Vincent Kompany and Michael Johnson both came through a full 90 minute work-out for the reserves, but could not help to force a win away to Blackburn.

Glyn Hodges' side battled away to a 1-1 draw on a wet and blustery night on a heavy pitch at Leigh Sports Village, City's goal coming from James Poole on the stroke of half-time.

Benjani also completed the game, in which Kompany partnered Johnson in an experienced midfield combination. The hosts went ahead through Gavin Gunning, who headed home powerfully at a corner on 18 minutes. Rovers had the better of the first half, but City had momentum going into the break when James Poole, a thorn in Rovers' side all night, swept a Benjani cross home just before the whistle.

City dominated the second half but could not force a winner, however Mark Hughes will be pleased that the senior players all contributed and put in some valuable match-time.