Transpenine cancellations and others on non strike days are due to an overtime ban that has been on for months.
I have started using the megabus service from Glasgow for matches.Not ideal but a lot better than I thought it would be.
Staying at Blackpool as well for weekend games as Manchester prices are far too high.
Don't even think about doing it in a day return now.
The good old days for that seem to be an age ago.
Used to hate Northern Rail service but they are now decent compared to the rest.
Blackpool has an decent National Express service to Manchester which is usually quicker than the train as well.
May investigate joining the Blackpool branch of the supporters club now though.