Blackburn Rovers boosted their chances of securing their Premier League status for another season by defeating Norwich City 2-0 at Ewood Park this afternoon.
Despite the final scoreline, visiting Norwich started the brighter of the two sides.
However, on two particular occasions Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson produced smart saves to deny captain Grant Holt and Jonny Howson.
On one of their first meaningful attacks, the home side almost broke the deadlock. Morten Gamst Pedersen flicked the ball on for Yakubu, but the Nigerian's acrobatic effort struck the post before being cleared to safety in the 34th minute.
Rovers did not have to wait too long for their first goal of the match though. Pedersen sent a cross to the back post for Mauro Formica in the 42nd minute and the Argentine sent a volleyed effort past John Ruddy.
Just four minutes after the restart Blackburn doubled their advantage. Junior Hoilett was the scorer, beating Russell Martin for pace before sending a powerful effort past Ruddy from 30 yards out.
Norwich began to search for a route back into the game and had a decent chance to halve the deficit 15 minutes from time. Pedersen failed to connect with a clearance and the ball fell to substitute Aaron Wilbraham, but the Canaries striker couldn't keep his header on target.
Paul Lambert's side continued to search for a goal, but they were unable to find a way past Robinson.
The three points means that Rovers remain in the relegation zone but only on goal difference.
Liam Apicella
