Isaac Rice was encouraged by his side’s second-half display as the young Imps continued their pre-season preparations on Saturday.
City U18 continued their pre-season on Saturday as they drew 1-1 against Northampton Town U18 away from home.
Isaac Rice said: “I think the second half was a big improvement on the first, I think in the first half we were a bit too eager to go for the long ball, didn’t recognise space to play out from the back but I thought the second half was much better.
“We found the pockets, we found the space, the lads looked more comfortable in possession. Out of possession I think there’s still bits to learn on, we looked half a yard off in the first half but in the second half it looked a lot better.”
Saturday was a different test to the physicality of men’s football the week prior, the Imps kept control of the ball for long periods of time in what was a solid performance.
Speaking on the difference in challenge, Rice said: “I think the main one that sticks out is the physicality, we play Skegness on Tuesday so again that’s a different challenge.
“We expect it to be a bit more physical, a little bit more direct. Northampton tried to play some nice football, so it’s just a different challenge that the lads need to adapt to.”
Josh Kennealey was the only goalscorer for City in the 1-1 draw, with his presence in attacking areas being a constant threat all afternoon.
Rice added: “He’s a relentless runner, his stats are always through the roof, he’s got a fantastic mentality both in and out of possession.
“He needs more goals in a season, and I think he will refine that, we’re going to work hard in terms of his end product but his outlet is top class.”
Looking ahead to Skegness Town, the young Imps will get another taste of men’s football as their pre-season fixtures continue.
Rice said: “We’ll look to build on today, as I mentioned earlier we looked good with our own possession. It will be a different challenge in terms of out of possession, so we are going to have to prepare the lads for that and help them understand that it is going to be a different task than today.”