Sierra Leone International Kallumm Cesay scored as Salford City came from behind to beat Grimsby Town 2-1, taking an advantage into the second leg at the Peninsula Stadium on Friday night.

Grimsby scored quickly, with Reece Staunton netting just 34 seconds in. However, Salford equalised within three minutes when Kallum Cesay scored with a low shot past Jackson Smith.

Salford took the lead late in the first half when Ade Oluwo headed in a corner from Luke Garbutt. After a slow start, the match became exciting when Staunton scored for Grimsby. Salford quickly responded, with Dan Udoh assisting Cesay, who found the net.

Salford pushed forward, creating chances, while Grimsby threatened with headers and shots that were blocked or saved.

In the final minutes of the first half, Salford took the lead for the first time this season against Grimsby, with Oluwo heading in from a corner delivered by Nmai.

The second half had fewer chances, with a free kick from Staunton going straight to Matty Young. Grimsby had a late chance to equalise, but Green’s shot was also saved.