Michael Skubala faced jeers from former supporters as his Bristol City side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Lincoln City on Tuesday evening in a Championship encounter. The match, hosted at Ashton Gate, saw Skubala’s former club record a fifth consecutive unbeaten league game, moving them into eighth place.
Skubala left Lincoln City this summer after leading the club to a commanding League One title last season, amassing 103 points and an unbeaten run of 29 games. His departure to Bristol City was met with mixed emotions, and Lincoln fans made their feelings known during the match by chanting, “Skubby, Skubby, what’s the score?” following a decisive strike from Lincoln’s forward Freddie Draper.
Lincoln’s early opportunities included a save from Bristol goalkeeper Sam Tickle against Draper and a header from Lorent Tolaj that struck the crossbar after a corner taken by Crystal Palace loanee Rio Cardines. Despite Bristol City dominating possession throughout the first half, Lincoln’s defense, marshaled by former Skubala assistants Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw—now joint head coaches—remained resolute and threatening on counterattacks.
On 53 minutes, Draper broke the deadlock in a moment that underscored Bristol's defensive lapses. Centre-back Rob Dickie misplayed a back pass under pressure from teammate Lisav Eissat, with the ball deflecting off Ben House before Draper capitalized by slotting the ball home. This marked Draper’s second consecutive away goal, much to the delight of the traveling Lincoln supporters.
Bristol City pushed for an equalizer, with winger Chiedozie Ogbene’s header narrowly missing the target following a cross from Deji Elerewe. However, Lincoln goalkeeper George Wickens made a notable save to deny Yu Hirakawa later in the match, maintaining the visitors’ lead.
The match took a further turn for Bristol City in stoppage time when Rob Dickie suffered what appeared to be an ankle injury and had to be stretchered off. The result highlighted the challenges Skubala faces in his new role as Lincoln City, under his former assistants, recorded a notable victory.