ANDY KING is convinced that seven fewer points will be needed to clinch a play-off place this year although he concedes that his team must end their infuriating lapses in order to attend the party.

Blackpool snatched a precious point on Saturday with the last kick of the match in a 2-2 draw at the County Ground, much to the manager's dismay and fury.

He said: "At times we're our own worst enemies."

However, he feels there is light at the end of a frustrating tunnel with increasing options opening up on the squad front.

He said: "Victory would have given us 41 points and put us back in there with Jerel Ifil, Sean O'Hanlon and Stefani Miglioranzi to return.

"Suddenly you have competition and a threat to people not to make mistakes or not be there.

"There won't be excuses because you have options. In recent weeks we've been down to the bare bones in choice of system.

"I've decisions to make now which is good."

Whoever is selected for the remaining fixtures, King thinks the number of points needed to clinch a play-off spot will be lower than the 73 required last year.

He said: "I don't think it will take 54 points out of 18 games to get you there. I've no doubt about that.

"I think the points needed to get to the play-offs will be seven lower than last year. It's achievable but you need to be on that consistent run, we're not.

"We need to be winning games and be harder to beat."

One plus for King is the ever reliable Sam Parkin.

Fulham boss Chris Coleman was among those who saw the 24-year-old thump home his 13th and 14th goals of the campaign in the draw with the Seasiders.

King repeated a claim which has echoed around the County Ground many a time over the past two-and-half seasons.

He said: "His first goal was a typical Parkin strike and the second one was fantastic.

"There isn't an issue for me, Parkin's the best striker in this division. His goal ratio is there again in a side which has been inconsistent."