Upcoming Transport

Ipswich - February 16th - We will be running a minibus to this match.  Please contact Charlie or Phil if you are interested.

Pool Panel - Blackburn (h) win 2-0

Saturday saw another step in the evolution of this Blackpool side under Michael Appleton with the first home win.  After the initial 20 minutes or so when we started somewhat tentatively, a well worked goal gave the team the self belief to go on and dominate the derby game.

Although Rovers will point to their defensive failings, it was, from our perspective, a well worked effort, with the lively Delfuenso beating his man and putting over an inviting cross for the hard working Thomas to glance into the net.  After that, apart from chances we presented to them, I thought Rovers were never in the game.

The tighter shape we now have allowed Gomes to prompt and create behind the front men and he enjoyed that role.  At left back, Bob Harris came in for the ever dependable Crainey and did well, getting forward more and testing the keeper with a wicked free kick.  Defensively, Broadfoot and Cathcart are developing as a partnership, while Baptiste is good enough to play anywhere in that back line, and has regained confidence at right back.  Gilks has also got over a dip in form and was back to his best, making a couple of good saves, while commanding his box far more. 

All in all, a good three points against a team who will fancy themselves to be up there at the end of the season.  We meet another pre-season favourite on Friday night in Wolves and can get right back into the mix with a further three points.  On this form, why not?

STARMAN:  Craig Cathcart

New Badges - Tower Power

We've taken delivery of the new "Tower Power" badge design. We're charging £3 for one, but we'll do the pair of the two designs for £5.  

Please see either Phil or Wilf if you are interested in purchasing one.  They are already prooving quite popular - so best be quick!!!

Pool Panel - Crystal Palace (a) Draw 2-2

I thought we came through a real test at Selhurst Park.  With the recent history we have with their manager, it could have been all about him, but instead the team ensured it was all about the game itself. 

In the first half especially it was us who were setting the pace, playing fluent, attractive football that probably deserved more than a one goal lead.  Wes Thomas was leading the line well, holding the ball up and bringing others into the game.  In a way, it was a shame the halftime whistle came because in the second half, we were never quite as fluent and the home side started to dominate.

I don’t like to complain about officials, but I thought both of their goals had a touch of offside about them, the second in particular.  Supposedly these things even themselves out, but I can’t remember the last time we got the benefit of the doubt.

To fall behind and then come back and get an equaliser again showed the self belief and resilience with this group of players.  When the goal did come, Dicko celebrated in great style, joining us fans in the stands.  A richly deserved point and one that means we can finally bury the ghost of Mr Holloway and properly start the new Appleton era. 

Yes, we are drawing a lot of games, but the confidence is coming back to the squad and we are still handily placed in a very tight Division.  I’m confident we have the players to make another push.

STARMAN: Wes Thomas  

Pool Panel - Birmingham (h) Draw 1-1 & Peterborough (a) Win 4-1

A week of steady improvement.  On Tuesday night, the run of draws continued as, despite scoring first, we again conceded a loose goal and couldn’t force our way to find another.  The pitch was of concern, cutting up badly and possibly affecting the confidence of the players in trying to play a quick passing game.

At London Road, there was no such excuse, but in the first half we again lacked a little zip while being comfortably in the game.  In the second half there was a real transformation, helped by getting a two goal cushion in short time.  We then played like the Blackpool of old, passing around the ball at pace and being available to receive and give a pass.  Once again we conceded another needless goal, but were quickly onto the front foot again with a third goal.  Ince’s fourth was a real beauty and acted as the icing on the cake.  The lack of a win under Appleton was beginning to be a burden to the players but hopefully we can now move on and show our true strengths.

Next week of course, has our first match against Ian Holloway.  Regardless of the result, I think it gives both the fans and the club the opportunity to move on into a new era.  There has been a definite hangover since he left which has left an air of uncertainty around the club.  This game will be cathartic whether we win, lose or draw.

Onwards and upwards.

STARMAN: (Birmingham) Tiago Gomes

STARMAN: (Peterborough) Tom Ince