“It was a fantastic game, but I thought we were the better side and should have gone on to win it,” said Arnold.
 
“Two dead moments killed us tonight which is better to happen tonight than in a semi (final). It was disappointing to concede from a corner and then a really soft throw in.
 
“Overall though I think our performance was fantastic. When the boys are sitting in the dressing room disappointed after a 3-all draw with the team leading the competition it shows how far we’ve come.”
 
Mariners captain Alex Wilkinson was proud of the efforts of his teammates after coming off a three-day break.
 
“We’re gutted at the moment to be honest, disappointed that we didn’t pick up the three points, but as Arnie said we can be proud of our performance,” said Wilkinson.

" I thought the boys in midfield and upfront put in an enormous shift, especially backing up after the break.
 
“We will gain confidence out of our performance, and I think we’ve learned that we can compete with anyone in the competition.
 
“The best thing for us to do now is put that behind us and look forward to the game against Newcastle on Sunday.”