Chuffed Stuart McCall was full of praise after City eased back to winning ways at struggling Grimsby.

Goals from Simon Whaley, Steve Williams and James Hanson clinched a 3-0 victory at blustery Blundell Park last night.

City’s first win in four games lifted them two places to tenth – and within two points of the play-offs.

City had drawn the last three, and McCall admitted: “We didn’t want to put too much pressure on ourselves but we knew this was a game we had to win. We’ve done that with an accomplished performance.

“We went back to the away system that has served us so well. Bully (Lee Bullock) did a lot of good unseen work for us and the interplay of Evans, Hanson and Whaley up front was always a threat.

“They all had chances in the game and behind them I thought the midfield was strong. We’ve also defended solidly at the back and Simon Eastwood made a couple of good saves.

“We’ve got to be stronger and harder to score against and beat.

“I’m absolutely delighted with the clean sheet, three goals and three points.”

Whaley notched the first goal of his loan from Norwich and constantly troubled the Mariners’ defence.

McCall added: “His control and touch was so assured in swirling conditions.

“He scored an excellent goal and his desire was there with the second when the ball came out and he kept the move alive.

“At half-time we emphasised we needed the second goal and I thought we counter-attacked really well in the second half.

“The side looked strong and solid and this has set us up well for the tough encounter coming up next against Rochdale.”

City, who have no game this weekend, face in-form Dale at Valley Parade next Tuesday.

Meanwhile, David Wetherall’s young lads will hope to book a trip to Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup tonight when they play the rearranged second-round home tie against Crewe (7pm).