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 on 26 January 2013, a 3–0 win against Derby County at Pride Park in the FA Cup fourth round.
Appleton's first match as Rovers' manager was on January 19, 2013, a 2–1 loss to Charlton Athletic at Ewood Park. He secured his first victory on January 26, 2013, with a 3–0 win against Derby County in the FA Cup fourth round.