Michael Skubala reiterated the need for a goalscorer in this month’s transfer window, following Lincoln City’s Vertu Trophy defeat to Bolton Wanderers.
Aaron Collins scored the winner for Wanderers 21 minutes in, as the visitors withstood heavy pressure from City throughout the game to progress to the Quarter Finals.
Skubala said on the performance: “I thought in the first half we were good, we were on the front foot, creating chances, we had attacking threat, we were getting the ball in the ball in the box. We’re just snatching at things, we’re nervous in and around the box and we just need to be calmer.”
Collins’ goal came from an error by goalkeeper Zach Jeacock, who came out of his area to clear the ball and failed to do so.
Despite attempts by Jeacock and Paudie O’Connor to block the first attempt, the ball bounced to Lolos who found Collins in space to score his sixth goal in the Trophy this season.
Skubala said: “It’s tough, isn’t it. Zach’s gone out and he’s stopped when he’s just got to go through the ball and clear it. But, he’s a young keeper.
“Football’s a moments game, and there’re big moments that are hurting us at the minute. He (Zach Jeacock) knows that.”
Lincoln City hunting for experience:
Turning to the search for a striker this month, Skubala stressed the need for an experienced head to lead the line, but recognised how difficult the January window can be.
The Imps’ head coach said: “We needed something similar last year, so we brought Joe Taylor, he’s just gone for £3million to Huddersfield so it shows you what the market is doing at the minute. We need to be patient, do our due diligence so we get it right.
“We’re getting a lot of balls in the box and a lot of box entries, so we’re looking for someone who’s really good in and around the box from open play – there’s no doubt we haven’t scored enough goals from open play.”