ALAN Kelly has thrown down the gauntlet in the battle to become Graeme Souness's number one by vowing 'I won't give up my shirt without a fight.'

As Rovers flew out to Ireland today in preparation for their final friendly against St Patrick's Athletic in Dublin tomorrow, the big issue still to be resolved is who will get the nod in goal against Crystal Palace.

Kelly, and Aussie stopper John Filan, are both locked in a tug-of-war for the number one spot.

And, though Ewood chief Souness has revealed his mind is 'more-or-less' made up, tomorrow's clash represents the last chance for both players to stake their claim.

"Graeme has got a decision to make very soon," said Kelly.

"I played three quarters of last season and I don't think I did too much wrong. "But he's looked at us both over pre-season and, with just one game to go, he's got to decide who he's going to go with.

"And that means one of us is going to be disappointed."

This time last year it was Filan who got the nod after Kelly was drafted in as cover from Sheffield United. But over the course of the season the Republic of Ireland international went on to establish himself as the number one.

And he thrives off the fact there are three top keepers -- if you include Alan Miller -- all vying it out for the one place.

"I've never been frightened of competition in my life.

"Just look at last season. I didn't play for 18 games, then I played 35.

"So you've got to say to yourself 'I'm positive about this and I want the number one shirt.'

"And I'm as determined as ever to hang onto it.

"I'm confident, I don't think I've done too much wrong since I've been here, and I feel I've done enough to be given another crack."