The score line barely told the tale of a remarkable match that was full of incident.
Grimsby led 2-0 at the break when it could have been six. But in the end they were probably relieved to hear the final whistle which signalled their first win in seven games.
Perhaps the abiding memory of the match was the sight of Kidderminster striker Youssou Diop hopping halfway round the pitch after being abandoned by physio Jimmy Conway following an ankle injury.
The introduction of substitute Simon Russell and then Pedro Matias at the start of the second changed the complexion of the game.
Grimsby ran riot in the first half with midfielder Dean Gordon and striker Andy Parkinson particularly rampant.
They scored two splendid goals from Gordon on nine minutes and French midfielder Thomas Pinault on 24 minutes as Kidderminster were chasing shadows.
They looked every inch a bottom of the table side with just one away goal and a single point away from home so far.
But it was a different tale after half time with lively winger Simon Brown unlucky to hit the post before Matias scored a debut goal after 71 minutes.
There were some anxious moments before victory was secured for the Mariners although never was the description a "game of two halves" more valid.
There is still much work to be done and Grimsby boss Russell Slade admitted afterwards he was still looking for another striker for his team who do not score the goals their approach work demands