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Ian Evatt issues immediate reaction to Blackpool's EFL Cup victory over Grimsby Town Blackpool progressed to the second round of the EFL Cup with a 3-1 victory over Grimsby Town in their first outing of the 2026/27 season. Ian Evatt was left ‘proud’ of Blackpool’s performance in their 3-1 victory over Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup at the start of the new EFL season. Niall Ennis’ early opener gave the Seasiders the advantage in the tie, with Josh Bowler and Kylian Kouassi ensuring the win with second half goals either side of one from Harvey Rodgers. Bailey Peacock-Farrell was chiefly responsible for getting Ian Evatt’s side through with a number of impressive saves, before being beaten in stoppage time. “I’m really pleased, we should’ve underestimate or undervalue the win here,” he said. “This is a difficult place to come, they’ve beat teams at the same level and higher in pre-season, and beat Manchester United here last season, so we’re valuing this win. “One thing we wanted to build on from last year was our away form, and today was a really good away performance. I thought we showed some quality and had to dig at times, it’s what you have to do. “It was great to see some of the work we’ve done on the training pitch come to fruition. It’s so rewarding for me as a coach when players execute the things we’re teaching them to do, and that was really evident. “This was a really tough draw. I knew how difficult it was going to be, but I’m so proud of the lads for performing that way away from home. We’ve spoken about it being something we need to improve from last season, and that’s the first step towards doing that. “Winning games is tough, and if you can’t enjoy them regardless of what competition then we’re in the wrong industry. We’ll enjoy today and the journey back, but Monday we’ll be refocused for a big week. It’ll be the same prep and same diligence to get ready for Wycombe.”