IN-FORM striker Joe Garner enhanced his growing reputation with another double-salvo as Rovers' Under 17s won a nine-goal thriller at Crewe on Saturday.

Garner started and completed the scoring for Rovers as they stretched their unbeaten run to four games but the visitors were made to sweat for the points as Crewe staged a late fightback in a high-scoring encounter which finished 5-4.

"We dominated for most of the game, but defences were not exactly on top," admitted Rovers' coach Sean Kimberley.

"Having got ourselves in a strong position, we conceded a dubious free kick, a fluke, a penalty and then one 'decent' goal right at the death."

Rovers appeared to be cruising after goals from Garner and Joel Byrom put them 2-0 up.

But Crewe then struck back following a controversial free kick only for Keith Barker to make it 3-1 early in the second half.

Further goals from Barker and Garner then put Rovers in a seemingly unassailable position but Alex refused to throw in the towel and three late goals in the last 15 minutes caused a few hearts to fluffer before the visitors finally secured the points.

"Five goals didn't flatter us, we were excellent going forward and, having taken 10 points out of the last 12, I am delighted," said Kimberley.

Meanwhile, the Under 19s made it a double-winning weekend thanks to a 4-0 victory at near neighbours Bolton.

Second half goals from Gary Harkins, Gavin Peers and a brace from Jemal Johnson secured the points.