Lincoln have been officially crowned the Sky Bet League One champions after a convincing 2-0 triumph over Doncaster at the Eco-Power Stadium. The win not only sealed the title but also capped off a historic season for the Imps, who will move up to the Championship for the 2026/27 campaign – their first appearance in England's second tier in 65 years.
The promotion race had already been decided on April 6, when Michael Skubala’s side beat Reading 2-1 to secure elevation to the Championship. However, the league crown remained up for grabs. After picking up four points from the two fixtures that followed the Reading victory, Lincoln needed only to avoid defeat in the final match to clinch the championship. They did just that, and then some, by winning the game against Doncaster.
The match itself was a showcase of the quality and consistency that have defined Lincoln’s season. Ben House’s goal, which arrived just before the half‑time break, marked the Imps’ 27th consecutive game without a loss – an incredible run that highlighted both defensive solidity and attacking flair.
The first half saw early drama when Harry Clifton fouled Jack Moylan inside the penalty area after 20 minutes. Rob Street stepped up to take the spot‑kick, but Thimothee Lo‑Tutala, Doncaster’s keeper, made a superb save, keeping the scores level.
Doncaster’s goalkeeper then produced another highlight, denying Sonny Bradley with a one‑handed header save. The Imps finally broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute.
A mis‑controlled clearance by Matty Pearson fell to Moylan, who found House in space. House took a low, driven shot that slipped past Lo‑Tutala, giving Lincoln a goal that extended their unbeaten streak to 29 matches.
The second half was dominated by Lincoln, who continued to press and create chances. Street’s effort was blocked by Lo‑Tutala, Ivan Varfolomeev unleashed a powerful free‑kick that was cleared off the line by Owen Bailey, and Moylan again threatened the Doncaster goal, firing a shot that rattled the post.
The decisive moment arrived in the 72nd minute when a cross from Hamer was flicked on by Street, allowing House to head the ball powerfully into the net for his second of the night, sealing a 2-0 victory. After the second goal, the Imps’ supporters erupted, celebrating a moment that will be remembered for generations. Street later struck the post with a follow‑up effort, but the celebration had already begun. The win not only secured the title but also underscored the team’s dominant performance throughout the season.
Manager Michael Skubala praised his squad in the post‑match interview, noting that while promotion was the primary objective, the manner in which the team achieved it exceeded all expectations. "The goal was to get promoted, but the way we've done it has definitely gone above and beyond everyone's expectations… and made some dreams come true," he said. Skubala highlighted the relentless nature of his players, describing them as a "steamroller" that kept moving forward.
He also hinted at a celebratory atmosphere for the upcoming home fixture against Wycombe, promising a party for the fans. Skubala emphasized the importance of the club’s family feel, which he believes was cultivated during the summer when staff and players came together. "Everyone has worked so hard. The players give everything and we are relentless and resilient.
The work ethic in the team is amazing," he added. He reflected on the match, noting that despite already dominating, the Imps could have added more goals in the second half. "It's not just we've done it, it's how we've done it.
What a performance in winning the title, in just being us," he concluded. Lincoln’s ascent to the Championship marks a significant milestone for a club that has not competed at that level since the early 1960s.
The 2025/26 season will be remembered as a period of transformation, with the Imps displaying consistency, tactical discipline, and an attacking edge that saw them top the league by a comfortable margin. Beyond the on‑field success, the club’s community initiatives and fan engagement have also flourished. The atmosphere at the Eco‑Power Stadium on match day was electric, with supporters chanting and celebrating throughout the night. The victory also coincided with a promotional campaign – the Super 6 – offering a £250,000 prize that remains free to enter, with entries closing at 3 pm on Saturday.
Looking ahead, Lincoln will prepare for the challenges of the Championship, where the quality of opposition will be higher and the stakes greater. However, the confidence built during this title‑winning campaign, coupled with Skubala’s tactical acumen, suggests the Imps are ready to compete at the next level. The club’s ambition is clear: to establish themselves as a stable Championship side and perhaps aim for further progression in the future.
In summary, Lincoln’s 2-0 win over Doncaster not only secured the League One title but also capped off a season of unparalleled success. The Imps’ unbeaten run, the decisive goals from Ben House, and the strategic leadership of Michael Skubala have all contributed to a historic achievement that will be celebrated by fans and the broader football community for years to come.