Blackpool face Crewe Alexandra in the EFL Trophy group stage on Tuesday night at Bloomfield Road, seeking a much-needed positive result. The Seasiders are winless in their last five matches across all competitions, a run that includes four defeats and one draw.
The club's recent form has seen them slip to 15th in the League One standings, with eight points from seven games. Their last outing was a 3-2 loss away to Wigan Athletic in this competition on September 22. Tom Bloxham and Jerry Yates scored the goals for Blackpool that night, but a late Fraser Murray strike secured victory for the hosts. The defeat left Blackpool with a goal difference of zero, having scored and conceded 13 goals in the league.
Recent struggles
Blackpool's last five results show a concerning pattern. Following the Wigan defeat, they lost 4-2 at home to Plymouth Argyle and drew 2-2 with Bromley. Prior to that, they suffered losses to Reading and Barnsley. The team's defensive record will be a key concern for the season.
Crewe Alexandra, who play in League Two, present a different challenge. They won their opening EFL Trophy match 4-1 against Aston Villa's under-21 side and are unbeaten in their last five league games. Their top scorer this season is Josh March with 11 goals, making him a significant threat to Blackpool's defence.
Team news
Both sides are expected to field strong lineups. Blackpool's last starting eleven featured Luke Southwood in goal, with a back four of Iiro Niskanen, Andy Lyons, James Earl and Zach Ashworth. Jordan Brown, Taylor Upton and Leighton Clarkson formed the midfield, supporting forwards Tom Bloxham and Jerry Yates. Manager Neil Critchley may look to the full squad for options to change the team's momentum.
Crewe's most recent side included Tom Booth in goal and a midfield anchored by Oliver Lunt and Joe White. Their attack was led by Josh March, supported by Jack Lankester and Jayden Tabiner.
Tuesday's match offers Blackpool a chance to reset before returning to League One action. Their next fixtures include a trip to face sixth-placed Cambridge United on October 10, followed by a home game against Stevenage.
