Rovers Under-23s have work to do in the Premier League Cup after a 1-0 defeat at QPR.

Charlie Kelman scored the only goal of the game in the final 20 minutes to give Rangers victory and leave Rovers sitting on three points from their three games played.

Rovers are bottom of Group B, with Rangers having moved top on six points, ahead of Middlesbrough on goal difference at the halfway stage.

Mike Sheron’s side will likely need two wins from their remaining three games, with home matches against Nottingham Forest and QPR as well as a trip to Middlesbrough, in a bid to make the knockout stages.

Rovers welcomed back Sam Burns from his loan spell at FC United of Manchester United, while right back Dan Pike returned to the side after his time with AFC Fylde was cut short by injury.

An even first half saw the hosts have a goal ruled out for handball, while Rovers hit the bar through Connor McBride.

The game remained level until 18 minutes from time when Kelman rounded Jordan Eastham and tap home what proved to be the only goal of the game.

Rovers will look to bounce back when they host Arsenal in Premier League 2 at Leyland on Monday night (7pm).

Meanwhile, Rovers Under-18s have been drawn against Birmingham City in the FA Youth Cup third round.

Ryan Kidd’s side, currently top of the Under-18s Premier League, join the competition at this stage and will face a trip to St Andrew’s to take on the Blues youngsters.

The tie has to be played by December 11.