Jordan Rhodes struck for the 10th time this season to send Blackburn Rovers into the fourth round of the FA Cup at the expense of Newport County this evening.

The Scotland international's goal 15 minutes from time made it 2-1 to the Championship visitors, who were forced to play the majority of the tie with 10 men following Chris Brown's early dismissal.

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Eight minutes had elapsed before Blackburn broke the deadlock when, having been brought down inside the area by Scott Barrow, Ben Marshall dusted himself down to score from the penalty spot.

However, just two minutes later Paul Lambert's side were reduced to 10 men as Brown was handed his marching orders for a reckless challenge on Medy Elito, which left the Newport winger requiring a stretcher to leave the field.

The League Two hosts went on to make their numerical advantage count in the 31st minute courtesy of Mark Byrne. The midfielder was afforded too much space 20 yards from goal and he made the most of it by finding the top corner of Jason Steele's net.

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Rather than go on to make the most of their superior numbers, Newport were unable to score a second goal and they eventually dropped out of the competition thanks to half-time substitute Rhodes.

Welsh winger Tom Lawrence crossed for the striker, who rose highest to nod the ball beyond the reach of Joe Day.

Further misery was heaped on Newport goalkeeper Day in stoppage time when he was sent off for bringing down Marshall on the edge of the box.

Rovers will now take on Oxford United on January 30 for a place in the fifth round.