Blackpool recovered from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Lincoln City.
Blackpool were forced to make a change at halftime of their match against Lincoln City on Saturday afternoon.
The Seasiders had a horrible start to the encounter, falling behind to goals from Jack Moylan and Rob Street in the first 18 minutes at Bloomfield Road.
A Lee Evans penalty before the break gave Ian Evatt’s team some hope, which led to a late equaliser from Ashley Fletcher as the game ended 2-2.
After a difficult first 45 minutes for Michael Ihiekwe, the defender was replaced by Andy Lyons at halftime.
After being rested for a couple of games earlier this month, the 33-year-old returned to play on Wednesday night, producing a great performance against his previous side Rotherham United, but he was unable to replicate his performance against the Imps.
Following the game, Blackpool manager Evatt said that the summer signing on a free transfer from Sheffield Wednesday was still fighting through injuries.
“He’s struggling with a toe injury issue at the moment, the same toe issue we’re trying to manage him through,” according to him.
“He was fantastic on Wednesday. Michael being Michael, and with Olly (Casey) out, he decided to give it a shot. We needed a more physical back line because of the size of the direct balls.
“Michael put his hand up to do it, and I give him great credit for doing that, but it was pretty sore in the first half so we had to make the change.”
The most recent updates about Casey
Casey was already a concern for the Lincoln game after missing the 3-0 win at Rotherham United due to an abdominal fascia issue, but he could return for next Saturday’s short trip to Wigan Athletic.
“We hope Olly is fine for next week because he’s a key player for us and provides the physical presence we need at times.
“The thinking was if we could get Michael through today then we could have Olly back for next week.”
Taylor returns.
The Seasiders received some good news on the injury front during their match against the Imps, with Dale Taylor coming to action off the bench during the latest half.
The summer addition from Nottingham Forest joined fellow recent returnees James Husband, Danny Imray, Albie Bowler, and Josh Bowler in the matchday squad, as Evatt’s options expanded.
“Three games in six days – this week has been tough,” the head coach explained.
“The players have made it through, but we’re trying to get these guys up to speed as quickly as possible, so we’re exposing them to minutes in games without breaking them.
“I want to make modifications earlier, to make sure we take precautions, but that’s difficult in game.
“We must bring individuals up to speed and progress. We’ve cut the distance with the teams above us, which is crucial, and we’ll keep going.”
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