Blackpool v Leicester City

A few scratched heads and the odd raised eyebrow adorned Bloomfield Road as the team sheet was released. Eardley returned - but in midfield as Blackpool set up as a 4-4-1-1. Clearly Paul Ince's objective being to retain possession, recover it when lost - basically stop leaking goals.

Blackpool certainly worked hard,retained shape and did not go for the kitchen sink approach in an effort to get 3 points. The looked solid, still creating chances, though less than they have from more dynamic formations. What remains clear is that whether we create two or twenty, nobody seems capable of attacking the ball in the opposition penalty box, getting a touch, shot, header to get the ball in the net.

Likewise, on a positive, Leicester's millions didn't exactly show. Nugent for example could hardly be described as a 'thorn in the side', likewise the million pound (not just in body weight) Vardey? Whether it was the formation or other factors, Leicester also lacked potency.

And if the rub of the green has been against Blackpool in recent times, well it seemed the bad luck would continue as Harry Kane, on loan from Tottenham, secured a somewhat dubious penalty, only to rattle it against the bar. A good luck turning point?

Blackpool had to endure a final few minutes against the ropes, the perennial lack of fitness seemed to kick in. Would the introduction of Elliot Grandin, making a first squad inclusion since Novemebr, have unlocked Leicester if introduced? He seems the type of player to ahve creativity and goals in his locker - but it was not to be. Neither Derbyshire, nor Delfouneso when introduced got any chances to really impress.

All in all - a clean sheet. A solid performance. Paul Ince was pleased in his post match interview, again reiterating safety of retaining Championship status is priority number 1.

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