Charlton’s comeback is sweeter because it was against my former side Blackpool – Michael Appleton

Charlton boss Michael Appleton admitted he found his side’s two-goal comeback at The Valley even sweeter as it was against his former employers Blackpool.

The Seasiders held a commanding lead going into the final the minutes thanks to goals from Jordan Rhodes and Karamoko Dembele.

But Alfie May’s seventh goal of the season on 81 minutes was followed up by a Corey Blackett-Taylor stunner two minutes later to earn the Addicks a share of the spoils.

Appleton, who spent the majority of his playing career at Blackpool’s local rivals Preston North End, had two spells in charge at Bloomfield Road.

His first lasted just two months before he left for Blackburn Rovers in early 2013. He also spent the first half of last season with the Tangerines before being let go.

When asked if the comeback was sweeter because it was against his former side and about an apparent cupping of the ear towards the away end, Appleton said: “Yes.

“I get a little bit of a bad rep. If people dug a little bit deeper, I think I’d get a little bit of respect.

“[The cupping of the ear was] a bit of banter. It’s good for the game.”

PHOTO: KYLE ANDREWS