Message sent to Blackpool youngsters after penalty defeat against AFC Wimbledon
Blackpool’s U18s were defeat in the EFL Youth Alliance Cup final by AFC Wimbledon.
Blackpool were defeated by AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Youth Alliance Cup final after losing 4-1 on penalties after regular time ended in a 1-1 draw.
Jaheim Scafe edged the visitors in front in the 65th minute, after several chances for both sides throughout the opening hour.
The Seasiders swiftly responded, with Billy Whaite driving his way into the box from the left side, before slotting a shot into the far corner.
Blackpool finished the game with 10-men after a red card for Ky-Mani Leliendal, but were able to hold on for spot kicks - which went the way of the Dons.
Reflecting on the game, coach Matthew Blinkhorn said: “In terms of the run, I’m proud of the lads for getting to the final. In the first half, I think we slightly edged it with chances created, but in the second we didn’t get to grips with how they played through us.
“We were under the cosh a little bit, and we managed to turn it around a little bit. We didn’t look how we wanted to, but they showed character and showed resilience to stick in there.
“We were hoping on the counter we may get something, but it didn’t quite happen, and penalties are just always a lottery. It’s disappointing to get taken to penalties, but from where we were, we’re pleased with that.
“You learn a lot more about the players in these moments. There’s a couple of lads upset from missing penalties, but we said - ‘Don’t let that define you; let it make you, not break you.’
“We’re all really disappointed and upset, but that’s part of the game - it happens. I was proud that they stepped up to take a penalty. We have to move on, and hopefully they learn from it with the confidence to step up next time.
“As a coach, it’s not just about what you do on the pitch; it’s about the physiological side and the support we give to the young lads.
“We’ll reflect on tonight and review, to see where we can be better, but then we’ve got a game on Saturday against Preston and then Wigan in the Central League Cup semi-final. There’s lots of games still to play.
“This hurts, and it should hurt, but we’ll move on.”
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