How we rated the Rovers lads in the Championship season opener at Ewood Park
Starting XI
Aynsley Pears – 7
Was there when called upon for Rovers. Little he could do about Phillips’ goal but claimed the ball well inside the box and made a couple of routine stops with no fuss.
Joe Rankin-Costello – 8
Solid shift from the right-back, who made two vital blocks to deny Molumby from close range in either half. Aggressive off the ball and passed well, but did have his pocket picked in the build-up to the goal.
Hayden Carter – 7
Battled away back there and competed for everything against a dangerous front line. Showed authority and stepped out of defence well with the ball at times.
Dominic Hyam – 8
A really solid display alongside Carter and was named Man of the Match. Some big defensive headers and blocks over the piece.
Harry Pickering – 7
A steady performance, dealing pretty well with the threat of Jed Wallace.
Sondre Tronstad – 6
Operated at the base of Rovers’ midfield trio, showing bite and bringing a degree of control on debut. Encouraging signs though he tired in the second half.
Lewis Travis (c) – 8
Committed shift from the captain, working extremely hard out of possession and showing a lovely range of passing. Provided the assist for Markanday.
Sammie Szmodics – 8
Wonderful energy about him throughout the game and was a real nuisance for Albion’s defenders. Intercepted the ball and then set up Leonard for the goal straight from kick-off.
Dilan Markanday – 7
Scored Rovers’ first goal of the season and what a tidy finish it was. A sharp touch and strike into the bottom corner, having taken his time to settle into the game. Got through 60 minutes.
Harry Leonard – 7
A mature performance from the youngster up top. Showed for the ball all game and ran himself into the ground. Hit the target and got his reward for the goal. Saw a couple of big chances go begging in the second half but positive to see him getting the opportunities.
Tyrhys Dolan – 6
A couple of loose touches and passes over the piece, but kept wanting the ball and took responsibility. Buzzed around from start to finish and was willing to drive at the Albion defenders. Had a shot from distance palmed away in the first half.
Substitutes
Adam Wharton – 7
Impacted the game straight away, entering on the hour mark. Got stuck in and created an opportunity for Leonard with a delightful pass over the top of the West Brom defence. A few passes went askew after that but his introduction benefitted the team.
Ryan Hedges – 6
Added freshness to the Rovers front line and asked questions of Albion’s defence.
Callum Brittain – 6
Held things together at the back for his 20 minutes off the bench.
