Mansfield Town vs Lincoln City: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview

Mansfield Town faces a challenging matchup this Saturday as they take on an in-form Lincoln City at the One Call Stadium. Mansfield currently holds the 15th position in the League One standings, five points above the relegation zone. In contrast, Lincoln City stands second, trailing league leaders Cardiff City by just four points.

Match Preview

Mansfield Town has struggled recently, recording no wins in their last six league games. Their latest setback was a 1-0 defeat to Blackpool, a team that had only achieved two victories in their previous nine matches. This defeat followed a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Premier League side Burnley in the FA Cup, leaving manager Nigel Clough expressing disappointment over the recent goal conceded by Blackpool. He emphasized the urgent need for his team to collect points quickly.

Despite their offensive struggles, Mansfield boasts a solid defensive record, allowing only five goals in eight league fixtures. However, they have found the back of the net just three times in their last six league outings, creating concerns about their attacking capabilities.

Lincoln City’s Recent Form

Lincoln City is currently the form team in League One, remaining unbeaten in their last 15 league matches. They recently secured an impressive 4-0 victory against a 10-man Northampton Town, with goals from Ryan One, Jack Moylan, Ivan Varfolomeev, and Rob Street. Manager Michael Skubala praised his team’s “amazing” performance, keeping them on track for promotion to the second tier of English football for the first time in 65 years.

Lincoln City holds an eight-point advantage over third-placed Bolton Wanderers and boasts the joint-best defensive record in the league, having conceded fewer goals than any other team. Historically, they have the upper hand against Mansfield, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters across all competitions.

Team News

• Mansfield Town: Rhys Oates may enter the starting lineup following his goal against Burnley. Baily Cargill is likely unavailable due to injury. Midfielders Louis Reed and Jon Russell are expected to keep their positions, with Oliver Irow and Luke Bolton possibly starting on the wings.
• Lincoln City: Varfolomeev and Street could be reinstated after their bench contributions against Northampton. The regular defensive lineup of Tendayi Darikwa, Tom Hamer, Sonny Bradley, and Adam Reach will likely remain intact in front of goalkeeper George Wickens.

Predicted Lineups

Prediction

Given Lincoln’s form, a result of Mansfield Town 0-2 Lincoln City seems likely. The Imps’ current momentum makes them strong contenders for the three points this Saturday.