Birmingham City progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Lincoln City at St. Andrew’s, with goals from Ayumu and Lyndon Dykes sealing the win, despite a spirited second-half effort from the visitors.
The match began perfectly for the Blues, with Ayumu opening the scoring after just 32 seconds. The winger connected with a cross from the right, displayed superb control to cut inside, and delivered a precise finish to put the home side ahead.
Lincoln sought to level the game and began to create opportunities, with their first real threat coming in the ninth minute. A free kick from Sean Roughan found Paudie O’Connor in the box, who aimed to link up with forwards Jovon Makama and Bailey Cadamarteri. However, the Blues’ defence managed to clear the danger.
The Imps continued to test Birmingham’s backline. A promising chance was crafted after Conor McGrandles won possession on the right, leading to Makama setting up Jack Moylan, but the latter’s effort narrowly missed the target.
Zach Jeacock, replacing the injured George Wickens in goal, made a crucial save to deny Lukas Jutkiewicz’s header, tipping the ball over the bar and maintaining Birmingham’s slender advantage at half time.
Half Time – Birmingham City 1-0 Lincoln City
Lincoln Dominate Second Half but Blues Strike Again
The visitors began the second half with renewed determination, dominating possession and causing issues for Birmingham’s defence. Moylan and Ethan Erhahon were at the heart of Lincoln’s attacking efforts, with Bailey Peacock-Farrell making several key saves to preserve the lead.
Despite being on the back foot, the Blues doubled their lead in the 75th minute through Dykes. The striker showcased his class, receiving a long ball on his chest before unleashing an unstoppable shot from range that soared into the top corner, leaving Jeacock helpless.
Lincoln refused to give up and were awarded a penalty late on after Lewis Montsma was fouled in the area. Makama stepped up to calmly convert from the spot, reducing the deficit and setting up a nervy finale. The Imps pressed hard during the five minutes of added time, with Freddie Draper’s header from a corner going agonisingly wide in the dying moments.
Ultimately, Birmingham held firm to secure the victory and advance to the next stage of the competition.
Full Time – Birmingham City 2-1 Lincoln City
Writer’s View
This match highlighted Birmingham’s ability to weather intense pressure and capitalise on decisive moments. Ayumu’s early strike and Dykes’ breathtaking goal showcased the team’s attacking flair, while Peacock-Farrell and the defensive unit ensured Lincoln’s spirited attempts didn’t derail the Blues’ progress. Despite a second-half performance that saw the Imps dominate, the home side’s resilience and clinical finishing were the difference. This win is another testament to the Blues’ growing confidence and ability to grind out results when it matters most.
