Blackpool manager Ian Evatt has pledged to reverse his team’s poor run of form following their 2-0 defeat to Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road on Saturday. The loss left Blackpool in the bottom four of the league standings, prompting frustration among supporters who booed the players off the pitch.
Evatt acknowledged the fans’ disappointment but expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to recover, citing a similar situation last season when the team rallied to produce a strong run of results. “Anyone who watched that performance today can’t tell me that’s a team that is struggling or giving up on the manager’s ideas,” Evatt said. “There’s work that we need to do, but I still believe that I’m the guy and the staff are the ones that can help the players turn this around. I believe in the players, I believe in the team.”
Leyton Orient secured their victory through a first-half header from Will Forrester and a late penalty finish by Dane Scarlett. Forrester opened the scoring in the 31st minute, connecting with a cross from Alex Gilbert despite Blackpool generally controlling play up to that point. The defender also made a crucial clearance to deny a Zac Ashworth effort just before halftime.
Blackpool’s chances to equalize were limited, though Josh Bowler was nearly awarded a penalty after an apparent foul by Alfie Gilchrist in the first half. Bowler later missed a key opportunity shortly after the hour mark when he skewed a shot off target while attempting to cut inside defenders.
The decisive moment came 15 minutes from time when substitute Scarlett converted a penalty after Idris El Mizuni’s shot struck Olly Casey’s hand, following a header from Joseph Oluwo that had hit the crossbar.
Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens praised Forrester’s all-around performance and defended his team’s defensive solidity. “Will has been our best player for four or five games now,” Wellens said. “I thought we looked assured when the ball came into our box today. Blackpool had their moments and put a couple of dangerous balls into our box, but we dealt with them well.”
Wellens noted the importance of the home crowd’s presence, describing the atmosphere as “alive” and highlighting that it was the first home game in which his side did not have to come from behind. He admitted there is room for improvement with ball possession but expressed optimism about the team’s progress.
The result marks Leyton Orient’s second home league win of the season, while Blackpool will be looking for answers as they try to halt their slump and climb out of the relegation zone.