The club changed the law on starting the game - instead of a kick-off, the club decided to have the game started with the side winning the toss throwing the ball up at the centre of the ground, the other side keeping 10 yards distant.

[2] A return match at Wragby Road was played under Association laws in April 1865.

As a result of the protest, the FA ordered the Grimsby-City tie to be replayed, which Lincoln City won via forfeit after Grimsby refused to attend, but the Lincolnshire Football Association ignored the FA's ruling and ordered a replay of the final (which Grimsby won again).

Ultimately an apology from the Lincolnshire FA to the Football Association was deemed to be the end of the matter.

The club resolutely remained amateur, while neighbours City turned professional and joined the Football League, as did nearby Gainsborough Trinity.