Brentford sauntered into the quarter-finals of the League Cup for the second consecutive season after ending Grimsby’s magnificent cup run on a one-sided evening in Cleethorpes.

The Mariners have beaten teams from each of England’s top three divisions to reach the fourth round, including their historic victory against Manchester United at this ground in August.

However, there was never really any chance of a repeat here as Keith Andrews’ side continued their fine recent form to silence a sold-out Blundell Park.

The Bees were 3-0 up by half-time and in complete control, with second-half goals from Fábio Carvalho and Nathan Collins adding further gloss on what turned out to be commanding victory for the Premier League side.

After an indifferent start under Andrews, Brentford now appear to be settling in a real rhythm as they avoided a possible upset with consummate ease.

Roared on by a boisterous home crowd, it was the League Two side who enjoyed the brighter moments early on, with half-chances for both Charles Vernam and Evan Khouri.

However, as the half wore on, the visitors started to show their superiority with the ball and their class would...