A rotated Pools Academy side, who were defeated on the road to Blackpool at the weekend, can take positives away with their attitude and application.

Pools, who made four changes, were a goal down inside two minutes before Blackpool added a second on the half hour.

With the hosts continuing to have the upper hand in the first half, the Tangerines made it 3-0 as the clock ticked 45.

However, in first half stoppage time, Alex Pavan reduced the deficit and pulled a goal back.

That shot confidence into the visitors, with Pools creating several chances throughout the second half, though it remained 3-1 to Blackpool.

Youth team coach Graeme Clark remained upbeat at the full time whistle.

“It was a tough test against a powerful, physical and direct opponent,” he said.

“Some of our gifted players are still developing in their physical corner and it was really hard for them.

“However, there is more to winning than three points and today gave us a good measure of where we are and what we need to do to continue developing our talented group.

“Overall, we’re disappointed with the result but pleased with our attitude and application.”