Town Bounce Back

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 31/08/2024

GRIMSBY bounced back from two heavy defeats with a deserved win over Bradford City, their first league victory against the Bantams in 26 years.

Town went 2-0 up with goals from Rose and Svanthorsson. Town seemed to be coasting but a Bradford goal changed the game and the Mariners this time managed to see the game out.

Town have led in all 4 games at Blundell Park this season, but only won two of them in regulation time, and left it very late to snatch all three points against Cheltenham.

Deadline day signings Jayden Luker and Justin Obikwu were not ready for first-team action, which meant Town stuck to the outfield side that Sheff Wed had thumped in midweek. The only change was Jordan Wright replacing Jake Eastwood in goal.

Town took the lead from a Hume free kick. Bradford's goalkeeper failed to deal with the ball and it broke for Rose and he took in on the half-volley from about 10 yards out. Town were dominant and missed several chances to extend their lead, most notably Khouri who blasted a chance over the bar from close range. Jason Svanthorsson's first goal for the club shortly after the break from a Green cross doubled Town's advantage, putting them firmly in control of the match.

Despite continued pressure from the Mariners, including near-misses from Green and Evan Khouri, Bradford clawed their way back into the match with substitute Olly Sanderson's goal from a rebound. This led to a tense final phase, with Grimsby making several defensive substitutions to protect their lead. Memories of Town surrending a 2 goal lead to Cheltenham in the last league game didn't help.

Bradford pressed hard for an equalizer, but Grimsby's defence held firm, with Jordan Wright making crucial saves.

It was an impressive display, especially given the last two games, and the fact that Bradford are one of the strongest teams in the league. Town's next challenge is another difficult one, away at Chesterfield, where they will be happy to add anything to their points total.

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