Blackburn Rovers made a bright start and struck the post after just 30 seconds through Colin Kazim-Richards in this afternoon's match against Middlesbrough.

Jordan Rhodes was inches away from connecting to a Martin Olsson cross just moments later as Boro struggled to gain a foothold in the match.

Rovers keeper Jake Kean had little to do in the early stages but was forced to keep out a curling free kick from Emmanuel Ledesma.

Tony Mowbray's side had more chances as the half continued, with Scott McDonald and Marvin Emnes both causing problems.

Lukas Jutkiewicz had the home side's best chance minutes before the break but he miscued from close range to leave the first 45 minutes goalless.