Two much-changed sides indulged largely in midfield sparring and as a result chances were far and few between in the first half.
Crewe, from League Two, just about edged the half in terms of possession and it was they who threatened first, the lively Byron Moore firing over from 15 yards after six minutes.
At the other end Ian Evatt headed over from Nardiello's cross before Luke Murphy almost punished some loose play from Blackpool's Brett Ormerod, but the Crewe midfielder's 20-yarder flashed wide.
Just before the break Pool keeper Matt Gilks saved well from skipper Billy Jones' 25-yard free-kick.
Midfielder Nowland, starting a second spell at the club which launched his career, sparked this cup tie to life by curling in a 20-yard free kick just five minutes into the second half.
Playing on a non-contract basis, Nowland celebrated in style after easily eating keeper Adam Legdzins.
But Crewe snapped back and levelled 18 minutes from time, Calvin Zola's close range effort sliding under Gilks.
The Alex then missed chances to take the lead before the best move of the match brought Blackpool a winner 11 minutes before the end.
Substitute Ishmel Demontagnac beat three men before a slide-rule pass was finished in style by Nardiello from just inside the box.
Ashley Westwood and Crewe 's best player Moore again threatened a home equaliser which looked most likely deep in to stoppage time but keeper Gilks denied Zola a second to prevent extra time and enable the Championship side to sneak through.