Following half chances at both ends, the Seasiders opened the scoring in the 26th minute through Tom Bloxham, who made it three goals in his last three games.
In first half stoppage time, Blackpool’s numbers were reduced, with James Husband being shown a red card for a challenge on the edge of his own box.
Despite being a man down, Ian Evatt’s side almost doubled their lead immediately after the restart, but a header from Fraser Horsfall was placed just wide.
Blackpool were left to rue that miss, as Port Vale swiftly turned the contest around.
A front post header from Stockley initially pulled the home side level, before George Byers poked home from close-range to edge them in front, following some good work out wide from Devante Cole – who put the ball on a plate.
With just over 15 minutes left on the clock, Jaheim Headley put the result beyond any doubt, with the defender slotting past Peacock-Farrell at the front post.
After previously providing an assist, Cole added his own name to the scoresheet in the closing stages, before Ronan Curtis added a fifth to round off the win in stoppage time.
Here’s how the Seasiders performed:
1. How did the Seasiders perform?
Blackpool took on Port Vale in their first game of 2026. Photo: Gareth Evans
2. Bailey Peacock-Farrell - 5
Bailey Peacock-Farrell was left exposed following the sending off for Husband, with Port Vale making the most of space at the back. Photo: Gareth Evans
3. Olly Casey - 5
It became a tough afternoon for Olly Casey and his defensive colleagues after the sending off, following a solid battle before. Photo: Gareth Evans
4. Fraser Horsfall - 5.5
Fraser Horsfall was impressive once again in the centre of the back three in the first half, but things became more challenging for everyone after falling a man behind. Photo: Gareth Evans
5. James Husband - 5
James Husband was sent off ahead of the break, but in real time it looked like a harsh decision with the defender getting the ball. Photo: Gareth Evans
6. Danny Imray - 6
Danny Imray was on hand to assist Bloxham, and once again was always looking to make something happen down the right side. Photo: Gareth Evans