Grella has missed Blackburn's last four Premier League matches with a groin injury but played an hour in the centre of midfield for the club's second string.

Visitors Liverpool included potential Australian international Dean Bouzanis between the sticks and the youngster impressed with several excellent saves, including a flying save to tip over a 25 metre free-kick from Rovers goalscorer Carlos Villanueva.

Julio Santa Cruz also went close after the break, being denied by Bouzanis after racing clear of the Liverpool defence.

Blackman had an effort well saved by Bouzanis and was again denied by the Liverpool goalkeeper minutes a few minutes later.

Liverpool substitute Vitor Flora grabbed a late equaliser to send the Merseysiders home with a point.