Blackpool boss says Harrogate Town will be a tough test for the Seasiders

Neil Critchley believes Blackpool’s FA Cup second round tie against Harrogate Town is a different challenge entirely to the one they faced in the first round.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The Seasiders eased into the next round of the competition earlier this month with a 3-0 win against National League South side Eastbourne Borough.

While tomorrow’s opponents Harrogate have traditionally been a non-league side, that’s no longer the case with Simon Weaver’s outfit now sitting in 12th place in the League Two table.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

That, Critchley admits, makes them a far more difficult proposition.

Blackpool head coach Neil CritchleyBlackpool head coach Neil Critchley
Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley

“They’re at home, playing a team in the division above, so it’s got all of the ingredients ready for them to cause an upset,” Pool’s head coach said.

Read More
Defender's fight to be fit

“They’ve steadily improved each other and they’ve finally got promotion, and we know it’s going to be a really difficult game.

“We’re well aware of their threats and how they play, and if we don’t nullify them and deal with it then they’re very tough to play against.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It’s a game we’re looking forward to because we want to be in the third round. It’s an important competition for us and on Monday night we want to be looking forward to the FA Cup third round draw.”

Critchley added: “You only have to look at their results at the beginning of the season. It’s not been the same recently but they had a good win against Mansfield on Tuesday night, away from home, which shows you what they’re capable of. They’ve got tremendous spirit and a real willingness to play for each other.

“At the moment they look like they’re on course to securing what they’d probably class as their aim for the season, which is to stay in the Football League.

“This is not an Eastbourne Borough game, this is completely different. There aren’t so many places between the two teams, so we’re going there expecting a tough game and if we’re not at our best, then Harrogate will beat us.”

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, there is a Black Friday offer on digital subscriptions until December 4. Try us today by clicking here