Tangerine dream as bragging rights safe
FYLDE Coast bragging rights went to Blackpool as they produced a sensational late comeback to beat Fleetwood, a win Seasiders boss Gary Bowyer felt was fully deserved.
Armand Gnanduillet’s added-time header sealed victory for the hosts, who move 11 points clear of the drop.
Wes Burns had looked like earning Fleetwood their first win over the Seasiders before Viv SolomonOtabor equalised on 88 minutes.
Bowyer was delighted to get the win, saying: “Full credit to the players. They were awesome second half.
“We spoke at half-time about going out and giving your best and giving the supporters something to shout about.
“I’m delighted that we were able to send our fans home happy. Their camp was making noises about bragging rights - well I think our lot have got it!
“I am absolutely delighted for Armand Gnanduillet. It wasn’t easy to leave him out after how he played on Tuesday. What a way to win a game.”
Jay Spearing’s effort that clipped the post was the best chance of a scrappy first half.
But the game sprang to life after the break, with early chances for Blackpool’s Nathan Delfouneso and Sean Longstaff.
Against the run of play, Fleetwood took the lead. Colin Daniels misjudged a high ball, allowing Jordy Hiwula to round Joe Lumley. His effort came back off the post for Burns to fire in.
Burns should have scored again, chipping wide when through on goal, but Blackpool were level after 88 minutes, the ball dropping for Solomon-Otabor to volley into the top corner from 12 yards out.
And their winner came four minutes into added time, Dolly Menga delivering a pinpoint cross for Gnanduillet to bullet into the net from 12 yards.
“I think it’s about people on the pitch seeing the game through and we haven’t done that,” Fleetwood boss John Sheridan said. “It’s difficult to speak when the game goes like that. Five minutes from time; the way the game ends is just a massive downer for us. We played the game well but we haven’t played the last few minutes well.
“I’m talking about how we lost the game when I should be talking about how we’ve seen it out.
“We had a brilliant move after we went 1-0 up where Wes Burns should score again. It’s a massive chance for us. Then the last few minutes; it’s just that bit of game management.”