Weston-super-Mare's historic FA Cup run came to an emotional end at Blundell Park as Grimsby Town secured a 3-2 victory in the third round. The National League South side, featuring a painter and decorator, a university lecturer, and a builder among others, twice battled back from behind through goals from Luke Coulson and Louis Britton. However, substitute Kieran Green's looping header four minutes from time shattered their dreams of a place in the fourth round.
The 571 travelling fans from the Somerset seaside town provided vociferous support throughout, celebrating wildly when Coulson's deflected free-kick and Britton's predatory strike levelled the scores. Manager Scott Rogers expressed pride in his part-time squad, stating, 'The spirit we showed to come back twice – that's what we're all about.' The club, competing in the sixth tier of English football, had never reached this stage in their 139-year history.
Grimsby, who famously eliminated Manchester United from the Carabao Cup earlier this season, took the lead through Charles Vernam's superb dipping shot before half-time. Jaze Kabia restored their advantage after the break, but Weston's resilience kept them in the contest until Green's decisive header from a corner broke home hearts. Manager Dave Artell praised the visitors, saying, 'Weston deserve a huge amount of credit for how they played, as do their fans.'
Despite the defeat, Weston's cup run has generated approximately £150,000 for the club, while Grimsby await Monday's draw with hopes of another giantkilling. The Mariners, currently in League Two, continue their own cup journey after already causing upsets in the Carabao Cup this season.
