Blackpool vs Southend United. Sky Bet League One.
Bloomfield RoadAttendance7,870.
Saturday 8 February 2020 18:34, UK
Blackpool finally picked up their first win of 2020 with a routine 2-1 victory at home to struggling Southend.
A goal in each half for top scorer Armand Gnanduillet secured three vital points for Simon Grayson's side as the Shrimpers slip into deeper relegation trouble despite Stephen McLaughlin's late strike.
Southend enjoyed the better chances in a slow opening half-hour at Bloomfield Road as Sam Barratt forced a diving save from keeper Chris Maxwell.
Despite showing little attacking intent in the first half the Seasiders edged in front after 37 minutes as Gnanduillet got in front of his man to nod home Liam Feeney's cross.
Blackpool looked to have made the points safe after 64 minutes as Gnanduillet tucked home from the penalty spot after a foul on substitute Nathan Delfouneso.
But Sol Campbell's side showed real grit in the closing stages as McLaughlin fired home a spectacular 25-yard effort with 72 minutes gone.
The visitors almost stole a dramatic point in added time but McLaughlin volleyed a deep corner just wide of the post.
