ALDERSHOT TN 1, LINCOLN CITY 2

TWO soft goals gifted the cunning Imps all three points on a night when Aldershot were reminded that pragmatism is as important as inspiration in the National League.

Although only a first defeat in seven games, last Wednesday’s loss left the Shots feeling like they had been mugged as Lincoln’s strength and organisation, allied to their occasional proficiency in football’s darker arts, won the day.

“We played some good stuff, but we can’t keep conceding goals the way we are,” said manager Barry Smith, whose squad struggled to overcome illness, injury and suspension.

“It’s mistakes that we know can be corrected, but I’m disappointed for the boys because they put a lot into the game and should have got more out of it. Without saying it’s a good performance, because we got beat, there’s a lot (of good) to look at. But it’s about minimising mistakes.”

A 38th-minute corner was nodded goalwards by Luke Waterfall and, via Tom Richards’ clearance on the line, Kyle Wootton fired an angled shot in off the post at the second attempt to put Lincoln in front.

New loan signing Dipo Akinyemi made a lively debut for Aldershot and was rewarded with a fine equaliser on 65 minutes when he headed home deftly from Dan Walker’s cross.

However, the Shots were again left to rue their profligacy.

Having dragged themselves level, they should have held on for at least a point, but, on 79 minutes, Jack Muldoon’s speculative 25-yard shot deflected off Jack Saville and rolled past a wrong-footed Phil Smith, who appeared to have the original effort covered.

It was a harsh lesson for Aldershot, but perhaps a necessary one.

Aldershot: Smith; Alexander, Beckles, Saville (Hatton 90), McGinty; D Walker, Stevenson (Oliver 83), Lathrope, Richards; Akinyemi, C Walker. Subs (not used): Thomas, Barker.

Lincoln: Grant, Beevers, Waterfall, Wood, Tempest, Howe, Muldoon (Hawkridge 87), Stanley (Everington 81), Sparrow, Rhead, Wootton (Hearn 77). Subs (not used): Bush, Walton. Booked: Wood, Sparrow.

Referee: Alan Young.

Attendance: 1,367 (154 away).