Oh Come All Ye Faithful

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 26/12/2024

THE omens did not look good. Grimsby had lost 4 of their last 5 home games, the last two games were heavy defeats and the Mariners faced an opponent they had managed just 1 point against in 6 fixtures over the last 3 seasons. The last Boxing Day win was 5 years ago. Only the faithful believed Town could win.

And win they did. After a quiet first half when Harrogate and Grimsby both had a solitary chance, the match picked up after the break and goals from Khouri Svanthorsson saw Town go into a 2-0 lead. A Duke-McKenna free-kick halved the deficit, but Town were solid in the closing stages and ended up worthy winners.

After two poor results, David Artell shuffled his pack, making three changes. Ainley, Khouri and Gardner started in place of Davies, Barrington and Rose.

Luker saw a lot of the ball in the early Town attacks, but Town came closest when a Green glancing header from a corner hit the side netting. Duke-McKenna had the best chance of the first half when a mazy run from Daly presented him with a golden opportunity in front of goal. Cass managed to get in a half challenge and Duke-McKenna fired over.

The only other significant moment of the half came when a Town free kick was headed on by Rodgers and a Green volley hit the woodwork.

Town took the leader early in the second half when the impressive Liker crossed from the right and picked out Khouri who flicked the ball into the net. Town continued to look the stronger side but the Mariners stepped up a gear when the subs came on. Svanthorsson replaced Ainley with 20 minutes left and had an immediate impact. Luker was again the provider, playing Svanthorsson through on goal. The Icelander was deemed onside and cooly slotted it past the 'keeper to put daylight between the sides.

Town looked comfortable but the game took a twist when a brilliant free kick from Duke-McKenna made the score 2-1. Suddenly the pressure was back on but Town stayed solid and negotiated the remainder of the game. Luker and Khouri both played well, with Luker the man of the match, having created both goals and looking Town's greatest threat going forward.

The Mariners have a stiff challenge next when they face second-placed Port Vale at Blundell Park on Sunday.

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