Santiago Bueno’s second-half header secured Wolves a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Grimsby Town in the FA Cup fourth round at Blundell Park, sparing the Premier League side a giant-killing on a treacherous pitch.
The Uruguayan defender met João Gomes’ cross from the right in the 60th minute, diverting the ball home to break the deadlock in a classic cup tie. Wolves, who had not won away since last April, showed resilience to grind out the win in freezing rain and mud.
Grimsby, the League Two side that eliminated Manchester United from the Carabao Cup earlier this season, pushed Wolves close. Charles Vernam almost scored inside the opening minute, and Andy Cook headed straight at goalkeeper Sam Johnstone late on. Bueno also made a vital block to deny Tyrell Sellars-Fleming.
Wolves head coach Rob Edwards praised his side’s mentality: “It was an interesting game in really difficult conditions… a bit of a throwback. We showed really good spirit and fight.” He added that the FA Cup holds special meaning for him and that progressing gives the club momentum after a “really dark season”.
Grimsby boss David Artell lamented the pitch conditions, which he felt hindered his team’s style, but took pride in running a Premier League side close. “We’re a fourth‑tier side playing Premier League opposition again… we’ve got to make sure that from our remaining 16 games we have something to celebrate in May,” he said.
The victory sends Wolves into the fifth round, while Grimsby can reflect on a spirited cup run that included a famous win over Manchester United and a fourth-round appearance in both domestic competitions.
