Youth team's success will be getting players into senior squad - Bowyer

The U18 side won the Lancashire FA Youth Cup on Tuesday after their penalty shootout win against Bury at Gigg Lane, and will now complete a league and cup double if they win their remaining two games.

But Bowyer, who previously coached youth teams at Blackburn, said the most important thing is to see the youngsters progress into Blackpool's senior team.

“First and foremost, I was amazed we won on penalties given the record of the first team," he joked.

“They scored all four. I was a bit disappointed actually because I’ve not seen that many penalties scored in one game.

“But it’s been brilliant for them. They’ve had a terrific season under Ciaran (Donnelly) and John (Murphy) and it’s great when you can get to a final and it’s important you win it.

“But the most important thing is getting players through your system and into your first team, because that’s what a youth development system is all about.

“It would be great if they can win the league too. The memories they will have as youth players will be with them for the rest of their lives because not all of them will make it.

“It’s great for the players, the club and the staff involved but ultimately you’ve got to be getting first team players out onto the pitch.”