IT could have happened at any time to any keeper, even one with as good a track record as Steve Banks.

Unfortunately for Blackpool's player of the year, an uncharacteristic mis-kick on Saturday (October 4) gifted Millwall a second goal and condemned the Seasiders to their fourth away defeat of the season.

Not even an 86th minute consolation goal from Tony Ellis could prevent Pool from slipping six places in the league ahead of another tough away match at Fulham.

Much of the first half was spent on the defence, though Mark Bonner did have a chance to open the scoring on 25 minutes, only to head a cross from Darren Bradshaw straight into the arms of keeper Nigel Spink.

And it was a case of being caught napping just after the restart when a free kick found Paul Wilkinson who headed home.

Pool did begin to step up their game but it was the final touches which let them down.

And then the sucker punch came on 65 minutes.

Player-boss Nigel Worthington passed the ball back to Banks who could only watch as the ball bobbled in front of him just as he was about to attempt a clearance.

As the ball ran behind him it was Millwall's Kim Grant who reacted quickest and Blackpool were cruelly punished.

The mistake proved costly after Ellis' 25-yard strike four minutes from time.

Having received the ball from Phil Clarkson, the striker played a quick one-two with Micky Mellon before picking out his spot in the top right hand corner.

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