Histon

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Alan Connell

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Grimsby Town 2-1 Histon

Grimsby Town responded to their 4-1 humbling from Rushden and Diamonds on the weekend by beating Histon 2-1 at home on Monday night.

New signing Alan Connell scored his third goal of the season as he grabbed a brace to cancel out Lee Wootton's opener.

Town were far from impressive, however, as they struggled to find their stride against a side who have won just one match all season.

Charles Ademeno and Lewis Gobern and Connell all had half chances early on with Ademeno, on his full debut for Grimsby, shooting wide of the post with a powerful effort.

Histon grew with confidence the longer the first half wore on and it was during their first real attack after 23 minutes that they broke the deadlock.

Danny Mills threaded a neat pass to Antonio Murray on the right, who in turn fed Lee Wootton with a square pass for the player to stroke home.

Goalkeeping coach Steve Croudson, who was forced to play for the first time in six years due to injuries, failed to keep out the effort, however, he did far better with Histon's second attempt on goal.

Buoyed by their opener, the Stutes so nearly doubled their lead. Omar Riza raced onto a long ball forward, only for Croudson to made a good low save with his feet.

And just when the visitors thought they were close to adding to their advantage, referee Andy Madley awarded a penalty for a foul on Lewis Gobern after 39 minutes. Oluwafemi Ilesanmi was adjudged to have upended the player in the box, although the decision was far from clear-cut.

Connell sent Joe Welsh the wrong way as he smashed the ball into the top left-hand corner of the net.

Town were far better in the second period with Connell trying his luck with a curling effort moments after the restart before over hitting a free-kick.

While Town struggled to find a second, Croudson kept his side in the tie with a goalline save from Lewis Taaffe.

The save proved to be the inspiration the home side needed as Connell sealed the points with five minutes of the match remaining with an incredible volley after being set up by Lee Peacock.

Croudson then ensured the score remained in Town's favour as he made a last-gasp save to deny Lanre Oyebanjo.

Grimsby bookings: Eagle.

Histon bookings: Riza.

Att: 2925

Ref: Andy Madley