With the Cods' league form so poor this season he is content to let this competition pass them by, so he can focus on trying to keep the club in the Football League.
He was involved with the teamtalks before the game and at half-time on Tuesday night, and left Glanford Park in confident mood.
"If they can put in that level of performance and that level of commitment then they won't go far wrong," he told the Grimsby Telegraph.
"It was never going to be an easy game for us but, considering we have hit the bar three times and we got back into it having been 2-0 down at half-time, I am really pleased.
"There is plenty for me to look forward to and work with. If we can just add a couple of things along the way, I am sure it won't be too long before we are out of trouble.
"With that level of performance and the quality we have at the club, I am sure it won't be long before we get on some sort of run."