 Appleton's first match in charge of Rovers was on 19 January 2013, a 2–1 defeat against Charlton Athletic at Ewood Park.He earned his first victory as Blackburn manager on 26 January 2013, a 3–0 win against Derby County at Pride Park in the FA Cup fourth round.A week later he recorded his first league victory, a 2–0 win at home against Bristol City.