Blackpool has controlled the tempo of the match, with almost all of Birmingham City's danger moments coming on the counter attack. After a galling error from left back Stephen Crainey, Brum can afford to employ an even more counter-heavy approach, with a gift to Alexander Hleb putting the Blues up 1-0 in the 24th minute.
Blackpool Vs. Birmingham City: Stephen Crainey Assists On Alexander Hleb Goal
The error came with Stephen Crainey in possession along the left flank, just outside his own area. Not seeing a man to pass to downfield, Crainey cut back in an played to play a short ball toward the middle of the park, a ball that went straight to Hleb, the midfielder barely having to stretch is left foot onto the ball.
Once in possession, Hleb turn toward goal, went the dozen yards to the edge of the six, and chipped over Richard Kingson once the Blackpool `keeper committed. In the 24th minute, Stephen Crainey set-up Alex Hleb, giving Birmingham a fortunate 1-0 lead.
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