Ahead of Saturday’s match away at Morecambe in Sky Bet League Two, we asked our members what three things they think The Imps need to do to pick up all three points.
Here’s what Scotimp said:
1. Stop messing around trying to play the ball out from the back.
All too often recently, we have almost conceded idiotic goals by losing possession unnecessarily near our own box. When the goalkeeper kicks the ball, it is on the edge of the opposing eighteen yard box – i.e. in a potentially dangerous attacking position – in around three seconds; when we try to play it out, Eardley is about to pass the ball to Bolger along our own eighteen yard line – i.e. a potentially dangerous defensive position – in the same three seconds. When the opposition is pressing, we get into a pickle. Guess what? Morecambe are a pressing team. If the intention is to tire out the opposition by making them chase the ball, it isn’t working if the number of late goals we are conceding is anything to go by.
2. If the midfield isn’t performing, bypass the midfield.
If our midfielders are struggling, which they have recently, don’t keep giving the ball to them. There is nothing wrong with playing the ball long when the game requires it. We know how effective Ellison can be, and he is playing against his former side. Keep the ball away from him. Put Bostwick back to centre half where he belongs.
3. Consider starting Rhead and Akinde together.
Perhaps linked to the point above, but Morecambe will not be expecting that. Rhead can be very effective as No.10, but he needs the right players around him. Two up front with Rowe buzzing around behind them could be interesting.
And here’s what Impalex said:
1. I believe that we must play two up front and I am going to go for Akinde and Rhead. They played very well together for a lengthy period at Cambridge with Rhead providing the assist for Akinde’s goal. We also need to ensure that the chances for those two to score are created and for that I believe both Andrade (left) and Rowe (right) could do the job, especially as Anderson will not be available yet.
2. I also believe that we need to be a bit more adventurous going forward which means Pett has to start; his forward passes can split any defence. O’Connor would, therefore, be the only defensive-style midfielder on the day, leaving Freck to have a well-earned rest.
3. The defence is now of concern, largely due to (possible) niggling injuries becoming a greater problem. If fit, I would suggest Vickers in goal with a back four of Eardley, Bostwick, Shackell and Toffolo. If one or more of those are not fit, then I have to bow to Danny Cowley’s superior knowledge! In any case, my selection would almost certainly score more goals than Morecambe would; like the old song goes “we’re gonna score one more than you!” = three points, which is all we want!
The Imps Should "Consider starting Rhead and Akinde together.":https://t.co/mkgfgLjP7C#MorecambeFC #Morecambe #ImpsAsOne
— Vital Lincoln City (@VitalLincoln) February 21, 2019
https://www.facebook.com/VitalLincolnCity/posts/2070601092976125
