Grimsby 2 Rushden 0

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 29/08/2005

A comfortable win over Rushden saw the Mariners record their first home win since February's 2-1 win over leaders Yeovil. It capped a perfect week for Grimsby, who played three games, won all of them and conceded no goals.

Russell Slade shuffled his pack for the visit of Rushden, and chose once again to stick with the 4-4-2 (or 4-4-1-1 variant) system which has been so successful since Wednesday night. Gary Croft moved into midfield in place of the suspended Paul Bolland. Simon Ramsden was dropped, in favour of natural left back Tom Newey. Newey's wide left midfield role was assumed by the on-loan Hatter, Calvin Andrew.

Grimsby got off to the perfect start on just nine minutes when John McDermott's 30-yard volley from a narrow angle flew into the top corner. It was a vintage goal for the Town veteran, who rarely scores, and it will doubtless be a candidate for goal of the season.

Rob Jones had a goal disallowed after half an hour for an infringement, and Reddy also had a shot cleared off the line before the break.

Rushden had periods when they had a lot of possession but rarely troubled Steve Mildenhall all game.

Shortly after the break Town were awarded a penalty for a foul on Reddy. Up stepped Kalala to banish the spot kick curse which afflicted Grimsby all last season.

Town had further chances to extend their lead. A Parkinson shot was tipped over, Reddy fell over the ball when he was put clean through and substitute Gritton's shot went just over the bar. Rushden's Hawkins was lucky not to be sent off when he pulled down Reddy with 3 minutes to go; the referee only showed a yellow card after consulting with the linesman.

A week is a long time in football. On Tuesday the knives were being sharpened for Russell Slade's scalp following a miserable defeat at home to Darlington. Just seven days on Town are now handily placed in sixth position with a game in hand.

A full report will appear later.

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