Preparation is key to avoid cup upsets
After more than 20 years on the Town playing staff, McDermott, who retired in 2007, knows a thing or two about cup upsets – involved in shock wins and losses during his time at Blundell Park.
The 40 year old was part of the last Mariners team to be dumped out by non-league opposition when Russell Slade's side lost 1-0 at Exeter City in 2004.
Looking back, he feels the preparation could have been better for that game and believes that's the key to success when facing a team up for providing a cup shock.
McDermott said: "That day at Exeter was horrendous – it showed what can happen if you don't prepare enough.
"I'm not saying we weren't ready but I think flying there and back on the day made it a long day and we were out-fought there.
"That's the danger when you play a non-league team in the first round because this is their third round – a chance to play a league team and produce a performance.
"It's a big day for small teams like Bath because they will have great support and will raise their game – they will feel they've all got something to prove and it's a chance to impress and be in the shop window for a move into the league.
"They won't want to get hammered and will come ready for the fight.
"Grimsby will have to be ready but if the players perform to the level they are capable of then they can get the right results.
"The first goal in games like this is key – if Grimsby get it, they take the wind out of Bath's sails and then as the game goes on, their fitness should be stronger.
"But if Bath get the first goal, they have something to hold on to and defend.
"It's a potential upset like any league side facing smaller opposition.
"And whatever anyone says, it does play on your mind before a game.
"No-one wants to be the ones who are on the wrong end of an upset.
"I've been on both sides – losing at Exeter but also part of a Town team that came from a goal down at Middlesbrough 20 years ago to knock them out in the third round when we were in the fourth division and they were in the first.
"That day we were the underdogs and you do find something extra for the occasion."
While wary of Bath's one-off chances of an upset, McDermott is hoping for a Town win and progress to Round Two for only the second time in six seasons.
He added: "It's great to get a cup run – I've been involved in a few in both the FA Cup and League Cup, getting some big ties at the likes of Leeds and Liverpool.
"It would be nice for the fans and give them something to cheer after the league form of late.
"It's a nice distraction for the players as well and a good display can breed confidence to take back into the league matches."
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