Blackpool were without both Shayne Lavery and Kylian Kouassi in their 3-2 to defeat away to Reading.
Despite optimistic outcomes elsewhere, Blackpool’s Seasiders were unable to secure a coveted spot in the League One play-offs.
This disappointment unfolded as both Barnsley and Lincoln City, despite opportunities, failed to capitalize on the final weekend, leaving Blackpool outside the playoff picture.
The situation was further compounded during Blackpool’s match at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, where Neil Critchley, the head coach, faced challenges in squad selection.
With limited attacking options on the bench, notably young talent Zak Emmerson, Critchley opted to bolster the midfield instead by substituting Kyle Joseph during the second half. This decision reflected the strategic adjustments made in real-time to navigate the game’s dynamics.
Explaining the absence of key players like Lavery and Kouassi, Critchley shed light on their unfortunate injuries, both occurring on the same day right before the crucial match.
This untimely setback disrupted the team’s meticulously prepared plans and strategies, leaving them with fewer options to turn the game in their favor, especially during critical moments like when the match was level with only 15 minutes remaining.
As a result, Blackpool had to rely on the players on the pitch or make do with fewer attacking options, adding an extra layer of challenge to an already intense situation.
Despite their best efforts, the absence of key personnel due to injuries significantly impacted Blackpool’s ability to execute their game plan fully and secure the desired outcome on the pitch.
“We had no alternatives on the bench, I was hamstrung with the decisions I could make. We knew what we were going to do, but when they scored we couldn’t see
fruition as the game had been taken away from us.
“Kyle (Joseph) hadn’t played for ages and was struggling with cramp, and it wouldn’t be fair to bring young Zak Emmerson on the bench in that circumstance. Matty Virtue is capable of scoring from midfield and he nearly got in.
“Those injuries were really unfortunate and left us hamstrung.”