POOL give themselves a two-goal cushion to take into the second leg of the LDV Vans Trophy Area Final.

Goals from Richie Wellens, John Murphy and a first goal in a Tangerine shirt for Scott Taylor topped off a decent performance from the Seasiders.

But a consolation goal for Huddersfield ensures that the tie is kept alive in the returning leg at the McAlpine Stadium in a fortnight.

It's a wonder why Blackpool cant repeat the displays they have shown in this competition into the league.

Pool have performed magnificently in previous rounds against teams much higher in the league and today was no exception.

Steve McMahon's were excellent on the night, mainly due to a handful players showing their full ability after a recent poor displays.

Martin Bullock was particularly impressive, weaving his way round the Huddersfield defence all game and he deservedly won the Man of the Match award.

John Murphy's work rate was much better and capped off an improved performance with a first half goal.

His striking partner Scott Taylor also scored and had a good game too, showing skill and pace to create chances from nothing on a number of occasions.

Finally Pool looked better at the back and but for a solitary lapse in Huddersfield goal, the Blackpool defence and Phil Barnes rarely looked troubled.

Blackpool started the game brightly and looked more hungry for the ball than in previous games.

They deservedly went ahead after just two minutes when Richie Wellens slotted home from 12 yards.

Nippy striker Leon Knight looked the only danger for the visitors but in general the Blackpool him and fellow striker Andy Booth well.

Although there was one occasion went the Blackpool defence were caught napping.

After failing to deal with a corner properly the ball fell to Danny Schofield's whose powerful volley came crashing off the crossbar.

However Pool grabbed a second just before half time through a combination that worked so well in last seasons playoff success campaign.

Paul Simpson crossed in from the by-line to find the head of John Murphy to glance in for 2-0.

After the collapse of his transfer to Stockport, Murphy will need to start impressing Steve McMahon once again, especially with his contract due for renewal in the summer.

Pool were unlucky not to go 3-up after half time when Rhys Days header was wonderfully blocked by Huddersfield keeper Martyn Margetson.

The visitors then got themselves back in the game with a goal back.

After 56 minutes Leon Knight picked out Danny Scholfield who was allowed room to pick his spot past Barnes to half the visitors deficit.

But it wasnt long until Pool had restored their three-goal cushion.

Bullock was the provider, weaving past a couple of Huddersfield defenders to cross for Scott Taylor who beat Muggleton at his near post for a first goal for Blackpool.

Blackpool should have had a fourth but John OKane was unable to get a decent foot on the ball when all that was needed was a tap in to almost wrap the tie up.

But instead Pool will have to take only a two-goal lead to the McAlpine stadium for the second leg a week on Tuesday.

LDV Vans Trophy Area Final, Leg 1

Blackpool 3-1 Huddersfield

Wellens (2), Murphy (38), Taylor (70)

Schofield (58)