Blackpool boss makes goalkeeper admission after stunning display from Birmingham City loanee
Blackpool claimed a 3-1 victory over Cardiff City in Ian Evatt’s first league game at home following his appointment as head coach last month.
Ian Evatt states he was happy to see Bailey Peacock-Farrell step up with an impressive display in Blackpool’s 3-1 victory over Cardiff City on Saturday afternoon.
Following an initial shaky start to life on the Fylde Coast following his summer arrival, the Birmingham City loanee has grown in confidence over the last few months.
While Ashley Fletcher’s brace and Tom Bloxham’s first goal of the season were the vital contributions to help the Seasiders to three points against the Bluebirds, they wouldn’t have had that platform without the efforts of Peacock-Farrell in between the sticks.
The 29-year-old made 10 saves in total, as he left Brian Barry-Murphy’s side frustrated for long periods.
“I’m pleased, in the big games the keeper will have to make saves - that’s what he’s there for,” Evatt said after the match.
“We know Bailey is a good keeper and that he can do that. He made some good saves, and so did their keeper at times.
“In the first half after the first 15 minutes we didn’t quite get it right, we were a little bit indecisive, but we smoothed it at half time, and in the second half we defended much better, we pressed much better, and we had chances to score more than we did.”
Chance for Ravizzoli
Blackpool will now be without Peacock-Farrell for their upcoming EFL Trophy game against Tranmere Rovers and next weekend’s League One meeting away to Burton Albion due to the shot stopper being on international duty with Northern Ireland.
This will provide another opportunity for fellow summer arrival Franco Ravizzoli to make a positive impression.
Since making the move to Bloomfield Road as a free agent, the former Wycombe Wanderers man has only featured three times in all competitions.
“It’s the next one up, it’s Franco’s opportunity and chance - he’ll play on Tuesday and he’ll play against Burton,” Evatt added.
“We signed Franco as a second number one and not as a number two, so he’ll step up to the plate when called upon.”
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