Cowley frustrated by below par second-half as Lincoln held by Macclesfield
Posted Sunday, March 31, 2019 by PA
Danny Cowley admitted Lincoln City’s second-half display fell below their usual high standards after the League Two leaders were held to a 1-1 draw by Macclesfield.
The Imps are close to sealing automatic promotion, but were denied three points by a battling display from the Silkmen, who took the lead on 28 minutes through Scott Wilson’s well-taken strike, which followed some sloppy play from the home side.
Cowley was disappointed by the manner of the goal, but his mood was lifted when City levelled 10 minutes later as Neal Eardley curled home a sublime free-kick.
But, despite ending the first half and beginning the second period strongly, they couldn’t find a second goal.
In fact, the Silkmen almost pinched an unlikely victory when James Pearson forced Matt Gilks into a fingertip save late on.
A frustrated Cowley said: “I felt in the first half we played well. We created lots of chances, but couldn’t take them.
“We then conceded a really poor goal which made life more difficult for ourselves.
“After conceding, it was a really good response, we stayed really calm, kept moving the ball and kept creating opportunities.
“We scored a great free-kick from Neal Eardley, after a good run from Bruno (Andrade, who was fouled for the free-kick), and we got ourselves into a really good position in the game.
“We came in at half-time pleased, other than that one moment, with our first half display.
“But in the second half we couldn’t find our levels, we were lethargic, lacked intensity and intent in our play. That was frustrating and disappointing in equal measure.”
With Notts County surprisingly winning at Stevenage, the result sent Macclesfield to the bottom of the table, although they close the gap to Yeovil, who were beaten at home by Newport.
Silkmen boss Sol Campbell insisted the outcome and his side’s display will be more valuable than a point as they try to preserve their Football League status.
“It’s not only a point, it’s the confidence it’ll bring the lads,” said the former Tottenham and Arsenal defender.
“We had to fight really hard while also playing some good football at times.
“They (Lincoln) are a top side who will probably win the league, and we’ve come here and got a point and gone toe to toe with them.
“Yes, they’ve had some chances, but we had some chances as well. The main thing for us is the confidence that point should give us.”
Campbell praised on-loan Manchester United keeper Kieran O’Hara, who made several important saves to keep the Imps at bay in the first half.
“Kieran has been incredible since I’ve been at the club,” added Campbell.
“His attitude and desire is excellent, and he’s got a bit of banter about him as well.
“He’s so professional and has a great will to win. He’s striving to improve and wants to learn all the time.”
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