BLACKBURN Rovers made the perfect start to the new U21s Premier League Division Two season last night as they won 2-0 at new boys Brighton & Hove Albion.

Second-half strikes from Jordan Preston and full U21s debutant Modou Cham, set up by Dean Rittenberg and John O’Sullivan respectively, earned Eric Kinder’s under-strength side a fully deserved victory.

Rovers boss Kinder, who was without Hyuga Tanner, Jordan Slew, Connor Mahoney and Devarn Green through injury and illness, said: “I am absolutely delighted.

“To come down here with a young side and perform like that was exceptional.”

Rovers welcome Aston Villa to Leigh Sports Village on Monday (7pm) for their first home game of the campaign.

To claim free entry to the match supporters should visit www.leighsportsvillage.co.uk/rovers or email rovers@leighsportsvillage.co.uk.