Grimsby Go Up As Mariners Secure Instant EFL Return

By Sam Elliott

Grimsby Town returned to the EFL at the first attempt as they stunned Solihull Moors in extra time in today’s Vanarama National League Promotion Final.

Jordan Maguire-Drew’s winner means the Mariners return 11 month after the heartbreak of relegation.

They came from behind to do it to the delight of 15,000 travelling fans.

But just seconds before the half-time whistle, Kyle Hudlin nodded Neal Ardley’s team in front.

On the 69th minutes it was one of Grimsby’s reliable marksmen who pounced - John McAtee’s composed low drive put Town on terms.

It took extra time to get the job done.

Substitute Maguire-Drew was alert to poke home at the back post to return Grimsby Town to the Football League.

Paul Hurst knows many owners would have fired the gun following relegation.

But he has rewarded their faith by delivering promotion - even if they needed three lots of extra time to do it!

“We like to provide a bit of value for money!” he joked.

"The owners here showed faith and I hope I've paid that back.

“They look at it in more objective terms and I am really pleased for them, of course I am - some maybe wouldn’t have.

“This is an amazing feeling, I'm so pleased for everyone.

“It’s been a huge effort and the way the players have handled the pressure is fantastic.”

PHOTO GRAHAM SCAMBLER

Where next?

Key Dates Confirmed For The 2022/23 Vanarama National League Season The countdown for the 2022/23 Vanarama National League season is already underway – here is everything you need to know ahead of the new campaign.
Vanarama National League Team Of The Season Announced As the curtain comes down on another Vanarama National League season, the annual awards have been announced.

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