Monday saw the long anticipated kickoff of the JCR Premier Division Season. After three successive promotions, Lincoln’s first taste of top flight action since 2008 was a match-up with St. Catz, who took 3rd spot in the league last year ahead of Cuppers winners Worcester.
Match day dawned to showers of rain, but following the weekend’s clement weather, pitch conditions were good at Lincoln’s sports ground and the game went ahead.
St. Catz started strongly, winning the midfield battle, and captain Harry Whittle’s pace caused problems for Lincoln’s defence. An early penalty, conceded by Lincoln captain Alec Gower, provided an opportunity for Catz to open the scoring.
Ultimately, the strike passed just over the crossbar, triggering audible sounds of relief from the Lincoln players, but the pressure from Catz did not let off and Lincoln keeper Rob Kelly was called into action for a couple of fine stops. It wasn’t long, however, before they had another chance. Several successive corners were desperately scrambled clear by Lincoln, until Whittle converted in the 25th minute.
After the goal, the game opened out somewhat, with Lincoln pushing forward and Catz countering. Lincoln freshers Simon Vart and Fergus Morgan debuted in midfield, with Morgan providing pace down the left flank, and having his very own penalty appeal around the 35th minute. Catz continued to create chances, with more saves from Kelly and a goal line clearance from Lincoln winger Alex West preventing the gap from doubling.
Lincoln had several set piece opportunities, from free kicks, corners and long throws, but failed to convert before the interval. The score at half time stood at 1-0, with both sides very much in contention.
Catz had a dream start to the second half, Whittle slotting a ball through for Joe Davies, who finished in style. Lincoln didn’t let the 2 goal deficit defeat them, and competed fiercely. Sam Townsend and Nathan Riddell linked well in midfield, along with fresher Alex Wilson who replaced West in the 60th minute. Catz midfielder Tom Larkin carried momentum in attack, spreading the Lincoln defence with some neat playmaking, and a solid performance from centre back Chris Rees provided a platform for Catz going forward.
More set piece chances came for Lincoln, yet the Catz defence was equal to them all, and keeper Joe Kidd maintained a clean sheet. Catz can be pleased for sealing a victory to start their campaign, but Lincoln showed that they can compete with the top sides.
A juicy start for what promises to be an exciting year for JCR football.
