Promotion-chasing Lincoln clinched a place in the play-offs after a 2-0 win over managerless Chester at Sincil Bank.
The Imps, without a win in seven games, struggled early on and should have gone behind in the 22nd minute.
Scott Kerr brought down Chester’s Chris Holroyd inside the box but Holroyd sent the resulting penalty straight at keeper Alan Marriott.
Lincoln sneaked in front in the 64th minute after Chester defender David Artell slipped inside his own half allowing Jamie Forrester to break away and the striker moved into the box before setting up Mark Stallard for a simple tap-in.
Lincoln always looked vulnerable at the back and Chester’s Simon Yeo should have scored nine minutes from time but completely missed his kick from six yards.
Former Imps striker Yeo then put the ball in the net from close in but his effort was ruled out for offside. before Lincoln put the result beyond doubt in the 90th minute when Forrester scored with a penalty after Chester defender Kevin Sandwith handled.
Player Ratings
John Danby – 7
Given a new contract and sure to remain at City next season. Has had a good season and improved with every game. One of the contenders for player of the season.
Paul Linwood – 6
Has looked a bit shaky at times and his future at the club may well be in doubt depending on who takes over as manager.
David Artell – 6
City’s player of the season. Artell has been big, strong and resolute for the Blues this term and should hopefully be at the club still next year.
Kevin Sandwith – 6
We have not seen the form that Sandwith is capable of this year and that may affect his future at the club.
James Vaughan – 6
One of the trio of main young talent that City supporters will hope to se more of next season.
Sean Hessey – 7
Mr Versatile has probably played in every defensive and midfield position possible this year. His days at City may be numbered.
Dean Bennett – 6
Lacklustre performances and a tendency to pick up niggling injuries may see the former Wrexham man moving on this summer.
Jamie Hand – 6
Arguably the fans scapegoat in the latter stages of the season for his poor passing and lacklustre performances week after week.
Lee Steele – 8
Wright has never played the type of football that Lee Steel thrives on and when given a chance he has had to scrap off long balls. Steele will hope that any new manager coming in will recognise his talents and play to them.
Chris Holroyd – 6
The second of City’s exciting young trio. Holroyd has been given a new improved contract and will hope to push on next season.
Paul Rutherford – 5
The final of City’s young stars and another one hoping to impress further next campaign.
Simon Yeo
Clearly still has the ability to score goals at this level and will probably score more in a forward thinking team. Much depends on who the new manager is for Yeo.
Glenn Cronin
City fans will be desperate to finally see what Cronin is actually capable of next season following a campaign spoiled by injury.
Manager Rating
Simon Davies reverted to the 4-4-2 formation so desired by City’s fans in the final day’s of Wright’s tenure and will be keen to stake his claim for the job on a permanent basis.
