Lincoln fired up for Coalville challenge

Travelling away to face the league leaders is a daunting enough proposition for any team – but Lincoln will have to do it with their side decimated due to injuries and unavailability.

Lincoln travel to tomorrow's Midlands Two East (North) clash against Coalville attempting to arrest a seven-week run of consecutive defeats.

But Graham Stickler's side's task looks even more difficult after a flick through the list of senior players who will not be making the trip to Leicestershire.

"I think you could say that we have been devastated by players pulling out," said Stickler.

"To say we will not be picking our first team is an understatement. There are some big players who will not be there for us."

Lincoln will be without their skipper James Calveley, who has a weekend of law exams to face. Also out is centre James Kirk who is with the Nottingham Academy this weekend.

"As well as those two players who are not available, we also have injuries to second row Kyle Rolfe and prop Andrew Hill," said Stickler.

"I think if I was a betting man I would have to say it looks very, very difficult for Lincoln tomorrow.

"But we will have guys coming in for those who are not available and they will be keen to prove they're worth their place.

"We have some young lads here who will not be frightened of Coalville and they certainly won't be showing them too much respect."

For more on this story see today's Lincolnshire Echo.