For supporters of Lincoln City FC, the club’s history is full of memories that stir both pride and passion. Over the years, the Imps have experienced extraordinary highs and hard‑fought successes, from unlikely cup upsets to long‑awaited league triumphs.
Some moments stand out in the history of the club, not always on the pitch, but for how they bring a city together with such passionate fans. Lincoln City is a club that has defied the odds on numerous occasions, whether it be FA Cup upsets or winning at Wembley, there have been many defining moments in the history of The Imps.
2017 FA Cup Shock
One of the most remarkable days in Lincoln City’s history came in February 2017, when they defeated Premier League Burnley 1–0 in the fifth round of the FA Cup. Sean Raggett’s late header at Turf Moor secured a famous victory and made the Imps the first non‑league club in 103 years to reach the quarter‑finals of the competition. The run included wins over Championship sides Brighton and Hove Albion and Ipswich Town, an achievement that captured national headlines as one of the great “giant‑killing” stories of the FA Cup.
2016-17 National League Champions
The 2015-16 season as a whole for Lincoln City was massive and seen as a turning point for the club. After defeating the likes of Brighton and Hove Albion, Burnley, and Ipswich Town in the FA Cup to become the first non-league side to reach the quarter finals, they even went on to clinch the National League title. This secured a return to the Football League after spending 6 seasons outside it, achieved by a squad that was full of confidence and brought a new sense of belief to the fans. The promotion brought joy to fans who had longed to see the club back in league football, and it laid the foundations for further progress in the years that followed.
First Major Cup Glory
In April 2018, Lincoln City achieved a dream by winning their first major cup trophy, the EFL Trophy, at Wembley Stadium. They managed to turn over Shrewsbury Town 1-0 in the final with a goal from Elliott Whitehouse, making it one of the most special days in the history of the club. It was a victory that cemented a recent strong spell that saw some big achievements in the previous few years. It is a trophy that may be small to some, but for Lincoln City and their supporters, it is a day that will not be forgotten for a long time.
Demolition of Manchester City
One of the most talked-about nights at Sincil Bank came on 17 September 1996, when Lincoln City FC produced a stunning performance to beat Manchester City 4‑1 in the first leg of the League Cup second round. Against a side that had played in higher divisions, the Imps took the lead through Terry Fleming and added further goals from Steve Holmes, Gijsbert Bos and Jon Whitney, leaving Uwe Rösler’s Manchester City with only a consolation strike. Nearly 7,600 supporters watched as Lincoln’s spirited display became one of the club’s most iconic cup victories, still fondly remembered by fans today.
Record Victory Over Crewe Alexandra
One of the most impressive results in Lincoln City’s history came in 1931 when The Imps managed to put 11 goals past Crew Alexandra in the league. Bill Graver was the main star of the show, netting 6 goals, topping off what was an exceptional performance from all accounts. Other goals from Green, Whittle, Grummett and trialist George Johnson added to the total, being relatively unlucky not to maintain a clean sheet. It is a scoreline that has rarely been matched in the English Football League, making it a victory that remains one of Lincoln’s most memorable and talked-about results in history.
The Graham Taylor Era
In 1972, former player Graham Taylor took the reins at Lincoln City, becoming the youngest manager in the English Football League at the age of 28, with his influence being massive for the club. His time with the Imps peaked in the 1975/76 Fourth Division campaign, when they managed to smash club and league records, finishing top with 74 points after only losing 4 games and netting 111 goals. Taylor’s connection with the players and the fans, as well as his tactical setup, built a sense of belief around the city and supporters, creating a legacy that is still celebrated today.
Looking Ahead
Lincoln City FC have built a proud and remarkable history, from record‑breaking league seasons and cup upsets to unforgettable promotions and legendary players. It’s a spirit that still lives in the club today, with the Imps performing well in the 2025/26 League One season, pushing for promotion to the Championship. Fans can not only be proud of where they came from, but can also look forward to what the future holds for the club, with manager Michael Skubala potentially orchestrating something special. Alongside modern fan experiences and digital entertainment formats such as Crazy Time Live, the way supporters engage with sport and live events continues to evolve, reflecting broader changes in how audiences follow and interact with entertainment.
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