Blackburn Rovers sink into the relegation places on goal difference after a 2-0 home defeat to Manchester United who extend their lead at the top of the Premiership to five points over Manchester City. For 81 minutes it looked as if Blackburn might pick up an unlikely point in their bid to avoid the drop, but United are renowned for their late shows and two goals in the final nine minutes decided the game in favour of the visitor's.
It is now six games since Rovers defeated Manchester United at home but they battled hard in defence to restrict the league leaders but finally cracked when Antonio Valencia beat keeper Paul Robinson at the far post.
Moments later and the points were secure as United made it ten wins out of their last eleven league games as substitute Ashley Young collected Valencia's pass to finish with aplomb.
Yet, for all United's dominance keeper David de Gea made two fine saves at the end of the first half from Grant Hanley and Marcus Olsson to prevent the host's from taking a shock lead.
City boss Roberto Mancini felt Rovers might nick a point out of this game and he was so close to being proved right but United are relentless and continue their charge for the title.
Referee: Howard Webb
Venue: Ewood Park
Attendance: 26,532
Blackburn scorers: Man Utd scorers: Valencia 81, Young 86
TRIBAL ASKS: Is this the beginning of the end for Man City's title challenge?
Yellow cards: Valencia (MANU), Hanley (BLA)
