Graham Fenton reacts to stick from small section of South Shields fans

The Mariners suffered their first defeat in 16 games on Tuesday night as they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Grantham Town at the South Kesteven Sports Stadium.

They now trail Evo-Stik League leaders Farsley Celtic by two points, having played a game more than Celtic.

Fenton was appreciative of the travelling Shields fans who made the journey to Lincolnshire, despite – along with fellow boss Lee Picton – receiving some stick from a handful of supporters towards the end of the game.

Fenton said: “I really appreciate them coming down.

“I know there was a bit of frustration coming from the supporters today and I get that.

“Yes we could have done better, we understand that and we understand the frustration but at the same time one defeat in 16 at any level of football is exceptional.

“It’s possibly two or three people having a gripe and a winge but they’ve got to understand we’re not entitled to win every game of football.

“Again we have to put it into perspective. This is one defeat in 16 games of football. I understand the frustration.”

Shields fans showed their support on social media with many tweets of support for the team.

@kinroykinhell tweeted: “Unlucky lads, keep pushing! Massive game Saturday! UTM” while @NeilFaw66 posted: “Can’t fault the lads for the effort they put in tonight.”

@ChrisJarrowHall commented: “No point in losing our heads,” while @NufcDazzla84 said: “Just one of those nights, keep your heads up lads #KeepTheFaith.”

With 13 games of the season remaining Fenton believed that battle for the title could go right down to the wire.

Shields are third, and host second-placed Warrington on Saturday in a huge clash at Mariners Park. Shields are two points behind their rivals, having played the same number of games.