 During the 1999–2000 campaign Grimsby manager Alan Buckley made Croudson his second choice keeper and this would eventually see him firmly cement his place behind Town's new number one Danny Coyne.Incidentally Croudson's step up in ranks would eventually go on to see Andy Love depart for Blundell Park for Ilkeston Town midway through the season.Croudson went on to make 5 appearances in League and Cup that season.