Goal start no handicap to Rovers

Blackburn Rovers should not be seriously troubled to win their FA Cup third-round tie away to Blyth Spartans on Monday and there are worse bets than the 8-11 that Bet365 offer about the Premier League side triumphing by more than one goal.

Spartans have a rich tradition of success in the FA Cup — they reached the fifth round of the competition in 1978 before losing in a replay to Wrexham at St James’ Park — but the league exploits of the present playing staff suggest they have already surpassed realistic ambitions in making this stage of the competition.

Spartans presently languish one off the bottom in the Conference North, propped up only by virtue of goal difference, winning just four of their 18 starts.

Blackburn Rovers have endured their own problems this season but are enjoying a three-match unbeaten run since Sam Allardyce succeeded Paul Ince as manager.

Allardyce’s priority is to avoid relegation from the Barclays Premier League but the former Bolton and Newcastle boss will be loathe to relinquish the promising start made to his reign.

Allardyce is set to rest several of his senior players but has more than enough quality in his squad to achieve the desired result.