Blackpool were defeated 2-1 by Ipswich Town in the third round of the FA Cup.

Ian Evatt believes Blackpool’s away support at Ipswich Town demonstrates the unity that is being built at Bloomfield Road.

A strong number of travelling fans made the trip to Portman Road on Saturday afternoon, and made themselves heard, despite a 2-1 defeat for the Seasiders.

Jaden Philogene edged the Championship outfit in front during the first half, before Jacob Greaves secured the Tractor Boys’ progression in the closing stages.

Blackpool were able to battle well against their higher league opponents throughout, but couldn’t find a way back into the contest prior to a stoppage time Ashley Fletcher penalty.

A big help towards the club’s big following to Suffolk was an act of generosity from the club’s principal front of shirt sponsor TreadTracker - who funded transport for the 544 mile round trip.

“It’s a great gesture for the coaches to be put on for our fans,” Evatt said.

“It’s a long journey, and for our fans to travel like they have is great, and shows there is unity within the football club, and we are together and doing things in the right way.

“The support really helped us, and their support for the rest of the season is crucial in helping us finish the league campaign strongly.”

Reason behind kind act

Ahead of the Ipswich game, TreadTracker owner Steve Richardson discussed the reasons behind his offer to pay the coaches down to the South East.

“I’m delighted by how people have reacted,” he said.

“ I’m surprised by the numbers because it’s a long way to go, but the camaraderie of all of those fans coming together will be great, I’m pleased by what we’ve done.

“It’s a great day out in terms of value. Ipswich wasn’t the best draw in the world, let’s be honest, because it’s logistically difficult. This time of year is difficult financially.

“I’m delighted by the commitment the supporters have made to go with us. To think Ian Evatt and the team will be supported by 1,500 people, and we’ve been able to accommodate around 1,000 of them on the coaches is brilliant.

“It’d been on my agenda for a few days (before announcing it), but what really made me do it was the difference the supporters made in the second half at Wigan. I couldn’t think of us going to Ipswich with the best part of 400 people for what is a monumental task anyway.

“To make a difference to the community is great. There’s a number of people who have said we’ve facilitated something we’ve not been able to do previously, whether that’s children, generation of families coming together, or dads and daughters.

“We all know football is sadly becoming very expensive and the normal supporter is being priced out of the game, so if you can bring football to the fans then it’ll help generations for the future.”

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