The Seasiders were beaten despite a strong first-half performance, and Bland believes a mix of missed opportunities and costly errors ultimately proved decisive.

On whether the 3-2 scoreline told the full story…
|I don’t think it just tells the story of the game, I think it tells the story of our season. First half we were brilliant - we had them pinned in their half. But after that we just sat off and let them play.

"There were a couple of mistakes and they punished us. That’s been the story of our season."

On what’s behind the team’s struggles…
"It’s probably individual errors, but for me it’s also going away from what’s working in the game and not capitalising on that.

"It’s just a very, very frustrating time. We’ve got one more chance to put it right next week and we have to do that, otherwise we could be in trouble."

On the mood in the dressing room…
"The team’s always been together. I just think consistency has killed us this season.

"It doesn’t help when players are leaving towards the end of the season - it’s a massive void to fill. It’s just been disappointing all round. We need to get the job done next week and move on."

On his injury struggles…
"I’ll be honest, it’s not great. After the collision last week, my knee’s not letting me kick properly.

"It’s not muscular - I think it’s fluid that’s just not clearing. I’ve had a torrid season with injuries - calf pulls, quad pulls - it’s been tough.

"But I’ve tried to give it my all for the team and that’s all I can do."

On pushing through one final game…
"It’s just about getting through this week and doing as much recovery as I can. It’s hard as a part-time footballer with work and kids, but I’ll do everything I can - ice it, recover, and try to get through 90 minutes."

On the importance of the final match…
"This is massive. In my 12 years here, this is probably the scariest relegation scrap I’ve been involved in. Normally we’d be safe by now.

"As a club and as players, we need to step up. We need the fans there on Saturday - we need that shed full.

"Even if people have fallen out with the club, we need everyone behind us to get over the line."