Match Overview
On Saturday 22 August 2026, Stockport County hosted Black Pool at Bloomfield Road. The Seasiders emerged victorious 2-1, with Tom Bloxham and Josh Bowler scoring in the first half. Stockport’s Mikael Mandron managed a stoppage-time consolation, but the result left the Seasiders on the brink of the play-off places.
First-Half Drama
Stockport started brightly, with Harry Wood’s volley saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell before Ben Osborn’s pull-back saw the hosts shoot over the crossbar. Blackpool took the lead in the 22nd minute when Bloxham latched onto a long ball from Peacock-Farrell and finished low into the bottom corner. The hosts had two chances to equalise; Jack Diamond and Ryan Glover both missed from free headers. In the 40th minute, Bowler tapped the ball into an empty net after Bloxham’s effort was saved by Ollie Whatmuff, making it 2-0.
Second-Half Resilience
County were restricted to few opportunities in the second half. Benony Andresson’s header was brilliantly saved by Peacock-Farrell and Diamond’s long-distance shot rattled the crossbar. The Seasiders looked to put the game to bed after Bloxham forced a good save from Whatmuff, but Stockport’s defence held firm.
Stoppage-Time Goal
In the dying moments, Mikael Mandron scored from a Che Gardner cross, reducing the deficit to 2-1. The goal was a consolation for County, who had already lost their opening-day win and now drop to ninth in the table.
Table Impact
Blackpool’s win moved them to sixth place in League One, four points from two matches. Stockport’s defeat on the back of a win on opening day sees them fall to ninth.
Key Players
- Tom Bloxham - 22nd-minute opener.
- Josh Bowler - 40th-minute goal.
- Mikael Mandron - Stoppage-time consolation for Stockport.
- Bailey Peacock-Farrell - Key defender, made crucial saves.
Conclusion
The match showcased Blackpool’s attacking potency and defensive resilience, while Stockport’s late goal highlighted their fighting spirit despite the defeat.
