By Nathan Jackson
January 21 2005

Yes???? Can I help you???? Sorry, there's nothing for you here, this is a local game for local people. The Imps make their first league visit to Grimsby for 15 years and if it is anything like the game at the end of December, the injury hit Mariners could easily hit double figures

INTRODUCTION

Ahh, fish and chips, "fresh" sea air, amusements and a fairly nice day out is what a lot of people think when they're asked about a day out in Cleethorpes but City fans will endulge in the town's other activity over the weekend when they are entertained by Grimsby. Now, don't let this confuse you, Grimsby's ground is in Cleethorpes so if you're going on the train 8:27 or 11:27 (both to Grimsby, then change for the train to Cleethorpes) then get off, turn left and walk to the footbridge along the sea front, it's about a 15 minute walk. If you were hoping to catch the 10:27 then make other arrangements because that train has been cancelled apparantly due to industrial action despite the Lincolnshire Echo claiming it was because they were worried about possible violence breaking out.

 

+TEAM NEWS FOR THE IMPS

City are still without Futcher and Yeo through face injuries but Peter Gain is back after 6 weeks out and it's no coincedence the slump started when he was injured against Cheltenham. Keith's promise of major changes after the Kidderminster game two weeks ago never happened and the only changes to the squad against Bristol were enforced through the injuries to Futch and Yeo. Overall it'll more than likely be the same old predictable lineup from City.

Marriott

Bloomer  Morgan  McCombe  McAuley  Sandwith

Butcher  Gain

GTF  Richardson Green

GRIMSBY TOWN

Grimsby are currently 14th in the table and their home form is only let down by their away form. Grimsby have won 6, drawn 6 and lost 2 at home compared to won 3, drawn 3 and lost 7 on their travels. Their home scalps include Bury (5-1), Wigan (1-0 - League Cup), Mansfield (2-0), Orient (2-0), Kiddy (2-1), Notts County (3-2) and Cambridge (3-0). Their only defeats coming against Rochdale (1-0) and Northampton (2-1).

Grimsby manager, Russell Slade will have a tough time picking a first 11 due to numerous injuries and suspensions. John McDermott is unlikely to start, however, Ronnie Bull (suspension), Jason Crowe and Justin Whittle are all definatly out. Ashley Sestanovich has returns to Sheffield United after an unprofessional attitute.