Brigg boss could call on old boys for Grimsby Town clash

A HOST of former Grimsby Town players could line up against their old club when Brigg Town take on the Mariners tonight (kick-off is at the earlier time of 7pm).

Zebras manager Mick Gray has a number of ex-Town charges to choose from, as well as a several players who hail from North East Lincolnshire.

Brigg go into the clash – their fourth of pre-season – on the back of a weekend double-header against Grays Athletic.

The Northern Counties Division One South side lost 1-0 and drew 1-1 in Essex, as their preparations for the coming season gathered pace.

Speaking to the Telegraph ahead of tonight's clash, Gray – who is also a coach for the Mariners' Youth Academy – said: "Everyone is really looking forward to the game.

"We've got a lot of former Grimsby Town lads in the squad for tonight.

"Andy Pettinger, who used to be a pro at Grimsby, is already on board.

"He used to be at Everton and Scunthorpe as well so he's come back to give us that bit more experience.

"Michael Jacklin, who was also with Town, has also come back to the club as well.

"He was part of our squad that was in the play-offs three years ago so we're glad to have him on board."

One former Town player who won't be coming up against his old club is Liam Davies, who recently left Brigg to join Gainsborough Trinity.

"Unfortunately, we've lost Liam Davies and, of course, we're disappointed about that.

"He was one of the lads that came through the School of Excellence at Grimsby.

"But he always said that he wants to play at the highest level and he had that opportunity, so we couldn't stand in his way.

"I'm delighted for Liam and I hope it works out for him at Gainsborough because he is a very promising player."

Gray added: "We're looking forward to the game and we're hoping that a decent crowd will be there tonight.

"It will be a good test for our lads."

As the new season approaches, Gray insists Brigg are looking to improve on last campaign's 13th-placed final position.

And after making some 'exciting' additions to his squad, he is eagerly anticipating the start of the campaign.

Gray continued: "At this level, you can never really guarantee that players are going to be here from one season to the next.

"They're all chasing the pound notes – that's the common denominator for any level of football.

"But we've managed to make some really exciting signings ahead of the new season and we can't wait to get started."