Fleetwood were blown away both by the weather and their Championship opponents as they went down 5-1 in the 3rd round of the FA Cup to Blackpool. Just eight miles and 67 league places separates Blue Square Premier League outfit Fleetwood from their near neighbours Blackpool and it was the latter that proved decisive as the Seasiders adapted to the blustery conditions the quicker and their quick incisive passing was to prove the the Trawlermen's downfall.
A goal up at the break Blackpool added a quick fire brace immediately after the restart to ensure they did not go the way of Wycombe and Yeovil whom Fleetwood had accounted for in previous rounds.
A scrappy opening period in a swirling wind saw Blackpool settle the first and take the lead through Lomana Tresor Lua Lua after a neat passing move with Angel Martinez.
But the host's almost immediately levelled as first Jamie Vardy then Peter Till were denied in quick succession by Tangerines keeper Scott Davies.
But after the break it was all Blackpool as Matt Phillps hit a hat-trick and Tom Ince got on the scoresheet.
Phillps opener was a terrific 20 yard strike which took advantage of the wind to fly into goal, whilst Ince was on the end of a sweeping move which he finished clinically.
Fleetwood gave their supporters, the Cod Army, a glimmer of hope as Jamie Vardy reduced the deficit to 3-1, but the visitor's simply went through the gears to secure a comfortable victory.
For Fleetwood the goal is to earn promotion from the Blue Square Premiership were they currently lie second and make it two Football League club's on the Fylde Coast.
Referee: Dean Whitestone
Venue: Highbury Stadium
Attendance: 5,092
Fleetwood scorers: Vardy 70 Blackpool scorers: Lua Lua 24, Phillips M 46, 77, 81, Ince 54
TRIBAL ASKS: If I was a betting man expect to see Fleetwood in League Two next season.
Yellow cards: Wilson (BLA)
