GRIMSBY Town boss Paul Hurst insists no-one could fault his players' effort, despite them suffering a second derby defeat of the season to Lincoln City yesterday.
The Mariners, who went ahead through Craig Disley's 21st-minute header, lost 3-1 at Blundell Park after goals from Charlee Adams, Alan Power and former Town loanee Marcus Marshall.
It was the second derby defeat for Town this season, after also losing to their county rivals back in September.
But afterwards, Hurst refused to be critical of his side and was adamant they had played better than in their Boxing Day win over Macclesfield.
He said: "Result-wise, it was a disappointing day, but not when it comes to our performance.
"We played a lot better than we did on Boxing Day, but we didn't get the result. We know it's a results business, but I'm certainly not going to be too harsh on the players.
"They gave me everything and that's all I can ask of them. If we play that well in other games, then we'll win more than we lose – that's for sure."
Despite a decent first-half display, the Mariners trailed at the break after their lively visitors scored two in the final five minutes of the half, before Marshall put the result beyond doubt with 20 minutes to go.
"The two goals before the break did kill us to an extent, and it set it up well for them.
"They were always going to hit us on the counter after that.
"Credit to Lincoln, they took advantage, but we had a lot of chances as well and played some good stuff so there is a lot to positive about.
"I know people will look at the odd result, but results elsewhere were not too unkind to us.
"I know the disappointment is compounded by the fact that they're our local rivals, but you have to be dignified in defeat.
"My players can look at themselves and be proud of their performance, but we are all disappointed by the result."
