DOUGIE Freedman believes last night’s derby against Blackpool was won in the first 25 minutes.

David Wheater’s 16th minute header ensured it was just one defeat in eight for Wanderers, who climbed a comfortable 12 points clear of the bottom three as a result.

Blackpool rallied after the goal and went close several times before the break but Freedman saw his side settle in the second half and comfortably see out their second victory of the season over their local rivals.

“Derby matches are all about how you start in the first 25 minutes,” he said.

“Against Blackpool I thought we were the better team, we passed it, and there were glimpses there of how I want to play. We did lose our nerve a little bit but the important thing is that we got a goal while we were playing well.

“Yes, we had to dig in and battle but I didn’t think they had too many clear-cut chances. Fair play, they gave it a right go.

“We could have sealed it at the end but I think we were value for the win because of how we played in that first 25 minutes.”