Ex-Blackpool FC boss makes honest admission on 'surreal' day in opposition dugout on homecoming anniversary day

Gary Bowyer admits it was a ‘surreal’ experience to be in the opposition dugout at Bloomfield Road for Blackpool’s homecoming anniversary game.

The 54-year-old was in charge of the Seasiders between 2016 and 2018 - during which time fans took part in a boycott against the then-Oyston ownership.

This month marks nine years since the club’s success in the League Two play-offs, but many supporters turned down the opportunity to go to Wembley for the 2-1 victory over Exeter City.

It was the same story in the semi-final tie on the Fylde Coast, with a crowd of just 3,882, including 1,600 visitors, watching a 3-2 win against Luton Town.

Blackpool’s meeting with Burton Albion at the end of March was the first time Bowyer had returned to Bloomfield Road as a manager since his time with the club.

The fixture was used as a celebration to mark the anniversary of the Seasiders’ 2019 homecoming game, following the removal of the Oystons.

Fans packed out the stands to remember the historic occasion, with a late winner from CJ Hamilton rewarding supporters for their efforts.

Despite his side being on the wrong side of the result, Bowyer states he looks back on the occasion with fondness.

“It was a surreal day for me,” he said.

“I loved my time being the Blackpool manager - the success we had with those players was a fabulous experience that stays with you for the rest of your life.

“To come back as a manager felt surreal, but it was fabulous to see the people who are still there.

“I was delighted it was the anniversary of the homecoming because leading up to that game a lot of the fans had become disgruntled with the form of the first-team, and that game against us brought them back into the stadium.

“I was buzzing to see it so full. I know first-hand from when I was manager of Blackburn in the Championship, that the noise of a full Bloomfield Road is unbelievable.

“There was a little bit of jealousy from back in my day when the fans boycotted - but I totally understood it and admired them for sticking to their guns.

“The only disappointing thing for us was the result in the last minute, but that was how it was. I loved the day; bar that last little minute.”

While his time with Blackpool was surrounded by various difficulties, Bowyer was still able to create some strong memories.

“It was very enjoyable because the staff and the players were all tight-knit,” he added.

“We quickly developed a no excuses environment - we weren’t going to use that as an excuse for performances. We focussed on what we could control.

“We couldn’t control the fans coming back - that was a dispute between them and the owners of the time. Like I said, I understood why they did it. The way they stuck to their values was impressive, so I’m delighted they’re back in the stadium now.”

One thing Bowyer is now envious of at Bloomfield Road, is the quality of the playing surface - which was recognised back in April with the League One Grounds Team of the Season award for the Blackpool staff.

“The pitch was magnificent,” he stated.

“I remember my first stint on radio, I went: ‘What’s that green stuff?’

“When we played there it was good clay, real good clay. Full credit to the ground staff, it’s one of the best pitches in the division.

“It’s just a shame on that particular day that the wind caused havoc, and it wasn’t a good game at all.”

Your next story from the Gazette: Former Blackpool favourite opens up on special connection, being brave, and 'painful' departure.

To subscribe to the Blackpool Gazette's excellent Blackpool FC coverage and more - click here.