Blackpool play host to Arsenal as the third round of the FA Cup takes centre stage, with the League One outfit looking for a first victory over their top-flight visitors since a 3-2 win at this ground back in 1970 (D2, L7 since then).
The ‘Seasiders’ (BPL) have won just once in their last six domestic games – that was a 3-2 extra-time reply win over Solihull Moors in this competition’s second round (W1, D1, L4).
However, Blackpool tend to thrive on cup games at Bloomfield Road. Since 2016, they are unbeaten here in their last seven fixtures in the FA and League Cup (W6, D1), and have opened the scoring in four of those games.
Having rolled over Premier League opponents Fulham without having to break much sweat in their last outing (4-1), this is another game Arsenal are expected to negotiate fairly easily. The ‘Gunners’ have won 21 of their last 24 FA Cup matches (W21, D1, L2 – including extra-time and penalties), although notably they did lose 4-2 to Nottingham Forest in their last away trip in the competition.
Players to watch: Striker Joe Dodoo has scored six goals in all competitions for Blackpool this season, including a goal in the first and second rounds of the FA Cup. Meanwhile, Arsenal have sharp shooterPierre-Emerick Aubameyang in their ranks – he’s netted 14 league goals this term, including four in his last four.
Stat attack: Blackpool have been losing at both half-time and full-time in their last three competitive matches against Arsenal – all three featured over 2.5 goals.
Arsenal have scored at least two goals in nine of their last ten away games in the FA Cup (including extra-time).
Blackpool have scored just one goal in their last 453 minutes of league football.
Match Information
Referee: Dean M. (Eng),
Venue: Bloomfield Road (Blackpool)
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