More than 8,000 fans soaked up the big match atmosphere as the 2022/23 season got underway at the LNER Stadium.
The University of Lincoln Fan Village welcomed supporters of both clubs before the match, with activities around the ground put on by Lincoln City Foundation.
This included free football coaching sessions on the 3G pitch, an inflatable football challenge in the Fan Village and indoor activities in Poacher's Den.
As we do at every home game, we invited young supporters to help us with key matchday task. Harley Grantham and Lotte Scaman helped the groundstaff prepare for the game by painting the penalty spot, while nine-year-old Fraser joined PA announcer Alan Long to read the teams out.
There were a number of fans attending a game for the first time, with six-year-old alby pictured with their dad Martin, 11-year-old Jack and nine-year-old Jaylen, and Emme-Mai, Avaleigh, Natalie and Bradley were were all enjoying their first Imps experience.
Our regular moment of magic saw young supporters Jake Pickwell, Harry Dickinson, Joshua Pickwell and Ellie Dickinson go pitchside before the game to watch their heroe warm-up.
The most poignant moment of the match came after 37 minutes when everyone in the groudn paid tribute to the late supporter Dave Pickwell who passed away recently.
With the ball going out of play for a goal kick, referee Andy Haines showed his class by allowing a break before the resumption so both sets of players could join in the applause.
And at half-time Grecians supporters handed over a collection of more than £500 to be handed over to his family after a collection on travelling coaches.
Everyone at the Imps would like to thank the Exeter fans, players and staff, as well as the officiating team led by Andy Haines, for their top-class show of respect during the game.
Attendance: 8,162 (579 visitors)
