Tendayi Darikwa was grateful to the travelling contingent of City supporters who made the long trip to the Pinatar Arena to watch their side beat Preston North End 1-0.
The right wing-back recorded his first minutes for the Imps against the Lilywhites and was impressed by how the supporters backed his side.
Darikwa said: “The travelling fans made an atmosphere and we’re very grateful to them for coming out and supporting us.
“We’ll always give them everything we’ve got, and hopefully we can stick together this season and do something positive.”
Darikwa also admitted how tough playing in the heat had been, but knows that the team are already reaping the benefits.
He continued: “We’re happy with the win but the most important thing was to get 45 minutes into all of us and thankfully everyone came out fit and healthy.
“These are tough trips, it’s never nice playing in this sort of heat but I thought everyone worked really hard and it’s about getting the minutes in, and we’ll go home fitter and stronger than when we first arrived.”
Having played at clubs like Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Wigan Athletic, Darikwa has garnered a lot of experience through his career and he believes that will have a positive impact on the squad moving forward.
He added: “When I first signed, the club made it clear that they wanted me to try and lead the group and pass on information to the young boys - which I’m happy to do.
"I also want to help on the pitch as well by keeping my shirt and helping the team pick up victories. Hopefully the young boys can learn a thing or two from me and we can be successful.”
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