Blackpool’s 4-0 trouncing of Wigan at the DW Stadium now seems a very long time ago. That day, Marlon Harewood was one of many of the Tangerines’ cut-price heroes proving a point to the Premier League as Ian Holloway’s announced the start of their campaign in eye-catching fashion. This weekend, Harewood was playing for Barnsley in the Championship – and it’s looking increasingly like Blackpool will be joining him next season.
It’s not difficult to understand what’s gone wrong for a side who have conceded three or more goals in six of their last seven games. The facade of the intrepid, adventurous side of the first half of the season has slipped away to reveal Blackpool’s true identity, a side built for the demands of mid-table in the Championship; not survival in the Premier League.
The reverse fixture against Wigan on Saturday was originally meant for the opening day, but was rescheduled to complete stadium work in a move which indicated how unexpected the club’s ascent to the top flight was. By the time DJ Campbell netted his eleventh league goal of a proud personal campaign, Blackpool were already 0-3 down and looking every bit the relegation certainties they were expected to be back in August. But Holloway and his side should be praised for taking on an impossible task in the spirit of gallantry. Rather than try to defend, they have played to the strengths which got them up in the first place, and they have exceeded expectations in doing so.
To get to this stage of the season with survival still within reach, Blackpool have certainly ridden their luck. The 2-0 win at Stoke City and 3-1 defeat of Tottenham, in particular, count for six points won despite the opponents’ domination. That is just reward, however, for gambling on goals. Blackpool have played to their strengths all season and earned good fortune when it’s come; if not enough of it has come their way by the season’s end to stay up, they’ll be able to hold their heads up high and feel they played their hand in the best way possible.
