Daily Star

CARTER KEEPS ROVERS IN THE HUNT

- ■ by LINDSAY SUTTON

BLACKBURN left it late to grab a final chance of reaching the play-offs as homegrown Hayden Carter headed home a late leveller.

But while a victory is still needed at Millwall on Bank Holiday Monday to stand any chance of extending their season, their top-six destiny is now out of their own hands.

Nothing less than a win at The Den is required but with their inferior goal difference, Sunderland and West Brom could yet pip them even if they secure three points in south London, but at least they gave themselves a lifeline.

Despite squanderin­g chances and then falling behind to a well-taken headed goal by Tom Lockyer, academy product Carter’s first goal for the club could prove crucial.

Carter, who nodded in an 86th-minute Sorba Thomas corner, said: “We’re disappoint­ed not to win and secure a better play-off chance but we could still sneak in.”

Rovers would only have themselves to blame after an eighth consecutiv­e league game without a win.

In contrast, third-place Luton chalked up their 13th game without defeat and looked on for a win when Wales Internatio­nal Lockyer headed home.

Hatters boss Rob Edwards said: “We know what’s coming and we want to keep the momentum going. I’m pleased with what we’ve achieved so far, but those are the key words – ‘so far’.

“But to put together 13 games without defeat suggests consistenc­y is there.”

Rovers boss Jon Dahl Tomasson said: “I’m disappoint­ed not to get the win we deserved but it’s the old story about lack of goals.

“We need Sam Gallagher back fit and in action.”

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NET CARTER: Hayden Carter gets the Ewood Park crowd going after goal
■ NET CARTER: Hayden Carter gets the Ewood Park crowd going after goal

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