Goals from Jordan Thomas plus triallists Kieran Helsdown and Jordan Cooke secured a dramatic comeback and a well-earned point at Hartlepool for the young Imps on Thursday.
With seven Under 16's in the starting line up it was a very youthful look to the team, and en early strike from Thomas and Helsdown gave the Imps a great start. The hosts levelled before half-time and came out strongly in the second period forcing a number of corners which put the Imps defence under pressure.
Hartlepool turned this pressure into two quick back-to-back goals but the young Imps - who also introduced two more Under 16's from the bench - showed tremendous courage and resilience and a late flurry of pressure resulted in a fine strike from Cooke to secure a deserved point.
The Imps now look forward to their final Youth Alliance League fixture of the season with the short trip to neighbours Chesterfield on Saturday.