7.45 Tuesday 14/08/18
It has been yet another week where off-field matters have dominated the headlines instead of those on it but, as the prospect of a new manager beckons, with Richie Wellens the favorite, Blackpool must battle on despite their struggling start on the pitch this year. The challenge, a home League Cup tie against Barnsley, who have had, in contrast to Blackpool, an impressive start to their own League One campaign with maximum points and sitting in 1st place which shows their collective hunger and strength. The match is made even more exciting by the possibility of a Brad Potts return, who played almost 100 times for the Seasiders scoring 19 times. With quality players like Potts throughout their squad, you can see why they could be real contenders this year and they will be tough opening round opponents for Blackpool.
Barnsley FC - The Facts:
Founded in 1887 the Tykes play their home football matches at Oakwell which has a capacity of 23,009 and was first opened in 1888. Barnsley was a successful team in their early years and even won the FA Cup in 1912.
Currently, Barnsley find themselves 1st in League one through the guidance of manager Daniel Stendel after being relegated from the Championship last term on 41 points. An impressive 0-2 win on Saturday helped them to sustain top spot; it was so impressive that their keeper, Davies, didn't have a single save to make throughout the whole game. When this is paired with their 4-0 triumph against Oxford, you really do begin to fear for the Seasiders.
When you look at their squad you can see why they are where they are. Class like George Moncur and Brad Potts has been kept from the Championship and they have also added some influential figures to the squad too. The likes of Styles, Williams, and Dougall all add quality to an already excellent Barnsley team.
Last Meeting:
And finally - Prediction and why:
1-0 to the Seasiders
I think Barnsley might try to rest a few players because, after all, the League is their priority this year as they look to bounce straight back to the Championship. Although Barnsley's squad depth is decent it will certainly weaken the team and it is likely McPhillips will play a full-strength squad with Cullen leading the line and a few of the older players rested. This youthful formula might just give Blackpool the energy to go on and nick a first win of the season after building up their confidence in the second half of Saturday's game. By no means is it going to be easy though; it will be a stern test and one that Blackpool have to get just right in order to progress in this competition.
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