Neil Critchley rues missed chances as Blackpool cruelly bow out of Carabao Cup following penalty shootout defeat to Stoke City

The Seasiders were the better side for much of the game against their Championship opponents and created a host of presentable opportunities.

Unfortunately Pool were unable to take advantage, which led to Stoke eventually edging their way into the second round of the competition after winning 5-4 on penalties in sudden death.

“It was a cruel way to lose, it’s a bit of a lottery when it comes to penalties,” Critchley said.

“I thought we were very good in the first half, I thought we were the better team. They had a bit of a spell in the second half where they were on top of us but we finished the game very strongly with corners and free kicks towards the end.

“We just didn’t quite do enough in the final third but we more than matched a very good opponent for 90 minutes.

“I think we’ve got good players with good ability in the team and that’s something we stressed to the players before the game.

“We didn’t want to come here and just be backs-to-the-wall, be camped in our own half, defend cross after cross and be in our own penalty area.

“I never felt we were ever like that during the game. We gave as good as we’ve got in possession, out of possession and I think we went toe-to-toe all the way through, we showed great spirit but I’m just disappointed we didn’t score.

“We had chances to win the game, especially in the first half. Last week against Everton we took those chances, unfortunately today we didn’t.”