BARROW AFC owner Paul Casson is expecting a ‘tasty little affair’ as the Bluebirds head to Lincoln City tomorrow.

The two clubs have crossed paths off the field several times in the 10 months since Paul Cox took over as manager at Holker Street.

A contentious loan deal for striker Liam Hearn – when City claimed to have been caught by surprise by his wanting to leave – was followed by several attempts by Barrow to sign fellow front-man Matt Rhead.

Rhead has since stayed at Sincil Bank, while Lincoln beat AFC to the signature of Dover defender Sean Raggett just before the start of this season.

Casson – who will be back in town next week to meet fans at the Crossbar on Thursday night – is looking forward to the match-up with the Imps, especially on the back of Tuesday’s 4-1 triumph at Southport.

He said: “I always ask, are we getting better? Can I see progress? Can I measure progress in what we are doing? And I can. I can’t remember the last time we scored four goals away from home.

“I think there will be a few more of those in them this season.

“Saturday will be a good measure to see where we are. Lincoln are an excellent team. They have Matt Rhead, who we went after with some gusto in the summer, and they signed Sean Raggett, who we were looking at.

“They’re a solid outfit and they are going to be up there all year long. The manager is excellent and we are expecting a good game.

“We have a bit of history with Lincoln, so it’s going to be a tasty little affair. It’s just a shame it’s not at home, but we’ll get them here soon enough.”

l The informal fans meeting at the Crossbar on Thursday starts at 7.30pm, with doors open at 7pm. All supporters are welcome. Chief executive Austin Straker will also be on hand to answer any questions regarding the day-to-day running of the club.