Rovers' under 18s put in a solid display in defeating Sunderland's Academy side 3-0 at Brockhall on Saturday.

Following Josh Morris's fine solo goal, Gearoid Morrissey hit a superb brace to secure the points for Gary Bowyer's side.

The home side started the game well, and came close to breaking the deadlock as early as the 7th minute. Andy Parry's header from a Jason Banton free-kick looked to be heading into the back of the net, but the ball crashed off the crossbar much to the disappointment of the Rovers central defender.

Five minutes later Gearoid Morrissey (pictured) let fly from distance, but the Irish youth international saw his well struck effort equally well saved.

But Rovers didn't have long to wait before they took the lead. On 17 minutes Josh Morris picked the ball up from inside his own half and he ran half the length of the pitch holding off his marker before finding the back of the net with a shot across goal into the bottom corner.

Twelve minutes later and Rovers' lead was doubled when Gearoid Morrissey hit a dipping effort from distance that swerved viciously in front of the Sunderland goalkeeper and he was unable to prevent the ball nestling in the back of the net for his first goal of the campaign.

After leading at the break Rovers started the second half poorly and were immediately put under pressure from Sunderland.

Bjorn Bussmann in the Rovers goal had to be alert on a couple of occasions to keep the Black Cats at bay, whilst defensive bodies were needed to block shots as the visitors pressed.

Rovers weathered the storm and their passing play started to gain them the upper hand once again.

Andy Parry wasted a glorious chance to put the game beyond doubt from a corner, but he headed tamely into the 'keeper's hands, whilst a great passing move should have ended with a goal but Oliver Nicholas somehow missed from 12 yards.

The game was finally wrapped up with a minute remaining when Morrissey hit another thumping strike from 20 yards, leaving the Sunderland goalkeeper no chance.

"I was pleased with their work rate and effort, and we've kept another clean sheet" said coach Bowyer after the game.

"I'm delighted for Gearoid Morrissey to score his first two goals of the season as we had spoke in the week about the need to get more goals from him in midfield.

"We need to have a run of games now where we are consistent with our performances."

Team details to follow...