Despite the disappointing defeat at Port Vale on Saturday, Grimsby Town boss Mike Newell offered Youth a chance in the League Two fixture.
Town’s starting eleven included ASE graduates Ryan Bennett and Danny North, while three first year pro’s Leigh Overton, Matthew Bird and Grant Normington found themselves sat amongst the substitutes at Vale Park.
Alongside the three new boys were current 2nd year Apprentices Josh Fuller, Bradley Wood and Nathan Dixon (pictured above), all looking to gain some valuable first team experience.
Unfortunately for Town, things went from bad to worse after Danny North’s effort was chalked off for offside early in the second half.
17 year old Josh Fuller (left) did however, make an immediate impact when replacing Leary on the right of midfield. The youngster set up North who headed over and thus passed up a chance to half a 2-0 deficit.
As Town were increasingly forced to chase the game, a resurgent Vale were able to capitalise and run out 4-0 winners.
