MANAGER Sam Allardyce has called on Rovers' successful FA Youth Cup side not to waste the opportunity on Wednesday evening.
The under 18s take on Chelsea at Ewood Park in the FA Youth Cup at Ewood Park in the 1st leg of the semi-final and the senior team boss hopes that the youngsters make the most of the occasion both at Ewood on Wednesday, then at Stamford Bridge the following Monday night.
"The semi-final of the FA Youth Cup, in a young man's career, is one of the highest things he is going to achieve in trying to push onto a major final," said Allardyce.
"You get the opportunity to play on first team grounds which is now a very difficult thing to do as even when you play reserve team football today it is always at a different venue thesedays rather than on your home team pitch or the away team's pitch.
"So I think to play at Ewood again and then to go down to Stamford Bridge is a massive opportunity that they don't want to pass up.
"But the most important thing is to go out and continue the great run they've had in this competition and try and forge their way through into the final."
The under 18s have impressed on their way to the last four stage of the competition, following up with wins over Blackpool and Leyton Orient, with victories over fellow Premier League clubs Manchester United and Everton. So Allardyce believes that Gary Bowyer's side can go into Wednesday night's game full of confidence.
"They should have no fears, they've beaten Manchester United, they've beaten Everton who historically have always had very good youth teams and they've got a big opportunity to try and get a lead on Wednesday night to take to Stamford Bridge in a week's time."
Season Ticket Holders can see the game on Wednesday for free on production of their Season Ticket Card. General admission prices on the night are £3 Adults, £1 Concessions. The Jack Walker lower tier will be open for this game, kick-off is at 7.00pm.
The following Monday night is the 2nd leg with Rovers at Stamford Bridge. Supporters should note that entry is via ticket only purchased in advance. No tickets are available on the day of the game at Stamford Bridge. Prices are £3 Adults, £1 Concessions. For further details call the ticket office on 0871 222 1444.
