BLACKBURN Rovers' Academy Under 19s remain on course to finish top of their group after picking up four more points during the last few days.

On Saturday, Rob Kelly's Under 19s won a thriller against Derby at Brockhall after two-goal hero Gary Harkins popped up to grab a last-minute winner.

Then on Tuesday afternoon they demonstrated their battling qualities to chisel out another vital point following a 0-0 draw with Leeds United.

Rovers are now well clear of nearest rivals Newcastle United, although the Geordies do have a game in hand.

"Saturday's game against Derby wasn't a classic and we were a bit fortunate to win it but when you are top of the league you do tend to get a reputation and teams try to stop you from playing," said Academy director Bobby Downes.

"Then against Leeds on Tuesday, we carved out a load of chances but just couldn't put the ball in the back of the net."

If the Under 19s finish top of their group they will qualify for the end of season play-offs, which is played on a straight semi-final and final basis.

Meanwhile, Rovers' Under 17s qualified for their play-offs at the weekend, despite losing 2-1 to Derby in their final league game.

Rovers finished second in their group behind Leeds United and now go into a four-way play-off with Liverpool, Southampton and Tottenham, with Spurs set to visit Brockhall on Saturday.

Joe Garner was the man on target for Rovers at Derby.