Buckley fired by Mariners

Grimsby have sacked manager Alan Buckley after the Coca-Cola League Two club amassed just two points from the opening six games of the season.

The Mariners are currently fifth bottom in the table following Saturday's 3-1 home defeat at the hands of Chester, with their only win this term coming courtesy of a 2-0 Carling Cup success over Tranmere last month.

A club statement read: "It is with regret that the board of directors have decided, due to an extended run of poor results in the League, to relieve manager Alan Buckley of his managerial duties."

The statement continued: "Alan has been a fine ambassador to the football club and this difficult decision takes nothing away from his wonderful achievements which transpired in the club enjoying an extended stay in the Championship together with three wonderful trips to Wembley.

"We would like to express our sincere thanks to Alan and we are sure that everybody connected with the club will respect him for his magnificent achievements whilst manager."

Buckley was in his third spell at Blundell Park and guided the club to the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final last season before being beaten 2-0 by MK Dons at Wembley.

Assistant manager Stuart Watkiss has assumed first-team duties on a temporary basis at Blundell Park.