Lincoln City have done it. In a season that will be etched into Sincil Bank folklore forever, the Imps have officially secured promotion to the Sky Bet Championship. A dramatic 2-1 victory over Reading on Easter Monday was the final piece of the puzzle, confirming Lincoln’s return to the second tier of English football for the first time since 1961.
It has been a staggering 65 years of waiting, dreaming, and a few close heartbreaks, but Michael Skubala’s men have finally broken the glass ceiling.
Easter Monday Drama
Going into the clash at Reading, the math was simple: a single point would guarantee promotion. But these Imps don’t do things by halves. They started like a house on fire, with Ryan Oné—who has been a revelation since his January loan move—flicking a header into the bottom corner just five minutes in.
The nerves started to jangle in the second half when Lewis Wing pulled one back for Reading with a stunning free-kick. For a moment, it looked like the party might have to wait. But this team has “diligent” written into its DNA. In the 88th minute, Jack Moylan found a yard of space and smashed the ball home, sparking absolute scenes in the away end.
The Stats of a Record-Breaking Season
This wasn’t just a lucky run; it was a total takeover of League One. Lincoln are currently sitting on a 24-game unbeaten streak, a run of form that has left the rest of the league in the dust.
• Points: 90 (and counting)
• Wins: 27
• Goal Difference: +42
• Defense: Only 35 goals conceded in 41 games.
With a 19-point gap over third-placed Bradford City, the automatic promotion spot is mathematically locked down. Now, the focus shifts to the silverware. With a 12-point lead over Cardiff City, the League One title is within touching distance.
Skubala’s Masterclass
You have to give it up for Michael Skubala. He has taken a squad built on resilience and turned them into a tactical machine. The blend of youth—like 19-year-old Oné—and experienced heads like Tendayi Darikwa has been the perfect recipe.
For the fans who have followed this club through the National League and the doldrums of the bottom tier, this is more than just a promotion. It’s a resurrection. The “Imps” are back where they belong, and the Championship better get ready.
