It was another afternoon to remember for Grant McCann's side as they maintained their fine record at Blundell Park. A first half brace from Jordan Gibson sandwiched a Luke Molyneux goal against opponents who played the entire second half a man light.
The contest was barely two minutes old when Rovers burst into life and took the lead. Gibson was put through by Molyneux's piercing ball and after rounding goalkeeper Jackson Smith he found the net at the second attempt from a few yards out, after an initial block on the line by a backtracking defender.
Rovers almost doubled the lead minutes later but Billy Sharp blazed over from just a few yards out after being picked out by Brandon Fleming's centre.
They didn't have to wait too long though. Molyneux made it 2-0 after Jamie Sterry ran unopposed down the right flank and picked out the winger who provided a fine finish into the bottom left corner. Rovers were in rampant mood and Gibson's fine third just before the interval was reward for constant stream of attacks. The hosts' task was made even tougher in the aftermath of the goal when Harvey Rodgers was sent off for dissent.
That made the second half almost a non-event with the game effectively won by half-time. Rovers threatened to add to their tally but couldn't get a fourth as they return down the M180 with a comfortable win.
Here's how we rated the Rovers' players:
13. Jack Senior 6
Provided fresh legs when he replaced Fleming for the final 20 minutes or so. Photo: Andrew Roe/AHPIX LTD
14. Joe Ironside N/A
Replaced Sharp but couldn't get involved in the contest, with the game long won by that stage. Photo: Andrew Roe/AHPIX LTD
15. Ben Close N/A
Another useful run-out as Rovers ran the clock down. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
16. Ephraim Yeboah N/A
Stretched a tiring Grimsby defence during the latter stages. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD