It was hard viewing for Grimsby Town fans as Leyton Orient put four past the hapless Mariners. Whilst the result earned Orient their third win in a row, it secured a hattrick of defeats for Grimsby.

Grimsby made 4 changes to their starting line-up after a disappointing defeat to the previously winless Stevenage last Saturday. Gibson, Vernam, Rose and Ohman all brought in in the search for a better performance. Orient made 2 changes, with Dayton making his first League Two start of the season, and Ekpiteta returning after injury.

Jolley’s decision to make so many changes appeared to be a disastrous one, with Orient finding themselves two goals up with only 21 minutes on the clock.

Happe found himself with the freedom of the area to make it one nil in the 11th minute. Ekpiteta’s cross found the centre-back completely unmarked, and while McKeown saved Happe’s first effort, Happe made no mistake as he smashed the rebound in.

Next, it was Coulson’s turn to find himself unmarked from a Josh Wright free kick. The Orient defender had time to steady himself and launch a half volley passed the perplexed Mariner’s stopper. Not even a quarter of the game had passed, and both Orient centre-backs were on the scoresheet.

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At the other end, Hessenthaler tested Orient’s Brill with a low drive from outside the box. It was the only notable chance of the half for the Mariners, as the game stuttered through to half time.

After a poor showing first half, it was no surprise to see the Mariners emerge with two new faces after the break. The introduction of Ogbu and Green for Clifton and Vernam a clear sign of attacking intent.

Despite the changes, Grimsby struggled creatively in the second half, and it was Orient with the next chance. Former Mariner Dennis missing when unmarked. The space afforded to Orient players in the Grimsby box an ominous sign.

It was Grimsby’s turn to finally threaten Brill’s goal as the game ticked into the final quarter. Firstly, Hanson lofted the ball over the bar from 6 yards from Hendrie’s low cross. Whitehouse then missed a guilt-edged opportunity as he headed wide when well placed.

With Grimsby’s hopes of scraping a result quickly fading, Orient ensured all 3 points would be theirs. Alabi, another former Mariner, capitalised on lose Grimsby possession to run clean through on goal. He made no mistake with the finish. It was no less than Orient deserved, having had an effort cleared off the line moments before.

Three quickly became four as a clumsy Waterfall challenge gifted the O’s a penalty. Josh Wright inflicted the coup de grace. Whilst Orient players celebrated with their fans, Grimsby shirts slumped to the floor.

That would be the end of the suffering for Grimsby fans as the game ended Grimsby Town 0-4 Leyton Orient.

The visitors now find themselves 2 points off the playoffs with good form to boot. Grimsby appear to be heading in the opposite direction, with their strong showing against Exeter a distant memory.

words Tom Hallam-Gravells, Grimsby fan & writer