 The 1995-96 competition reverted to a group format, with two randomly chosen groups of three with the winners of each group progressing to the final.Lincoln United's rise up the non-league pyramid saw them enter the competition in 1996-97 (they won the Lincolnshire Senior `A' Cup in 1995-96).Scunthorpe United ended Grimsby Town's five year reign as champions, defeating them 5-4 on penalties in the 1996-97 final.