Blackpool v Morecambe reaction

Post-match reaction to Morecambe's 2-1 victory over Blackpool in the Capital One Cup first round on Sunday.

Blackpool boss Ian Holloway warned his shot-shy charges they will need to up their game in front of goal if they are going to stand any chance in this season's Championship race following a shock defeat to Morecambe. Holloway's men are among the favourites for promotion back to the Premier League after reaching last season's play-off final but looked out of sorts as goals from Lewis Alessandra and Andrew Fleming proved enough for League Two Morecambe. Alex Baptiste gave the hosts hope from close range in the 77th minute and Elliot Grandin almost forced extra-time as he hit the post but a dramatic comeback did not materialise as Morecambe surprised their more illustrious neighbours. And while Holloway was gracious in defeat he knows better is needed when Blackpool travel to Millwall for their opening Championship fixture next weekend. "Normally when we finish we're good, but our lot have to realise that when you play against anyone you have to finish your chances," said Holloway. "To go one down was a bit of a shock, but the way it happened, one missed header by Stephen Crainey, it should never have got to that situation. "The way we played in the first half, we don't deserve to beat anyone. We played a terrible brand of football and if my lads think that's what I'm after then they're very wrong. "We were a lot better in the second half, but we have to put that together over 90 minutes. We've got three games inside seven days next week and I don't think any of them are ready for that yet. "All I can say is well done to Morecambe today and wish them the best of luck in the next round." Morecambe started like a house on fire with Alessandra opening the scoring in the sixth minute and Fleming doubling the away side's advantage in the 56th minute. Blackpool rallied after Fleming's effort but couldn't find an equaliser, leaving Morecambe boss Jim Bentley was left purring ahead of the new season, which starts with a trip to Exeter on Saturday. "I'm delighted, for a club of our size to come on a coach to our near neighbours and get a win is a special day for the football club," he said. "I'm delighted for everyone at Morecambe and most of all the supporters who have travelled in their numbers today and given us terrific support. "The fans are massive, they play a huge part. Attendances at home haven't been great, but away from home the following has been superb. "We had a game plan, but it worked better than we thought. I was made up for Lew (Alessandra) finding the back of the net and it gave us confidence. "We knew we would have to surrender a lot of possession at times, but we rode our luck at times and scored two very good goals. "We worked on the counter-attack in training and we could have had a third. All in all it was a very professional and polished performance from us."