Bath City have rejected Grimsby Town's plans to 'significantly' reduce the admission prices for their forthcoming FA Cup tie, saying it would have a detrimental impact on their takings.

The Mariners had released details of cut-price tickets for the clash at Blundell Park before consulting their opponents and were forced to withdraw the offer when the City board protested.

"We just felt the reduction was far too much," managing director Paul Williams explained.

"We were willing to compromise but Grimsby's conclusion was it could go one of two ways – either the prices were reduced to the level they suggested or it was full price."

Grimsby accounts manager Steve Wraith argued: "We did it for the right reasons – we wanted to ensure a decent crowd and give the fans a good deal.

"Unfortunately, we have been snookered by Bath City not wanting to play ball."

But Williams countered: "I can see why Grimsby fans might look at the tie and say 'who are Bath City?' but they must have a hardcore of supporters there.

"Grimsby might want to reward those fans by cutting the prices but that is not our job. It devalues the competition.

"It would be nice to have a big crowd but that would help Grimsby anyway. If there are 1,000 fans paying full price, we would get the same revenue as 2,000 fans paying reduced prices."