David Artell: Grimsby cup hangover against Bristol Rovers was ‘understandable’

Grimsby head coach David Artell felt it was “understandable” that his side looked “sluggish” at times against Bristol Rovers following their Carabao Cup heroics against Manchester United on Wednesday night.

The Mariners claimed a stunning 12-11 penalty shootout victory against the Premier League side having drawn 2-2 at the end of 90 minutes.

Macauley Southam-Hales scored the only goal of the game at Blundell Park on Saturday to give Bristol Rovers their first away league win since January and bring the home side back down to earth.

“We lost because we only played for 45 minutes,” said Artell. “We were sluggish in the way we played in possession in the first half.

“They get a goal in that time, albeit a very good one from their point of view, but our performance in that first half was our worst of the season.

“The second half was as good as we’ve shown in any match, so on another day the chances we created in that time would have led to a goal, but it didn’t.

“We were much more like us after the break and I think the fans appreciated that, but it couldn’t have been much worse from the first 45.

“It was always going to be the game after (the Manchester United tie) rather than the ones leading up to it that we might have struggled, which is understandable, but they’re still professionals.”

Darrell Clarke praised Bristol Rovers’ toughness as they defended well in the second half to hold on for victory.

He said: “The goal was fit to win any game and I’m pleased we’ve been able to come to a team that’s been in form to start the season and win.

“To get three points away from home, our first this season, was hugely important because it was something the team struggled with last season.

“They’re a good team, David is doing a cracking job here, so we knew they would be strong, but we had our moments and could have scored one or two more.

“We’ve had to change the shape a number of times and that’s because we’re not at our best at the moment and the schedule has required us to change.”

It was a great strike from Southam-Hales to win the game, and Clarke stressed his importance to the team.

“I want all my experienced players fit and on the pitch,” he added. “He’s part of the leadership group in the squad and he brings that experience and know-how to the team.”