ROVERS' under 18 side got back to winning ways at the weekend with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Sheffield United at Brockhall.

Gary Bowyer's young charges had lost three out of their previous four games, but against the side from Yorkshire there were never any doubts as to which side would run out winners.

Both goals came in the first half, Rovers taking the lead after just three minute when a lofted ball over the back of the Sheffield United defence from Michael Potts was brilliantly controlled by Keith Treacy and he cooly slotted home through the 'keeper's legs.

The home side were dealt a blow on the quarter hour when Alex Marrow limped out after a strong challenge, but his replacement Michael O'Connor ensured Rovers retained their lead when he cleared a rare Sheffield United attack off the line.

On the stroke of half-time Rovers doubled their advantage, Jake Simpson ran from his own half into the opposition box before slipping the ball in for Tom Hitchcock to score. That was the 15-year-old striker's 2nd goal in just three outings for the under 18s.

Rovers continued to force the pace in the second period, Jake Simpson had a fine effort tipped over the crossbar, then Michael Potts saw his close-range effort cleared off the line from Hitchcock's cross.

An error from Kris Paterson almost allowed Scott Boden in, but he shot well wide, but that was a rare forward foray from the visiting side.

Michael O'Connor went close with a couple of long-range efforts, but in the rain, hail and sunshine, Rovers ran out comfortable winners.

The Academy season draws to a close next weekend, when Wolverhampton Wanderers are the visitors to Brockhall, kick-off on Saturday is at 11.00am.

ROVERS: Bussman, C. O'Connor, Kavanagh, Zenaba, Bateson, Paterson (c), Simpson (sub Morris 73 mins), Marrow (sub M. O'Connor 16 mins), Hitchcock, Potts, Treacy.

Subs not used: Arestidou, Kennedy, Brierley.