Blackpool legend weighs in on influential refereeing decisions in heavy Port Vale loss
Blackpool were defeated 5-1 by Port Vale in their first outing of 2026 - but a red card for James Husband was one of the main talking points.
Blackpool legend Brett Ormerod states Ian Evatt’s side were comfortable until controversial decisions from the referee changed the direction of their meeting with Port Vale.
The Seasiders were defeated 5-1 at Vale Park in their opening game of 2026, but were leading through a Tom Bloxham goal at the break.
A red card for James Husband in first half stoppage time handed League One’s bottom placed team a lifeline, with goals coming from Jayden Stockley, George Byers, Jaheim Headley, Devante Cole and Ronan Curtis after the restart.
Following the match, Evatt shared his frustration over the sending off, insisting the challenge didn’t merit the punishment and questioned whether it was even a foul.
Blackpool also had concerns over some of the other decisions that went against them, including a foul in the build-up to the Valiants second and a handball for the third.
Ormerod shares his thoughts
Ormerod, who was BBC Radio Lancashire commentary duty, shared the Seasiders’ disappointment over the referee’s calls - which ultimately had a massive impact on the outcome.
“The game turned on two big refereeing decisions,” he told the broadcaster at full time.
“Blackpool bossed the first half pretty much. They controlled the game, and went 1-0 ahead from a good goal by Bloxham. It was a good one-two with (Danny) Imray. He controlled his shot and hit it on the turn. They looked comfortable, and like they were going to extend their lead.
“The first big refereeing turning point was in injury time in the first half. The ball broke free and James Husband dived in for the ball, it was a 50/50, but he won the ball. The lad went to ground, and you’re thinking it’s a yellow card at most, but the referee controversially sent him off.
“They go in at half time 1-0 up, they come back out, and a header was millimetres wide. From there on Port Vale utilised the massive pitch and the spare man. They got the ball down wide and whipped the ball in for Jayden Stockley.
“The second big controversial one - Port Vale knock the ball down the left-hand side, (Fraser) Horsfall is seeing it out of play, but Devante Cole comes through the back of him, and the referee plays on. He then picks George Byers out, and he smashes into the back of the net.
“Massive decisions there. The referee does influence the game, but it’s not the referee’s fault for the defending. They capitulated a bit against a team that has struggled to score goals.”
Your next story from the Gazette: Former Blackpool favourite opens up on special connection, being brave, and 'painful' departure.