The Imps boss has named a fullback four with an average age of just 20 in the EFL trophy clash
Lincoln City’s EFL Trophy match at Mansfield Town couldn’t have gone better, even though Michael Appleton had scripted it himself
A comfortable 3-1 win, a knockout stage berth with a game to spare, the chance to rest a few key men and impressive performances from players who have run out of playing time this season
There was also a goal for new signing Jamie Soule, whose West Bromwich Albion loan transfer was only completed a few hours earlier, meaning Tom Hopper could be left on the bench with the clash. Saturday’s league with Bristol Rovers in mind
Other strikes from Anthony Scully and Theo Archibald faithfully reflected Imps’ total dominance, which only faded in the final 20 minutes – after Stags boss Graham Coughlan completed a triple replacement – with Rollin Menayese bringing back a goal
« Pretty close, » said Appleton « I couldn’t have asked for more We were very young, very inexperienced, with players out of position. We had no choice
« But one thing I’ve said over and over again is that we have a group of games They’ll go on and try anyone »
Harry Anderson, who played at right-back, was the ‘old boss’ at 23 TJ Eyoma (20) and Sean Roughan (17) were center-back, with Tayo Edun (22) at full-back left
« My big worry was whether we would be physically dominated because I knew Mansfield would be direct and hit attackers early, » Appleton added
« I was a little concerned about the [defensive] stunts I’m not trying to be such a smart guy, but I told the staff I thought we had to score a few goals to win the match
« I didn’t see us keep a clean sheet, just because of how I thought Mansfield could be dominant in the turns and free kicks, but they were exceptional »
The way of the performance pointed out that while the team may be a bit light on the numbers, they are well stocked with quality as the players who arrived on the side fit in perfectly
« When they play like this I know if someone gets hurt or suffers from bad form I can place them, » said Appleton
« I don’t need to worry and » ask can he do this or that? « With the sessions we organize in training, everyone should be tuned in for the day »
With Manchester City’s Imps and U21s already assured of a place in the knockout stage ahead of their meeting on November 17, it remains only to decide who will be the group winner, which would mean a home in the last 32
Lincoln is a point behind Man City, who beat Scunthorpe United and Mansfield in 90 minutes
Lincoln City FC, Mansfield Town FC, West Bromwich Albion FC, Jamie Soule, EFL Trophy, Michael Appleton, EFL League One
World News – UK – « Almost enough » – Appleton on City’s 3-1 win at Mansfield
