Wigan Athletic's commitment praised by Shaun Maloney with ‘bodies on the line’ in impressive victory

The result ended the Imps’ 16-game unbeaten streak that dated back to New Year’s Day, with Michael Skubala’s side pushing for a play-off spot in League One.

Latics meanwhile saw their place in the third tier secured during the week that included a 2-2 draw with Charlton at The Valley.

Charlie Hughes’ last-gasp winner, with Jonny Smith scoring the opener, saw Maloney’s side claim the three points and while the Scotsman was impressed with the attack, he also hailed the effort in defence.

He said: “Both sides of the game, you watch the best teams in this country in the top league, their defenders have to defend at times and I thought ours were brilliant.

“The first goal we scored, it started from the build-up players and then I loved just as much, players putting their bodies on the line for their team-mates.

"I get just as much joy watching Charlie Hughes put his body on the line.

“The first 30 minutes, it was really, really good. As good as any game we’ve had this season. It’s the way I want our team to play.

"When we had to put bodies on the line, they did it and they went to the death.

“A few out there really had to dig deep at the end.

“Lincoln are a really good side, on the counter attack or if you lose possession, they go for you.

“There were definitely periods where we had to dig in.”