The result marks the Seasiders’ first home win since the end of September, and ends an eight-match run of draws at Bloomfield Road.
Steve Bruce stuck with a change of system for the visit of the Red Devils, with his side starting with a defensive three and wing-backs after switching to that approach during the second half of last weekend’s 3-3 draw with Mansfield Town.
Despite taking a 2-0 lead during the first half, it proved to be a slightly more complicated challenge against Rob Elliot’s side after a goal from Kamari Doyle and a red card for Ashley Fletcher in the space of two minutes after the half hour mark.
Nonetheless, Blackpool stuck to their task, and eventually re-extended their lead through a Lee Evans penalty, after substitute Jordan Gabriel was taken down in the box.
Here’s how the Seasiders performed:
7. Lee Evans- 7
Lee Evans was competitive in the centre of the park, and produced some strong challenges, as well as being on hand with a goal from the penalty spot. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
8. Albie Morgan- 7
Albie Morgan was on hand with an assist for Ennis' second, but did lose his man in defence for Crawley's goal on the half hour mark. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
9. Hayden Coulson- 8
Hayden Coulson put a solid shift in while playing in his more natural wing-back position. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
10. Sonny Carey- 7
Sonny Carey had some bright moments in a more advanced midfield role, and should've opened the scoring with a chance just before Niall Ennis' first goal. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
11. Niall Ennis- 8
Niall Ennis is proving to be the natural goal-scorer that Blackpool have been crying out for. The Stoke City found himself in the perfect place in the box for both of his goals during the first half. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
12. Ashley Fletcher- 5
Ashley Fletcher received a red card in the 32nd minute for violent conduct, but there didn't seem to be much in it. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker