the bench did, you could see that with the celebrations.”
Michael left the final word to the supporters after 10,000 fans packed into LNER Stadium for the second game in a row.
“The crowd were outstanding, sometimes you feel that the ball is going to be sucked into the goal you can’t underestimate how powerful that is.”
City’s next game is on the road at Sunderland on Saturday and there are limited tickets left for Imps’ supporters. To get yours click visit the Lincoln City Eventbrite page - HERE.