Maltese father and son enjoy Grimsby Town's derby clash against Lincoln City

NATHAN Axiak fulfilled his father's dream when he ran out at Blundell Park on New Year's Day as a Mariners' mascot.

For the seven-year-old from Nadur in Malta, it was his first ever Grimsby Town match.

And what better encounter to head to the UK for, than the local derby clash with Lincoln City?

The youngster's father, Raphael, was also in attendance to see his son out on the pitch, before watching the 1-1 Blue Square Bet Premier draw.

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Explaining why the pair from the Maltese island of Gozo are fans of the Black and Whites, Raphael said: "I have been supporting Grimsby for many years.

"Everyone in Malta follows English teams, such as Manchester United and Liverpool, but I chose Grimsby Town.

"They were in the First Division at the time and were a very good side. Ivano Bonetti was also a player here at the time and I liked him very much.

"So I have been a fan of them ever since, and now, my son, Nathan, is also a supporter.

"The last time I came to watch a game at Blundell Park was in 2010 for the match against Accrington Stanley.

"But this was Nathan's first ever Grimsby Town game and it was always my dream to bring him here.

"It was a very proud moment to see Nathan step out onto the pitch.

"I also have a five-a-side team in Malta called Grimsby, and we have won our local league three times!"