Blackpool 0 Shrewsbury Town 0: Talking points from stalemate

1 3-4-3 IMPRESSES

Sam Ricketts switched to a variant of this formation for the second half at Stoke and it worked a treat. It did so too, similarly, at Blackpool. There is no question that this system could be one for Town to look at on a more permanent basis. Town controlled the game, particularly in the first half. It suits three centre-halves and the wing-backs did well. In midfield, Shrewsbury had a vice-like grip on proceedings but could not take one of their chances. Josh Laurent and Greg Docherty in advanced midfield positions off the striker were a threat.

2 GOALS

Scoring a goal is the hardest thing in football – Town boss Ricketts has said a couple of times in recent weeks. Goals, especially in League One, have dried up somewhat with Shrews goalless in their last three outings having netted three in their last six games. Town can take solace from creating numerous moments at Blackpool where they could have struck, while they were ruthless at Stoke in the FA Cup. Another addition in the final third could be the answer.

3 JOSH LAURENT

Omar Beckles said Laurent held his hand up in the dressing room for missing his share of chances but his energy and endeavour to work most of those openings was commendable. Laurent has scarcely played in an advanced midfield role in his young career and as a result, at times, lacks a little composure needed. He could be a midfielder that – when Shaun Whalley returns – plays a more withdrawn role which could really suit his energetic game. He will play a big part this season.

4 FIVE DEFENDERS

Town looked resolute, solid and in control. Blackpool, albeit pretty toothless with just Armand Gnanduillet up top, barely had a sniff until a late rally. Centre-halves Beckles, Luke Waterfall and Mat Sadler covered each other well and helped fill the space behind wing-backs James Bolton and Ryan Haynes while the duo were advanced. Beckles’ inclusion in the backline adds a dynamism and pace that Waterfall and Sadler lack, thus, meaning Town could be less stretched than previously.

5 WOLVES AND PRIORITIES

Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round tie will be a great occasion, no doubt, with great stories for Ricketts, Dave Edwards and Shrews’ history. If Town can pull off a remarkable result it could act as a real springboard for the League One campaign. But, there is no doubt, that Shrews know where their priorities lie. The following game, a trip to rivals Bradford, – second-bottom and four points behind Salop – is crucial. Remaining in the third tier is more important than another round or two in the FA Cup but Ricketts will believe his side can do both.