Report: Imps v Long Eaton

City took just one point from the opening game of the season, drawing 1-1 at Active Nation Yarborough.

It was an eventful game to kick off the 2020-21 season featuring two red cards and a debut league goal.

Six players made their competitive Imps debut. Ash Housley-Stott, Mary Cooper, Katie Williams, Ellie Gilliatt and Leah Hardy all started their first league game.

It took just 12 minutes for the visitors to be reduced to ten players. Ellie Gilliatt was through on goal when she was tripped by an aggressive tackle and a red card was shown to the Long Eaton defender.

The team looked rattled and began to play more recklessly. Fouls were abundant from both sides as the game progressed.

The visitors were stubborn in their defence and as a result, the Imps were denied close-range attempts. Just before the end of the first half, Gilliatt took on two defenders and quickly had a shot on target. Lia Kellogg in the Long Eaton goal was having a good game and blocked Gilliatt's attempt.

Half time 0-0.

Long Eaton looked tired going into the second half after playing with ten for over 30 minutes. The Imps managed numerous attempts on goal, despite the wind working against them. Emily Atkinson was acting as great support on the left wing and Gilliatt and Leah Hardy were pushing for a goal.

The stalemate was finally broken in the 75th minute. Gilliatt collected the ball and got one on one with Kellogg and slotted it past the keeper, scoring her first league goal as an Imp.

Shortly after, the visitors levelled with a ball even their players didn't think had crossed the line. The linesman indicated that a strong save from Imps' keeper Amy Halloran had resulted in a goal. Meanwhile, Long Eaton prepared for play to continue, unaware the score was 1-1.

Lincoln increased the tempo as the game came to a close, pressuring the tired Long Eaton side as they were reduced to nine players. A second yellow was awarded to a defender just outside the penalty box.

They played out the game for a draw, sitting back and defending while the Imps continued to push.

Full time 1-1.

Hear from Manager, Richard Cooper: