Brian Little has reassured Gainsborough Trinity fans that his team will be "ready for August 14" as the Blues prepare for their third pre-season game when Grimsby Town come to the Northolme tonight (7.30pm).

Trinity's pre-season campaign has so far seen them lose 3-0 to a Leeds United side containing several first-team players, followed by a disappointing display in the Lincolnshire Senior Shield quarter-final against Brigg Town on Saturday where the Blues scraped through on penalties after a goal-less draw.

Trinity manager Little said the fans should not read too much into his side's performances at the moment, insisting they will be well set for their opening game of the Blue Square Bet North season at Worcester City.

"Whatever happens in pre-season, everything is focused on August 14," said Little.

"It would be great to win every pre-season game 6-0, but winning is not the most important thing at this stage. We need to give players minutes on the pitch and try things out so we are ready for August 14.

"I think we got a lot out of the game on Saturday.

"It was a full game, where the players had to play 90 minutes and it came only 48 hours after a very tough workout against Leeds.

"It was a perfect game to have. We didn't play well but we had to grind it out, so it was a good workout.

"You've got to give credit to Brigg, they were outstanding. They'd already had quite a few games, so their fitness levels were much higher than ours and it showed.

"We need to find a second wind now. We need to now start finding that little bit of energy."

Little was not allowed to field any trialists on Saturday. But Nick McNamara, Gavin Hurren and Marcus Bignot, who all featured against Leeds, are likely to be given another chance to impress and earn a contract at Trinity tonight.

"We'll take another look at the lads that have been here with us tonight and we may bring another couple in to have a look at," said Little.

"I will then speak to Peter (Swann, chairman) on Wednesday and we should be able make a decision on whether we will keep any of them."

Trinity have some injury problems for tonight's game with Emeka Nwadike (achilles), Mark Greaves (back strain) and Leon Hibbett (thigh strain) all doubts.