coresportgib- Issue 5 05 | Page 47

CoreSportgib 4th February 2016 mistimed a high cross from the right leaving Argentinian striker Abayian to push the ball into an empty net with his outstretched leg. Just minutes later, and just before the stroke of half time, Cabreras broke free down the right to strike the ball hard past Macedo with a low drive to the far post. Lincoln had kept the style of football simple but with great effect. Missing once again Liam Walker, who is claimed not to have renewed his contract with Lincoln with Europa very much interested in the player, Lincolns midfield play was a simple open up space tactic and run with the ball, than keeping posession and creative midfield play. The second half started much the same way as it ended. With Manchester with few real option to turn the game around, as even JP Duarte was missing from the bench due to work commitments. With the rain now beginning to fall Manchester problems continued as Lincoln did not hesitate for one moment to continue the onslaught. With their typical frontline, high pressure tactics attempting to steal balls up front, and their deep cross to the flanks, with quick changes of flank through long ball across the danger areas, it was not long that Manchester's defence soon succumbed. Chipolina, who had been lucky not to be send off for a second bookable offence at half time, stole the ball in midfield and run with it across the edge of the penalty area looking for a gap in Manchester's defence. On finding it he let loose a low drive, which saw a static Macedo watch it bounce off his post and into goal. As Lincoln celebrated the weather came to Manchester's rescue. Unable to stop the runs down the flank, it was only with the aid of a sudden downpour which left the pitch waterlogged that Manchester found a way to stop the ball. The downpour even made the Brazilian contingent, believed to be the new investors in Angels and their new players, scurry to cover such was its intensity through parts of the match. As players struggled to keep the ball moving, with the water slowing it down, Manchester were able to defend against a tiring Lincoln. The most excitement during this part of the match came when a Lincoln player collided with the linesman, sending him sprawling to the ground on his back to the amusement of the small crowd. The ninety minute whistle came with no celebrations, the players instead run for the changing rooms to get away from the pouring rain with the small crowd scurrying for their cars. click here to see full gallery collection in our website