Blackpool 0 Shrewsbury 1 - Player ratings
Lewis Cox with the Salop ratings following the win at Blackpool.
Harry Burgoyne
Made at least three fine stops, particularly two in the second half, to preserve his clean sheet and the decisive Town victory. Deserves credit for a crucial shutout.
Saves 8
David Davis
The midfielder was out of position again at right-back in a change to a back four but was excellent throughout. Showed true experience and know-how to adapt his game at full-back. Was hardly beaten. Helped Caton throughout.
Adaptability 8
Matthew Pennington
A standout display of what has been a very impressive loan spell. The Everton man was commanding in a back four. He was Town’s excellent player even ignoring his superb match-winning header. Blocked and cleared everything.
Hero 9
Ethan Ebanks-Landell
A decent display but a wobble before half-time handed Kaikai a chance and was turned on a couple of occasions after the break. Those aside, cleared well.
Solid 7
Nathanael Ogbeta
A quieter first half but a first attacking raid of note forced Town’s corner for the winner. After that he defended superbly as Blackpool targeted his left flank.
Accomplished 7
Ollie Norburn
A captain’s performance from Town’s leader. Norburn was everywhere, he set the tone with outstanding challenges and blocks throughout. The midfielder was particularly excellent without the ball.
Leader 8
Dave Edwards
A first start since December 22 and how the 35-year-old repaid Cotterill’s faith. He gave a really intelligent, steady display in the heart of midfield, and his energy to go the full 90 minutes was really something.
Effort 8
Josh Vela
The more advanced of the three midfielders and his energy came to the fore again at Bloomfield Road. Unlucky not to net when finding the woodwork early on. Did not stop running all afternoon.
Energy 7
Harry Chapman
Out on the left of Town’s front three and his quality sparked Shrews into life as an attacking force at times before the break. Chapman’s fine corner creating the winner.
Quality 7
Curtis Main
Worked really hard for the cause up front. Main did not allow Blackpool defenders a single free header. Had little luck in front of goal but always busy.
Presence 7
Charlie Caton
An afternoon to remember for the Welsh teenager, handed his first senior start. A nice touch early on and buzzed around with good movement and use of the ball before coming off on the hour.
Day to remember 7
Substitutes
Shaun Whalley (for Caton, 61) Useful fresh legs for half hour. 6; Donald Love (for Chapman, 85). Subs not used: Bevan, Sears, Williams, Walker, Bloxham.
