Grimsby overturned a half-time deficit to inflict defeat on Mark Hughes in his first game in charge of rock-bottom Carlisle.

Former Wales boss Hughes was named as the replacement for Mike Williamson this week and could hardly have wished for a better start as his new team took an early lead through Sam Lavelle.

But Grimsby levelled just after the hour through Justin Obikwu before Danny Rose slotted home an 83rd-minute penalty to snatch a 2-1 victory for the play-off chasing Mariners.

It looked a dream start for Hughes and Carlisle as skipper Lavelle headed in Elliot Embleton’s corner at the near post to give the visitors the lead in the fifth minute.

Carlisle sustained some forward pressure for the next 10 minutes as they searched for second goal, but Grimsby finished the first half stronger.

Evan Khouri thought he had equalised for the hosts when he poked in following up Obikwu’s saved shot, but the offside flag was raised.

Carlisle hit the post early in the second half, but the home side got back on level terms in the 63rd minute through Obikwu, who swivelled and finished past Gabriel Breeze from the centre of the penalty area.

Grimsby were given the chance to claim victory seven minutes from time when they were awarded a penalty as Jason Dadi Svanthorsson was brought down after a quick corner caught out Carlisle.

Rose converted from the spot, sending Breeze the wrong way to pile further misery on lowly Carlisle.