Morecambe boss Bentley hopes for bumper Blackpool crowd

Jim Bentley celebrates one of his side's goals against Rotherham. Picture: Matt Rushton

The sides have been poles apart over the years but the Tangerines’ rapid decline from the Premier League to League 2 means they head to the Globe Arena for a first Football League meeting this weekend.

Visiting fans are expected to turn out in large numbers for one of their shortest away trips of the season and Bentley is looking forward to a carnival atmosphere for The Shrimps’ first home game of the new campaign.

He said: “It’s a big game for us.

“It’s our first home game of the season and it is against a massive club who were in the Premiership only a few years ago.

“We want a big crowd and we want everyone to be behind us and on our side because it is important our young lads are given the chance to show what they can do.”

The Shrimps head into the game on the back of the result of the round in the EFL Cup, a thrilling 5-4 victory at Championship Rotherham United on Tuesday night.

Bentley said: “It was excellent, credit where credit is due, I thought the players were absolutely magnificent against a strong team away from home.

“I was emotionally drained, it was a long night, but the players were fantastic and they deserve every pat on the back that they get.

“I was very proud of them, we deserved it.

“We looked a real threat going forward and could have scored more to be honest.”

Liverpool loanee Jack Dunn grabbed the headlines after coming off the bench, scoring a stunning hat-trick to send The Shrimps into round two where they will host Premier League Bournemouth.

He said: “Jack’s finishing was different class.

“He showed just what a talent he is but he wasn’t the only one.

“Kevin Ellison showed once again just what a good player he is with a goal and an assist but there were great performances all over the park.

“I was pleased for Cole Stockton as he took his goal superbly and will gain confidence from that but I’m proud of each and every one of them.

“They showed superb fitness levels and commitment and it is a win that has given everyone a real lift.”