The Blues’ youth policy again showed signs of paying off as two members of the Under-21 side were part of the first-team squad in Integro League Cup action.

Striker Ollie Stirzaker – captain of the U21s – and midfielder Liam Clegg were involved as the Blues bowed out on penalties to BetVictor North-West rivals Marine.

Stirzaker came off the bench to play for the final quarter of an hour following a two-year absence from first-team duty, while boss Phil Brown was looking to bring on Clegg for the final few moments ahead of the shoot-out.

“It was good for them to get a taste of it and see what’s required at first-team level,” said Brown, who also gave another start to teenage winger Jack Connelly (pictured).

“Liam trained with us in pre-season and I’ve seen them both a couple of times in the U21s.

“They deserved a chance to be involved and hopefully there will be opportunities for more young players going forward.

“It’s a big step up and it took Jake time to adjust to what is required but he is getting to grips with it and had another good game at Marine.”

Ribble Valley-based Connelly joined the Blues in the summer after playing for Fulwood Amateurs, the same club as Clegg.

And local lad Stirzaker has come through the youth teams at Clitheroe after starting out with local junior club Clitheroe Wolves.

The Blues’ Under-21s play in the Lancashire FA County League under former Blues forward Dennis Hill – currently sitting third in the table – while the Under-18s are being given a fresh push in the Lancashire Sunday League with further youth developments planned at Shawbridge.