As Grimsby Town prepare for another shot at promotion, the play-offs once again take centre stage.

Across recent decades, the Mariners have experienced the full spectrum of emotion in the end-of-season drama – from historic triumphs under the Wembley arch to heartbreak on the biggest stage.

Here’s a look back at five memorable play-off campaigns that have helped define the club’s modern history.

1997/98 – A Historic Wembley Double

The 1997/98 season remains one of the greatest in the club’s history. Under Alan Buckley, Town not only secured promotion via the Second Division play-offs but also lifted the Auto Windscreens Shield in the same season.

After overcoming Fulham in the semi-finals, the Mariners headed to Wembley to face Northampton Town. A first-half goal from Kevin Donovan proved decisive, sealing a 1-0 victory and promotion to the second tier.

It capped a remarkable campaign and a famous Wembley double that still holds a special place in supporters’ memories.

2005/06 – Heartbreak in Cardiff

Nearly a decade later, Town were back in the play-offs, this time in League Two. A fourth-place finish set up a semi-final clash with Lincoln City, which the Mariners navigated successfully over two legs.

That booked a place in the final against Cheltenham Town at the Millennium Stadium.

Despite a strong effort, Town fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat, missing out on promotion in a game defined by fine margins and missed opportunities.

2014/15 – Agony at Wembley

After several years in the National League, Town returned to the play-offs in 2015 with renewed optimism.

Victories over Eastleigh secured a place in the Wembley final against Bristol Rovers. The Mariners made a dream start, taking the lead early on, but were pegged back before the game eventually went to penalties.

In a cruel twist, Town were beaten 5-3 in the shootout, extending their wait for a return to the Football League.

2015/16 – Promotion at Last

Twelve months later, redemption arrived.

Once again reaching Wembley, Town faced Forest Green Rovers in the National League Promotion Final.

Two quickfire goals from Omar Bogle put the Mariners firmly in control before a late third from Nathan Arnold sealed a 3-1 victory. It marked a long-awaited return to the Football League after six years away and ensured that squad would go down in club folklore.

2021/22 – The Great Escape Run

One of the most remarkable play-off journeys in recent memory came in 2022.

Finishing sixth in the National League, Town faced a daunting route to promotion. They began by defeating Notts County away, before producing an extraordinary 5-4 extra-time victory over Wrexham in the semi-finals.

That set up a final against Solihull Moors, where the Mariners once again rose to the occasion to secure promotion back to the EFL.

It was a campaign built on resilience, belief and unforgettable moments.

Writing the Next Chapter

From Wembley glory to last-gasp heartbreak, the play-offs have consistently delivered defining moments for Grimsby Town.

Now, as another campaign begins, the opportunity is there to add a new chapter to that rich history – one that supporters will hope ends in celebration once again.

UTM