Blackpool secured their fourth consecutive league win with a 3-0 triumph over Burton Albion, and Steve Bruce made history by becoming the first Tangerines head coach to win his first four league games, writes Tom Goulding from Bloomfield Road for EFL Hub.
The match started with Blackpool dominating possession, particularly through midfielders Albie Morgan and Lee Evans, as Burton soaked up the pressure. The first real chance came in the 11th minute when CJ Hamilton, after being fouled but regaining his balance, teed up Evans, whose shot went over the bar. Burton responded well, and in the 17th minute, a well-placed cross by Elliot Watt found Ryan Sweeney, but his volley went wide.
Just a minute later, Blackpool opened the scoring. A free-kick from Evans found centre-back Odel Offiah, who was unmarked in the box and headed home his first goal for the club, giving Blackpool the momentum. Pool pushed forward and came close to adding a second, with Rob Apter’s skillful play leading to a Jordan Gabriel effort that was saved by Burton goalkeeper Max Crocombe.
Burton had their best chance in the 35th minute when Harry Tyrer parried a shot from Watt into the path of Danilo Orsi, who shockingly headed over the bar with the goal wide open. Moments later, Orsi had another opportunity, going down in the box claiming a penalty after rounding Tyrer, but the referee booked him for simulation, indicating a dive. Blackpool controlled the remainder of the half but went into the break with a slender 1-0 lead.
Pool started the second half with purpose, doubling their lead just five minutes in. Apter showcased his quality, driving past two defenders before slotting the ball past Crocombe for his first senior goal for the club. Burton had a chance to reply when Jake Cooper-Love intercepted a loose pass and fired on goal, but Tyrer was alert, tipping the ball over the bar to maintain his clean sheet.
Blackpool continued to press, with Hamilton and Kyle Joseph both coming close to adding a third. Hamilton’s shot, following some great individual play, was saved by Crocombe, while Joseph’s attempt forced another good save from the Burton keeper. Tyrer remained active, making a crucial save from a Sweeney header.
The Seasiders finally wrapped up the win in the 75th minute when Evans, who had already contributed an assist, picked up the ball on the edge of the box, cut inside, and fired a low shot in off the post for his first goal at Bloomfield Road. Substitute Ashley Fletcher played a key role in the build-up and nearly scored himself late on, only for a Burton defender to intervene at the last moment.
After the match, Evans praised his team’s performance: “We showed real determination from the start, and it’s great to see so many players chipping in with goals.” Steve Bruce, reflecting on his perfect start, said, “The lads have been fantastic. To win four out of four is a credit to their hard work, and the fans were right behind us today.”
Site Opinion
Blackpool’s performance was a masterclass in game management, combining early pressure with clinical finishing. Bruce’s influence is already apparent, as the team looks disciplined and confident, especially in defence. Tyrer’s heroics, particularly his save from Sweeney, kept the match firmly in Pool’s hands, showing they’re strong at both ends of the pitch.
The midfield, orchestrated by Evans, controlled the tempo throughout. His contributions in both creating and scoring goals were pivotal. Apter’s development as a winger is exciting for Pool fans, and his goal will boost his confidence as the season progresses. With their sights set on promotion, this Blackpool side looks capable of competing with the best in the division.
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