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An own goal from Grimsby defender Toby Mullarkey proved decisive as Tranmere took the points.

Mullarkey turned into his own net 10 minutes into the second half, with Rob Apter and Grimsby debutant Doug Tharme also on target at Blundell Park.

Chances were at a premium in the opening 45 minutes and it looked as though the deadlock would not be broken before half-time.

However, in a three-minute spell, Tranmere went in front when Apter curled home before debutant Tharme hit straight back from a Grimsby set-piece.

Tranmere restored their advantage in the 55th minute when Mullarkey turned into his own net from Apter's low delivery.

Grimsby pushed and probed for a way back into the game, but Tranmere were able to keep them at arm's length while posing a threat on the counter.

Danny Rose came closest to finding an equaliser as the Grimsby captain struck on-target and drew Luke McGee into a fingertip save in the 82nd minute.

Match report supplied by PA Media.