A symphony of 3 movements.
1. Allegretto - A fanfare of an unveiling and a 6-0 drubbing by way of welcome. A lot of sceptics, accusations of lack of passion but
two sensational home wins and the reaction to that last minute goal won many over. A January window shipped big earners, brought in some promising youngsters as MA implemented the L1 business model the Cowleys were reluctant to. As covid curtailed the season and all clubs faced a financial melt down, January's business proved inspired.
2. Allegro. MA's recalibration continued and the second movement saw a squad almost completely renewed playing, most of the season in empty grounds, with astonishing virtuosity never seen in a Lincoln team in our lifetimes. Brilliant young loans like Brennan Johnson complemented brilliant permanent signings like Lewis Montsma to lead L1 for much of the season. Injuries to key players tested the depth of the squad, form dipped but, Sunderland dramatically beaten and an early lead at Wembley overturned, as ever it's the hope which kills.
3. Adagietto, occasional Vivace. Different funding rules and we're immediately on the back foot, competing against silly money. Key players sold and former loan ripping up the Championship, that' s the model but new players aren't virtuosi, hit some bum notes though Wigan, Sunderland and Sheffield Wed shows they can still find the rhythm. And the players are all made of Glass. Discordant, frustrating, exasperating, occasionally brilliant, fingernails down the blackboard in comparison with the fine harmonies of the 2nd movement. But the composition as a whole? Maestro Michael orchestrated a performance which a times hit the highest standards ever witnessed at Sincil Bank, and truly touched the soul. Bravo!