Michael Appleton disappointed by first-half performance

Michael Appleton has admitted that a poor start cost Blackpool a point against Middlesbrough on Saturday.

The Seasiders trailed by two goals on two occasions in the match before Thomas Ince saw a penalty saved shortly before Adam Reach made it 4-2 at the Riverside Stadium.

Appleton said: "It was disappointing for myself and the staff and more so for the players because they were well short of how they can play.

"I've got to say I didn't see that first half coming. We improved in the second half and nearly did enough to get back into it.

"At the end of the day we are one excellent penalty save away from salvaging a game away at a side that are up at the top."

Blackpool are currently 12th in the Championship.