Northampton Town 0-1 Blackpool: Seasiders pick up key three points in play-off race as Oxford United suffer crushing defeat elsewhere

After watching Marvin Ekpiteta get denied by millimetres during the first half, Matthew Pennington ensured his shot found the back of the net following the restart, with the centre back’s goal proving to be the difference.

Prior to the game at Sixfields, Neil Critchley’s side had failed to win a midweek league game on the road this season, but will now be hoping to build on a vital three points after overtaking Oxford United in seventh, following a heavy defeat for the U’s away to Bolton Wanderers.

The first effort of the game came in the eighth minute, with Kieron Bowie firing a shot straight at Dan Grimshaw after shrugging off some pressure on the edge of the box.

Down the other end, Blackpool came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock with a dangerous corner routine ahead of the half hour mark. From close-range, Marvin Ekpiteta fired an attempt against the frame of the goal, with the ball bouncing down off the crossbar. Despite claims from the Seasiders that it had crossed the line, the officials deemed it to be just short.

Following a first half of slim pickings in terms of action, the second started with a bit more life, as a shot from Jordan Rhodes into the side-netting proved to be a warning for Northampton.

Shortly after the half chance for the 15-goal man, Critchley’s side edged their way in front. A free-kick from Karamoko Dembele caused a scramble in the box, with Pennington’s persistence proving key as he forced the ball over for certain on this occasion.

Beyond that, further opportunities did prove to be scarce, as both Rhodes and substitute Matty Virtue warmed the hands of Louie Moulden with further shots, while Kyle Joseph should’ve done slightly better with an attempt as well.

Meanwhile, Northampton couldn’t see to find a way to break down a solid Seasiders defence, who remained compact until the end.

Blackpool FC: Dan Grimshaw, Matthew Pennington, Marvin Ekpiteta, Olly Casey, Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel, Ollie Norburn (72’), George Byers, Hayden Coulson, Karamoko Dembele (83’), Jordan Rhodes (93’), Jake Beesley (83’).

Substitutes: Richard O’Donnell, Callum Connolly, Kyle Joseph (83’), Sonny Carey, Matty Virute (72’), Shayne Lavery (93’), CJ Hamilton (83’).