Daniel bids to build on half-decent Blackpool display

The Seasiders’ first match back in League One ended in a 2-1 loss at Bradford City on Saturday.

After a highly promising opening 45 minutes, Gary Bowyer’s team were not at the races in the second period.

Goalscorer Daniel said: “We’re very disappointed because first half we did well and we played some good stuff.

“However, in the second half we weren’t good enough really.

“If we can take that first-half performance into the next game, then I think we’ll do well.”

The Seasiders’ first-half back in the third tier saw an encouraging display from Bowyer’s charges.

Kyle Vassell and Mark Cullen could have scored before Nathaniel Knight-Percival gave the home side the lead from close range.

That lead only lasted two minutes before Daniel got himself on the scoresheet with a clinical finish past Colin Doyle.

Omari Patrick netted the winner just before the hour but the build-up for Daniel’s goal, as well as the first-half displays from Vassell and Cullen, offer Pool some hope for the season ahead.

Daniel revealed: “The gaffer said that when we pass it, we should also move off the ball as well.

“Mark Cullen found me and I was able to put the ball in the net.

“Both Mark and Kyle are good strikers who work hard and both of them can score goals, so I think we can do well this season.”

Blackpool’s players could certainly have been given an easier opening day following their promotion from League Two.

Bradford were always going to have the bit between their teeth following defeat in last season’s play-off final against Millwall.

They certainly had a vociferous support from their fans, with almost 21,000 inside Valley Parade.

Nevertheless, a Blackpool team including six debutants were not cowed by the atmosphere, which augurs well for the trips to clubs like Portsmouth and Blackburn Rovers – both of whom can expect to have large home support this season.

Daniel said: “It was a big crowd for the first game but it was always going to be after they got to the play-off final last season.

“All of the new lads are great. We’ve brought in some good players but it is going to take time for everybody to gel.”