Charles Vernam's fine strike salvaged a point for Grimsby in a 1-1 draw at troubled Macclesfield.

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Both sides came into their Boxing Day fixture in wretched form and after substitute Joe Ironside had put Macclesfield ahead from the spot the Mariners rescued a draw through Vernam, who scored their first goal in seven games.

The first half contained few threats on either goal. Grimsby's best chance was sent wide by Max Wright after smart work by Vernam while Macc captain Fiacre Kelleher headed a Jak McCourt free-kick over.

Macclesfield's Paddy Osadebe had the best chance of the half, latching onto a weak header by Harry Davis, but he fired wide with only keeper James McKeown to beat.

Three minutes after being brought on at half-time, Ironside was sent tumbling in the box by Davis and picked himself up to emphatically thump home the resulting penalty.

But the lead lasted no more than 10 minutes as Vernam produced a brilliant solo effort that ended with a firm finish into the bottom corner.

And with neither side able to find a second goal the game ended honours even.

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