The journey of Lincoln City Football Club through the 2016-17 FA Cup created a lasting legacy, transforming both the club and its community. In February 2017, Lincoln City, then competing in non-league football, achieved a remarkable feat by defeating Premier League club Burnley 1-0 at Turf Moor. This victory secured their place in the quarter-finals, making them the first non-league team to reach this stage in over a century.
Historic Upset and Community Connection
The match was capped by a late goal from Sean Raggett, marking a significant moment for Lincoln City and its supporters. The achievement sparked a wave of local pride and optimism, reconnecting the football club with the city of Lincoln.
Route to the Quarter-Finals
- Defeated Championship teams Ipswich Town and Brighton & Hove Albion.
- Victory over Burnley at Turf Moor.
As a result of their Cup run, Lincoln City earned national recognition and received the FA’s ‘Giant-Killing Award’ for their landmark Burnley win. Financially, the benefits were substantial, with prize money and increased ticket sales revitalizing the club’s economy.
Transformational Impact on Lincoln City
Manager Danny Cowley described the FA Cup run as a “game-changer” for the club’s finances, causing attendance figures to soar from around 2,500 to over 10,000 at some matches. This surge of interest helped reaffirm the club’s significance to the local community.
Investment in Infrastructure
In 2018, Lincoln City unveiled a £1.3 million elite performance centre, a project largely funded by the financial windfall from the Cup run. This state-of-the-art facility replaced outdated training locations and included grass pitches, filming towers, and a gym, ensuring better training resources for players.
A Community-Centric Approach
The success of the Cup run also enhanced the club’s relationship with the city. The Lincoln City Foundation expanded its community initiatives, creating programs such as a multi-cultural ‘Community World Cup’ and a Community Skills & Education Hub in local deprived areas. This shift positioned the club as a civic institution, fostering community engagement.
The Role of Supporters
Fans played a crucial role in this transformation. Their unwavering support—demonstrated through ticket purchases and attendance—reinforced the connection between the club and its supporters. The fans’ commitment generated a vibrant atmosphere, underscoring their importance in the club’s identity.
A Blueprint for Community and Club Success
By the end of the 2016-17 season, Lincoln City made a successful return to the Football League, a testament to how the Cup run served as a catalyst for growth. The club’s strategy of investing in infrastructure and community projects provided sustainable benefits, creating a model that can be emulated by other clubs.
Lincoln City’s journey reminds us that success is not solely measured by victories on the pitch. The club’s legacy, bolstered by their Cup run, illustrates the potential of football to unite and uplift communities. As the club continues to thrive, it stands as a beacon of how sporting moments can lead to profound, lasting change.
