GRIMSBY felt they nullified the threat of Bobby Pointon in yesterday’s draw.

Assistant boss Shaun Pearson praised home goal-scorer Curtis Thompson for getting the better of the City youngster.

“The lad Bobby Pointon is an exciting young prospect and I thought Curtis got on top of him and dominated that area of the pitch for us,” said Pearson.

“That allowed us to generally be in the ascendancy on top in the game. It was just frustrating how it ended.

“I felt we deserved to win the game and I’d be surprised if their management team didn’t agree with that.”

Grimsby are two points above the League Two relegation zone after being pegged back by Richie Smallwood’s stoppage-time spot-kick.

But the home side had no arguments with referee Matt Corlett’s decision for Denver Hume’s challenge on Brad Halliday which saw the Mariners left back shown a straight red card.

Pearson added: “The players feel hard done by in terms of the performance, but there were not too many complaints for the penalty.

“You never think you are home and dry until the end, but it was gutting to concede right at the death, especially after the performance.

“I thought we were absolutely outstanding. I’d be lying to say it wasn’t a blow and a killer, but we have to try and take the positives from it.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Curtis Thompson punches the air after Grimsby's goalCurtis Thompson punches the air after Grimsby's goal (Image: Thomas Gadd)

Thompson’s goal came from a half-cleared free-kick when he was not closed down on the edge of the box. His shot deflected off Ciaran Kelly on the way to the top corner.

“We have scored a lot from second phases,” said Pearson. “The gaffer called it five minutes into the game that was where the goal would come from.

“It was a shame we didn’t take more opportunities. We had two or three blocked and, fair play to Bradford, they put bodies on the lines and defended those situations well.

“I’d like to see us be more aggressive and get those first contacts and test the keeper direct from the delivery.

“We have got tough games left, but we know we should have a better chance in them by taking those positives from this game.”