Rovers had to settle for a share of the spoils as the under 18s drew 0-0 with Everton on Friday night.

In went and windy conditions, chances were hard to come by as both sides fought hard.

Rovers had the better of the play, but were frustrated in front of goal. None more so than on 21 minutes when from a Jason Banton centre, Tom Hitchcock rose unmarked but despite being six yards out he headed wide when it appeared easier to score.

Gary Bowyer's side enjoyed a lot of possession without every hurting Everton where it mattered. Some excellent defending from the home side keeping Rovers at bay.

Rovers did however have strong claims for a penalty after a mazy run from Micah Evans was brought to an end with the forward crashing to the ground, but the officials waved the shouts away.

At the other end Josh Swann had been kept relatively quiet in the Rovers goal, but shortly after the restart he was alert to make an important stop to deny Everton the lead.

Jordan Bowen saw an effort blocked, Micah Evans was denied twice by the goalkeeper before Michael Potts saw a shot deflect for a corner. But Everton held on to restrict Rovers to just the single point.

"Following on from our previous game against West Brom we got back to something like what we are about," said under 18s coach Gary Bowyer. "We worked hard against a good Everton team.

"We probably had the best chances to win the game, but we are delighted to keep the clean sheet and it sets us up nicely for Wednesday against Blackpool in the FA Youth Cup."

The FA Youth Cup takes place at Ewood Park on Wednesday December 9th, kick-off 7.00pm. Season Ticket holders can see the game for free on production of their Season Ticket Card. General admission prices are £3 for Adults and £1 for Juniors.

ROVERS: Swann, Ramm (sub Ajagbe 20 mins), Morris, Lowe (sub Morrissey 60 mins), Hanley, A. O'Connor, Evans (sub Knowles 70 mins), Bowen, Hitchcock, Potts, Banton.

Subs not used: Urwin, Pearson.