Steve Bruce frustrated as Blackpool’s struggles continue with Northampton loss

Under-pressure Blackpool boss Steve Bruce insisted his side were the better team when beaten 1-0 by Northampton at Sixfields.

The Seasiders had to weather a bright start by their hosts before growing into the contest and they then shaded the second half with Niall Ennis twice going close.

But Northampton came back into it before Cameron McGeehan struck the decisive blow eight minutes from time.

Blackpool have just one win this season and currently languish in the League One relegation zone.

“That’s arguably as well as we have played this season,” said Bruce. “I was encouraged by a lot of it and I thought we were the better team but we haven’t taken our chances and then we gave a poor goal away.

“That’s something I’ve said too many times but I felt we played very, very well and I thought we were the better side in all areas.

“We had to ride a storm in the first few minutes, and you can see where we are at in terms of the confidence levels, but we got control of the game and we looked a threat.

“I haven’t looked at the statistics but we had the vast majority of the ball, we had more opportunities and we had a lot of shots at their goal, but we need to be more clinical and take our chances when we get them.

“It’s a kick in the teeth for everybody to concede that goal at the end. It’s another soft one and unfortunately that’s something that has blighted us since I’ve been here.

“It’s a big, big frustration for everybody.”

Northampton have now won three in a row, all with clean sheets.

“I’m delighted,” said boss Kevin Nolan. “Blackpool are going to be a really good side this season. They won’t be down there for much longer and I was a bit nervous going into the game in terms of what we would see of Blackpool.

“Steve has now had a bit of time to get his players up to scratch, the new ones he’s brought in, and they have lads back from injury and it won’t be too long until they turn a corner and go on a run.

“But I’m delighted with the win, especially another the clean sheet. That always makes me happy and 1-0 wins are brilliant and it was a lovely finish by Cam, something we all know he’s capable of.

“You know you’re going to get bombarded in the last few minutes and they have so many good players but the spirit was fantastic and the lads made blocks and put their bodies on the line.

“I’m really pleased that everyone can enjoy another victory and it keeps the run going.”