FA Cup: Eastbourne boss tells Blackpool - Pressure is on you

Neil Critchley’s side are odds-on favourites to win Sunday’s live televised tie at Priory Lane but Bloor points out: There’s a shock in every round.

Bloor and his players are in good spirits – and fine form – as they go into the biggest game in the club’s history. They’re sixth in National League South, which admittedly is three divisions below Blackpool’s level, and have found a nice winning habit in the early part of the season.

But they are up against a Tangerines team who have won their past two games in football’s third tier.

Bloor, who has never been involved in the first round proper before, said: “We’re all looking forward to it immensely.

“The club has earned an occasion like this – the whole town has.

“It’s a magnificent occasion for all those who keep the club going and have got it to where it is now, the directors and club secretary and all the volunteers.

“It’s a major disappointment there will be no fans present but we know many people will be watching.

“I’d like to thank the many fans who have been in touch to wish us well.”

Asked if a Borough victory was possible, Bloor said: “Of course we can win.

“The pressure is all on Neil’s team. They’re a well-organised side and are odds-on favourites, but in every round of every cup there’s a shock, so let’s hope there could be one here.”

Bloor said he aimed to savour the occasion but had to remember it was just one game in a long season.

“Win or lose, we’ll be straight on to thinking about playing Ebbsfleet on Tuesday,” he said.

Missing from the Blackpool ranks will be suspended pair Dan Ballard and Ethan Robson, both sent off against AFC Wimbledon last week, and young Liverpool loanee Ben Woodburn, who is self-isolating after a positive Covid-19 test.

Critchley has massively reshaped the squad but victories this week over Burton Albion and Wigan – have lifted the mood after a slow start.

Bloor, who has had Pool watched more than once, should have virtually a full squad from which to select.