Barnet Beaten

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 17/01/2026

GRIMSBY won a tough encounter against Barnet at Blundell Park to continue their perfect 2026 run. The Mariners were helped by a 10th-minute red card for Joe Kizzi, but Barnet still represented tough opposition.

Burns replaced Amaluzor in the only change and new signing Andy Cook was part of a strong-looking bench. Soonsup-Bell had the ball in the net in the opening stages, but the goal was disallowed for a foul by Soonsup-Bell on the 'keeper.

Town got a big boost when Joe Kizzy received a red card for an off-the-ball challenge on Khouri. Barnet manager Dean Brennan was also sent off in the ensuing protests.

Barnet could have scored soon after their red card when dangerman Glover created a chance for Ofoborh, which was deflected wide, with Smith wrong-footed. Some bad Barnet defending, though, presented a chance for Burns from a Rodgers ball, but he couldn't lift it over the 'keeper. Town had a lot of possession but not many clear-cut chances, and they always had to be alert to the attacking threat of Barnet, who looked very dangerous with the ball.

Just before half-time, Tharme had to go off with an injury, and the big defender was replaced by Stanton, which meant the back line had to shuffle, and Rodgers moved into the centre.

Kabia came on at half-time and soon was involved in the opening goal, laying the ball off to Burns, who found Sweeney. The full back cut inside and blasted a low shot past the 'keeper. Barnet created an opening almost straight away through Kanu, but Smith was on hand to save with his legs.

Town searched for a second goal, but were unable to break Barnet down, so they were relying on keeping a clean sheet, which was a challenge, especially when Glover had the ball. Barnet finished strongly, but Grimsby defended well, helped by the extra player. Andy Cook came on and gave Town an outlet up front, something they had lacked with the existing squad, and an encouraging sign for the weeks ahead. The Mariners are getting through periods of the game when they are under pressure without conceding as many goals, something they found hard a few weeks ago.

Town now have two away games at Cheltenham and then Colchester coming up before the next home game with MK Dons on the final day of January.

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