REPORT | GRIMSBY TOWN 4-0 WEALDSTONE

Wealdstone bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup at the Second Round stage after a difficult afternoon at Blundell Park, where League Two side Grimsby Town ran out 4–0 winners.

The Stones went into the game knowing a monumental performance would be needed to repeat last years upset, but the Stones were caught cold in the early stages as they struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the hosts this time around.

Grimsby opened the scoring in the 7th minute when Charles Vernam broke into space down the left and cut the ball back for Jaze Kabia, who finished from close range to give the Mariners an early advantage.

The afternoon became more challenging just eight minutes later. A clearance from Dante Baptiste fell to Kieran Green in midfield, and the Grimsby man took full advantage, sending a first-time strike into an unguarded net to double the hosts’ lead.

Wealdstone looked to settle into possession, but Grimsby continued to press aggressively and extended their lead in the 23rd minute. Vernam again caused problems down the flank and squared for Jamie Walker, who finished smartly from close range to make it 3–0.

Cox’s side showed improved structure after the break and looked to gain a foothold, but Grimsby found a fourth goal shortly after the restart when Harvey Rodgers’ driven effort deflected off Kabia and wrong-footed Baptiste in the 51st minute.

Despite the scoreline, the Stones continued to compete with determination and proffesionalism, creating some half-chances that couldn't be converted. Substitutes such as Antony Georgiou injected energy as Wealdstone looked for in vain for a moment to take away from Blundell Park, backed by our incredible travelling supporters throughout.

Wealdstone now turn their attention to the FA Trophy next weekend, when they host Cheshunt at Grosvenor Vale, before returning to National League duties.

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