Max Sanders was buzzing after marking his elevation to the starting line-up with his first goal for the club.
After netting the winning goal in the Imps’ 1-0 victory over Bowers & Pitsea in Emirates FA Cup action at the LNER Stadium, the midfielder says he is happy is hard work is being recognised by his manager Michael Appleton.
“I’ve had injuries, the team has been performing well and there is a lot of choice in midfield,” he said.
“I’ve had to bide my time, work hard on the training pitch and be patient - I think I deserved my opportunity and I hope I get as many opportunities as possible.
“It’s nice to be recognised by the gaffer, I’ve had a few chats with him and he’s been telling me that I’m working hard and he’s seeing everything that I do so it’s kept me motivated to go out and perform when I’ve been given the opportunity.”
Sanders was pleased with the goal, but more satisfied with making the next round.
“The main thing is winning the match and it doesn’t matter whether its 5-0 or 1-0 - If we had scored early it’s probably a different game, but we will take a 1-0,” he said.
“I got into a position just inside the box, it popped up off Ted Bishop’s chest and I just smashed it. I’m buzzing to get my first goal and with it being the winner."
Alongside Max Sanders in returning to the starting line-up was academy graduate Sam Long, who was recalled from his loan with Gainsborough Trinity.
After keeping a clean sheet in his FA Cup debut, Sanders says he was impressed by the performance of the young goalkeeper.
“We all rate Sam really highly. He pulled off a really good save from a free kick and kept it at 0-0 which was huge for us, and his kicking was exceptional as well so buzzing that he came in and kept a clean sheet," added Sanders.
