Blackpool FC enjoyed a convincing 3-0 over Southport FC at Haig Avenue last night (Friday 7th July) in the first friendly of the new season to be held at Haig Avenue. Blackpool’s goals were all scored in the first half –  with Kenny Dougall at minute 16′, Brad Holmes at minute 39′ and Matty Virtue at minute 44′ all hitting the back of the net.

Perhaps this was to be expected as Blackpool are now in third tier of League One whilst Southport are in the sixth tier of National League North. Blackpool also took the opportunity to play two completely different teams in each half – the players fielded are listed below.

Blackpool were given maximum encouragement from 660 visiting supporters which swelled the Haig Avenue gate to an impressive 1,465 for a Friday evening friendly match.

Unlike last year’s friendly, which saw the match suspended for ten minutes as Southport and Blackpool fans scrapped, the only fighting this year was among Southport supporters (see picture below).