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Tyler Walker netted twice for the Imps as they sealed a deserved three points at Sincil Bank. Indeed, the margin of victory could have been greater with the hosts also missing a second half penalty on an afternoon where Sunderland struggled to fashion any meaningful opportunities. But who shone and struggled in Lincolnshire? Scroll down and click through the pages to see how our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, rated the individual performances in the defeat:
1. Conor McLaughlin
Defended relatively well against Jorge Grant, with the home side finding next to no joy down that flank where they struggled considerably elsewhere. Couldn’t offer a great deal going forward. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
2. Joel Lynch
Left exposed against a sharp and clever Lincoln front four. Won plenty in the air but not as assured as he had looked in the week previous. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
3. Lynden Gooch
Crossing was too easy for Josh Vickers to gather in the Lincoln goal. Saw plenty of the ball but just couldn’t turn into chances either for himself or his teammates. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. Max Power
One or two efforts from range but never threatened. Sunderland’s midfield were never able to get much of a grip on the game and build any pressure. 5 Photo: FRANK REID