Charlotte Dinsdale’s side secured progression in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup thanks to a 3-2 away victory against Leicester City Ladies in the competition’s third qualifying round.
Captain Becky Kendell bagged herself a brace, with forward Lexie Butterworth also getting on the scoresheet.
The Imps had to come from behind after going a goal down in the opening 10 minutes, but it only took them a minute to restore parity as captain Kendell stepped up to whip a free-kick from more than 25 yards into the top-left corner.
Butterworth then put City in front as she glanced a header past the Leicester keeper before Kendell stepped up to slot home a penalty to give the Imps a two goal cushion.
The hosts pulled one back just before the interval, setting up a tense second half. The Imps showed desire, will, and determination in an excellent defensive display, with goalkeeper Jasmine Ottewell called upon only a limited number of times.
When she was needed she palmed away a powerful strike from inside the box to keep City in front heading into the final stages.
There was still an attacking threat from Dinsdale’s side, as Butterworth and defender Jacee Fells both had efforts cleared off the line.
It was a nervy finish, but the Imps held out to secure their place in the first round’s draw and collect their first win of the campaign.
Head coach Dinsdale said: “The fact that we have won the game is a real good positive for us. It's been a long time coming. I'm really pleased for the girls as it was a really tough game today. Leicester City Ladies did a really good job and gave us a lot to think about.
“It's been a tough road for us, but for the girls that have been here from the start; they just deserve it.”
City’s set pieces were a constant threat throughout, including the first and third goals, both scored by Kendell.
Dinsdale added: “We have done really well from set-plays.
“I’m really pleased for Ken. Last week she missed a penalty, I know she was gutted about that, and it's probably one of very few she has missed in her career, so for her to step up, lead by example, and tuck it away, hopefully it will pick her confidence up.She’s crucial for us and I'm really pleased she has got a couple of goals to highlight that.”