Grimsby Chairman backs his Manager

Grimsby chairman John Fenty has called on supporters to back manager Mike Newell as the club hopes to get its first home win of the season against fellow strugglers Hereford United who have yet to take three points from a game.

"It's not the time for making drastic decisions – we all have to keep a cool head at this time," Fenty told the Grimsby Telegraph.

"We have had major problems in terms of injury and there's no doubt that has had a huge impact with many of those out big players for us.

"On paper, when everyone is fit, we have a good squad and with some players coming back now we have every opportunity of turning things round.

"I believe we have the right management team and good staff at the club who are all doing their best to get it right.

"There's no reason to wave the white flag – we need to keep belief in what we are doing."

Those words could have been spoken by Hereford United chairman Graham Turner talking about his own clubs problems as the circumstances at the two clubs are very similar at present.

"There is a lot of negativity around and while I can sympathise with the disappointment, it's not the time to be judgemental," continued Fenty.

"Everyone was enthusiastic at the start of the season and it's been disappointing for all concerned to start like we have.

"Some people have questioned the manager but I believe we are doing things properly here.

"I see comments on the internet, and in the paper, criticising us and that's accepted after the poor start.

"What I don't like is when people don't put their names on their comments and use pseudonyms.

"If people want to criticise me personally, then they can always get in touch with me via the club because I'm happy to speak to people or get emails – I often invite fans to send any questions they have in.

"I firmly believe we are all doing our best at the club to change the fortunes and hope the majority of fans who have stuck by the club continue to do so."

There's little doubt that a win for either team this afternoon would lift the the gloom off whichever one takes the three points. A draw will probably favour John Trewick, but another defeat for Hereford United will keep the message boards and commentators wondering just how long Trewick can stay in charge at Edgar Street or, if the Bulls win, how long Mike Newell will remain at Brundell Park.

Odds at SkyBet:

Grimsby 6/4 draw 12/5 Hereford 7/4

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