Harambee Stars utility player Clarke Oduor expressed his delight after making a strong return to the starting line-up for Grimsby Town in their convincing 2-0 away victory over Crawley Town on Easter Monday in the English League Two encounter.
Oduor, who featured for 70 minutes, delivered an impressive performance and played a key role in helping the Mariners bounce back to winning ways after their disappointing defeat to Harrogate Town.
The Kenyan international was lively in midfield, linking up play well and contributing both defensively and offensively as Grimsby Town controlled large spells of the match and secured a clean sheet away from home.
Speaking after the match, Oduor praised the team’s response and determination to correct their previous performance.
“I think everyone was definitely high from the start today, and we were all just looking to rectify the last performance, and we did that. We kind of got the job done in the first half. We could have scored a few more goals, but at the end of the day we won and kept a clean sheet.”
Harambee Stars midfielder Clarke Oduor elated after return to Grimsby Town starting line-up
Grimsby Town took control of the game early, with Jaze Kabia opening the scoring in the 23rd minute after a well-worked attacking move before Harvey Rodgers doubled the lead nine minutes before halftime with a powerful strike. The two first-half goals gave the Mariners a comfortable cushion heading into the break.
Oduor, who replaced Jamie Walker in the only change to the starting XI, justified his selection with a disciplined and energetic display. His work rate in midfield helped Grimsby maintain structure, while his movement on the left side caused problems for the Crawley defence.
Early in the second half, he also won the free kick that led to Crawley captain Jay Williams being sent off after reacting poorly, giving the visitors a numerical advantage for the remainder of the match.
ALSO READ: Grenada vs Kenya: Harambee Stars end FIFA Series 2026 on a high, beat Spice Boys to finish third
On returning to the starting line-up at a crucial stage of the season, Oduor admitted that it was a positive moment for him and emphasized the importance of being ready when opportunities arise.
“It was good, especially at this stage of the season. I think everyone just has to be ready because when chances come, we have to try and take them, so I felt like I did that today in the 70 minutes that I was on.”
Grimsby Town managed the second half well controlling possession and limiting Crawley Town’s chances despite a late push from the hosts. Oduor was later substituted in the 70th minute as head coach David Artell introduced fresh legs to maintain the team’s intensity and see out the match.
The victory marked an important response for the Mariners, who were keen to return to winning ways and maintain momentum in the closing stages of the season. The clean sheet and composed performance away from home highlighted the team’s resilience and tactical discipline.
Oduor’s performance was a timely reminder of his quality and readiness to contribute when called upon. With the season entering a crucial stage, the Harambee Stars utility man will be aiming to maintain consistency and cement his place in Grimsby Town’s plans as they push for a strong finish in the remaining fixtures.