Michael Appleton praised the professionalism of his side after they booked their place in the second round of the Emirates FA Cup.
The Imps will be ball No.38 in Monday evening's draw having edged past a determined Bowers & Pitsea side who got men behind the ball and defended in numbers.
Appleton said: “We knew we were going to be camped in their half but we took too many touches of the ball, our quality prevailed in the second half.
“I've been in their position as massive underdogs, I know how difficult it can be and how difficult it can be to break down a group of players who are determined, defend really deep and make it hard for you to play against."
Appleton was impressed by the application of the visitors from the Isthmian League, who did themselves proud having achieved their greatest FA Cup run to date.
Appleton added: “They put their bodies on the line, defended manfully and their keeper had an excellent game.
“They’ve played five or six games to get to this stage - it was their cup final and it looked that way. I’m sure they’ve had a good weekend and I'm sure that will continue and we wish them all the best for the rest of the season.”
