Exeter beaten by league leaders

Unlucky Grecians go ten without a win

It was an even affair in the early stages with neither side having any real chances until a deflection off Lincoln defender Tom Hamer’s knee narrowly missed the target from an Exeter cross in the 12th minute. 

A few moments later Jack Moylan took a snapshot from the edge of the box for the visitors which flew just wide of the target. 

The Grecians grew into the game as the half progressed with Josh Magennis holding up the play well in attacking areas. 

Just before the half hour mark Jack Aitchison had a powerful effort from the edge of the box which was well stopped by George Wickens in the Lincoln goal. 

It was in the 31st minute however that the visitors took the lead through Hamer whose right foot was found from an Adam Reach cross on the left-hand side. 

Moments before the break Lincoln came close again as an in on goal Moylan was promptly stooped in his tracks by an outcoming Joe Whitworth in the City goal. 

Half time: Exeter City 0-1 Lincoln City 

Minutes into the second half Moylan had an opportunity to double the visitors lead but it was blocked on the line by Luca Woodhouse. 

The league leaders continued piling on the pressure as Whitworth was called on by his teammates several times to keep the score at 1-0. 

Magennis came close from a short-range header in the 65th minute as City began to ask questions of the Lincoln backline. 

As the game edged towards its conclusion, Exeter became increasingly frustrated despite controlling large amounts of the possession. 

Five minutes before the end City were inches away from levelling up as Ilmari Niskanens cross found Wareham's flying right boot. 

In the end City were unable to capitalise on their dominance late on leaving them ten games without a win. 

Full time: Exeter City 0-1Lincoln City 

Attendance: 5,042 (398 away)