Lincoln City head to Watford on Tuesday, looking to respond to Saturday’s 3-1 defeat against Birmingham City.
The hosts also have a setback to put behind them, having surrendered a two-goal lead in a 3-2 defeat at Norwich City.
The Stacey West fans panel brings together our Patreon supporters to share their opinions on the Imps. Ahead of the trip to Vicarage Road, Paul Allison, Jo Bigger and Karl Mercer offer their thoughts and predictions.
Paul Allison
“It’s great to be visiting Vicarage Road. Despite a ridiculous turnover in managers in the last decade, Watford have spent almost all their time since 1979 in the top two divisions of English football, their rise ironically kick-started by manager Graham Taylor joining from the Imps.
“I’m expecting to see some rotation for City up front and perhaps in the middle, pending fitness news on Conor McGrandles. Watford have had only one clean sheet to date and struggled in front of goal this season, netting only 12 times. They play a direct, aggressive game, so I’m not expecting a classic, but hopefully the Imps will have enough quality to grab a vital 1-0 victory in a close game.”
Jo Bigger
“Will Alessio Dionisi be the third Championship manager to be sacked this season after playing Lincoln? Perhaps, if we win!
“We will want a result after the Birmingham game. Watford could be a good opportunity for this, bearing in mind the turmoil they are in, exacerbated by them losing 3-2 at Carrow Road after being 2-0 up.
“We have proven to be effective and resilient on the road. An aggressive start (I fancy Freddie Draper to start), with an early Imps goal, could turn the crowd, something we could capitalise on. My prediction is Watford 1 Lincoln City 2.”
Karl Mercer
“A trip to Vicarage Road with two passengers for company will definitely stop me from getting restless on the journey south. I thought Mr Lewis might have sent an apology by now, but sorry seems to be the hardest word for referees!
“I’m hoping the Imps don’t go breaking my heart on Tuesday, although I’ve a feeling Mikkel is going to turn into our very own rocket man with his lethal right foot. Watford are there for the taking, it’s written in the stars.
“My prediction: Watford 0 Lincoln City 3. Side bet: who’s going to be the one to chew their Fruit Pastille first, Gary or Dave?”
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