Sawyer: First half defending against Imps cost us

Princes Park was stunned into silence as visitors Lincoln raced into a 4-0 lead in first half stoppage time.

Harry Crawford struck twice for the hosts in the 49th and 71st minutes but Sawyer conceded the damage had already been done by then as Darts went down to a third consecutive defeat.

The assistant manager said: “We just didn’t defend well from set pieces in the first half and paid the price.

“Three of Lincoln’s four goals came from set pieces and they played to their strengths.

“In open play there probably wasn’t a lot in it but every time we conceded a free-kick or throw in they seemed to take advantage.

“I honestly feel we might have stood a chance had we gone in 3-0 down at the break but the fourth goal right at the end of the first half was the killer one for us.

“Everybody was disappointed at half-time but in the second half we went out and played with a bit of pride.

“A bit of belief came back when Harry got the second and there was still 20 minutes to go.

“But their keeper seemed to deal with a lot of the chances which came our way and on another day the game could easily have finished 4-4 or 5-5.”

Despite the setback and a tough week, Dartford are still only three points off the play-off places and Sawyer is confident they can quickly bounce back.

He said: “Remember we lost the first three games of the season and then went on a long unbeaten run in the league.

“We’ve done it before so we know we can do it again.

“This Saturday we are at home in the FA Trophy to Tonbridge Angels and will be determined to reach the last 16.

“Tonbridge are a side we know plenty about from recent years and even though they are now one division below us, we know it will be a very tough game.

“They are certain to be up for the occasion so we need to be careful of their threat.”

Dartford v Tonbridge Angels on Saturday kicks off at 3pm.

Follow us on Twitter @NewsShopperSprt