Lincoln close in on top three after beating 10-man Accrington

Posted Sunday, December 17, 2017 by PA

Matt Green and Matt Rhead were Lincoln's match-winners for the second week running as the Imps made up ground on the top three with a 2-0 win over 10-man Accrington.

After testing Stanley keeper Aaron Chapman several times, Danny Cowley's side deservedly led at the interval but the opening goal came in controversial fashion.

Green was adjudged to have been fouled by Farrend Rawson as he broke into the box. After pointing to the spot, referee Seb Stockbridge then dismissed Rawson, leaving the visitors incensed.

Green, who opened the scoring in last Saturday's 2-0 win at Yeovil, slotted home the spot-kick to make it 1-0 in first-half added time.

The Imps needed just 12 minutes to double their lead in the second half. There were no question marks over this goal as Neal Eardley's cross found Rhead in space.

The striker, fresh from signing a new contract in the week, then showed great composure to take a touch before slotting beyond Chapman.

Accrington battled gamely with 10 men but never looked like getting back into the game and substitute Nathan Arnold almost made it 3-0 when he fired over late on.