Championship side Blackburn Rovers got their pre-season off to a winning start this afternoon with a 2-0 victory over Accrington Stanley.

League Two side Accrington almost took the lead inside five minutes, but Josh Windass's shot was tipped onto the post by Jason Steele.

Blackburn were in front in the 12th minute when Ryan Nyambe cut back for Dean Furman to sweep home.

There was real concern in the first half when striker Jordan Rhodes had to be stretched off after attempting to block a Stanley clearance.

Rhodes emerged from the dressing room on crutches in the second half and saw his side give away a penalty in the 66th minute.

Anthony Barry took it, but he couldn't beat youngster David Raya in goal as Blackburn preserved their clean sheet.

Rovers sealed the win 10 minutes from time through Craig Conway, who rifled into the top corner from the edge of the area.