Interesting how he didn't receive one mention in the Tranmere report ....
Blackpool continued their preparations for the new season in a behind closed doors friendly against Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday afternoon.
With half of the squad gaining a vital 90 minutes before another take on Morecambe later this evening, it was a good workout for the team involving the likes of Sonny Carey, Marvin Ekpiteta, Kenny Dougall and Dan Grimshaw.
The Seasiders ultimately suffered a 2-1 defeat, despite creating numerous chances on goal in the first 45 minutes. Sonny Carey had an early chance on after some good link-up play with Owen Dale which put him in on goal. From just outside the area, Carey unleashed an effort, but it was well held by the goalkeeper.
It was the Seasiders who were looking the liveliest early on, with Owen Dale whipping in a delightful cross from the left into the danger area. Andy Lyons was at the back post and leaped highest, but his header went just wide.
Dale then had a good sight of goal himself moments later, collecting a good forward pass from Doug Tharme before chopping onto his left foot on the edge of the area to steady himself for an effort on goal. The shot was, however, blocked by the incoming defender to deny what looked a certain goal.
The pressure paid off and Blackpool took the lead on 26 minutes. A composed cross from the left hand side from Kenny Dougall found Owen Dale, who just glanced the ball with a header to divert it past the goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
Despite Pool's dominance, Tranmere turned the game on its head within a couple of minutes with two quick-fire goals. The first came from the spot following a coming together in the penalty area. Connor Jennings took the penalty, sending Dan Grimshaw the wrong way to make it all-square before Brad Walker made it 2-1 to the visitors moments later, getting on the end of a good cross from the right, to put Tranmere ahead at half-time.
Half-time: Blackpool 1 Tranmere Rovers 2
Sonny Carey had a golden chance to equalise on the hour mark after some great work from Rob Apter down the flank. His cross found Carey, who timed his run to perfection to latch onto the ball, but the goalkeeper was there to make an impressive save and hold on to the ball.
Tranmere weren't letting up and were pushing for a third goal and thought they'd found it when Sam Taylor got the better of Alex Lankshear on the left. His cross from the byline caused havoc in the Blackpool box, but the Seasiders were able to clear it away.
Callum Connolly had an effort on goal as the half wore on, with his thunderous effort going over the bar, but Tranmere were able to hold on for victory in what was an important workout for both sides.
The Seasiders travel to Morecambe later this evening in another friendly, kick-off 7:30pm.
Full-time: Blackpool 1 Tranmere Rovers 2
