Jim Bentley wants Morecambe to spoil Grimsby's opening day party

Morecambe boss Jim Bentley wants his players to ruin Grimsby Town's big day when the two sides meet on Saturday.
Jim Bentley.Jim Bentley.
Jim Bentley.

The Shrimps travel to Blundell Park for Grimsby’s first match in the Football League since relegation from League Two in 2010.

It also sees the fourth and fifth longest-serving managers among the 92 professional clubs pitting their wits against each other.

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Grimsby boss Paul Hurst has been in charge since March 2011, two months longer than Bentley.

“With Grimsby being promoted last year they obviously have that feel-good factor and have had a turnaround with regards to players,” Bentley said.

“It will be a good occasion; there will be a big crowd, they will be passionate and they will be loud.

“It will be a good time for us to play them and we’re hoping to spoil their party.”

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While Bentley has been busy rejigging his squad within the last week, Hurst has added to his attacking options.

Not content with Omar Bogle, who scored twice in their play-off final defeat of Forest Green Rovers, he has also brought in former Oldham Athletic and Aberdeen striker Scott Vernon.

The 32-year-old had been on trial following his release from Shrewsbury Town at the end of last season.

“He’s a good, experienced forward,” Bentley said of the Mariners’ latest arrival.

“They also have players who did well in the league below and they have people like Bogle and Ben Davies.

“It’s going to be a tough game but they’re all tough - and we’re capable of winning the game.”