SAM'S THE MAN AS ROVERS SINK POOL

PAUL Tisdale sang the praises of Sam Nicholson after the midfielder's sublime first-half volley had proved the winner in an entertaining clash.

- Richard Latham

The visitors took a ninth-minute lead when Grant Ward produced a perfect curling cross from the right to the near post where Gary Madine fired into the roof of the net.

Rovers levelled after 34 minutes, with Brandon Hanlan bending a low shot past Sam Walker with his right foot after accepting a pass from Nicholson.

Then, two minutes later, Nicholson connected sweetly with a left-footed volley from 15 yards and sent the ball arrowing into the top corner for a spectacular goal.

Rovers had the chance to increase their lead just after the break when Ward was penalised for handball, but Hanlan’s penalty was well saved by Walker, diving to his right.

Blackpool were the better side for much of the game and created enough chances to win.