Andrei Coubiș has emerged as a fan favourite after being voted the Stacey West readers’ Man of the Match following Lincoln City’s 1-1 draw with Southampton at Sincil Bank. The 22-year-old Romanian registered an average rating of 8.02 from 134 readers after making his first start for the Imps and playing the full 95 minutes.
Bold selection pays early dividends
Handed a surprise start at right wing-back, Coubiș replaced Dom Jefferies in a tactical tweak that proved productive for Michael Appleton’s side. The defender combined defensive solidity with notable attacking intent, taking several shots and carrying the ball into dangerous areas throughout the match.
"made his intentions clear almost immediately"
That early ambition was clear from his first involvement. Within the opening minute his shot was blocked and he then met a corner with a header that required a save from the Southampton goalkeeper. Coubiș finished the game with four attempts on goal — one of which hit the target — and recorded a combined expected goals (xG) of 0.72, underlining that his efforts were not merely speculative.
His attacking numbers were notable. Coubiș registered six touches inside the opposition penalty area and created a shooting chance for a teammate. He also completed two of his three crosses, with one dangerous delivery in the first half narrowly missed by Freddie Draper. From distance he attempted four long passes, three of which found team-mates, while his overall passing accuracy stood at 32 completed from 42 attempted.
Readers’ ratings and what they show
The supporters who voted placed Coubiș narrowly ahead of Adam Reach, with goalscorer Mikkel Ladefoged completing the top three. The readers’ poll gives a snapshot of how well the new starter impressed those at Sincil Bank.
| Position | Player | Average rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Andrei Coubiș | 8.02 |
| 2 | Adam Reach | 7.77 |
| 3 | Mikkel Ladefoged | 7.57 |
| 4 | Ryley Towler | 7.39 |
| 5 | Freddie Draper | 7.38 |
What this means for Lincoln City
Coubiș’s display offers manager Michael Appleton options on the right flank. His combination of forward forays and defensive work-rate suggests he can be used as a traditional wing-back in a system that requires both width and solidity. For supporters, the performance was a reminder of the squad depth the Imps possess as they contend with a demanding Championship schedule.
- Coubiș played 95 minutes in his first start for Lincoln City.
- He registered four shots and an xG of 0.72.
- Voted Man of the Match by 134 Stacey West readers, averaging 8.02.
For the team, a late Mikkel Ladefoged equaliser ensured a deserved point against a Southampton side many expect to challenge near the top of the division. While there were areas where Coubiș can refine his distribution — he completed 32 of 42 passes — his overall contribution on both ends of the pitch drew praise from fans and will put pressure on the coaching staff to consider him for further starts.
Lincoln supporters will be encouraged by the emergence of a defender willing to carry the ball and supply attacking options from deep. As the season unfolds, his adaptation to Championship football will be watched closely by those who attended Sincil Bank and those following the Imps across the region.
Local reaction, reflected in the Stacey West poll, underlines how quickly a strong single performance can win over a fanbase. Coubiș’s first start has given Lincoln City a new option on the right as they seek consistency in a highly competitive league.
