Lincoln v Grimsby preview

Can the Imps sink the Mariners?

Last updated: 29th August 2008

peter jackson

Jackson: Pointless

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Sincil Bank plays host to a derby on Saturday as Lincoln tackle Grimsby.

The Imps will be desperate to secure victory over their local rivals as they currently remain pointless after three fixtures.

The Mariners have not fared much better, claiming only a solitary point, and have lost their last three in a row in all competitions.

Sinclair returns

Lincoln could welcome back veteran defender Frank Sinclair for the weekend contest.

The 36-year-old centre-half has returned to full training following a calf injury and is pushing for a starting place.

Stefan Oakes has also resumed training following a calf problem, but the game is likely to come too soon for the former Notts County and Wycombe midfielder.

Romanian striker Adrian Patulea, who completed his transfer from Petrolul Ploiesti on Thursday, will be eligible for his debut if international clearance is received.

Scott Kerr is set to miss out after sustaining a lower back injury in the 1-0 defeat at Wycombe last week, with Shane Clarke among the leading contenders to take his place in midfield.

Further changes are expected to be made by manager Peter Jackson as the Imps go in search of their first points of the season.

No worries

Alan Buckley has no fresh injury concerns ahead of Grimsby's clash with the Imps.

Nathan Jarman and Peter Till will continue in attack for the Mariners after impressing against Blackburn in the Carling Cup in midweek.

Midfielder Robbie Stockdale and defender Richard Hope will miss out.

Stockdale has returned to training following an injury setback but is not yet ready to be considered for first team action, while Hope twisted an ankle in training recently and has been forced to miss the last two games.

James Hunt also picked up a knock in the defeat to Rovers but will be available for selection against Lincoln.