'My duty' - Blackpool boss shares explanation to ex-Bolton Wanderers colleague after 'unfortunate' call
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 will always pick the best team equipped to match Blackpool’s opponent - regardless of if they’ve won or lost the game prior.
The new Seasiders head coach made several changes on Saturday afternoon as his side claimed a 3-1 victory over Cardiff City.
Ashley Fletcher was on hand with a brace, before Tom Bloxham added his name to the scoresheet as well for his first goal of the season.
The Bluebirds were able to claim a late consolation through Yousef Salech, after being left frustrated by Bailey Peacock-Farrell for the majority of the afternoon.
Zac Ashworth, who previously worked under Evatt at Bolton, was among those to drop down to the bench for the game, but was introduced at half time after Hayden Coulson was forced off at half time with a hip problem.
After the full time whistle, the Blackpool boss admitted it wasn’t an easy decision to drop the former West Brom youngster.
“His potential is huge and he was unfortunate not to start the game,” he said.
“It’s a team game, and as I explained to them individually and collectively, just because you win a game, it doesn’t mean the team stays the same - every opponent is different and you require different skillsets.
“It’s my duty to pick the right skillset for the right opponent, and today I felt we did that, but when we needed people to come on, they made us more energised and helped us to get over the line, and that’s what a team is about.
“It’s not about any individual or who starts the game, it’s the team that wins football matches. We do it together. The staff have put in so much effort this week, so I’m happy for them because a lot of sacrifice goes into planning for a football match, and when it comes together it’s the most rewarding thing.
“It’s better than playing the game, it’s better than winning at Wembley - I loved that moment of history, but there’s nothing better than coaching the players than seeing that come together. It makes me so proud.”
Bloxham off the mark
A big boost for the Seasiders will be having Tom Bloxham back in form following a tough few months for the attacker.
“He had other chances and he’s probably a little bit annoyed that he didn’t score more, but that’s Blocko, he’s hard on himself,” Evatt added.
“Him and Fletch (Ashley Fletcher) deserved their goals today because their work ethic has been outstanding.
“Young Terry (Bondo) should be looking at those players to see the example they set. We’ll get them recovered and rested for the next big game.”
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