With survival already confirmed for the Seasiders, and the Royals out of the play-off race, it was a typical end of term clash – with the only real moment of quality coming through CJ Hamilton’s sensational winner from distance.
A year before, Steve Bruce’s then side had also closed the previous campaign with three points, overcoming Bristol Rovers 4-1 at Bloomfield Road.
There’s been certain changes since then, including in the dugout, with Ian Evatt now in charge, and looking to put his stamp on proceedings this summer.
Here’s how the starting XIs from the final games of the last two seasons compare:
13. 2025: Rob Apter (Right midfield)
Rob Apter started on the right wing in the final game of last season - in what proved to be his final competitive outing for the Seasiders, with the 23-year-old moving to Charlton Athletic last summer. Photo: CameraSport - Lee Parker
14. 2026: Jordan Brown (Central midfield)
Jordan Brown enjoyed a strong end to his first season with Blackpool, having made the move from Leyton Orient last summer. Photo: Gareth Evans
15. 2025: Lee Evans (Central midfield)
Lee Evans struggled throughout the latter stages of last season, which carried over into the current term, which prompted a move to Bradford City back in January. Photo: CameraSport - Richard Martin-Roberts
16. 2026: Karoy Anderson (Central midfield)
Karoy Anderson impressed in Tangerine throughout a loan spell from Charlton Athletic during the second half of the 2025/26 campaign. Photo: Gareth Evans
17. 2025: Albie Morgan (Central midfield)
Albie Morgan was on the scoresheet against Bristol Rovers last May, but missed the final day of the most recent season due to injury, having struggled for the majority of the campaign. Photo: CameraSport - Richard Martin-Roberts
18. 2026: Leighton Clarkson (Central midfield)
Leighton Clarkson made the move to the Fylde Coast from Aberdeen back in February. Photo: Gareth Evans