Grimsby vs Notts County Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Notts County's Tactical Masterclass Leaves Grimsby in the Dust

Notts County's 2-0 victory over Grimsby Town at Blundell Park underscores their status as serious promotion contenders in League Two. This match not only solidified their position in the upper echelons of the table but also highlighted the stark contrast in form and execution between the two sides.

Notts County's recent form has been nothing short of impressive, with this win marking their fourth victory in five matches. Matthew Dennis and Alassana Jatta have emerged as key figures, consistently finding the net and contributing to the team's attacking prowess. Dennis, who scored the opener, has now netted in consecutive matches, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters most. His performance today further cements his role as a pivotal player in Notts County's quest for promotion.

Grimsby Town's struggles continue to mount, with this defeat marking their third loss in five matches. Despite dominating possession with 55%, they failed to translate that control into meaningful chances. The Mariners have averaged just one goal per game in their last five league outings, a statistic that reflects their ongoing issues in front of goal. Charles Vernam, who has been a bright spot for Grimsby this season, was unable to make an impact today, highlighting the team's reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play.

Notts County's tactical setup proved effective against Grimsby's formation. The visitors employed a 3-4-2-1 formation that allowed them to absorb pressure while remaining lethal on the counter. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack was evident, particularly through the exploits of Jatta and Dennis. This strategy not only stifled Grimsby's attempts to build momentum but also created opportunities for quick strikes that ultimately led to their goals.

Grimsby's defensive frailties were exposed once again, particularly in the second half when they conceded both goals. The lack of a cohesive defensive unit has been a recurring theme in their recent performances. Coach David John Artell must address these vulnerabilities if they hope to turn their season around. The absence of a reliable defensive anchor has left them susceptible to counter-attacks, a weakness that Notts County exploited effectively.

Statistically, Grimsby outperformed Notts County in several categories, including total passes (226 to 176) and pass accuracy (72% to 72%). Yet, these numbers are misleading; possession without penetration is futile. Grimsby's inability to create clear-cut chances was evident as they managed only two shots on target throughout the match. This lack of clinical finishing has plagued them all season and was again on display today.

The contrasting fortunes of both teams are further illustrated by their recent performances. Notts County has shown resilience and adaptability, winning crucial matches even when outplayed in terms of possession. Their ability to grind out results speaks volumes about their character and tactical discipline. In contrast, Grimsby's inability to capitalize on their possession reflects a deeper malaise within the squad.

Looking ahead, Grimsby faces a challenging away trip to Bromley, where they must find a way to regain confidence and form. The pressure is mounting on Artell as he seeks to instill a winning mentality within his squad. Meanwhile, Notts County will look to build on this momentum against Walsall, aiming to solidify their place in the playoff spots.

The narrative emerging from this match is clear: Notts County is on an upward trajectory, fueled by key players stepping up at critical moments. In contrast, Grimsby must confront their inconsistencies head-on if they wish to avoid slipping further down the table. The stakes are high as both teams navigate the complexities of League Two, but today's result serves as a stark reminder of the gulf in quality and execution between them.