The striker, playing virtually as a wing-back for the entirety of the second-half, bagged two high quality goals in the final 10 minutes to earn Blackpool their first win in five.
It was a thoroughly deserved victory for Michael Appleton’s side as well, as they showed guts, heart and desire to stay in the game during a difficult first-half.
But in the second period they were by far the better side and finally got their rewards late on through the sublime Yates.
Gary Madine had previously given Blackpool an early lead after just 10 minutes with a cute lob, an opener that was cancelled out by Imran Louza’s sublime free-kick.
Here’s how Pool’s players rated:
7. Sonny Carey - 7/10
Put himself about well despite being subbed off at half-time. Missed a big chance to score in first-half stoppage time. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
8. Callum Wright - 7/10
Curled wide early on and tried to make things happen. A little quiet at times but stuck to his task well. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
9. Theo Corbeanu - 7/10
A constant attacking threat, albeit his end product was hit and miss. Struggled a little defensively, so had to switch flanks. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
10. MAN OF THE MATCH: Jerry Yates - 9/10
The match winner. Both of his goals were of real high quality and he deserved it for his tireless defensive work. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
11. Gary Madine - 8/10
Bagged his first of the season with a clever lob. Denied a second by a clever save and won his flick-ons all afternoon. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
12. SUB: Liam Bridcutt - 8/10
For Carey, 46 Added some much-needed bite and experience in the middle of the park. Helped Pool out of possession as well. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth