PEEL Park, the former home of Accrington Stanley, was the venue for the eagerly awaited local derby match between Stanley and Rovers fans.
The pitch is not currently being used for league games but was kindly lent for the match by Peel Park F.C.
This did, however, lead to some comic scenes prior to kick off when the Stanley players had to mark out the white lines at breakneck speed.
Stanley started the game as they have their last three matches - in top gear - and, in the opening 10 minutes, the Rovers keeper was under a constant barrage.
The pressure finally told as Stanley were awarded a penalty following a late challenge on Liam Smith. Striker Martin Shurmer slotted the spot kick home.
A fantastic strike from Ste Ryan on 11 minutes made it 2-0 and, while the Rovers fans made some spirited excursions into the Stanley penalty box, they were thwarted by the Reds defence..
Further goals from Neal Goulding (22 mins) and Gareth Hodgson (41 mins) sent the home side into the half time break with a 4-0 lead.
Changes were made at half time with Stanley loaning their veteran sub keeper Alan Smith to Blackburn after an injury to one of their outfield players.
Accrington brought player-manager Stephen Lowe on for a spell up front. But the changes worked in Rovers' favour as Mark Hitchin scored a cracker.
Accrington where stunned into action and wonder kid Liam Smith took the ball past three Rovers players and scored with ease. Accrington captain Glen Barnes rounded off a solid performance with a 25-yard strike to take his tally for the season into double figures.
6-1 was the final score - watch this space for the return leg.
Stanley: Mark Barrass GK , Scots Chris, Glen Barnes (Cpt), Brian Thoburn, Neal Goulding, Gareth Hodgson, Liam Smith, Stephen Lambert, Stephen Ryan, Mark Graham, Craig Fisher, Nick Howarth, Ben Stockley, Paul L, Alan Smith, Martin Shurmer and manager Stephen Lowe.
