Accrington Stanley 0 – 0 Blackburn Rovers
International Club Friendly – July 11, 2026

Accrington Stanley and Blackburn Rovers played out a goalless stalemate in a competitive pre-season friendly at the Wham Stadium. While neither side found the net, the match provided a stern workout for both League One and Championship outfits.

Defensive Solidity on Show

The match was characterised by organised defending and a lack of clear-cut opportunities. Blackburn, with several first-team regulars in the lineup, controlled possession but struggled to break down a compact Accrington backline. Stanley’s centre-back pairing of Joe Pritchard and Liam Coyle made several important blocks and interceptions.

At the other end, Accrington’s forward line pressed hard but found Rovers’ defence equally resolute. Blackburn goalkeeper Joe Hilton was rarely tested, but Stanley’s best chance came early in the second half when a long-range shot from Tommy Leigh was tipped over the bar.

Midfield Battle

Both midfields cancelled each other out, with Accrington’s Josh Woods and Blackburn’s Lewis Travis vying for control. The high intensity and physicality made for an absorbing contest, even without goals.

Manager Reactions

• Accrington Stanley boss John Doolan: “We defended well and showed we can match a higher-league team physically. A clean sheet is pleasing.”
• Blackburn Rovers manager John Eustace: “We lacked a cutting edge today, but the fitness work was important. Positives from the structure.”

Neither team will be concerned by the scoreline; pre-season is about preparation, and both sides achieved their aims with a disciplined, hard-fought 90 minutes.