The under 18s kept up their impressive start to the 2009/10 campaign with another victory, but they were made to work hard to earn their rewards.

In terrible blustery conditions it was Tom Hitchcock who was the hero, netting the only goal of the game on the quarter hour.

Rovers almost took the lead moments earlier when a cross from Micah Evans was deflected onto the crossbar, the ball going out for a corner kick.

From the corner Rovers found the back of the net, Michael Potts delivering the centre which Tom Hitchcock finished in fine style.

With the weather dominating proceedings, chances at either end were few and far between. Josh Morris saw a well taken free-kick saved in a rare effort on target for either side in the first half.

The second half was no different, but had Anthony O'Connor not fired over from two yards from Potts' cross on 52 minutes Rovers would had been able to breathe a little easier.

Second half substitute Jason Banton saw a shot saved after beating his man, but in the closing stages Rovers defended stoutly to maintain their lead and their unbeaten start to the season.

"It was a good experience for the players to play in such terrible conditions," said under 18s coach Gary Bowyer.

"Defenders had to defend properly and make important clearances against the strong wind.

"The game was all about attitude and the players' attitude was spot on for the game."

The under 18s are next in action at Brockhall on Saturday when Manchester City are the visitors, kick-off 11.00am.

ROVERS: Swann, Ramm, Ajagbe, Parry, Hanley (c), A. O'Connor, Evans (sub Banton 60 mins), Bowen, Hitchcock, Potts, Morris.

Subs not used: Lindsay, Pearson, Billington, Vastić