Post by rjdgull on Aug 22, 2015 7:58:33 GMT
Another long trip, another tough match against a team that were pre season favourites and have been there or there abouts for the last few seasons. Luckily, the players had a relatively good trip up to their northern base and of course, an overnight stay mitigates the effects of travelling.
Not only have Grimsby got a good budget for their level but "operation promotion" has seen their loyal fans contribute another £100000 to the playing budget. Amongst their new signings, 3 players have already found the back of the net three times with forward Omar Boyle formerly of Solihull but starting at Birmingham scoring in the last 3 games! The other two are fellow forward Padraig Almond who was released by Morecambe and veteran winger Andy Monkhouse who helped Bristol Rovers gain promotion last year with 8 goals but made most of his career appearances with Rotherham and more latterly with Hartlepool. Other team news is that Matt Robinson, a midfielder has been signed on loan from Luton and may make his debut.
Despite their spending, Grimsby have made only a moderate start. They have been awesome at home winning both games 4-1 against Bromley and Barrow respectively. However, on the road drew 2-2 with Kidderminster and surprisingly lost 2-1 at Altrincham midweek. At least 3 goals have been scored in their games so expect more of the same although veteran defender Shaun Pearson may be brought back to try and bring some experience in this area.
I think the only question for Torquay is who will play in the hole or advanced midfield position. Fairhurst has looked good in this position but is out with a knee niggle and Briscoe does not look right at the moment. Fenwick is back from suspension and Heslop has had time to bed in a bit so real competition for the three midfield positions even without Briscoe in the mix. Hard to call this one and it may be about finding the right combination but suspect that Heslop will start this time with his experience.....
Not only have Grimsby got a good budget for their level but "operation promotion" has seen their loyal fans contribute another £100000 to the playing budget. Amongst their new signings, 3 players have already found the back of the net three times with forward Omar Boyle formerly of Solihull but starting at Birmingham scoring in the last 3 games! The other two are fellow forward Padraig Almond who was released by Morecambe and veteran winger Andy Monkhouse who helped Bristol Rovers gain promotion last year with 8 goals but made most of his career appearances with Rotherham and more latterly with Hartlepool. Other team news is that Matt Robinson, a midfielder has been signed on loan from Luton and may make his debut.
Despite their spending, Grimsby have made only a moderate start. They have been awesome at home winning both games 4-1 against Bromley and Barrow respectively. However, on the road drew 2-2 with Kidderminster and surprisingly lost 2-1 at Altrincham midweek. At least 3 goals have been scored in their games so expect more of the same although veteran defender Shaun Pearson may be brought back to try and bring some experience in this area.
I think the only question for Torquay is who will play in the hole or advanced midfield position. Fairhurst has looked good in this position but is out with a knee niggle and Briscoe does not look right at the moment. Fenwick is back from suspension and Heslop has had time to bed in a bit so real competition for the three midfield positions even without Briscoe in the mix. Hard to call this one and it may be about finding the right combination but suspect that Heslop will start this time with his experience.....
