Boxing Day in League One brings a fascinating clash between two of the division’s top five sides as Stockport County host Lincoln City. The home team sit fifth in the standings and could draw level on points with their visitors if they secure a win. Both sides are in strong positions in the promotion race, and this encounter promises to be a key moment in their respective campaigns.

Stockport County’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Stockport County approach this fixture after a morale-boosting 2-1 away victory over Mansfield Town on December 20, 2025. That result marked their second win in three league outings, continuing a generally positive run of form that includes two wins, two draws, and just one defeat in their last five matches. Over that period, they have averaged 1.2 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game, reflecting a balanced but cautious approach.

Across the season, County’s record stands at 10 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses, with an average of 1.4 goals scored and 1.3 conceded per match. However, their home form remains a concern. They have collected only one point from their last three league fixtures at Edgeley Park and have struggled to find the net consistently, scoring just 11 home goals so far. In fact, only five teams in League One have scored fewer at home this season.

Another worrying trend is their slow starts: Stockport have lost at half time in their last three home matches. Additionally, at least one team has failed to score before the break in 37 of their last 40 games, suggesting that early goals are rare in their matches. On a more positive note, they have found the net in 28 of their last 30 league fixtures, and over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half in 25 of their last 27 League One games, indicating that their matches often come to life after the interval.

Lincoln City’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Lincoln City travel to Stockport in excellent form, having beaten league leaders Cardiff City 2-1 last weekend. That victory kept them firmly in the automatic promotion places, just one point ahead of third-placed Bradford City. The Imps have won three of their last four league matches, collecting ten points from a possible twelve, and are showing the consistency required for a promotion push.

In their last five games, Lincoln have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, averaging 2.0 goals scored and 1.4 conceded per match. Their overall season record mirrors Stockport’s in terms of games played (11 wins, 5 draws, 5 losses), but their defensive numbers are slightly better, conceding an average of 1.1 goals per game. They have also been strong starters, winning at half time in their last four League One matches and avoiding defeat before the break in 34 of their last 37 fixtures.

Despite their strong overall form, Lincoln’s away record remains mixed. They have won three times on the road this season but have also conceded 12 goals in those matches, scoring only 10. Their recent away performances have been inconsistent, with just two points from their last four trips. The most recent was a 2-2 draw at Blackpool, where they let slip a two-goal lead. Nevertheless, their attacking momentum and resilience make them a dangerous opponent for any side in the division.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

Historically, this fixture has been competitive. In their last five meetings, Stockport County have won twice, drawn twice, and lost once against Lincoln City. The most recent encounter ended 3-2 in April 2025, highlighting the potential for goals when these teams meet. Across those matches, Stockport have averaged 1.4 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per game, suggesting a relatively even balance between attack and defense.

Given the current form of both sides, this match could hinge on which team manages the key moments better. Stockport’s home struggles and tendency to start slowly contrast with Lincoln’s habit of taking early leads. The visitors’ ability to control first halves could prove decisive, especially if they can maintain their composure away from home. On the other hand, Stockport’s resilience and strong second-half performances mean they should not be underestimated, particularly if they can find a way to break Lincoln’s rhythm after the interval.

• Stockport County have scored in 28 of their last 30 League One matches.


• Lincoln City have not lost at half time in 30 of their last 33 league games.


• Over 0.5 goals in the second half have been scored in 28 of Stockport’s last 31 matches.


• Stockport’s home form: 1 point from the last 3 league fixtures.


• Lincoln’s away form: 2 points from the last 4 league fixtures.

Stockport County vs Lincoln City Prediction and Final Analysis

This Boxing Day clash promises to be a tight and tactical affair between two promotion contenders. Stockport County will be eager to rediscover their home form, while Lincoln City aim to consolidate their position near the top of the table. The Imps’ recent performances, particularly their ability to take control early in matches, give them a slight edge heading into this fixture.

Stockport’s defensive discipline and tendency to improve after half time could keep the contest close, but Lincoln’s attacking efficiency and confidence from their recent win over Cardiff may prove decisive. Expect a competitive match with few clear chances in the first half and more open play after the break.

BetMines prediction: Lincoln City win or draw (Double Chance) with 60% probability.