Blackpool 2-0 Kidderminster: Five things we learned

Blackpool FC writer Matt Scrafton takes a look at the key talking points from the Seasiders' 2-0 FA Cup win against Kidderminster Harriers.
Jamille Matt netted his first for BlackpoolJamille Matt netted his first for Blackpool
Jamille Matt netted his first for Blackpool

Blackpool capable of winning ugly

For too long now Blackpool have continued to play well but struggled to pick up regular wins. On Sunday, that was completely flipped on its head. The Seasiders were far from their best but did what was required to secure comfortable passage through to the next round of the FA Cup. In fact, the game was a poor one but I can't remember a shot Blackpool 'keeper Sam Slocombe had to save. Kiddy huffed and puffed but never really got going. Blackpool weren't much better but they were clinical in front of goal and won the game without too much fuss.

Brad Potts' goals are key

The midfielder bagged his 7th goal of the season with a looping volley against Kidderminster. The 22-year-old is proving to be one of Blackpool's key men this season and his goals will be vital if the Seasiders are going to have any joy in the league. The former Carlisle man, who is likely to have plenty of suitors in January, was in and out of the game on Sunday but at the moment, he is putting chances away when they fall at his feet.

Squad depth is there

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Cup games always provide a chance for managers to field some of their squad's fringe players who deserve a shot in the team. On Sunday, Eddie Nolan, Jim McAlister, Michael Cain and Mark Yeates were those four to be given a chance. The standout performer of that quartet was Michael Cain, who produced a controlled performance in the centre of midfield. If things aren't going well, Gary Bowyer will be reassured to know there are players on the bench and even out of the squad altogether who can be relied on. Tomorrow night's game against Everton U21 in the EFL Trophy will provide another opportunity to see what some of these fringe players can do.

Clean sheet was long overdue

Sunday's shut-out was Blackpool's first clean sheet since the 3-0 win away at Yeovil at the start of September - a run stretched to 10 games. Frankly, that's an awful record and shows just why Blackpool are where they are in the league table. The statistics show Blackpool are one of the most creative sides in League Two in terms of creating chances, so if Bowyer's men can pick up some clean sheets on the way they should rise up the table. Yes, it was only Kidderminster, but keeping clean sheets is a habit and is one Blackpool need to get used to.

Matt was bound to score

With all the talk in the build up about Jamille Matt's goal drought it was inevitable he would score his first for the club against his former side. Matt has done well since coming into the side and is a very effective hold-up man who has struck up a decent partnership with Kyle Vassell. He gets himself in good positions and if he continues to do that, the goals should follow. If Blackpool can get Matt and Vassell firing at the same time, then things will look a lot more rosy.