How to Listen to Newport County vs Grimsby Town on BBC Radio Humberside: James Hoggarth, Matt Dean and Andy Tillson Guide

Football fans across the UK gearing up for an exciting English League Two clash between Newport County and Grimsby Town on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 15:01 UK time will be pleased to know that coverage is available on BBC Radio Humberside via DAB radio. While major British channels like ITV, BBC TV, Sky Sports, and TNT Sports often dominate higher-tier broadcasts, this fixture highlights the vital role of local BBC radio in delivering live commentary for lower-league action. Hosted at Rodney Parade, this League Two Round 31 encounter promises drama, with Grimsby Town sitting pretty in 9th place and Newport County battling in 23rd[1][2][5]. Tune in to BBC Radio Humberside to catch every moment, led by presenter James Hoggarth, main commentator Matt Dean, and co-commentator Andy Tillson.

The beauty of BBC radio coverage lies in its accessibility—no subscription fees or streaming glitches, just crisp DAB reception bringing the match to your living room, car, or wherever you are. As one of the BBC's regional stations dedicated to Humberside, it has long been the go-to for Grimsby Town supporters, offering unparalleled insight into the Mariners' campaigns. While Sky Sports lists the fixture in their schedules, radio remains the purest way to experience the tension of a League Two showdown[4]. With referee Declan Bourne officiating, expect a fiercely contested battle at Rodney Parade[1][6].

James Hoggarth, the presenter, is a familiar voice on BBC Radio Humberside, having built a career immersed in regional sports broadcasting. With years of experience anchoring live football, rugby, and more, Hoggarth's smooth delivery and knack for engaging listeners make him a staple for Humberside audiences. His role tonight will be to guide the broadcast, conduct pre-match build-up, and handle post-game analysis, ensuring fans stay informed on team news, injuries, and tactical setups. Hoggarth's passion for local football shines through, often drawing on his deep knowledge of Grimsby's history to contextualise the action.

Leading the commentary is Matt Dean, the main commentator whose career spans decades calling games for Grimsby Town and beyond. Dean's tenure with BBC Radio Humberside has seen him narrate countless triumphs and heartbreaks for the Mariners, from promotion pushes to gritty survival fights. Renowned for his vivid descriptions and encyclopedic recall of past encounters, Dean brings authenticity to every call. His voice has become synonymous with Grimsby matches, capturing the roar of Blundell Park and, on this occasion, the intensity of Rodney Parade. Fans appreciate Dean's balanced yet passionate style, making him one of the most respected voices in lower-league commentary.

Joining Dean as co-commentator is Andy Tillson, a footballing legend whose playing career adds immense value to the broadcast. Tillson enjoyed a distinguished professional tenure, amassing over 500 appearances across clubs like Bristol City, Blackburn Rovers, and Grimsby Town itself during the 1990s. After hanging up his boots, he transitioned into coaching and management, steering Grimsby Town as player-manager and later managing Gloucester City and The New Saints. His time at Grimsby gives him unique insights into the club's culture and current squad dynamics. Tillson's expert analysis will dissect Newport's defensive frailties— they've conceded heavily in recent outings, including 3-0 to Bristol Rovers and 4-1 to Accrington[4][5]—and highlight Grimsby's unbeaten run in the last seven meetings against the Exiles (4 wins, 3 draws)[1].

This matchup pits two teams in contrasting form. Newport County, languishing in 23rd, have struggled defensively, shipping 49 goals this season while managing only 29 in return[5]. Recent results show losses like 0-3 at Bristol Rovers on January 31 and 1-4 at home to Accrington on January 27, though they notched a 2-1 home win over Chesterfield[4]. At Rodney Parade, they'll rely on forwards like Bobby Kamwa, who's created the most big chances (7) for the side[1]. Meanwhile, Grimsby Town in 9th boast a robust defence with 9 clean sheets and just 30 goals conceded[5]. Their form is solid: a 2-2 draw with MK Dons, 1-0 win at Colchester, and 2-0 at Cheltenham[4]. Striker Kabia leads the charge with 9 goals and a 6.56 FotMob rating, fresh off a two-goal haul[1][5]. Grimsby's unbeaten streak against Newport adds intrigue—haven't lost in 8 overall[1].

Head-to-head records favour Grimsby, who remain unbeaten in the last seven clashes, underscoring their psychological edge[1]. Predictions from sites like Forebet highlight stats-driven insights, with Grimsby's attack, powered by players like G. Garner (2 recent goals), posing threats[3][5]. Newport must shore up at home, where they've mixed wins (2-0 vs Crewe) with defeats[4]. For neutrals, this is classic League Two fare: underdogs Newport desperate for points against playoff-chasing Mariners.

To listen, simply tune your DAB radio to BBC Radio Humberside from build-up time, typically an hour before kick-off at 15:01. The station covers Grimsby extensively as the local team, making this a must for Mariners fans nationwide. BBC's commitment to football radio ensures high-quality coverage, often with pitch-side reporters and fan reactions. While TV options like Sky Sports provide visuals[4], nothing beats radio's immediacy for building tension.

Delve deeper into the teams via official channels. For Newport County AFC's official site, explore their squad, tickets, and history rooted in Welsh borders football. Grimsby enthusiasts can visit Grimsby Town FC for live updates and club news. The EFL League Two page offers full standings, fixtures, and competition details.

Beyond the personnel, this game encapsulates League Two's charm—raw passion, local rivalries, and unpredictable outcomes. Grimsby's recent FA Cup exploits (3-2 vs Weston-super-Mare) show depth[4], while Newport seeks resurgence after a 2-0 win over Crewe[4]. Commentators like Dean and Tillson will unpack tactics: Grimsby's counter-attacks versus Newport's set-piece threats. Tillson's managerial eye might spotlight midfield battles, where Grimsby's E. Khouri (4 goals) could shine[5].

League Two itself is the EFL's fourth tier, home to 24 ambitious clubs fighting for promotion or survival. With Sky Bet sponsorship, it garners national attention via Sky Sports, but BBC radio fills gaps for fixtures like this[4]. Rodney Parade, Newport's fortress since 2012 after moving from Somerton Park, hosts Wales rugby too, adding prestige[1]. Grimsby, the 'Cod Army', draw from fishing heritage, their Blundell Park ground a pilgrimage site.

As kick-off nears, expect Hoggarth to preview lineups—FotMob predicts key players like Opoku for Newport[1]. Dean's calls will evoke Grimsby's unbeaten H2H dominance, while Tillson analyses xG stats (Grimsby 10.59 assists context[1]). Post-match, they'll dissect Declan Bourne's decisions[6]. For British fans, this is accessible football—DAB in your pocket.

Don't miss it: BBC Radio Humberside delivers the heart of the game. Whether you're a die-hard Mariners supporter or neutral, the trio of Hoggarth, Dean, and Tillson promise an unforgettable afternoon. League Two magic awaits at 15:01.

In summary, while waiting for the whistle, reflect on careers like Tillson's 500+ games or Dean's decades behind the mic. This broadcast honours lower-league devotion, proving radio's enduring power in British football culture. Tune in, support your side, and enjoy the action.