Cod Almighty | Match Report

by Rob Cavallini

16 May 2026

The Buildup
Apologies for the slight change in style on the match report but I am more accustomed to writing history books about Town than match reports (shameless plug). Having acquired a ticket or two in the Salford end by virtue of living close by, I decided to answer Cod Almighty's appeal for a reporter at the Peninsula Stadium. Agreed it's not very big but I like it, and who can argue with the pre-match selection of Stone Roses and Dirty Old Town blasting out of the tannoy. Arguably we could have done without the poetry reading, but their fans seemed to appreciate it. The bar facilities were decent as well and a number of familiar faces greeted us on entry as we were not the only ones to have a similar idea with regard to obtaining tickets.

First Half
Town chasing a 1-2 deficit seemed to encourage a cautious start by both sides. Salford began with their rugby-style kick off which saw them lump it downfield hoping to pin the opposition back. This was followed by pinball football as neither team settled and it was not one for the purist. In the midst of this my companion, 'Shag' announced the match was up there with spending 90 minutes with his ex-wife, which probably sums this period up adequately.

After 12 minutes our cover was blown as the Salford fans realised that they had been infiltrated by Grimsby fans, but they soon became match buddies and friendly banter ensued, as did the lack of entertainment. Understandable I know, but the half-time whistle was welcome as, apart from that, the most colourful moment was a smoke bomb let off in the 34th minute.

Second Half
A few minutes after the interval disaster struck as Udoh volleyed home after finding himself unmarked at the far post and Town, who had rarely threatened, appeared to have a mountain to climb. My son, Jo, burst into tears (he's only 7) which completely blew any hopes of blending in as the Salford fans rallied round to cheer him up with bags of sweets and kindly advice. See, they are nice despite having a small ground!

The match then burst into life as and Cesay and Staunton decided to wave their handbags about in a half threatening manner before Salford hit the post. In the meantime, Jo shattered all notions of innocence by screaming "that's a f***ing corner ref!" – I blame his mother.

Artell introduced Kabia and Amaluzor on the hour and this seemed to release Vernam, who began to create openings. With 17 minutes remaining a needless corner was conceded by Salford and as always happens the other team capitalises! Fortunately, that was the Mighty Mariners, as Green's tremendous header from the corner nestled in the net... although Kabia may have elbowed it en route... No VAR, so who cares, Town are level.

It's game on and five minutes later Town stunned the hosts as Green's low cross was met by a potentially offside Kabia. Grimsby were level and had the momentum.

Extra Time
Town started well and in the opening period looked more composed than City, whose passing deteriorated. First Kabia shot narrowly wide, then Green came close, but seemed to injure himself or cramped up in the process. Cook fluffed his lines when well-placed.

The second period opened with Vernam creating an opportunity for Amaluzor, who could only shoot at Young through a crowded box. This was the moment, as Town increasingly retreated after Rodgers and Green were replaced. Both sides looked to be settling for penalties when a long throw forward was played accidentally by a tired McJannet into the path of a grateful Cesay who drove the ball past a helpless Smith. Doug Tharme came on and caused a nuisance with his long throws and boundless energy but there was no way back. Salford fans invaded the pitch at the final whistle whilst we were left to shake hands and say good luck to our new found match buddies.

In conclusion, it was a battle of two honest sides who, whilst not pretty, worked hard. Really no one deserved to lose.