Weston-super-Mare’s remarkable, club-record FA Cup run came to a dramatic close as they were edged out 3-2 by Grimsby Town at Blundell Park.
Despite twice clawing their way back into the match, the visitors ultimately fell short against a determined Mariners side, who secured a rare home win against a league opponent for the third consecutive round.
Grimsby took the lead in the 41st minute when Charles Vernam expertly finished from outside the box after receiving a short corner.
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Weston responded early in the second half. In the 49th minute, Luke Coulson’s free-kick deflected off the wall, deceiving Grimsby goalkeeper Jackson Smith and leveling the score.
However, Grimsby struck again in the 70th minute through substitute Jaze Kabia, who was quickest to react to a corner rebound, restoring the Mariners’ advantage.
Weston fought back once more as striker Louis Britton capitalized on a flick-on from a free-kick to slot home an equalizer.
The game was ultimately decided late on in the 86th minute when another Grimsby substitute, Kieran Green, headed in a corner past Weston’s keeper Max Harris, sealing the victory.
Despite the heartbreak, Weston-super-Mare’s run brought pride and excitement to their fans, setting a new benchmark for the club’s FA Cup history.