GRIMSBY Town boss Paul Hurst is confident his side has what it takes to go the distance against Gateshead in tomorrow's deciding Play-Off Semi-Final (4.30pm).
The Mariners travel up to Tyneside with the tie delicately poised at 1-1, meaning exra-time and even penalties are genuine possibilities.
And while, for the sake of the travelling fans' nerves, he would prefer his side to win through in normal time, he insists they are prepared for every eventuality.
Speaking after training this morning, he said: "We're certainly fit enough if it goes into extra-time tomorrow. It will be a test of their fitness levels, but against them the other night I thought we looked nice and strong and that was really pleasing.
"Both teams have got players that are 'senior', shall we say, and that comes into it, but sometimes it can be the younger lads who tire because of all the adrenaline and excitement.
"But if it goes to extra-time, I don't feel it will be an issue for us, we just might have to be a little bit more patient."
He added: "I'm sure everyone would prefer if it didn't go to penalties to save everyone's nerves, but if that's what it takes, then we're prepared for it.
"We've had plenty of practice during the week but it just comes down to on the day. You have to consider a number of factors when it gets to that stage.
"I'll speak to the players if we get to that stage and see who wants one - and it's not a time for pretending to be brave. There's a lot of things to consider if it gets to that stage, but we're ready for it if needs be."
