The Seasiders headed to the Riverside yesterday looking to kickstart their survival bid in McCarthy’s first league game in charge.
But they were very much second best as Michael Carrick’s men proved the gulf in quality with a comfortable victory.
Here’s how Pool’s players rated:
1. Disappointment
The result means Blackpool still haven't won in the league since October Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
2. Chris Maxwell - 6/10
None of the three goals were his fault. Scoreline would have been heavier had he not made two or three good stops. Photo: CameraSport - David Horton
3. MAN OF THE MATCH: Andy Lyons - 6/10
One of the rare positives. Produced quality with his delivery from set-pieces and did well shifting over to left-back late on. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
4. Callum Connolly - 5/10
Went close with an early header but will be frustrated he didn’t apply more pressure on Akpom for Boro’s first goal. Photo: CameraSport - David Horton
5. Charlie Goode - 6/10
Fairly steady and solid. Made some blocks and dominant aerially but will be disappointed to be at the heart of a defence that conceded three times. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
6. Curtis Nelson - 6/10
A steady debut. Dominant in the air, but could have conceded a penalty following a tangling of legs in the box. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd