Blackburn 0-0 Stoke: Half-time match report

Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson kept his side level going into the second half against Stoke at Ewood Park.

Robinson showed superb reactions to block efforts from Dean Whitehead and Liam Lawrence.

It was a frustrating spell for Blackburn, who lost key midfielder David Dunn to injury in the first 45 minutes.

The home side were looking to chalk up their fifth straight home win in the league and give themselves a boost ahead of the Carling Cup quarter-final against Chelsea on Wednesday.

They were the first to show in the fourth minute with David Dunn picking out Keith Andrews, but he sent his cross into the arms of Thomas Sorensen.

Stoke's Danish goalkeeper had to look alert three minutes later and did well to block a shot from Franco Di Santo after Andrews had created the opening.

Chris Samba then strode forward for Blackburn and tried his luck from distance in the 15th minute only for his effort to clear the bar.

Stoke responded and three minutes later Dean Whitehead tested Paul Robinson following a swift counter-attack.

Whitehead should have given his side the lead in the 20th minute after being released by Ricardo Fuller but failed to get enough power on his effort and Robinson pushed it away.

It was an open game and Dunn swung in a corner four minutes later. Di Santo peeled away from his marker but failed to get a decent connection on his header.

Blackburn were forced to make a change in the 32nd minute when Dunn limped off and was replaced by Roberts.

Dunn had been in good form with six goals this season so his premature exit was a blow for the home side.

However it did mean Di Santo would have Roberts for company instead of playing as a lone striker.

Blackburn were then grateful to Robinson for keeping the scores level in the 39th minute as the defence was caught on the hop following a quick break.

He made a marvellous point-blank save from Lawrence after Sidibe had delivered a cross from the right. Lawrence was left holding his head in disbelief following the goalkeeper's block.

Stoke were beginning to find their rhythm and looking dangerous on the counter-attack. They were content to defend deep and in numbers to frustrate the home side.

The ploy was working as the Blackburn supporters, used to seeing winning football from their team at Ewood Park, were unhappy as half-time approached.

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