LINCOLN CITY 2 ALTRINCHAM 1

DANNY COWLEY still felt an element of frustration with his Lincoln side’s performance despite extending their unbeaten run to nine games to march into the second round of the FA Cup.

Goals from Sean Raggett and Alan Power set the Imps on their way, before John Cyrus pulled one back for the National League North visitors late on.

“I’m disappointed for the players because we should be celebrating a professional performance,” said Cowley, who was presented with the National League manager of the month award prior to kick off. “Instead we’re disappointed with the sloppy goal we conceded.

“We were in control for 70 minutes and had chance after chance, but then we were lazy and had to deal with the consequences.”

Raggett headed the Imps in front on 21 minutes after climbing highest to head home Sam Habergham’s in-swinging corner.

Matt Rhead then had a header ruled out for an infringement on goalkeeper Andrew Daubner, but the Imps made their superiority count on the hour when Power latched onto Nathan Arnold’s through ball to coolly slot home.

Altrincham pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go when Cyrus headed home James Lawrie’s corner, but Lincoln hung on without too much fuss.

Alty boss Jim Harvey added: “Both goals were individual mistakes but we pushed Lincoln close, who are a full-time club and flying.

“I was delighted with the effort, endeavour and team spirit we showed in a game that nobody expected us to win.

“The players’ commitment today has to be the starting point for next week.”