Blackpool were defeated 2-1 by Tranmere Rovers in their final EFL Trophy group outing

Blackpool have progressed to the EFL Trophy round of 32 - finishing second in Group B after their 2-1 defeat to Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday night.

An impressive Scott Banks goal opened the scoring after 18 minutes, before the hosts pulled themselves through a deflected Patrick Brough shot from distance.

Despite Seasiders boss Ian Evatt starting the game with a number of youngsters, before introducing further academy players in the second half, it took the home side a bit of time to impose themselves prior to taking the lead through Joe Ironside.

With qualification already confirmed for both teams ahead of the match, the result only impacted their positioning, with the Wirral outfit finishing top.

When the draw takes place

The draw for the next round will take place this Thursday (November 13) live on Sky Sports News.

Presenter Will Perry will host, while Luke Chambers and Jobi McAnuff will draw the balls, with proceedings set to get underway at 2.30pm.

The competition will remain regionalised until the semi-final stage.

After finishing top of their respective groups, Salford, Doncaster Rovers, Lincoln City, Bolton Wanderers, Harrogate, Port Vale and Crewe Alexandra could await Evatt’s side.

Meanwhile, Stockport County, Bradford City, Barnsley, Rotherham United, Huddersfield Town, Fleetwood Town and Chesterfield have all progressed having in second as well.

When the next round takes place

It’s also been confirmed this week that the round of 32 ties will take place on the week commencing December 1.

This will fall in between Blackpool’s league meeting with Reading (November 29) and their FA Cup second round meeting against Carlisle United on the following Sunday.

Your next story from the Gazette: Striker reflects on life under new Blackpool boss as he makes Steve Bruce admission.

To subscribe to the Blackpool Gazette's excellent Blackpool FC coverage and more - click here.