'There was only one team in it in the second-half': Rochdale boss Brian Barry-Murphy rues his side's scrappy defeat against Blackpool

Sullay Kaikai's early goal was the difference between the two sides as the Seasiders held on the claim a hard-earned three points.

Neil Critchley's side were in control of the first-half and squandered opportunities to put clear daylight in between themselves and Dale.

But they produced a sluggish second-half display, which handed the momentum to struggling Dale - but Barry-Murphy's side were unable to take advantage.

"I thought we were in total control of the game in the second-half," he said.

"The first-half was a battle for supremacy and Blackpool had elements of control, but once we stepped on the gas in the second-half I thought there was only one team in it.

"I thought it was only a matter of time until we reflected that on the scoreboard, but we didn't.

"I never speak about referees, I don't think it helps, but tonight I think we should have had three clear penalties and one of their players has handled the ball in the lead-up to their goal.

"I don't want to seem as if I'm clutching at straws and going down a route I haven't gone down before, but I think on behalf of the players I have to make it clear there were elements of uncontrollables tonight.

"In terms of performance and the way we want to do things, the players gave it absolutely everything. Some of our players weren't feeling particularly well but they stayed on the pitch.

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