THEY like history at Lincoln and are justly proud of the Dambusters squadron, who flew from nearby RAF Scampton using the Barnes-Wallis bouncing bomb, to destroy German dams.

The match ball had obviously heard about the bomb because it was scarcely on the surface, bouncing everywhere and it was Lincoln’s dam that broke first.

At the final whistle Forest Green manager Ady Pennock raced on to the pitch and hugged all his players. Had I been able to I would have hugged him. Tactics had been right, selection had been inspired and the determination and character of his team did everyone proud. Lincoln City 1 Forest Green 2! Hooray!

The strong, swirling wind prevented any quality football and the game was never more than scrappy, but at this time of the season it is results that count. The result was not just timely, it was wonderful. 3 points!

There were some surprises. Firstly Ady had picked both James Norwood and Kurtis Guthrie. The latter was outstanding, playing with pace and determination and being the ideal foil for the experienced Jon Parkin. David Pipe played in midfield and gave a combative display being good, not only on the ground, but in the air. His experience was invaluable and his defensive work made matters easier for our excellent back four, who are collectively getting better and better.

Starting vigorously, Rovers were two goals ahead after 14minutes. The first a Frear header was as rare a sight as the chairman wearing a tie. A Dale Bennett cross skidded off the head of Parkin, but despite being the shortest man in the vicinity Frear headed high into the net.

A few minutes later and the speedy Guthrie bore down on the Lincoln goal, where home keeper Farman impeded him illegally. He was quite obviously last defender, but received a yellow card not a red, which I thought were statutory on such occasions. After a long, nervous wait, Parkin blasted home our second goal. He was less successful with the second spot kick.

Despite missing the kick he showed his value to the team throughout, some of his defensive work being strong and decisive.

In the second half Lincoln had the wind behind them and were more of a threat. Goalkeeper Arnold was outstanding. He handled the ball well, catching, punching or tipping over the bar showing both confidence and judgement. He does need a ‘plan B’ for dealing with penalties. Diving early and to his left allows the taker the chance to wait, then shoot into the unguarded net.

Anyone who does not give Rovers full credit for this win should look in the paper. With 11 wins and 33 goals scored Lincoln have one of the best home records in the league. It may have been untidy but it was a fine win.