How to Watch Grimsby Town vs Shrewsbury Town: James Hoggarth Presents BBC Radio Humberside Coverage with Matt Dean and Gary Croft

As football fans across the UK gear up for an exciting League Two clash on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 19:45 UK time, all eyes will be on Blundell Park where Grimsby Town host Shrewsbury Town. While major broadcasters like BBC, ITV, Sky Sports, or TNT Sports are not televising this fixture live on TV, dedicated listeners can tune into BBC Radio Humberside on DAB for comprehensive coverage. Presented by the experienced James Hoggarth, with main commentary from Matt Dean and co-commentary by former professional Gary Croft, this radio broadcast promises insightful analysis and live action from the Marineland on Cleethorpes seafront stadium.

BBC Radio Humberside has long been a cornerstone for Grimsby Town supporters, offering unrivalled access to Mariners' matches throughout the season. The station's DAB digital radio service ensures crystal-clear reception across Humberside and beyond, making it the go-to choice for fans unable to attend in person. With no TV blackout concerns for this mid-table encounter, radio remains the primary medium to follow every goal, save, and tactical shift in real time[1][2].

The matchup pits two sides grappling with inconsistent form against each other. Grimsby Town, currently sitting 16th in the League Two table, welcome a Shrewsbury Town outfit in 21st position, both desperate for points before the year ends[2]. Shrewsbury's manager Michael Appleton has highlighted Grimsby's recent slump, targeting a vital away win to lift his side from their struggles, having secured just one victory in their last nine league games[3]. This fixture, part of League Two Round 23, carries significant jeopardy for both relegation-threatened teams[1].

Leading the broadcast is presenter James Hoggarth, a familiar voice on BBC Radio Humberside. Hoggarth has built a reputation for his engaging style, steering discussions with guests and providing pre-match build-up, half-time analysis, and post-match reactions. His career in sports broadcasting spans years of covering Grimsby Town and regional football, earning him loyalty from Mariners' fans who appreciate his passion and knowledge of the club's history.

Taking the microphone as main commentator is Matt Dean, whose descriptive prowess brings the action vividly to life. Dean's tenure with BBC Radio Humberside includes countless Grimsby matches, where his play-by-play expertise has become synonymous with the club's coverage. A seasoned commentator, Dean's career highlights include capturing memorable moments in League Two and beyond, blending enthusiasm with detailed tactical insights that keep listeners hooked from kick-off to final whistle.

Joining him in the commentary box is Gary Croft, a co-commentator with a storied playing background that adds authenticity to his punditry. Croft enjoyed a distinguished 18-year professional career, amassing over 600 appearances. He began at Grimsby Town, making 265 outings and cementing his status as a club legend during their top-flight days in the 1990s. Versatile as a full-back and midfielder, Croft later played for Ipswich Town, where he featured in the UEFA Cup, and enjoyed stints at Leicester City, Hull City, and Cardiff City. Retiring in 2008, Croft transitioned seamlessly into coaching and media, now offering expert analysis drawn from his Premier League and Championship experience. His insider perspective on Grimsby's tactics will be invaluable tonight.

Blundell Park, home to Grimsby since 1899, sets the stage for this encounter. With a capacity of around 9,000, the stadium's atmospheric Main Stand and open Findus Stand create a cauldron for visiting sides like Shrewsbury. Recent head-to-heads show parity: Grimsby with 1 win, Shrewsbury 1, and 2 draws, including a 1-1 stalemate earlier this season at the Croud Meadow[1]. Referee Steven Copeland will oversee proceedings, ensuring a fair battle[5].

Shrewsbury arrive under pressure, with Appleton eyeing Grimsby's poor run—just four goals in their last six games[3]. The Salop boss confirmed defender Sam Stubbs is sidelined due to disciplinary issues, while pushing Tom Sang for a start. A predicted 3-4-3 lineup features Brook in goal, with Boyle, Anderson, and Hoole at the back, and attackers Scully, Marquis, and Kabia leading the line[3]. Victory here could propel them away from danger, two points clear currently.

Grimsby, managed by David Artell, will look to leverage home advantage. The Mariners' form has mirrored Shrewsbury's woes, but Blundell Park has witnessed turnarounds before. Fans tuning in via BBC Radio Humberside can expect coverage starting well before kick-off, with Hoggarth interviewing players, previewing key battles, and recapping recent results.

For those preferring digital options, BBC Sounds app streams the match live, accessible nationwide. While no British TV channels like Sky or TNT cover this game, international fans might find streams via apps like FotMob or SofaScore for scores and stats, though audio remains king for immersion[1][2].

League Two's charm lies in its unpredictability, and this festive fixture embodies that. Grimsby, with their seafaring heritage and history of punching above weight—reaching the FA Cup quarter-finals as recently as 2022—face a Shrewsbury side rebuilding under Appleton, who boasts a managerial CV including Portsmouth, Blackburn Rovers, and Oxford United. His experience could prove decisive.

Key players to watch include Grimsby's top-rated performers, rated highly on SofaScore metrics, and Shrewsbury's John Marquis, a proven goalscorer[2]. Croft's commentary will delve into these matchups, drawing from his days defending against similar threats.

Historical context adds spice: Grimsby's 1997-98 Premier League stint under Alan Buckley remains a golden era, with Croft integral. Shrewsbury, League One stalwarts until recent relegation, seek revival. Their head-to-heads often deliver drama, low-scoring but tense.

As 2025 closes, this match offers both clubs a lifeline. Appleton's call for sharper starts echoes wider themes—Shrewsbury's final-third profligacy must end[3]. Grimsby fans, dreaming of playoffs, need home points.

BBC Radio Humberside's team—Hoggarth's steady hand, Dean's vivid calls, Croft's wisdom—ensures no moment is missed. Tune in on DAB, FM (95.9 in Grimsby), or online for the full experience. Whether you're in Cleethorpes or afar, this coverage captures League Two's raw passion.

For more on the clubs, explore Shrewsbury Town's official history. League Two standings and fixtures are tracked at EFL.com. BBC Sport details broadcasting rights here.

In a division where every point counts, Grimsby vs Shrewsbury promises edge-of-seat action. With Croft's expertise and Dean's narration, listeners are in for a treat. Don't miss it—it's League Two at its gritty best.