Here's how The Lancashire Telegraph scored the players' performances, with a six representing par for the course.

Aysnley Pears

Couldn't have done much about either of the first-half goals, with Neil's shot well hit and coming through a lot of bodies. Handling and distribution was good. 7

Callum Brittain

Another impressive performance. Set-up the equaliser for Leonard with a lovely cross. 8

Hayden Carter

Handled the pacey Burstow well. Suits this style of play where there is an onus on being front footed and aggressive. Will be frustrated with the error for the third goal which let Clarke kill the game. 7

Dom Hyam

Was kept on his toes by the pace of Sunderland's attack but dealt with the danger. 7

Harry Pickering

Quiet in an attacking sense but did well defensively against Ba. Good in build-up as Rovers worked through the thirds. 7

Adam Wharton

Gave the ball away a few times but that's always a risk with his style and what he's asked to do in that deep midfield role. Booked. 6

Lewis Travis

Really good in midfield. Snapped into tackles and he has improved his output in the final third. Went off after an hour which isn't a surprise considering he was an injury doubt. 7

Sam Szmodics

Leads the press and could've had a couple of goals if not for last-ditched blocks and saves from Patterson. 7

Ryan Hedges

Created the chance for Leonard with a great first-time cross on his right and saw a goal-bound effort blocked. Didn't always make the right decision in the final third but looked dangerous. 7

Andrew Moran

Dropped into central areas to create an overload in midfield. Some lovely touches and looked bright on the ball. Should've had a first goal but somehow Ballard deflected is shot over the bar. 8

Harry Leonard

Took his goal very well and was unlucky with an earlier volley that came off the crossbar. Second of the season and rewards for his hard work. 7

Substitutes:

Joe Rankin-Costello (Lewis Travis, 58')

Didn't really have much of an influence despite Rovers chasing the game at 2-1. 6

Dilan Markanday (Ryan Hedges, 58')

Struck the foot of the post with a great effort on goal after shifting it onto his left. 7

Tyrhys Dolan (Harry Leonard, 58')

Didn't see much of the ball up front and then shifted wide when Telalovic came on. 6

Jake Garrett (Adam Wharton, 73')

Looked a little rusty after coming on. Booked. 5

Semir Telalovic (Andrew Moran, 83')

Late change up front at 3-1. N/A

Referee: John Busby

Attendance: 15,521 (3825)