BLACKPOOL 3 BRISTOL ROVERS 2

SIX wins in their last seven home games has lifted Blackpool from mid-table obscurity to the possibility of a play-off place on the last day of the season

If the Seasiders were to sneak into the play-offs, it would be an incredible achievement for manager Gary Megson, who, after a shaky start at the club, seems to have found the right balance to create a side capable of challenging the best of Division Two.

Bristol Rovers were the latest victims of Pool's devastating home form, although their travelling army of 1,500 fans did not seem to mind as the result places extra pressure on their arch rivals Bristol City.

With Tony Ellis serving a one-match ban, all eyes were on Andy Preece (Pictured) and he did not disappoint with an excellent all-round performance and a goal in each half.

The Seasiders dominated the game from the start, winning five corners in the first ten minutes, with Dave Linighan heading narrowly over from one of them.

But it was the visitors who took the lead against the run of play in the 26th minute. Yet another Pool corner was quickly cleared and Frankie Bennett ran sixty yards before releasing Jamie Cureton who had plenty of time to pick his spot past Steve Banks.

Two minutes later Preece levelled the scores when he turned in Marvin Bryan's low cross from close range for his first of the afternoon.

Mark Bonner gave the Seasiders the lead they deserved nine minutes from the break. Preece crossed for James Quinn whose shot forced Andy Collett to punch the ball out to Bonner who headed it back past the keeper for his first goal of the season.

Two minutes into the second half Phil Clarkson could have wrapped the game up when he rounded Collett but defender Matt Hayfield charged down his shot to keep Rovers in the game.

Steve Parmenter stunned the home fans when he equalised on 65 minutes, poking the ball past Banks following a goalmouth scramble.

But again Blackpool bounced back and within a minute Preece had restored their lead with a stunning turn and shot from inside the six yard area which gave Collett no chance.

Blackpool travel to Wrexham on Saturday and must win if they are to stand any chance of competing for the remaining play-off places.

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