GAZETTE OPINION: Forget the toxic politics for one night...these young guns deserve our support

It's often been said this season that Gary Bowyer should be given an award for his miraculous steering of Blackpool's first team squad as the off-field circus goes on around him.
Blackpool U18's players mob team mate Rowan RoacheBlackpool U18's players mob team mate Rowan Roache
Blackpool U18's players mob team mate Rowan Roache

And he has done that with no less integrity, decency and even humour.

But even further behind the scenes are a largely unknown bunch of starlets who tonight stand on the verge of history – and restoring some much-needed pride in the Blackpool badge.

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John Murphy’s U18 side take on Arsenal at the Emirates stadium tonight in the second leg of the FA Youth Cup semi-final, with the scores 2-2.

The gulf between clubs at this level is even wider at youth level. Can you imagine Arsenal’s kids training at Squires Gate or Myerscough?

To get to this stage is nothing short of astonishing so we have dedicated our coverage today to these young guns on the biggest night of their lives.

Murphy, and before him Richie Kyle, have beaten all the odds to create a flourishing youth set up on a shoestring.

For one night forget the politics. Tonight they deserve our support.