JONATHAN Walters' 48th minute strike was enough to condemn Rovers to a 1-0 defeat at Stoke City this afternoon.

Rovers and Stoke played out an entertaining first-half goalless draw - with both sides spurning chances to take the lead.

Phil Jones saw a goalbound shot blocked by Ryan Shawcross while the Stoke City defender also headed Brett Emerton's dipping volley off the line.

At the other end Rory Delap was causing problems with his long throw and he hit the post with one of his missiles as everyone missed it.

Matt Etherington and Jon Walters also had shots saved by Paul Robinson as the sides went in with honours even at the break.

Stoke took the lead just three minutes after the break though from Walters.

Kenwyne Jones's flick on was touched on by Matt Etherington and Walters raced clear to chip over Robinson for the opener.

Robinson then had to be at his best to deny Etherington twice and Jones as the hosts turned the screw.

Rovers struggled to create much in the second half but substitute Martin Olsson should have done better with a shot he dragged wide, via Brett Emerton.