The Wondrous Taylor-Fletcher

By Simon Heaney

When we think of recent significant moments in the Blackpool success story, it is sometimes overlooked that there is very often a central theme. We rightly eulogise over Charlie’s free kick in the play off final and that Super Brett put the ‘pool in the Premier League. But of course there was another goal scored too.

Likewise who announced Blackpool’s Premier League status with our first goal against Wigan? Who scored our last Premier League goal as we valiantly attempted the final day mission impossible of staying up? Well it was the same person who also made a further statement in our first game back in the Championship against Hull. Blackpool’s win indicating forcefully that we would be a threat and not sink further back like many before. That man was Gary Taylor Fletcher.

I do not mind admitting, like many, that I was a little underwhelmed when we signed him from Huddersfield. I though we were supposed to be chasing Chris Brandon. Was this another ‘second best’ signing? [Editor’s note: no.]

But the former roofer and part time footballer has grown in stature and importance. His close ball control and getting in amongst things has been an integral, crucial and understated part of the Blackpool story. His blossoming partnership with Stephen Dobbie has, just at the right time, been vital in creating crucial chances and opportunities, whilst the spotlight shines on Ince and Phillips.

He seems to operate under the radar – but excels in the big games on the big occasion.

Now I am no gambling man, but anyone fancying a cheeky bet next Saturday may well fancy backing GTF to score yet another pivotal goal as Blackpool seek a return to the