Neil Aspin

Manager Neil Aspin is well aware that this weekend's home clash against Lincoln City will be a tough game for The Valiants, and is calling on his players to play at the top of their game.

The Imps are unbeaten in six league games, and are fresh off a Checkatrade Trophy final win at Wembley, and will be full of confidence ahead of the game at Vale Park.

Heading into the game, Aspin is fully aware of the qualities Lincoln posses. He knows that not only will the team need to perform on the day, but may also need more luck than the side has had in recent weeks, if they want to win the game.

"We know this is a difficult test, anybody who faces Lincoln is going to have a difficult game.

"We know they'll always be up for the game, we know they're going to be disciplined and organised, and they'll fight to the finish.

"We'll have to be at our best, everyone will need to play well, you need them to carry out the job, but equally, we need to get the decisions in our favour."

However, the manager is pleased with how his side has trained this week, despite a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Crawley Town at home last week.

A penalty, and a Nathan Smith own goal meant The Valiants undeservedly came away from the game with nothing, but Aspin insists the result hasn't affected the player's focus ahead of this weekend's fixture.

Aspin praised his side's character throughout the entire season, and says the player's have remained determined, despite this season's form.

"Training isn't an issue, working with the players is not a problem.

"The players always train well, they're always in good spirits, even though it's been a difficult season.

"Even after a defeat, the players have come in, and they're ready to get on with the work."