Blackpool player ratings V Barnsley: Majority pick up sixes in first defeat of the season

Some high pressing from Jordan Williams carved open the first real chance of the game, with the defender putting his eventual shot just wide of the target.

The Seasiders’ defensive work at the top end of the pitch caused a couple of early issues for the home side, but clear openings remained limited.

It was just as barren down the other end of the pitch throughout the opening exchanges, before a mix up at the back forced Bailey Peacock-Farrell into his first save to deny Makenzie Kirk from a tight angle.

That prompted a period of pressure from the Reds, with another stop swiftly required from the Blackpool goalkeeper, this time tipping over a free kick from Reyes Cleary.

Dion Charles came the closest to breaking the deadlock for the visitors just before the break. After showing some good energy to get the ball up the field, the striker’s shot from the edge of the box just needed a little more curl as it struck the post.

Down the other end, Barnsley were left kicking themselves for not taking the lead on the half time whistle, with hesitancy in releasing a shot from close-range allowing Josh Earl to block the eventual effort on the line to deny his former club.

Following the restart, it was the Seasiders left frustrated by some last ditch defending. Three shots in quick succession were blocked in front of the goal, as the Tykes took it in turn to keep Ian Evatt’s side out.

That missed opportunity came back to bite the visitors just after the hour mark, with Cameron McGeehan given time to hit a half-volley into the ground to beat Peacock-Farrell.

It took just three minutes for Blackpool to respond, as Josh Bowler kept his cool to slot past Rogan Ravenhill after having the ball played into him in space.

Barnsley did come close to quickly retaking the lead, with Amani Richards seeing a shot deflected against the post, before Tyrese Noslin fired across the face of goal.

There were also chances for the Seasiders to edge their way in front, with both Anderson and substitute Leighton Clarkson firing over.

Heading into the final stages, Peacock-Farrell was required to make another save, as Richards found himself frustrated for a second time after being introduced off the bench.

The forward wouldn’t be denied with his next attempt, looping a header over the Northern Ireland international to put the Reds back in front, despite protests from the Seasiders for a couple of incidents in the build-up – including a controversial handball.

Here’s how the Seasiders performed: