Blackpool beat Gillingham thanks to Sonny Carey’s double

Seasiders claim an important 2-1 win at Bloomfield Road.

Blackpool came from behind to beat ten-man Gillingham 2-1 at Bloomfield Road and claim an important three points in their League Two promotion push. The visitors took the lead through Robbie McKenzie, but Sonny Carey’s double turned the game on its head. Gillingham saw Scott Kashket sent off after 35 minutes, and Blackpool made the most of their numerical advantage to claim all three points.

The win sees Blackpool move up to fifth in the table, while Gillingham remain in 22nd place. Blackpool started the game brightly and took the lead in the 16th minute. Carey played a nice pass into the feet of Jerry Yates, who then squared the ball for the unmarked McKenzie to tap home from close range.

However, Gillingham hit back just two minutes later. Kashket got the better of Rhys Williams down the left flank and crossed for McKenzie to score his second of the game. The goal sparked Blackpool into life, and they began to dominate possession. They were rewarded for their pressure in the 32nd minute when Carey curled a superb free-kick into the top corner of the net.

Gillingham’s task became even more difficult three minutes later when Kashket was sent off for a second bookable offense. Blackpool took full advantage of their numerical advantage, and Carey grabbed his second of the game in the 57th minute. The midfielder found space on the edge of the area and fired a low shot into the bottom corner of the net.

Blackpool continued to press for more goals, but they were unable to add to their lead. However, they held on to claim a vital three points, which keeps their promotion hopes alive.

Gillingham, meanwhile, remain in the relegation zone and will need to improve their form quickly if they want to avoid the drop.