The young Imps make the short journey to the Sun-Hat Villas & Resorts Stadium for their first pre-season encounter of the 2026/27 campaign against Lincoln United on Friday 10 July.
Isaac Rice has now joined Sam Tillen as professional development phase lead coach ahead of the new season. He spoke about the prospect of facing a senior side and how the start of pre-season has gone for City's youngsters.
Rice said: “Lincoln United will be a good first challenge of pre-season for the lads. It’s a senior side who will be well-coached, so it will be a physically challenging test, but it will set a good early tone for the season ahead.
“The players have been back over a week now and preparations ahead of both this fixture and the season have been positive, they’ve all come back in great condition and have been working hard every day to make sure they’re ready.”
Rice also highlighted the opportunity this presents to the players in terms of replicating a first-team environment and reflected on a positive end to last season and how that momentum will benefit the young Imps as they head into another campaign.
He said: “This fixture is always a great occasion, the boys get a good opportunity to express themselves under the lights and that will equip them well and get them used to playing in stadiums with fans there.
“We ended last season in a real positive fashion and with the six new scholars on board and the lads from last season heading into their second year of scholarships, we're hopeful this can be a successful campaign for us.”
Tickets will be available on the door at the Sun-Hats Villas & Resorts Stadium.
Adults: £6
Concessions: £4
U18’s: Free