WHILE one former Grimsby Town keeper was making a romantic comeback to the side against Histon, almost eight years after his last appearance, another was watching with interest.

Middlesbrough and Wales stopper Danny Coyne made the trip from the north-east back to his old stomping ground to watch his best mate Stevie Croudson on his comeback.

And the 37-year-old was delighted to see him end the day on the winning side at Blundell Park.

Coyne said: "It was fantastic to see Stevie back out there – he was brilliant all day.

"I'm made up for him. Having not played for so long, to come back and play like that was great.

"The goal was totally against the run of play. Grimsby had all the play and then they went down the other end and score.

"Stevie made a great save after that with his legs.

"Grimsby got the penalty soon after which Connell took well and that gave them something to build on again.

"After that I thought Grimsby were on top. Stevie got the sponsors' man of the match and he was outstanding today.

"It was a big game for him to come into and I'm delighted for him that he helped Grimsby get the three points they needed after Saturday."

Coyne may have been in town to offer his support to 29-year-old Croudson, but he was also happy to be around familiar surroundings again after more than 200 appearances for the Mariners.

The Welshman added: "I always like coming back to watch Grimsby Town – I had four great years here.

"I loved it and it's always nice to come back and see old friends – particularly when they get three points and your best mate plays so well in goal."