Our League One lowdown continues as we take a look at Sunderland’s 2018-19 opposition.
Next up, we put Blackpool under the microscope…
2017-18: THE STORY
After achieving promotion via the play-offs in 2016-17, Blackpool enjoyed a solid season back in England’s third tier. The Tangerines lost just two of their opening ten games and an impressive start set the foundations, as Gary Bowyer’s side eased any relegation fears early on before finishing 12th. They exited the Emirates FA Cup and Carabao Cup in the first round, but managed to top their Checkatrade Trophy group before being knocked out by Shrewsbury Town on penalties in the last 16.
STADIUM: BLOOMFIELD ROAD
Blackpool boast one of the larger stadiums that Sunderland will visit during the 2018-19 season, with Bloomfield Road capable of accommodating 16,750 fans. An all-seater stadium, Bloomfield Road opened in 1887 under the name ‘Gamble’s Field’ before being renamed two years later when South Shore FC and Blackpool merged. Away fans are housed in the Stan Morternsen Stand at one end of the ground, which can hold up to 2,5000 supporters.
MANAGER: GARY BOWYER
As a player, Gary Bowyer was on the books of Hereford United, Nottingham Forest and Rotherham United, but his career ended in 1997 due to injury. He soon turned his attention to coaching and took up a part-time role with Ilkston before managing non-league side Carshalton Athletic between 1998 and 2000. After undertaking academy roles with Derby County and Blackburn Rovers, he was appointed caretaker manager at Ewood Park in 2012 and 2013 before taking the job on a permanent basis between April 2013 and November 2015. He arrived at Blackpool in June 2016 and sealed an immediate return to League One via a 2-1 play-off final win over Exeter City in May 2017.
TOP SCORER: KYLE VASSELL
Like AFC Wimbledon, Blackpool are facing life without their top scorer, with Kyle Vassell out of contract. The 25-year-old, who is yet to decide his future, bagged 11 goals in 29 games despite an injury-hit campaign which severely restricted his game time. Vassell also top scored for the Tangerines during their 2016-17 promotion-winning campaign after joining from Peterborough United on a free transfer.
LAST MEETING: BLACKPOOL 1-2 SUNDERLAND
A first-half double from Kieran Richardson on 22 January 2011 saw Sunderland keep pace with the top six, as the Lads moved within a point of sixth-place Tottenham Hotspur. Richardson slotted the Black Cats ahead after a slick counter-attack and incisive pass from Asamoah Gyan, and he doubled their lead before the break. Charlie Adam’s late penalty pulled one back for the home side, but three points returned to Wearside.