Rookie Chris Sutton has warnedT he Imps fans they are now involved in a battle against relegation to the Blue Square Premier.
City are now without a league win in seven matches following Tuesday night`s 2-1 home defeat to Port Vale, and despite an improved performance its points that count.
"We are in a relegation battle and the sooner we realise that the better," said Sutton. "The last few performances have been okay but we need results."
The result, Sutton`s first loss at Sincil Bank since becoming manager at the start of October, leaves City third from bottom and just four points above county rivals Grimsby. The Codheads currently occupy the final relegation slot.