The game could not have started in a worse way for Blackpool as Azaz would smash into the roof of the net for West Brom Under 21s. Their pace was really a problem for Blackpool and West Brom were an issue for the disjointed defence.
The game was balanced, but West Brom had the early lead, as on 10 minutes Mark Cullen almost managed to redirect Turton’s cross beyond the keeper. Cullen had another chance two minutes later, but this time, although he connected, he only headed at the goalkeeper.
The Baggies, as I have said, were very threatening going forward. In a short space of time Burke saw Mafoumbi push away, Leko hit the top of the bar and Burke would be denied again after a fantastic save by Mafoumbi once more.
Blackpool did pose a dangerous threat as on 33 minutes Dodoo would see a shot saved by Bond and on 36 minutes Nottingham would skim the bar
The goal would finally come on 45 minutes when Steven Davies, on his return to Blackpool, emphatically headed into the net.
In the second half started well for the Seasiders again, as that goal had given them a new found energy. In the 49th minute O’Sullivan would get between defenders, but his lame attempt could not beat the keeper.
Again in the 51st minute Bond would be up to standard, pushing away an bouncing header from Nottingham and then at the other end Mafoumbi would push away another shot, this time from Azaz.
In the 54th minute Blackpool would break again, this time through a long ball, and Cullen would have that golden chance. But he could not capitalise and the ball wen t wide of the target.
But it would be West Brom who would retake that lead as Alex Bradley unleashed a thunderbolt into the bottom corner from nothing. The upset was on big time.
Blackpool would attempt to fight back, for example Taylor and O’Sullivan both missed the target from the edge of the area. Even in the dying second Guy would have an effort saved from close range. But it would prove to be in vein as Blackpool were condemned to their first cup defeat of the season.
Blackpool were poor, no questions asked, but they still looked a threat going forward. It was instead the lack of chemistry at the back that left them second best in this match. Of course, the Checkatrade Trophy is a long way down the competition pecking order, but Pool should not be losing against an under 21 side. They go again on Saturday where they will have a chance to put things right once again.