A YOUNG Blackburn Rovers side slipped to a narrow defeat at the hands of Everton on Saturday.

In a game of few chances it was the much-changed Rovers under 18s who made all the headway in the opening exchanges.

The first chance of the game fell to ever-present striker Tom Hitchcock (pictured), but when through on goal an untimely bobble didn't help as he blazed over the crossbar.

Showing good organisation and shape, Rovers, featuring seven Academy first years, continued to force the pace. Midfielder James Knowles going close on a couple of occasions.

But at the end of the half, having had little to do, goalkeeper Josh Swann was alert to make a fine save to keep the scores level going into the break.

That scoreline didn't last too long however as 15 minutes after the restart Everton took the lead as the new look defence failed to deal with a ball into the penalty box.

To their credit Rovers responded well, Osayamen Osawe and Jordan Bowen both seeing shots saved, but they just couldn't grab a deserved equaliser.

"We were pleased with the level of effort and performance from the players who haven't had that much opportunity of late," said under 18s coach Gary Bowyer.

"It is a case now of getting them more game time to get them ready when needed, but they can certainly be pleased with their contribution on Saturday."

ROVERS: Swann, Lindsay, Ajagbe (sub Osawe 65 mins), Morris, A. O'Connor, Pearson, Evans (sub Vastić 75 mins), Bowen, Hitchcock, Potts, Knowles (sub Hands 75 mins).

Subs not used: Urwin.