FINISHING

On the balance of play Rovers deserved to take at least a point. On a swelteringly hot day they gave it their all from first minute until last but ultimately they paid the price for their failure to take at least one of the three clear-cut opportunities they created. In three of their four league games this season Rovers have out-shot their opponents. But just like against Cardiff City and Wolves, their wastefulness on Saturday cost them any hope of recording their first victory. Here’s hoping Jordan Rhodes is fit for Friday.

Lancashire Telegraph:

 

HOPE AKPAN

When the Nigeria international made the move from Reading earlier this month he became Gary Bowyer’s third central-midfield signing of the summer. And, with Jason Lowe, Corry Evans, Lee Williamson, Chris Taylor and Darragh Lenihan already at the club, the big question was would Akpan bring anything different to the party? The early suggestions are that he will. Tall and powerful, he has acted as a shield to the back-four. But, as he proved again on Saturday, he is not afraid to carry the ball forward. It’s been a promising start to his Rovers career.

 

SHANE DUFFY

You know you are in the last chance saloon territory when you see your big centre-back marching up the field to play up front. And, with Jordan Rhodes and Chris Brown back at home, and the tiring Fode Koita taken off, Duffy was thrust forward for the final 11 minutes on Saturday. It was a tactic that paid off against Cardiff City and it came close to paying off again against Brighton. Sign of desperation? Certainly. But understandable in the circumstances and so nearly effective. 

Lancashire Telegraph: