Lincoln City... In Focus

Will this finally be the year that Lincoln City escape League Two? The Imps have missed out on promotion four years running now under former boss, Keith Alexander.

Schofield...Carrying lots of expectations

Four years of play-off heartache surely must come to an end. With new boss John Schofield in charge Lincoln have occupied a top three space for the majority of the season, but have recently slipped to fourth.

Impressive wins at Swindon, Shrewsbury and Wycombe have given the Imps confidence for the run into Christmas. No side in the division has won as many games on their travels as Lincoln. Coupling that with decent home form, it's no surprise to see the Imps fighting at the top end of the table.

Last season's problem was drawing too many games. The Imps were held an amazing twenty-one times last term compared to only twice this year showing that work has been done by the new boss to help Lincoln close out games.

New striker Mark Stallard and Jamie Forrester have paired up well so far, both collecting League 'Player of the Month' accolades on their paths to claiming a healthy twenty-four goal partnership in all competitions.

Other new players have also mad the difference this year. New centre-back Aide Moses looks to have formed an impressive partnership with Captain Paul Morgan to fill the boots of departing Gareth McCauley. Versatile Nicky Eaden and attacking midfielder Ryan Amoo have also settled in well to Schofield's new regime.

Young midfield talent Lee Frecklington has boosted City's promotion push signing a two year extension to his Sincil Bank contract. The home-grown ace has only missed a handful of games as Lincoln put themselves into a strong league position.

The Imps are also the leading league scorers; things look bright for Lincoln, who will be looking to avoid their play-off curse this time around.

Manager: John Schofield

League position (on December 19th 2006): 4th

Forrester...What a season!

Top goalscorer: Jamie Forrester with 14

Goals Scored: 43

Goals Conceded: 28

Player of the season so far: Jamie Forrester. Goals: 14. Assists: 9. Say no more.

Against Notts: A 1-1 draw for Notts at the Bank on the opening day of the season. The return fixture arranged for Saturday 3 February.

Drapes Prediction: Another agonising play-off failure? Find out who Drapes tips to win the Playoffs later. 6th.