Blackpool v Hartlepool United, 09 September 2000

Blackpool had caused one of the First Round upsets in the midweek Worthington Cup ties when they eliminated First Division Stockport County, but their League form continues to be a cause for concern. The Tangerines slumped to their first home defeat of the season and their lowest League position for over a decade. Their recent goalkeeping problems reared its head again when the recalled Phil Barnes rushed out of his area to head clear. Tony Lormor intervened, the loose ball fell to Tommy Miller who coolly lobbed the stranded custodian from 30 yards. The visitors doubled their advantage from Paul Arnison's outswinging right wing corner. James Sharp flicked on and Kevin Henderson was allowed time and space to turn in front of goal. Blackpool had played the neater football but Hartlepool's mettle meant they stayed firm until Andy Morrison celebrated his return to Bloomfield Road on loan from Manchester City. He was first to Danny Coid's right wing flag kick, the ball was laid back by Brett Ormerod for the barrel-chested defender to thump a right foot thunderbolt into the bottom corner. The Seasiders threw everything at United in the last twenty minutes but boss Steve McMahon was left to question the commitment of some of his players.