Pool Panel - QPR (h) Lost 2-0

Another defeat but at least this time there were positives to be taken from the game.  For the first hour of the game we were the better side, with QPR unable to create any meaningful chances while a number came and went for us. 

Davies went close with a header while Cathcart was unmarked but spooned the ball over the bar from close in.  We again squandered chances in the second half with Gosling missing the opportunity to play in Ince then putting a header over the bar.  Ince was denied by a good save from Green, but there was the nagging doubt that we needed to capitalise on the good spell we were having.

Inevitably, Matty Phillips came back to haunt us, first by picking up on a poor kick out from Gilks to score with the aid of a deflection.  That gave him the confidence to really run at Robinson, and a great cross from him was buried emphatically by Austin.  The following celebration was uncalled for as he incited the crowd in the South Stand.  That killed the game as a spectacle and for the final 20 minutes the team lost all belief that they could get anything from the game and accepted the defeat.

We need to get out of this slump as soon as possible, and start to get some points.  The tactic of an isolated front man just isn’t working at present.  I’d like to see a front two working together.  At least we’d have a better chance of retaining possession and not squandering the initiative.  Hopefully we can get back to winning ways at Burnley.

STAR MAN: Barry Ferguson

Away Travel - Burnley (a)

The next bus trip will be to Burnley on December 21st.  

As some of you probably know, there are no trains running at weekends due to engineering works in Holme Tunnel scheduled to last until March.  I find it odd that the tunnel only seems to subside at weekends but there you go.  

The best alternative will be a Yorkshire Seasiders minibus, priced at £8 for the day.  That's a proper replacement bus!!

I suspect it will fill fairly quickly, so let Phil or Charlie know if you're interested in going.

Pool Panel - Yeovil (a) Lost 1-0 & Derby (a) Lost 5-1

Two away games, no points, five sent off.  Not a good week to be a travelling Blackpool fan as first on Tuesday night, we squandered a host of opportunities only to lose to an offside goal, with three players dismissed as a result of frustration as much as anything else.

The effect of those sendings off was then felt at Derby as we went into a game with one of the form teams with no centre halves.  Despite that, we took an early lead and then defended valiantly for the remainder of the half with Gilks well protected by a makeshift defence.

I’m sure we then went into the second half with a plan to keep it tight and allow Derby to become frustrated.  However, the initiative was quickly lost with a very debateable penalty.  I’m not at all sure there was any meaningful contact at all, and what there was occurred outside the area.

Goals change games and that one from the spot gave Derby the impetus they needed and for the remainder of the half we were constantly on the back foot , not helping ourselves with a gift goal followed by two more sendings off.

We need to put this week behind us, learn the lessons and go into some tough games with renewed determination not to give referees the opportunity to make rash decisions.  With QPR coming to Bloomfield Rd, there’s no danger of the team and fans not being up for the game.

The season will be defined by the next few games.  Let’s make it a good one.

STARMAN: Neal Bishop

Derby Away and Meeting

Just a brief note to say that the vote went for a trip to York next Sunday for a pre-Christmas drink and chat.  We will meet at the York Station Tap  - close to the entrance to the station - at around 1.00 then take it from there.

For anyone interested, I know a group of us are travelling to Derby on the train from Leeds, leaving just after 9.00 for the 12.15 kick off.  Alternatively, Wilf has a couple of spaces in his car.  If you're interested in the latter, drop him an email to make the arrangements.

A quick reminder that we have two tickets in hospitality for the game against Middlesbrough on 11 January.  Tickets are £5 to win the pair.  Let me know if you want any.

Also, we still have a few places on the minibus to Burnley on the 21st.  There are no trains to the game due to engineering works, so why not travel with us?  We'll be charging £8 for the trip.

Pool Panel - Sheffield Wednesday (h) Win 2-0

Saturday was ultimately a comfortable three points in a potential banana skin of a game against a struggling Wednesday side.  After taking a swift lead from a well worked corner routine we possibly got somewhat complacent but fortunately Wednesday were unable to capitalise on some decent chances.  In what was a scrappy first half, we rallied towards the end, giving a taster of what was to come.

Right from the second half whistle, I thought we were really focused and ran the game, with Sheffield showing no threat at all, while Fuller was unstoppable at times, harrying their defenders and causing real problems.  As has been customary in recent matches, we couldn’t relax until the second goal went in and that eventually arrived following good work by Ince and Blackett on the left.  As the ball broke to the latter, he played a great ball back to Gosling who calmly sidefooted home off the foot of the post.

After that, it was a case of whether Blackpool would add more to their tally and they came close to doing so.  The late substitute, Zeegelar put over a fine corner and Mackenzie was desperately unlucky to see his header cannon back off the ball.

All in all, a good three points on a day when a number of our rivals slipped up.  As a consequence, we have closed the gap on the top three, with the immediate two both to play in December.

It may not be too pretty to watch, but we are quietly and effectively enforcing our position in the promotion shake up.  Long may it continue.

STARMAN:  Ricardo Fuller

Birmingham (a) Draw 1-1

Another point gained on the road, but overall there was a feeling among the fans that it was two points dropped.  Birmingham were are a side lacking in confidence and you got the feeling that if we’d really pressed them, then the win was there for the taking.  It took a mistake from the normally reliable Broadfoot for them to have a sniff of goal.  He sliced a clearance and it fell nicely for their player to slot home.  That’s the first time this season we’ve conceded the first goal in a game.  Fortunately, we were able to respond, and Ince had a great spell where he set up three great chances.  For the first, we moved the ball nicely leaving Ince in a position to lay back the ball for Fuller to slot home and restore parity.

By half time after another two great passes from Ince splitting their defence, we really should have been out of sight, but great chances were missed by Fuller and Gosling.

In the second half, we continued to defend comfortably and attack dangerously but couldn’t quite force home our advantage with Ince, Bishop and Gosling all going close.

Having said that, in the last five minutes, we defended in numbers and rode our luck slightly as Birmingham rallied and created a couple of their own chances.

We are now seeing players coming back into contention.  For me, we need to see the forwards we have unleashed in games like Saturday, and really press home our advantage.  A little more adventurous approach and I’m sure the win was there for the taking.  As it is, we’re still right in the mix.  A point away is always one gained but it puts more pressure to maintain our home form.

STARMAN: Thomas Ince

November International Break

A weekend without a game has come at the right time for us with a number of key players out injured but close to recovery.  The likes of Ferguson, Basham, Osbourne and Harris, plus the suspended Robinson have reduced the options available to the manager.  In addition, Thomas Ince has been struggling for form, not aided by the shape of the team leaving him isolated.  Despite that we’ve picked up some good results and are well placed as we approach the Christmas period.  The manager must feel that to pick up points while without key players has been a bonus and we can now build on that with a sustained push to remain in the promotion pack.

I note the manager has said that Chopra and Davies still lack match fitness, but it’s a Catch 22 as they’re not getting much game time, with 10 minute cameos here and there.  Fuller has done well up front as a lone striker but I’d like to see him given the support of someone like Chopra who has always done well on the shoulder of the last defender and would be ideal to prosper from the knockdowns Fuller provides.  If we can ally our defensive strength to our attacking options with a resurgent Ince I see no reason why we can’t remain right in the mix and go back up to the Premier League; unlike a number of the teams in contention, we’ve played the majority of our rivals and done well in those games.

We are right in there without particularly playing well.  Let’s hope the team can really express themselves and press right on.

Christmas Drink and Meeting

We are holding our annual Christmas meeting, drink up and AGM on December 8th.  York has won venue of choice.  We will circulate details of venue and location nearer the time.

Pool Panel - Forest away - Won (1-0)

Another big test against Nottingham Forest, unbeaten at home and a real contender for a promotion place, especially with a rehashed defence due to the ongoing injury situation.  Yet again, the team rose to the occasion, kept their heads and patience and got their rewards, albeit late on.

After a steady start, I thought we were looking comfortable when Mackenzie played a great ball into the area for the onrushing Bishop to catch out their defender who was forced to concede a penalty as Bishop looked certain to score.  Abdoun then took an age to trudge off, a factor that possibly affected Ince who shot tamely to the keeper’s right, allowing him the opportunity to make a fairly comfortable save.

With over half the game remaining, we then took a stranglehold on the game, with Forest retreating into a defensive shape, while we constantly probed and sought to work the ball through.  Far too often we were breaking at some pace then losing impetus once we got near their area, resorting to flicks and high risk passes.  Ince in particular often took the wrong option. 

We made a number of attacking substitutions to try and force the issue, with Forest clearly happy to take a point and it finally bore fruit as Ince played a ball in to Davies who laid off to Chopra.  He then set up Dobbie to calmly sidefoot home to send the 900 or so Blackpool fans delirious.   Once again we came away from the City Ground with a great result.  With other results going our way, we are now firmly ensconced in a playoff place.  One more game to see through and we can go into another International break with a real sense of positivity.

STARMAN: Neal Bishop

Notts Forest Travel and Christmas Meeting

Just a reminder that we're taking a bus to Forest on Saturday.

We'll be leaving Leeds station at 10.15 and can pick up en route down the M1.  Expect to be at Meadowhall around 11.00.

We're also thinking about having a drink and a meet in early December (Sunday 8th December).  I was thinking about either in York or Leeds.

Let me know your preference.

Pool Panel - Blackburn (h) - Draw 2-2

Saturday’s game was once again, a tale of two halves.  First half, we were unplayable at times, with Dobbie causing Blackburn real problems.  We could easily have been two up before Fuller was hauled down for a certain penalty.   Ince coolly slotted the ball in the opposite corner from the previous week to give us a deserved lead.   

Blackburn got themselves back into the game with their own penalty after Robinson threw himself to block a shot from Rhodes and the ball struck his hand.  After that, we were controlling the game, with the midfield again looking dominant with Bishop and Gosling winning plenty of ball and finding the forwards.  That pressure told as Gosling moved forward and fired a shot through the legs of the Blackburn player into the bottom corner for a deserved half time lead.

Second half Blackburn came back into the game but we were coping well with the pressure, which mainly consisted of long throws and free kicks and trying to pick up something from the second ball. 

The turning point in the game came as DJ Campbell, applauded onto the pitch five minutes earlier, became the villain as he went in late on Gilks, then clearly aimed a couple of headbutts.  Robinson got too heavily involved and they both received their marching orders.  That disrupted our shape far more than Rovers and it paid off as they launched yet another ball into the box in injury time. 

A deflection from the stretching Davies saw us concede.  Better communication would have seen a comfortable clearance from Bishop immediately behind him. 

Two points dropped but still right in contention.  It’s now a massive game at Forest.

STARMAN:  Dan Gosling

International Break

The international break allows time for reflection on the season so far.  To be sixth and well in touch with the promotion race after a quarter of the season is something we all would have taken after the angst of the pre-season when it seemed we were struggling to attract players and couldn’t envisage a settled side, as so many key players of recent years left.

That loss could have seen the spirit within the squad damaged, but a new core has developed with centre halves who relish a challenge ensuring we are difficult to score against, while we have a number of strikers who can contribute.  Maybe one criticism is that we’ve been over-cautious, seemingly content to rest on a one goal lead rather than finish teams off.  As a consequence we’ve drawn a number of games recently that could have been converted into victories with a little more attacking intent.

The one area that could still be improved is the midfield; while we have a number of people who can break up play, we lack creativity, leading to the forwards being isolated on occasion.  Maybe Dan Gosling can resolve that conundrum, linking our defensive strength with our attacking players.

It’s clear that the days of throwing men forward with no regard for defence are gone, but to be fair, the results are speaking for themselves.  As long as the team remain in contention for promotion, I’m sure most fans will take the different approach in their stride and continue to support the side.

If Ince can get the balance between defensive strength and attacking prowess right, then I see no reason as to why we can’t stay in the race.

Pool Panel - Bolton (h) 0-0 and Charlton (a) 0-0

Two games in a week with two goalless draws ensuing.  In some ways, the two games had much in common.  Over the balance of play we did most of the pressing but were unable to convert that pressure into clear chances, while our defensive display was solid enough, as has become the norm.

Against Bolton, a number of players had an off night, so our possession came to nought through loss of possession.  It took a fantastic save from Gilks to keep us in the game followed by a smart interception from Mackenzie, but while Fuller was consistently winning the ball, there was a lack of support, a feature also of the Charlton game.

A midfield of Bishop, Basham and Osbourne gives us a great deal of solidity but while they play their part in obtaining and retaining possession, there is a distinct lack of creativity and no real width.  Their natural game is to win the ball then look for a simple ball sideways or backwards, keeping possession.  They are not looking to make a run to get up in support with the attacking players.  As a consequence, the likes of Ince and Fuller are finding themselves receiving the ball with two or three defenders around them.  Ince has clearly been frustrated but that is a result of the current team shape.

Hopefully Gosling can come into the side and give us that linkage between midfield and attack, both in terms of creativity and also allowing a little more space for the forwards as he supports the front men.

We are looking good defensively but maybe at the cost of our attacking threat.  The international break gives us time to address that conundrum.

STARMAN: Matt Gilks (Bolton); Ricardo Fuller (Charlton)

Pool Panel - Huddersfied (a) Draw 1-1

Another game where we’ve dominated the first half but failed to capitalise and been pegged back.  Friday night was a great performance in the first half, where we dominated the game despite the loss of key personnel in Ferguson, Orr and Osbourne.  Despite plenty of probing, we didn’t really create that many chances, as we didn’t have that final ball when needed.

When the goal came, the incisive ball through was a header from Broadfoot, allowing Fuller to bear down on goal.  He coolly drew Smithies, went round him and then left Clarke floundering on the line as he passed it into the unguarded net.  A great finish.  Despite continuing dominance we then failed to extend the lead and could have been punished only for the linesman’s flag to rescue us.

In the second half we were unable to maintain our dominance and seemed to start defending deeper.  The Huddersfield substitutions also gave us more concern as they started finding space between defence and midfield.  That brought dividends through a fine finish and equaliser.  We were comfortably weathering the challenge though, until Huddersfield broke quickly and Scannell went down in the box for a penalty.  From my perspective at the other end it looked like minimal or no contact as Robinson and Martinez tracked his run, but the referee saw enough to send off the latter.  The second very harsh sending off against us recently.  The delay seemed to affect Vaughan who blazed his penalty against the bar. 

In the end, a decent point but I’d like to think that a little more ambition could see us winning these games.  We had seven forwards on the bench.   I’d like to see at least one of them start.

STARMAN: Ricardo Fuller

Pool Panel - Millwall (a) Loss 3-1 and Leicester (h) Draw 2-2

It’s been a week for the team to show some character and they came up trumps on Saturday.  Tuesday night at Millwall was all going to plan as we approached halftime, but a contentious penalty gave Millwall the belief they’d been lacking, and they forced home that advantage with two quick goals in the second half.

On Saturday, Leicester started brightly but we gradually asserted ourselves and took a deserved lead with a fine header from Basham, once again playing in another role for the good of the team.  We were good value for that lead at half time but the second half was a different game as Leicester came on strongly. 

Despite their pressure, I thought we were defending well enough until another penalty was given against us as Drinkwater went to ground easily under challenge from Robinson.  There was minimal contact, but the midfielder was given the opportunity to go to ground and took it. As at Millwall, we then immediately conceded again with a shot from distance from King.  Against one of the form teams in the League we could’ve then crumbled, but the resilience in the side came to the fore.  We pressed on, but didn’t really look like getting an equaliser until Schmeichel  rashly came for a throw in and conceded a penalty.  Ince smashed it straight down the middle and we got the point we deserved.

We now face a Friday night game, games in which we’ve had a poor record recently.  Time to turn that round and go back to the top of the table.

Finally, I thought the crowd showed some real class in their applause of the returning Gary Taylor-Fletcher.

STARMAN: Barry Ferguson (Millwall); Chris Basham (Leicester) 

Pool Panel - Bournemouth (a) - Won 2-1

Saturday saw us take on a side who had won their previous seven home games, but the fortnight’s break had given our injured players time to get back into contention, giving Paul Ince the luxury of a strong bench.

Bournemouth started brightly, with players making clever runs from deep, a tactic we struggled with but eventually came to terms with.  By contrast, our first meaningful foray forward forced a throw in level with the area.  From the long throw, Ricardo Fuller was on hand to head home and give us an early lead.  That didn’t last long, as we fell victim to the same tactic barely five minutes later.

The rest of the half was fairly even with both sides unable to achieve dominance, although we went closest to scoring as Ince hit the post following a breakaway.  The ref was being particularly fussy, with a number of cards that seemed harsh. 

The second half started brightly as we forced a corner, and Bishop got ahead of his marker to score at the near post putting us back in front.  The tone of the game then changed as Robinson received a second yellow for an innocuous coming together with their winger.  Blackpool reorganised with Bishop at left back and Fuller as a lone outlet, and kept Bournemouth playing in front of us without really threatening.

As the game went on, it was us looking most likely to score on the break, with Delfuenso missing a great chance, and Ince having a goal chalked offside.  We hung on and stay top.  No-one really expected this start, but long may it continue.

STARMAN: Gary Mackenzie

Sponsored Swim

Dave Bentley, one of our Yorkshire Seasiders, is swimming the length of Conniston Water on the 14th September trying to raise money for Macmillan Nurses.

Those of you that know Dave, will know that he isn't quite as young as he once was and that this will be a cracking achievement!

Show your support for Dave and a cracking clause by sponsoring him here: In the swim.

Pool Panel - Watford (h) Won 1-0

What an immense performance and victory Saturday was.  Despite fielding a patched up team with players out of position against one of the form teams in the Division, through sheer determination, a touch of luck and one fantastic piece of skill all three points were obtained.

Going in, we all knew that the squad was down to the bare bones, Basham and Bishop in defence showing just how stretched we were.  In the first half, Watford really took the game to us, and it needed heroic defending, a brilliant goalkeeping display and some wasteful shooting to keep the score level.

A real turning point was the penalty save as that gave the team renewed determination, and the sense that it couldn’t be as one-sided in the second half.

So it transpired, as we took control of the midfield and began to create our own chances.  Fuller was proving a real handful up front while Barry was displaying a masterclass of midfield dominance. 

Unexpectedly, Ince came on and instantly created a different problem for the Watford defence with his direct running at them.  The winning goal was a joy to watch, receiving the ball on the halfway line and running past three defenders before firing across the keeper into the net.  After that, the new, professional Blackpool side saw out the game in some comfort to secure the win and go top of the Division.

As I write, there are 24 hours to the end of the transfer window.  Ince needs backing now to build on this fantastic start.

STARMAN: Matt Gilks

Pool Panel - Reading (h) win 1-0

After a good start to the season, most fans were seeing the visit of Reading as the first real test of the current Blackpool squad.  With a number of injuries in key positions, that squad was stretched to the limit, so to come away with a win and go top of the table is a great result.  Apparently, this is our best ever start to a season.

The goal that won it also came from a local lad, Tom Barkhuizen, which makes the result all the sweeter.  It’s been a while since we’ve had someone come through from the youth set up and having a local boy in the team helps with that indefineable spirit that has stood us in such good stead over the years.

In recent times, while our defence has had decent individual players, as a unit, we’ve been prone to concede soft goals.  With the current side you have more confidence in them keeping a clean sheet, always a good base for any successful side.

With the squad down to the bare bones, and Matty Phillips going to QPR, it’s time for the manager to boost his squad.  Right from the end of last season it’s been clear we are lacking a specialist right back and a creative midfielder who can bring our forwards into the game.  As the transfer deadline approaches, Ince must be given the backing he needs.  The signings he has brought in all seem to have the quality we needed, and with a couple of additions we can be a real force over the season.

STAR MAN: Gary Mackenzie

Q & A with Yorkshire Seasiders

New Blackpool Blog "Measured Progress" - co-edited by one of our number Chris Walker - recently ran an interview with Phil Corbett about the Yorkshire Seasiders.  These are Phil's responses below...

Measured Progress: Can you perhaps start by giving the readers a brief overview of who Yorkshire Seasiders are and what it is you do?

Yorkshire Seasiders: We exist to give a chance for supporters of Blackpool in Yorkshire, whether exiles or natives, to get together on occasion to talk about football and also organise travel to both home and away games, to the mutual benefit of all.

MP: You’ve recently celebrated 10 years as a supporters group. Has it been difficult to get to this point and how has the group changed during that time?

YS: We originally started off with the realisation from seeing the occasional ‘Pool mini-kit and scarf in cars going to games that we were not alone in supporting Blackpool, and after a message on AVFTT posted by Wilf Brooks, we got together in a bar near Huddersfield. From that initial meeting, we’ve now grown to a loose-knit community of around 100, mainly connected through the internet and by email, but also with regular minibuses organised to away games, or car shares to the more far flung games.

There hasn’t really been a time when we thought it wasn’t going to keep going, probably helped by the success on-field through the decade, which has maintained interest and kept the numbers up. Ironically, the difficulty in getting tickets for the Premier League season made it more difficult to arrange transport, especially with the late switching of games for TV.

MP: Have there been any particular highlights or memorable moments for Yorkshire Seasiders during the past 10 years that stand out?

YS: The highlights in terms of numbers in attendance have obviously been the two trips to Wembley when we’ve taken two coaches on each occasion. I think the Cardiff game will live in all our memories as one of the outstanding moments.

Leaving that aside, our first ever organised minibus trip was to Peterborough in November 2003. That game also saw the unveiling of our flag which has been many games since, including overseas on England trips and Blackpool pre-season tours.

More recently, a highlight of our annual programme is the summer Ale Trail trip from Leeds in the direction of Huddersfield. We plan it around the time of the fixtures to give us an opportunity to plan the season ahead and get back into the football spirit.

MP: How many members do you currently have, and of those how many would you term as active? Have your numbers continued to grow during the group’s 10 years in existence, or did relegation from the Premier League have an adverse effect in this area?

YS: From an initial six at the opening meeting, we now have around 100 people in contact through the mailing list, of whom maybe 30 or so we see on a regular basis on the bus trips. The Premier League didn’t really give us a boost in membership, as the peak was probably when we were planning the Wembley trips, especially second time round, when we obtained tickets for 131 people as a block. We find that each autumn we get fresh members as the various universities in the area draw in new people from the Blackpool area. Obviously, some drop off as they graduate, but the overall number remains fairly constant.

MP: One service you provide for exiled Blackpool fans is away travel. How is this operated and how many matches do you expect to provide transport to this season?

#YS: We usually take a 17 seater minibus to most games which are not easily accessible via train, with the Midlands teams usually selling out. London games usually involve taking the train. We try and publicise the train times that the bulk of us are travelling on.

For the remainder of the games, the mailing service means that any spare places in cars are taken up, saving money for all concerned through sharing petrol costs. Buses are subsidised through the funds we raise from Yorkshire Seasiders merchandise, giving us very competitive rates, increasing the take-up. For instance, we try and restrict the price to around £10 per head.

MP: In the past, Yorkshire Seasiders received a regular mention in the matchday programme as part of sponsoring a player, but in recent seasons this no longer appears to be the case – what was the reasoning behind this decision?

YS: On promotion to the Premier League the costs for sponsoring a player became prohibitive and even when prices were reduced on relegation, we came to a decision at a meeting that the monies we raised would be better spent on making access to games a priority, hence the decision to offer reduced, subsidised prices for travel.

MP: In other links to the club, it was common for Yorkshire Seasiders to present their player of the season award at the end of season event. However, this past season no formal presentation appeared to be made. What reason did the club give for doing this?

YS: Because this season’s awards were made during the 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner, a decision was made by the club to condense the award aspect of the evening. We were still able to present Tom Ince with his award from us. We present the annual shield along with a permanent trophy for the recipient. My understanding is that the format will revert to its usual one next season, with due prominence of our award in the ceremony. We are the only exile supporters club who present such an award.

MP: What relationships do Yorkshire Seasiders have with other fans groups? Are they any formal links or has a decision been made to be as independent as possible with no political agenda?

YS: Although we have informal links with BSA, SISA and BASIL, we have consciously made a decision to not affiliate to any other organisation, as we prefer to make our own decisions and make our own standpoint. Because of the loose nature of the Yorkshire Seasiders we have also made a conscious decision not to take a political standpoint as the membership has no single viewpoint, with the full spectrum of views aired at our meetings.

MP: Finally, what do you think (or hope) Paul Ince and his squad can achieve this season?

YS: Ince has impressed me in the time he has been at the club, through the way he initially steadied a rapidly freefalling club and then took us to safety with relative comfort. I think he can make us competitive in the division with the proviso that he is given the support he needs to get in the players he needs. At time of writing [Editor: 14th July], the normal method of business is applied and we have only secured a couple of centre halves. We clearly have need for about five or six more players; who comes in will make or potentially break our season.

Pool Panel - Middlesborough (a) D 1-1

On hearing the team news, all Pool fans were thinking we were set up to keep it tight and hopefully nick a goal on the break or through a set piece.  While no great spectacle, the tactics were working to perfection after Basham scored after a melee in the area, and we looked like taking all three points.  There was some frustration after we let slip a goal very late on, especially since we’d defended so well up to that point, to the extent that I can’t recall Gilks having a save to make.

However, as we are still without a recognised right back, to be unbeaten after three games is a good start whichever way you look at it.  Successful sides have always been those who have picked up points while not playing particularly well.  From what I see of the team, we are still unbalanced down the righthand side and also lacking the creative midfielder to link defence and attack.  In addition, a few players are lacking match fitness, but that will come, as will better understanding.  As a consequence, I believe we can only improve.  The next two games form a tough test, but if we can pick up points against two teams likely to be in the mix at the end of the season then we can start to believe in ourselves.

I must make mention of the applause from both sets of fans after 25 minutes for Gary Parkinson.  The highlight of the day and one I hope brings him some succour in this difficult time.

STARMAN: Gary Mackenzie

Pool Panel - Barnsley (h) Won 1-0

Another League game and another win which, considering the current dearth of players available is a great return.  We are clearly struggling to put out a team with Broadfoot and Basham being asked to play an unfamiliar role for both of them.  It’s a testament to the players that they’ve not shirked the responsibility and given their all.

Saturday’s game started brightly, with the team playing with pace and verve, but the final ball wasn’t quite there.  That allowed Barnsley to gain a foothold in the game, and the match settled into more of a stalemate, with a chance for Chopra after some nice interchange of passes being Blackpool’s best chance.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Ferguson taking control of the midfield and driving us forward.  At the moment though, we lack the creativity to take advantage of the possession we have, with moves breaking down in the final third.

When the goal did come, it was from a fantastic long, fast throw from Robinson which the Barnsley defence were unable to cope with, despite the best efforts of Perkins on the line.  On the balance of play, we possibly just about deserved to win; certainly we didn’t look like losing, with Gilks rarely tested.

The team has the potential to really build on this good start.  With the addition of a quality right back; a creative midfielder to link play and the new players developing an understanding I see no reason why we can’t be a force in the League.

STAR MAN: Barry Ferguson

Middlesbrough away - 17 August

We are running a minibus to the Middlesbrough away game on 17th August.  

Cost is dependent on numbers but would not expect it to be any more than £10 p/p.  

We'll be leaving Leeds Railway station at 10.30 and will be going up the A1 and A19 to Boro - so can pick up en route if you want.  

We've still got spaces left if you want to go. 

Please get in touch with Phil if interested.

Season 2013/2014 - Game 1 - Doncaster (a) Win 3-1

After all the frustrations over the summer as we struggled to assemble a squad, to win and score three goals is a bonus. 

Blackpool started brightly, creating a few chances, with Davies leading the line well.  We’ve been lacking that type of player for a while so all credit to Paul Ince in identifying the need and getting a good player in. We took the lead by reacting well to a loose ball in the area, eventually tapping home into an empty net after twice coming close.  After that, we were dominant to the point where I felt a little complacency set in, with us waiting for a goal to come rather than pressing home the advantage. 

As a consequence, Doncaster got a foothold in the game and eventually scored from a corner.  While I have nothing but praise for Kirk Broadfoot as a centre-half, he is not the solution at right back.  Better teams than Doncaster will target that frailty and the sooner we resolve the lack of cover there, the better.

Despite them then having periods of possession, Gilks was rarely troubled but there was an element of frustration that we might have let two points slip, especially when Ince was clean through but shot wide.  Gary Mackenzie then rose to the occasion with a proper centre half’s header.  The icing on the cake came with a great finish from Ince into an empty net from distance.

All in all, a good result, better than the performance, but we can build from here.

STARMAN:  Barry Ferguson

Yorkshire Seasiders 10 Year Birthday

Yorkshire Seasiders are ten years old this year.

To celebrate we are having a get together over Sunday Lunch at the Bistro in the brewery Taps in Leeds. 21st July, 12.30 for 13.00. (two minutes from the Station and opposite an NCP Car Park) A great Traditional 3 course Sunday Lunch, a glass of wine and obviously plenty of bante all for £20.

If anyone wishes to attend please let Wilf  know as places are limited

Fixtures

We're not allowed to post full fixtures due to copyright restrictions, but I think we are OK to post an overview of fixtures.

These are Blackpool's Yorkshire related games for the 2013-2014 Season:

SAT 03AUG 2013 Doncaster Rovers A

SAT 10AUG 2013 Barnsley H

SAT 28SEP 2013  Huddersfield Town A

SAT 30NOV 2013 Sheffield Wednesday H

THU 26DEC 2013 Leeds United H

WED 01JAN 2014 Sheffield Wednesday A

SAT 18JAN 2014   Barnsley A

SAT 25JAN 2014   Doncaster Rovers H

SAT 22MAR 2014  Huddersfield Town H

SAT 12APR 2014   Leeds United A

Nothing to beat - UP THE POOL!

Yorkshire Seasiders Rail Ale Trail - Day Out

Saturday 22nd June marks the return of the Yorkshire Seasiders Rail Ale Trail day out. 

The idea is to catch a "yorkshire roamer" train from Leeds and stop off at each station along the way for a pint and a chat.  Fixtures will have come out by then so we will have plenty to discuss regarding the first couple of month's games.

The idea is to meet in Leeds at the Scarborough Taps for around 11.30.  We will then catch the 11.55 from Leeds to Dewsbury, arriving at 12.06 - the fun will then begin!

Hope to see you then!

Last game of the season - Bolton (a) Draw 2-2

As the season comes to an end Blackpool end with the kind of form that could and should have seen us so much higher in the table.  At Bolton we started brightly and could have scored a couple before Matt Phillips scored with a fine strike from outside the area.  With Ludo Sylvestre continuing in a rich vein of goalscoring we were in absolute control of the game as three minutes of injury time were shown. In a crazy couple of minutes we conceded twice, the second due to an unfortunate deflection.

While there were no more goals in the second half, we demonstrated the other side to our improvement with a solid defensive performance, while we still looked dangerous on the break.

This was maybe the swansong for this group of players as Paul Ince looks to put his stamp onto the team ready for a campaign hopefully looking upwards for next season.  We have the core of a decent side, and after this season’s relegation scare, the Chairman should be looking to back his manager’s plans to rebuild the side in order to be competitive.  I’d expect to see the overall squad numbers reduce, with maybe four or five incomers to strengthen the side, particularly up front.

Equally as important, I trust the pitch gets the best possible attention to give us a surface worthy of the passing football the team can produce.  It’s been a real hindrance this season and the public deserve better after signing up for the discounted season tickets.

A season that promised so much at least sees us still in the Championship.  Onwards and upwards.

STARMAN: Neal Eardley

10 Years of Yorkshire Seasiders!

To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Yorkshire Seasiders, we are looking at holding a celebration meal. 

Partners, family and friends of Yorkshire Seasiders are all welcome to attend, but we need your numbers now.

Dress code - smart casual with a touch of Tangerine.

Time and place to be confirmed, depending on numbers, but it will be in Leeds within easy walking distance of trains and buses.

Cost - £20 per person.

Contact Wilf ASAP on 07906 851952 or  wilfbrooks@blueyonder.co.uk.

Pool Panel - Last Home Game - Derby (h) Win 2-1

Finally, we got the win that secures Championship status for another season.  It’s been a long struggle with the turmoil behind the scenes affecting performances, allied to an atrocious surface at home stopping us from playing the free flowing football that has served us so well over the past few seasons.

Despite numerous chances, we again stretched the nerves to breaking point through scoring the winner in injury time, but to be honest, it was nothing more than we deserved, with the woodwork hit on a couple of occasions and defenders also clearing off the line.  After an early goal for once from the hardworking GTF, it looked like we’d cement the win with a penalty award, but Ince’s firmly struck shot came back off the foot of the post.  That gave Derby a foothold in the game although while they had a deal of possession, Gilks was largely a spectator while Derby’s keeper made a number of saves.

We can play much better, but the objective was to remain in the Division and Ince senior now has the summer to get the squad he wants and instil the playing style that suits that group of players.

Before then, there is the small matter of a Lancashire derby game with Bolton Wanderers to look forward to.  I trust the players are aware of the importance of this to the fans and aren’t already mentally on their holidays.  In the week of the anniversary of our greatest triumph against the same opponents, this game means a great deal.

STARMAN: Gary Taylor-Fletcher

Pool Panel - Forest (h) Draw 0-0 & Brighton (a) Lost 1-6!

After the win last Saturday, the team haven’t quite reached the same standard, as a consequence have only picked up a single point.  While we had the better of the possession against Sheffield Wednesday, hey had the clearer chances and ultimately we were grateful to Matt Gilks for fine saves both early on and also in injury time at the end.

The fans were there in numbers for the long trip to the South Coast in decent sunny conditions.  However, right from the off the team weren’t on the pace, while Brighton were lively, dangerous and pacy.  We never coped with them all day long and the first goal summed us up.  Their player picked up possession just into our half, but we backed off right to the edge of the area before allowing a curling shot into the far corner with no challenge at any stage.

That set the tone for the afternoon, and for the first time in a number of seasons the team were unable to rise to the occasion and put in any kind of performance.  I don’t believe that they think the season is over so didn’t put in the effort;  it was more of a case of things just not happening and meeting an opposition at the peak of their game.  We did it to other teams early on this season, so sometimes these things happen.

Next week’s last home game is an opportunity to put things right and mathematically finish off the season once and for all.  We can and hopefully will, bounce back.

STARMEN: Matt Gilks (Sheffield ) Ludo Sylvestre (Brighton)

Pool Panel - Burnley at home

Despite picking up four valuable points on the road we were still in the relegation mix, but Saturday’s win against Burnley finally makes the table more pleasant reading.  In all truth, the margin of victory deserved to be greater than the one vital goal we scored, with Blackpool starting brightly and playing some decent football to carve open some good chances, only for the likes of Delfounseo and Ince to mishit when close in.  Phillps continued his recent return to form but hit three or four shots over the bar.  Nil-nil at half time was somewhat disquieting as we had nothing to show for dominating the game, while Burnley had come close in their intermittent forays forward.

The second half continued in the same vein, but we managed to break the deadlock with a magnificent strike from Ludo Sylvestre.  Over the last few weeks he’s come in from the periphery to be a key figure in the midfield, linking play well and now adding goals to his repertoire.  As a consequence, the team has looked more balanced, with the defensive solidity brought in by Ince with the pairing of Mackenzie and Broadfoot now providing a base for a more dangerous look to us going forward.

It’s been a while but we finally have a defensive pairing who relish a physical challenge and also provide a threat from set pieces.

I’d like to think that we have more or less assured safety now and consideration needs to be given to signing up the bulk of this season’s team for a serious challenge next term.

STARMAN:  Ludo Sylvestre

Player of the Year Awards

This year's Player of the Season presentation evening has been combined with a dinner to mark the 60th Anniversary of winning the FA Cup.  It's being held on the evening of the last day of the season, straight after the game at the Reebok, that being 2nd May, the anniversary of the win, ironically against Bolton. 

Tickets are £60 which gets you a four course dinner, and an evening which promises to be a great one, reminiscing about the FA Cup triumph and also celebrating the current squad.

We're booking a table, so if you're interested, please let Phil know.

If you would like to vote in the Yorkshire Seasiders Player of the Season awards, please get in touch as detailed below:

Pool Panel - The Last Week - Palace (h) Win 1-0 & Forest (a) Draw 1-1

Monday was a huge game for Blackpool, with the return of Holloway adding to the atmosphere.  The early sending off of Barry Ferguson added to the mountain we had to climb, but we defended magnificently and always looked dangerous on the break.  That paid off with a lovely strike from Matt Phillips who played himself back into form with a battling performance.  I thought Delfouneso was magnificent leading the line, tackling back and working so hard to ensure we got something from the game.

We followed up that huge win with another battling point at Forest.  Once again, we defended well, scored first with a great strike from Sylvestre and then suffered another harsh sending off.  The linesman was clearly signalling for a push on Osbourne but the referee took it upon himself to show a red card.

As a consequence we again had to defend for a substantial period, looking to catch the opposition on the break.  We also lost Mackenzie through injury and that proved too great a hurdle to cross, with Basham conceding a penalty late on.

However, four points with ten men against two teams in the playoff positions is a good return at this stage of the season, underlining the quality in the team and gives us a foundation to see us through to safety over the next two home games.

Paul Ince takes a lot of credit, making the right tactical changes along with the players who put themselves on the line.  I’m much more upbeat about finishing the season strongly.

STARMEN: Delfuenseo (Palace); Baptiste (Forest)

Pool Panel - A Free Weekend

The free weekend puts even more emphasis on how important the next game for Blackpool is.  The game at Ewood Park takes on crucial importance after last week’s defeat to another of our relegation rivals..  With the gap at only four points, it’s essential that we get something out of the game.  In all likelihood, a win goes a huge way to ensuring our safety, with maybe one more win needed after that.

The club has underperformed this season after such a promising start, disrupted by a succession of managerial changes and a sense of drifting along rather than taking the bull by the horns and really going for it.  It’s been a frustrating season because in all truth, no one side has really stood out and looked better than us.  The sooner we can ensure safety and put this season behind us the better.  With eight games to go, I remain convinced that we have enough about us to ensure we gather the points needed to guarantee that and then go into a summer of change where Paul Ince can get the squad he wants and start afresh.

With two games over the forthcoming weekend, and a large support expected to travel to Blackburn, it would be great to get maximum points.  That trip is followed by the return of Ian Holloway.  He gave us three wonderful years, but it’s no time for sentiment as the need for the win is overwhelming.

It’s time for the fans to get right behind the team and ensure we survive; any recriminations can wait until after the end of the season.

Away Travel

Blackburn Away - Good Friday

No mini bus for this game, but there is quite a few of us going on the train.  The idea is to take the 09.53 from Leeds and then have a few drinks in Accrington before the game.  The train goes via Bradford.  See you at the station if you fancy it.

Nottingham Forest away - Saturday 6th April

We're running a bus to Nottingham on April 6th,  We'll be leaving Leeds around 10.45.  We've still some surplus cash in club coffers so are limiting the cost per person to £10 maximum, but  may be less depending on numbers.  Please let Phil or Charlie know if you are interested - places filling up quickly....

Pool Panel - Peterborough (h) Lost 1-0

Peterborough (h) Lost 1-0

After the win at Watford, it was vital that the team built on the momentum gained and also to ensure a team below us didn’t make any ground.  The team started very brightly, buoyed with the confidence gained, making a number of chances, but the injury to Barry Ferguson after half an hour disrupted the shape of the team and we were never the same after that.

Inevitably we then allowed a crossfield ball to be headed back into the centre unchallenged where it was an easy finish for the onrushing midfielder.  Try as we might, we were then unable to break down a massed defence and slumped to another home defeat, putting us back into the relegation mix.

There is now a fortnight to stew on the result and ensure we are better placed to go into two massive games against our recent ex-managers over the Easter weekend.  To banish those relegation fears we need to take the chances when they come along.  On the whole, we’ve tightened up defensively, with the new centre half pairing looking solid.  However, we are not gelling going forward, with a number of promising opportunities being squandered as a consequence of a poor final ball, or a failure to make the right run.

Once again, the team seem afraid to play on the home pitch, which doesn’t help a team who try and play on the floor.  I’m sure we’ll take a large following to Ewood Park, and that support could be crucial in gaining a vital three points.

Keep the faith.

STARMAN: Gary Mackenzie

Player of the Season 2012/2013

Travel - Nottingham & Blackburn

NOTTINGHAM FOREST AWAY - 6th APRIL - Just a brief reminder that we're running a minibus to Nottingham for the game on 6th April. Price will be no more than a tenner and possibly less if we fill up.  Please let Phil or Charlie lnow if you are going.

BLACKBURN AWAY - FRIDAY 29th MARCH - Blackburn away is on Good Friday.  I know there's a fair few looking to travel by train, with a pint or two in Accrington beforehand.  I'll check out train times and make sure there's a full service and let you know which train we're looking to travel on.

In case you haven't seen it...

If you haven't previously had a season ticket and are worried about travelling back to Blackpool from Yorkshire for home games, we are usually able to offer lifts with enough notice.

Pool Panel - Birmingham (a) & Watford (a)

Tuesday night at Birmingham was essential in not losing ground to one of the teams around us, and a point was the least we deserved for a decent away performance, with us in control for much of the first half only to concede once again to a set piece.  The turning point was the introduction of Ludo Sylvestre who immediately gave us more urgency going forward with his neat, one touch football.  We were very close to scoring as Crainey overlapped and put a great ball across the face of goal, but scored from the resulting corner, with Broadfoot bundling the ball home from close in as Delfouneso created confusion with his first touch.

Watford are in fine form so not much was expected.  For Paul Ince to get his first win there was therefore all the sweeter.  We again had a few chances early on with Ince and Derbyshire both being denied by good saves, only to fall behind.  The linesman inexplicably gave them a throw in, and then compounded his error by not picking up on the blatant foul throw; they broke at pace, we missed a tackle and they scored.   Once again Ludo came on and made a difference and again Crainey overlapped with Ince taking advantage.  After that, only one team looked like winning and it duly came after a scramble caused by Futacs making a nuisance of himself at a corner.  A great win that makes us look much more secure in the Division. We need to build with victory against Peterborough.

STARMAN: Ludo Sylvestre (Birmingham); Tom Ince (Watford)

Pool Panel - Bristol City (H) Draw 0-0

Saturday saw the pitch as the key player in a game of little entertainment where neither side were able to impose themselves on that surface.  Blackpool started brightly, with more movement than of late, and managed to get a couple of decent balls across the face of goal but were unable to get on to the end of them.  

The longer the game went on though, the less the players were trusting the surface and resorted to going longer, playing into the defenders’ hands as a result.  It could be said that the pitch is the same for both teams, but it’s us who has to play the most games on it, and it’s affecting confidence and the ability to attack as we would want, especially as we don’t have the personnel to play it long to a big man, hold it up and play from there. Four games without scoring tells its own story and one we must rectify and soon to go with our new found defensive solidity.

As part of that, the loan signing of Mackenzie shows promise, in that he came into the team and provided the commanding presence we’ve missed for quite a while. On that basis, Paul and his team seem to know what is required.  I’d hope they are able to line up a forward from the same mould to give us an attacking focus.

Tuesday now becomes another crucial game, with Birmingham being another of those teams around us; for Ince to get his first win would be most opportune.

STARMAN: Gary Mackenzie                           

Pool Panel - Ince's First Week - Leeds (a) 0-2 & Leicester (h) 0-0

Welcome to Paul Ince as we finally made a managerial appointment.  Unfortunately, we started with defeat at Leeds, despite playing our part in an end to end game.  Once again, the lack of a finisher came back to haunt us allied to some defensive calamities gifting easy goals.  It doesn’t seem to matter who is manager, we still have a propensity for allowing soft goals and failing to take advantage of promising situations.

 

For Saturday, changes were made to the midfield that made us more solid in defence but also somewhat limited us going forward.  Once again the pitch also played its part, with us unable to get any passing football going, frequently resorting to the more direct approach.  For once, we rode our luck, with Leicester missing a penalty, but with Schmeichel also making a number of decent saves, a point was deserved.

 

Ince Senior now has a full week to work with the team and get his ideas across.  In my opinion, it’s a positive appointment in that it’s someone who has seen us play for the last eighteen months and hence knows both our strengths and weaknesses and therefore what can be done to rectify our current malaise.  This season is now all about maintaining our status as a Championship club, starting with a massive game next Saturday against Bristol City.  I wouldn’t go as far as to say it’s a must win, but a win would go a long way to making us safe.

STARMEN:  Kirk Broadfoot (Leeds); Barry Ferguson (Leicester)