Sheffield Wednesday Overcome Early Deficit to Triumph 5-1 Over Grimsby, Secure Carabao Cup Third Round Spot
Sheffield Wednesday overcame an early fright against Grimsby to secure their place in the Carabao Cup third round with a convincing 5-1 comeback victory at Blundell Park.
Grimsby's Cameron McJannet gave the hosts a first-half lead with a header, but quick goals from Ike Ugbo and Jamal Lowe within the first 10 minutes of the second half swung the momentum in Wednesday's favor.
A late double from Callum Paterson further increased the visitors' lead, and Pol Valentin sealed the win with a goal in stoppage time.
Opportunities were scarce in the early stages, but Grimsby broke the deadlock in the 18th minute as center-back McJannet headed a Charles Vernam corner past Pierce Charles.
The situation could have worsened for the Championship side before half-time if Kieran Green's header had not struck the crossbar.
Wednesday made two substitutions during the break, which paid off after 53 minutes with two goals in just 90 seconds, leaving their League Two opponents reeling.
First, Ugbo scored after being set up by substitute Valentin, and moments later, Lowe found the net.
Grimsby searched for an equalizer, but Paterson sealed the game, scoring twice in the last 20 minutes, before Valentin added a fifth goal for Wednesday two minutes into stoppage time.