Blackpool 1 York City 0 By Chris Reece IN a dull game with both teams evenly matched, something special was going to be needed to win it -- and Richard Wellens was the man to provide it.

His free kick, which he superbly bent round a defensive wall past the York keeper (pictured) sealed three points after what was hardly a sparkling performance.

This match always going to be a test for Pool with Paul Simpson out injured. John Hills was brought in on the left and McMahon also stayed with his midfield partnership of Richard Wellens and Mike Milligan, which has brought such good results recently.

York may be in poor form but it was they who notched up the first chance when David McNiven tested Phil Barnes with a low shot to his right.

John Hills took over Simpson's free kick job when an opportunity came just outside the box but despite getting through the tight wall, he could not find a way past ex-Blackburn Rovers keeper Alan Fettis. Hills then crossed twice in a minute only to bypass everyone in the box. If Murphy and Ormerod had been more alert a good chance could have materialised.

The Seasiders clearly missed Simpson's deadly final ball with Ormerod the guilty as he woefully over-hit a cross after a mazy run on the left wing.

Blackpool started brightly early in the second half with John Murphy having a few half chances.

But York were obviously happy to sit back for the draw and nothing much came from Pool despite some good possession apart from a couple of badly executed corners.

But on 73 minutes, a free kick for handball was awarded and after a long delay, Wellens planted a wonderful curling strike towards Fettis who could only palm the shot into the roof of the net. Shortly after, Ormerod was inches off getting a good connection for a second goal.

With 10 minutes left Wellens had to limp off to generous applause from the crowd to be replaced by Collins.

York didn't really threaten except from corners and Barnes matched them easily.

In stoppage time Ormerod missed a chance to put the game beyond doubt but Pool easily survived for a hard earned victory.

A goal hasn't been conceded for three games now due in part to Brian Reid who received his second man-of-the-match award in as many games.

Things seem to have finally gelled for Steve McMahon's men -- let's hope it stays this way!