Following their week off, the first team return to action this weekend as they travel to Ashton Under Lyne in the ADM Division 3 & 4 League Cup. This is a must win game for Pool if they are to stand any chance of progressing out of the group stages, following their defeat in the first game of the season vs Colne & Nelson.

Ashton have enjoyed a good start to the season in the leage and sit top with 3 wins out of 3, although the latest of those came in the fashion of a walkover win with Chorley unable to raise a side. Nonetheless, Ashton will likely be one of the tougher opponents this season and are clearly one of the early promotion favourites.

Blackpool make quite a few changes to the squad that travelled to Birchfield. In the forwards, Jamie Griffin and Brad Clark return to the back row. While in the backs, Gav Kelly moves into the first team squad following a string of impressive displays with the second team alongside Bailey Turner. Emil Cotici also comes in on the wing in what is a strong looking backline.

Andy Morgan is also promoted from the second team to provide cover on the front row as coach Dave Kirby looks to reward players for strong performances.

This game kicks off at 3pm. Blackpool will be meeting at 1.15pm at Ashton Under Lyne.