Lincoln City have secured promotion to the Championship for the first time since 1961 after a dramatic 96th-minute winner sealed victory against Reading.
The Imps needed only a draw to confirm their place in the second tier for the 2026–27 season, but Jack Moylan ensured a memorable finish by scoring deep into stoppage time to clinch all three points.
Late Drama Seals Promotion
Lincoln took an early lead through Ryan One, putting them in control during the opening stages of the match. However, Reading responded when Lewis Wing equalised, setting up a tense finale.
Just when it seemed a draw would be enough, Moylan stepped up in the dying moments to score the decisive goal, sparking celebrations among players and fans alike.
Dominant Season Confirmed
The win leaves Lincoln with an unassailable 19-point gap over third-placed Bradford City, mathematically confirming promotion.
Michael Skubala’s side have been in outstanding form, extending their unbeaten league run to 24 matches, with their last defeat coming in November 2025. Their consistency has been built on a strong balance between attack and defence — widely regarded as the best in the league.
A Long Journey Back
This promotion marks the end of a remarkable 65-year wait for Lincoln City. Since dropping out of the old Second Division in 1961, the club experienced a long and difficult journey, even falling as low as the National League before climbing back up the English football pyramid.
Their return to the Championship represents one of the most significant achievements in the club’s history.
Skubala Leads Historic Turnaround
Manager Michael Skubala, who took charge in November 2023, has played a crucial role in transforming the team. After previous near-misses — including play-off disappointment in 2020–21 and narrowly missing the top six in 2023–24 — he has guided the club into a new era.
Title Now in Sight
With promotion secured, Lincoln’s focus now turns to winning the League One title. They currently hold a 12-point lead over Cardiff City, although their rivals still have a game in hand.
If they can maintain their momentum, Lincoln could crown an already historic season by lifting their first third-tier title since 1952.
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