On Saturday afternoon at Edgeley Park, Blackpool secured a 2-1 victory over Stockport County. Tom Bloxham opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, followed by Josh Bowler before half-time to give the Seasiders a 2-0 lead. Stockport’s Mika Mandron pulled one back, but it was too late for a comeback.
Bloxham’s goal was the first of his career at Blackpool, and the match marked his first start alongside Dion Charles after both missed parts of pre-season due to minor injuries. Signed as a winger in January 2025, the 22-year-old has been converted into a striker during his time in Tangerine, a role he played consistently last season because of injuries to other forwards.
"The thing with this gaffer is he’s been really important for me with the things he wants me to do," Bloxham said after the match. "He’s obviously changed my position, and I’m really enjoying it to be honest. It’s coming more naturally to me, which is obviously important."
Blackpool boss Ian Evatt echoed the sentiment, stating that Bloxham would not be told otherwise about being a natural striker. The forward added that the training work and the coach’s guidance helped him settle into the new role.
After bringing the ball down and slotting past Stockport keeper Ollie Whatmuff, Bloxham celebrated with a cowboy salute for teammate Fraser Horsfall, who had previously played for Stockport and suggested the gesture. Bloxham explained, "I just knew I had to have a good first touch and set myself for the finish. It’s tough for the keeper when you go hard and low like that."
The victory was a welcome result for Blackpool after a difficult start to the season, and Bloxham’s confidence in his new position could prove pivotal as the team looks to build momentum in the coming fixtures.
