After all, he says, if the sand dunes were good enough for Sir Stanley Matthews to work out on, then those currently wearing tangerine should have no complaints.

Holloway reflected on Matthews' impact in the wake of Blackpool's 1-0 victory against Stoke - clubs the England legend had served with distinction.

"I think he would have pleased with the way we played," said the Blackpool boss after a second half goal from DJ Campbell sealed the win.

"It was very fitting for us we were on the beach on Thursday where he used to go each morning. There were one or two groans from my lads and I told them if it was good enough for Sir Stan it was good enough for them.

"We are very proud of our club and ex-players. You will not get a better player anywhere on this planet in any decade than Sir Stanley. He was a genius. Stoke and Blackpool fans have been privileged to have watched him."

Blackpool are making remarkable progress in their first season Barclays Premier League after being widely tipped for relegation.

They already have six victories under their belt - four of them on the road - thanks to a win-at-all-cost mentality.

Holloway said: "Football is wonderful and I was out of it for a year. I am always going to try and win a match no matter what the score is. My lads enjoy that.

"You need to give people a chance. Take Ian Evatt. I had him at QPR and we did not get on. It didn't work for us.

"But now it is pleasure to be where I am in my career and asking the players to pass the ball. That is what they like."

The decisive goal came in the 48th minute when former Leicester striker Campbell swept the ball at the back post.

It was his third goal for the club after Luke Varney and Charlie Adam - who will miss next Sunday's match against Tottenham through suspension - linked up.

Stoke were left cursing their luck as their five-match unbeaten run came to an end in front of their own supporters.

Ricardo Fuller, Matthew Etherington and Rory Delap all saw efforts come back off the woodwork while Blackpool goalkeeper Richard Kingson made a superb point-blank save from Robert Huth.

Stoke are still waiting for their first win in December, stretching over 10 games, in this their third season in the Premier League.

"It is about time we put that to bed," said Delap as they prepare to face Arsenal, Blackburn and Fulham before the turn of the year.

"December is always a difficult month because there are plenty of games and the table begins to take shape.

"I love playing football at Christmas. The atmosphere is brilliant and attendances are always high."