City battled hard but ultimately were defeated against Shrewsbury Town at Croud Meadow on Boxing Day.
Shrewsbury took the lead in the first 10 minutes after a short corner was worked to Morgan Feeney who placed his shot under George Wickens.
From that point the Imps enjoyed most of the possession - they had the ball for more than 70% of the match - but ultimately were unable to find a way past Shrews goalkeeper Jamal Blackman.
A City corner caused issues as Bailey Cadamarteri pulled the ball back across goal but no one could finish the move.
Jovon Makama fired an effort towards goal but it was blocked well by the hosts.
Sean Roughan’s long throw found Reeco Hackett but his half volley was caught by Jamal Blackman.
Dom Jefferies had an effort saved after a brilliant outside of the boot cross from the left by Roughan.
Cadamarteri flashed his headed effort wide after a delivery into the box from Hackett. City’s number nine then took on a long range strike but fired over.
Wickens made a great near post save after Mal Penning found himself through on goal.
Cadamarteri headed over after a curling cross from Roughan.
Roughan’s ball from the right caused problems as Blackman was forced to tip over a header from his own man.
Freddie Draper’s effort was saved by Blackman after a cross came in from the right.
Shrewsbury were awarded a penalty late on but it John Marquis’ spot-kick saved by Wickens.
Shrews: Blackman, Hoole, Benning, M. Feeney, J. Feeney, Lloyd (Marquis 71’), Perry (Ojo 46’), Pierre, Bloxham (Gilead 77’), Castledine, Shipley. Subs (not used): Savin, Rossiter, Kayode, O’Reilly.
City: Wickens, Darikwa, Erhahon, Hackett, Cadamarteri (Draper 72’), McGrandles (Bayliss 62’) , O’Connor, Jefferies (Duffy 65’), House (Street 72’), Roughan, Makama (Moylan 62’). Subs (not used): Pardington, Hamilton.
Referee: Declan Bourne
Attendance: 6369 (415 away)