BLACKPOOL made hard work of Tuesday night's game against Notts County, but on a positive note they have jumped two places to tenth in the table.

This is the highest league position so far this season and, even more incredible, only two places from a play-off place.

Steve McMahon's intentions to sign Stephen Caldwell for a further month would be another boost to the club. Caldwell was just beginning to develop a fine understanding at the back with his fellow defenders when his month-long loan finished. The club achieved two home clean sheets when he played in the games against Chesterfield and Swindon.

Season ticket holders have now received their correspondence from the club about moving over to the new stands in the form of a first, second and third choice seating arrangements. It is now just under five weeks to the Oldham Boxing Day encounter. Everyone is looking forward to enjoying the new surroundings and sampling the hospitality and facilities before the game and during the half-time interval.

Is there a possibility that the club could get together the promotion winning squad from 1969-70 to participate in the official opening of the new stands? Real Progress hope ex-players like Jimmy Armfield, Tony Green, Alan Suddick, John McPhee and Glyn James, who still reside in the Fylde, will be invited for the big day.

It's nice to hear that Kirkham-based Phil Doughty has signed a three-year scholarship at Bloomfield Road.

Sky's decision to screen the FA Cup replay against Newport live is welcomed. It is the first time Pool have faced non-league opposition on their own soil for 14 years since they triumphed at Northwich.

Meanwhile on Saturday we are on our travels again, to Bristol City.