We found ourselves up against opponents determined to cause a cup upset on Tuesday evening, roared on by a fierce home crowd.

They used that to take the lead in the first half, but two quickfire goals after the break from Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte turned the game around and ultimately proved to be enough to book our spot in the fourth round of the League Cup.

Our head coach explained a change of shape for the second half helped launch that comeback, but was also quick to praise the way his team were able to overcome Lincoln’s physical approach and withstand a barrage of high balls into our penalty area.

‘We prepared for the game thinking it would be exactly the way it was in the first half,’ said Maresca, after victory had been secured. ‘I think in the first half we all struggled a little bit.

‘In the second half I think we were much better. We changed something tactically, but I have to praise the team because it was a very tricky game, away with long-balls, free-kicks, throw-ins coming into the box. The way they defended was outstanding and we won so I’m happy.

‘At half-time we changed something tactically that I think has been important. Jorrel [Hato] was playing in a different position compared to the first half. The structure and the shape of the team between the first half and the second half was completely different and that probably helped a little bit.’

Enzo also admitted the timing of our equaliser helped fire us up and quieten the home crowd, as teenager George smashed an unstoppable half-volley in off the post less than three minutes after the restat.

‘I think we were also lucky that we scored immediately after half-time,’ added the Italian.

‘We already gave Ty the trust last year and we have confidence in him. This season again he is playing games – against Fulham, Brentford and Manchester United – and he’s helping us.’

Finally, Maresca was pleased for his team to get back to winning ways after a gruelling week and a run of four consecutive away games, which included back-to-back defeats to Bayern Munich and Man Utd heading to Lincoln.

Now, with a win under our belts, we have the chance to start building some momentum when we host Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge in our next match.

‘We needed that because the last week as been a tough week for us in terms of results,’ he concluded, ‘but now we need to go again.’