Lincoln City will hope to halt their worrying descent down the League Two table by claiming their first win in six outings as they host Gillingham on Saturday, April 9th.
Steve Tilson’s side last claimed three points when they defeated his previous employers – Southend United – in a 2-1 win on March 12th. Since then, they have dropped from 15th to 20th position in League Two, with an eight-point cushion over the relegation places, but still four shy of Tilson’s 50-point target.
The Imps chief is likely to restore top scorer Ashley Grimes to the attack after he came through the second half of last week’s ill-fated trip to Torquay unscathed.
Mustapha Carayol is unlikely to feature after being forced off with a tight hamstring just 10 minutes into the match at Plainmoor, meaning Cian Hughton could start for the first time since Saturday, October 16th.
Ali Fuseini is likely to retain his role alongside Josh O’Keefe in the heart of midfield in the absence of Luke Howell, whilst Portsmouth loanee Tom Kilbey could also start.
Unlike their hosts, the Gills are upwardly mobile and have a play-off spot firmly on their agenda. Unbeaten in 14, the Kent side have been quietly solid this term, and have not tasted defeat since January 25th against league leaders Chesterfield.
In Cody McDonald, they possess one League Two’s most potent goal threats, with the Norwich loan star hitting 22 goals so far this season. Former Northampton target man Adebayo Akinfenwa has 10 strikes to his name too, and will need close attention from the Imps back four.
Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler only injury worry is winger Dennis Oli, after the 27-year-old tore a medial knee ligament in a reserve match against Bradford on Tuesday. Andy Barcham is likely to keep his place as a result.
Despite their fortunes this season, the Imps came out on top the last time these two sides met as a Cian Hughton strike was enough to ensure that City left Priestfield with the three points back in August.
Kick off for Saturday’s encounter is 3pm at Sincil Bank.