Could Blackpool finally be finding their form in League One? The Tangerines delivered a masterclass in efficiency as they dismantled Barnsley 3-0 at Oakwell Stadium on March 8, 2025. This comprehensive away victory showcased Blackpool’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity, leaving the home fans among the 11,563 spectators disappointed.
Match highlights and goalscorers
The first half remained goalless despite early pressure from Blackpool, with Rob Apter forcing Barnsley goalkeeper Jackson Smith into a smart save.
The floodgates opened aft er the break when Sonny Carey broke the deadlock in the 56th minute with a low, powerful strike from the edge of the box that slipped under Smith’s reach.
Just eight minutes later, former Barnsley man Ashley Fletcher returned to haunt his old club. The striker rose highest at the back post to head home a pinpoint cross from Albie Morgan, doubling Blackpool’s advantage.
Carey wasn’t finished, adding his second and Blackpool’s third in the 73rd minute. The midfielder was perfectly positioned to tap in after Smith had initially denied Niall Ennis, putting the result beyond doubt.
Key performers for the Tangerines
Sonny Carey emerged as the standout performer with his clinical brace, continuing his impressive form this season. His positioning and finishing ability proved too much for the Barnsley defense.
Ashley Fletcher also deserves special mention, not only for his goal but for his overall contribution to Blackpool’s attacking play. The striker’s experience showed throughout the match.
Other notable performances came from:
* Rob Apter, whose early efforts set the tone for Blackpool’s dominance
* Albie Morgan, who provided the assist for Fletcher’s goal with a perfectly weighted cross
* Niall Ennis, whose shot led to Carey’s second goal
Implications for both teams
This convincing victory propels Blackpool up to 11th place in the League One standings, keeping their mid-table position secure as the 2024/2025 season progresses.
For Barnsley, this defeat represents another setback in their push for a play-off position. The Tykes struggled to create meaningful chances despite showing some positive intent after halftime.
The three-goal margin reflects the gulf in performance between the sides on the day, with Blackpool executing their game plan to perfection away from home.
Match details and officials
The League One fixture took place at Barnsley’s Oakwell Stadium, with referee B. Speedie overseeing proceedings alongside assistants A. Nichole and C. Brown.
Fourth official M. Crusham had a relatively quiet afternoon as the match was played in good spirit despite the competitive nature of the contest.
Barnsley made changes in search of a way back into the match, including the substitution of Hayden Coulson for Elkan Baggott in the 84th minute, but these proved ineffective against a resolute Blackpool defense.
The victory marks one of Blackpool’s most impressive away performances of the 2024/2025 campaign, suggesting they may be finding consistency at a crucial stage of the season.