Lee Mitchell is excited about what is to come next from his young side after a positive second half of the season saw the Imps finish 8th in the FA Women’s National League Division One Midlands.

City played well after the break against high-flying Loughborough Lightning but ultimately fell to a 3-1 defeat on the final day of the campaign.

Mitchell said: “Half the team are youngsters, and the experience they’ve gained this season is invaluable. 

“It’s tough for youngsters sometimes because they expect to start, and you’ve got to keep grinding, working and listening to get the rewards. 

“They’re all flying, and they’re a crucial part of the club going forward, so I’m really happy to be in step four with some real positives to build on with some really exciting players.”

Mitchell also felt the second 45 against Lightning summed his side’s season up, with the Imps pushing forward in search of goals until the final whistle.

He added: “There’s been ups and downs throughout the season, but we stuck together.

“Loughborough are a very good side and you could see the quality they’ve got, but I was pleased with the way the game ended - we had a go at them no matter the result, and that’s what we’ve been about all season. 

“Those last 15 or 20 minutes summed us up nicely, so overall we have some real positives to build on.”