By Grimsby stun 3rd place Chesterfield
The Mariners had a huge task ahead of them this afternoon, with an away journey to Chesterfield who sat in third place before kickoff.
The Black and White Army fought for a vital three points last weekend; another three points today would prove crucial for the playoff race.
Town gaffer, Paul Hurst named newbie Joey Jones on the starting 11, a promising signing who would be looking to impress on his debut.
Kick off at the Technique Stadium, the Mariners had the first shot of the match. Maguire-Drew and Taylor combined for an early chance, only for the latter to put his effort wide of the mark.
Despite starting off strong, Grimsby found themselves 1-0 down after just 6 minutes.
The hosts had been awarded a corner following Holohan’s block with the resulting delivery finding Laurence Maguire in space, at the back post. Maguire’s header beat Max Crocombe to silence the nearly 2,000 travelling Mariners.
Unlike previous matches, Town refused to let the goal impact their aggressive motivation. On the 10-minute mark, Maguire-Drew missed a gilt-edged chance to level his side, blasting the ball over the bar from close range.
It did not take long for the equaliser to come after John McAtee tested his luck from distance. The forward struck the ball beautifully with the side of his foot which proved too strong for the Chesterfield keeper.
Moments later, Gavan Holohan catapulted Town in front with an absolute rocket. The Irishman hit the back of the net after pulling the trigger from 25-30 yards out, sending the travelling Grimsby fans into madness.
During the opening 45 minutes, a pitch invader had been detained with reported sightings of flares being ignited. However, the sole actions of one or two individuals did not detract from the impressive display that Grimsby put on.
The first half concluded 2-1. The Mariners were in control thanks to two worldies from McAtee and Holohan.
Town began the second 45 in style, replicating Chesterfields early goal in the first half.
Harry Clifton made it 3-1 in the 50th minute after his headed effort hit the post and cruised into the net.
Minutes later, the ball was in the back of the Chesterfield net again before being quickly ruled out and brought back for a free kick.
The Mariners evidenced strong defensive work, in addition to their breathtaking play within the hosts’ final third. Smith nullified a Chesterfield attack to retain their two-goal cushion in a composed manor, Grimsby looked completely dominant.
Town seemingly killed off the game after Ryan Taylor slotted home from inside the box, thrusting his side closer to another three points.
The game finished 4-1. The Mariners took home a massive three points.
(Image: keets5/ Twitter)
