Lincoln sew up 13th straight title in Gibraltar

Lincoln FC have put the finishing touches on their 13th consecutive Gibraltarian title after posting a comprehensive 5-0 victory at home to closest rivals College Europa FC.

The Red Imps clinched the crown, and a spot in UEFA Champions League qualifying next season, thanks to a superb first-half display, goals from John Paul Duarte, Anthony Bardon and Liam Walker giving them a 3-0 lead at the break. Substitute Emmanuel Cristori then struck twice in the final ten minutes to make sure of the result.

"We are so proud of winning our 13th successive title," said captain Roy Chipolina afterwards. "Our hard work and dedication as a team and club has paid off yet again." Indeed, although Lincoln lost their opening game to Lynx FC, they promptly went on a 17-match unbeaten run, winning 16 of those games to cross the finishing line with three fixtures to spare.

The victory was no less sweet for manager Raúl Procopio, who took over at the start of the campaign and faced the daunting task of following in the footsteps of Mick McElwee, who led Lincoln to 11 straight league titles. "Everything is summed up in one phrase: mission accomplished," said Procopio. "Now it's time to look forward to our Champions League qualifier next season. Our aim will be to try to take one step further in this incredible competition."