ANDY HOLDSWORTH is gearing up for a second FA Cup revenge mission in a month when Grimsby visit the Galpharm for tomorrow’s second-round clash (3.00).
He had no trouble recalling the defeat at Accrington four years previously in the build-up to Town’s first-round tie back in East Lancashire, where they came from behind to win 3-2.
So it’s no surprise the 4-1 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy first-round mauling by the Mariners at Blundell Park in September remains crystal clear in the midfielder’s mind.
“We went to pieces that night, and we want to put things right – as much for the supporters and manager as ourselves,” said Holdsworth.
“I remember every defeat, and that was a particularly bad one, so having taken revenge over Accrington, we want it to be Grimsby’s turn.
“It’s not just a case of proving a point either, because the prize is a place in the third-round draw, and last time we were in the hat (2005-06), we got Chelsea.
“You don’t always pull a plum like that, but still being involved when all the big boys come into the competition provides a bit of excitement for everyone.
“A victory tomorrow would also put us back on course after our disappointing defeat by Leyton Orient last week, and provide a boost ahead of Wednesday’s tough trip to Southend and the big one at Leeds a week tomorrow.”
Grimsby might be struggling in League II, a division below Town, but Holdsworth and Co won’t be taking them lightly as they chase a place in the velvet bag for the Sunday teatime draw and the £24,000 prize for each of the 20 second-round victors.
“We were saying after they beat us over there that we expected them to climb their table, so it’s a surprise they haven’t,” he added.
“In the first round they went up to Carlisle, which is never an easy place to go, and came within five minutes of winning, then beat them in a replay, so that shows what they are capable of.”
