In the name of charity two sets of rival fans united and gave their all for their respective clubs in a hotly contested affair.
The Imps took the lead midway through the first half. A lovely cross from Leigh Buff was met by a glancing header from Dan Taylor which nestled into the corner of the net. This was Taylor’s second goal for the Imps having scored in the first leg at Grimsby from the penalty spot.
The Imps took control of the rest of the first half although Grimsby battled hard and did not give up the fight. The Imps nearly got a second just before half time through a Sam Booth free kick, which narrowly went over the bar.
The half time whistle went with the Imps in control and leading the game 1-0 on the night and 4-2 on aggregate. Grimsby Town started the second half on top, testing the Imps defence which did included yours truly at right back but the Imps backline stood firm.
It was an even second half with no inch given by either side. The Imps spurnned a number of chances to make the game safe but the Mariners always looked dangerous on the break.
The Lincoln City fans side eventually made the game safe with a goal straight from a corner. Sam Booth floated in a dangerous set piece, which eluded everyone in the box before hitting the back of the net just before injury time. Grimsby did pull one back in injury time thanks to a fantastic strike from Jordan Houlston which deservedly earned him the goal of the game trophy.
The match ended 2-1 to the Imps. As I was playing I can say it was a good competitive game with both sides doing their clubs proud. Although the Imps won the trophy it was the charities involved who were the real winners. All the money raised will be going to good causes – both the respective football club’s supporters trusts and the children’s wards at both Lincoln and Grimsby hospitals.
FINAL SCORE: Lincoln City 2 – 1 Grimsby Town
Scorers: Dan Taylor and Sam Booth for Lincoln and Jordan Houlston for Grimsby Town.
Man of the Match: Paul Parker (Grimsby Town)
Goal of the game: Jordan Houlston (Grimsby Town)
Sportsman of the game: Adie Bell (Lincoln City)