1 min
Leyton Orient fell to a frustrating Brisbane Road defeat as an injury time Montel Gibson penalty sealed a 3-2 win for visiting Grimsby Town.
Connor Wilkinson’s fifth minute opener gave the O’s the perfect platform they failed to build on, allowing Grimsby back into the game through their own ponderous play.
The visitors drew level in the 22nd minute after an unmarked Luke Waterfall headed home from a corner before Ruel Sotiriou was caught in possession 10 minutes later with the ball eventually running to George Williams to make it 2-1.
The O’s exerted better control after the interval with substitute Jordan Maguire-Drew levelling the score, expertly beating his man before cutting in and finishing beyond James Mckeown.
However Grimsby weren’t done either and after Mattie Pollock saw an effort hit the frame of the goal for a second time in the match, a barnstorming James Morton run was ended illegally in the penalty area.
Montel Gibson stepped up to make it 3-2 from the resultant spot-kick before a Danny Johnson penalty appeal for handball was frustratingly waved away in what was to be the last kick of the game.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
A late Danny Johnson effort which struck the hand of a Grimsby defender was somehow seen by everyone in ground but inexplicably not by the referee.
Moan of the Match
Orient’s midfield three of Craig Clay, Ousseynou Cisse and Josh Wright lacked creativity, leaving the O’s too often waiting for some moment of individual brilliance to occur.
Talking Point
Leyton Orient always look a better side with Jobi McAnuff on the field but just how long can they rely on a 38-year-old to control proceedings?
Man of the Match
Harry Clifton – an industrious display by the Grimsby winger, threatening going forward but also carrying out his defensive duties well.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Tom Nield (West Yorkshire) – a poor first-half showing incensed both sides but he outdid himself in the second period by missing a blatant penalty for Leyton Orient.
Atmosphere
A chilly early evening kick-off meant fewer Orient fans in the adjoining flats were willing to brave the elements and cheer the home side on.
Verdict
An unfortunate defeat but ultimately this Leyton Orient side works hard without a cutting edge while constantly looking as if they are going to be punished at the back.