Tough night for Pools in Rovers defeat

PAUL Hartley admitted his Hartlepool side endured a “difficult evening” as they were thrashed 4-0 by a much-changed Blackburn side in the Carabao Cup first round.

A youthful Rovers containing two teenagers making their senior bows swept aside their League Two opposition and deservedly went ahead through Scott Wharton’s header - whose brother Adam was one of the debutants.

Bradley Dack and Tyrhys Dolan netted early in the second half and Dilan Markanday’s first senior goal rounded off a perfect evening for the hosts.

But the night was a nightmare for Hartley’s side, who are still without a win or a goal under the former Scotland international.

He said: “We were beaten by the better team. It was just disappointing in the second half especially for 25 minutes.

“We were a goal down at halftime through a set play. I know we didn’t have much play ourselves but the shape was OK and the organisation.

“I said at half-time, make sure you stay in the game. Then we lose two quick goals, really soft goals. After that, it was always going to be difficult. Tried to be organised and keep the scoreline down.

“I expected a little bit better tonight. I thought it was a very difficult evening.”

Blackburn boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, on the other hand, was delighted with his side’s display.

The former Newcastle striker said: “A very good game, created lots of chances and scored four beautiful goals. Those games can be difficult but the boys made it easy tonight.

“Another clean sheet, only one shot on goal. A lot of chances, four different goalscorers.”