Blackpool defend a Latics corner

Chey Dunkley scored an unusual ‘hat-trick’ and David Perkins grabbed his first ever goal for the club as Latics defeated Blackpool at a very wet and windswept Bloomfield Road.

Dunkley gifted the Seasiders the lead after only eight minutes when he headed over his own keeper Jamie Jones and Kyle Vassell followed up.

Despite the setback and dreadful conditions Latics stayed composed and continued to play controlled football and they got their reward in first half stoppage time when Dunkley finished from close range.

Early in the second half Dunkley added his ‘third’ goal to give Latics a deserved lead when Gavin Massey’s shot broke to him inside the area.

Latics sealed the three points on 82 minutes when Perkins scored his first ever goal for the club, much to the delight of the travelling fans.

Paul Cook kept the same team that drew 1-1 at Gillingham on Tuesday night, with Will Grigg injured and Lee Evans suspended.

It was something of a surprise when Blackpool went in front after only eight minutes. Dunkley gifting the home team when he tried to head the ball back to his keeper but instead headed over the advancing Jamie Jones and over the line with Kyle Vassell following up.

In almost torrential rain and swirling wind Michael Jacobs went close for Latics when he headed against the post midway through the half.

Nick Powell volleyed just over, before in first half stoppage time Dunkley levelled from close range after Ivan Toney’s header was cleared off the line.

Much to the players’ and fans’ relief the wind and rain relented in the second half and Latics took control of matters on the pitch.

Dunkley gave Latics the lead adding an imperfect ‘hat-trick’, following up after Massey’s shot fell to him inside the six yard box on 54 minutes.

The visitors were well on top now and went close through Powell, Toney and Massey.

It was all over on 82 minutes when substitute Perkins scored his first ever goal in front of the ecstatic travelling support.

Michael Jacobs’ angled pass found Perkins on the penalty spot and the former Blackpool midfielder slid in to give Latics a very memorable victory.

David Perkins celebrates his goal in front of the travelling fans