BLACKBURN Rovers' Academy side ended 2006 on a winning note following a hard-fought victory at Stoke City.

Junior Dadson scored the only goal of the game just past the half hour mark, but the visitors were also indebted to goalkeeper Zak Jones, who saved a second half penalty.

Dadson fired Rovers in front when he latched onto a measured through-ball from Martin McCubbin and scored with a rising drive.

The visitors had further chances to increase their lead, but then with two minutes left on the clock defender Dwight Wille was harshly adjudged to have fouled an attacker in the area and a penalty kick was awarded.

However, Jones dived to his right to save the effort and the rebound was blasted over the bar.

Rovers' coach, Gary Bowyer, said "It was a pleasing battling performance from the lads, and it is good to end the year on a positive note.

"The opportunities are there for the players to establish themselves in the Youth team and then to push onto the Reserves."