Blackpool host visitors Barnsley as Neil McDonald looks for his first home win as Blackpool boss.
Pool didn’t get on too well last week as they lost 2-1 to league leaders Gillingham but again, the performance was improved from Walsall and the Seasiders look to be making at least some progress.
Barnsley find themselves in 11th place with 10 points and put in an impressive display at home to Swindon last time out, winning the game 4-1. They will certainly prove to be a tough opposition.
Vital Quotes:
Speaking to the Blackpool official site, McDonald said: ‘If we could get over the line and get three points at home that will take the pressure off everybody and we can express ourselves a little bit more’
Adding: ‘I`ve seen them on a couple of occasions this season and they do try to play football. They`re a free-kick specialist team, so we`ve got to be on our guard and not give any silly free-kicks away.’
Speaking to the Barnsley official site, manager Lee Johnson said: ‘Blackpool are a decent side. They spent a lot of money this summer and they will be frustrated at the start they had.
Adding: ‘Their forwards are lively and effective, I know Martin Paterson and he is a very good signing. Against Gillingham they were very unlucky not to get a result as they worked hard, so it will be tough for us and we need to focus.’
Blackpool Team News:
Jarrett Rivers misses out through injury but there are no other concerns for McDonald.
The boss could continue with a 4-5-1 with Cullen playing up top and the likes of John Herron and Jose Cubero playing in midfield, though he could be tempted to switch and go more attacking as it’s a home game.
Player to watch: Brad Potts
The young midfielder has really improved these last couple of games and has been given the freedom to push on and attack more.
Barnsley Team News:
Manager Lee Johnson has no injury worries as he comes to Bloomfield Road with a fully fit squad to choose from.
Sam Winnall could start whilst Conor Hourihane will feature in midfield.
Player to watch: Conor Hourihane
The midfielder is very creative. Pool will have to keep a close eye on him if they’re going to be victorious.
Match Facts & Stats
The last fixture between the two ended in a 2-1 defeat for Pool at home. The Tangerines will certainly be hoping for a better result this time.
Match Prediction:
Pool have been playing better recently so I’ll be optimistic and say they’ll win 2-1. Jim McAlister and Mark Cullen to score.
Next Fixtures:
Shrewsbury (A)
