City return to Sky Bet League One action on Saturday 9 November as they make the long trip south to the Memorial Stadium to face Bristol Rovers (3pm KO).
Read what head coach Michael Skubala and forward Jovon Makama had to say ahead of the game, as well as catching up on the important information in this match preview.
Skubala’s thoughts:
“Conor’s done really well since stepping into Ethan’s usual role, and he’s been playing superbly in there. I like Conor and what he does for us, he settles the game well, and we’ve got lots of bodies in midfield who are chomping at the bit to start - so he’s done great since coming into that position.
“Paudie and Tendayi have both been magnificent this season. Paudie leads by example, he gets the lads around him and educates them with his leadership skills. Tendayi has come in and fitted in really well as well. They’re a bit older in the group, but they lead by example every day. They train every day like it’s their last training session - and that’s probably the biggest learning that the younger guys can take, these guys are the best trainers.”
“Bristol Rovers seem to have turned a corner in the last couple of games, we know how hard it’ll be as they have a really fast, exciting and powerful front four. They’re good in transition and when it’s a bit scrappy, so we’re going to have to be at our best with and without the ball to try and get three points. We’re traveling quite a bit this month but every game is there to go and get the win, so that’s what we’re going to try and do.”
Makama’s take:
“I’m on three for the season now, it’s been a good start. For the first few games I didn’t get many chances but I’ve now had a few and put them away, so it’s been good.
“Being young still I can learn from the experienced pros in the team, but then there’s also players younger than me who can learn from me, so you get a bit of both worlds.
“I was buzzing for Zane, it’s a really good moment for him being so young, and obviously training with him I’ve always told him he has the ability. I’ve just been trying to pass on information to him that I received when I was his age or information that I think I could’ve benefitted from. I was very happy for him.”
A look at the opposition:
Otherwise known as ‘The Gas’, Bristol Rovers currently occupy 17th place in Sky Bet League One, after a mixed set of results in the league so far.
Former player Matt Taylor is now head coach of Rovers, and his side have had an upturn in form of late, winning three of their last five league games.
Like the Imps, Taylor’s side faced non-league opponents in the first round of the FA Cup, defeating Weston Super Mare 3-1 after extra time.
City's last victory at the Memorial Stadium came in 2022 when goals from Ben House, Jack Diamond and Matty Virtue sealed an emphatic 6-3 win.
Top scorer: Promise Omochere, Jamie Lindsay, Scott Sinclair (2 goals)
Form: LWLWW
The Imps will be in their third black kit in the south west, get yours HERE.
Dale Baines will be the man in the middle of proceedings, and he will be assisted by Ravel Cheosiaua and Christopher Husband. The fourth official has been named as Scott Tallis.
Get your ticket HERE.