Blackburn Rovers player ratings from the draw with Preston North End

Aynsley Pears 7

Moved across his goal well to deny three long-range efforts from Whiteman, with his best save being from McCann moments before the unfortunate own goal that flew into the top corner.  

Joe Rankin-Costello 7

Was a goal threat again from right back, going closest with a left foot shot in the first half, one of four efforts in all. Had the most touches (88) of anyone on the pitch. Booked for a late challenge on Woodburn.

Hayden Carter 8

Won four headers, six tackles and five interceptions in an excellent display that helped stem any potential counter-attacking chances for North End. Was also impressive on the ball carrying it out from defence.

Dom Hyam 7

Stood tall against the direct balls forward, winning an impressive 12 headers and making 11 clearances. Looked to have steered Rovers to a clean sheet until the most unfortunate of own goals.

Harry Pickering 7

North End got no change out of him, despite trying to target him with a series of cross-field passes. Remains one of Rovers’ most consistent performers.

Lewis Travis 7

Often found himself as Rovers’ most advanced player, and drove forward to good effect to set up Szmodics’ goal. His drive was a key part of Rovers’ increased intensity in the second half.

Tyler Morton 7

Completed 39 of his 44 attempted passes as he generally used the ball well and helped keep the hosts’ midfield quiet. Saw a first half free kick blocked by the wall.

Adam Wharton 7

Sauntered past challenges to good effect and had the highest passing accuracy (91 per cent) of any player on the pitch. Had a role in the goal, but again operated as the deepest of Rovers’ midfielders.

Sorba Thomas 6

Looked to be a good outlet down the right for Rovers early on, but there was some indecision to his play in the final third, often when looking up to deliver with no real option in the box. Replaced at the break.

Sam Szmodics 8

Doesn’t like his non-stop workrate being mentioned, seeing that as a given for all players, but it certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. Had one goal ruled out for handball but took his second chance like a true striker, a role he could well have to fulfil moving forward.

Tyrhys Dolan 6

Didn’t make the most of his counter-attacking opportunities in the first half, and also lost the ball in a dangerous area just before the break when he was substituted. Did have one shot well blocked by Storey.

Subs

Ryan Hedges (for Thomas, 46) 7

Will be remembered most for his late miss, but his introduction gave Rovers an attacking outlet and made a real difference in a much improved second half display.

Ben Brereton (for Dolan, 46) 6

Was dropped to the bench but turned to at the start of the second half. Got involved in the play, but does look to be without some of his ‘zip’ when running with the ball.

Scott Wharton (for Szmodics, 88)

Callum Brittain (for Morton, 88)

Subs: Thomas Kaminski, Jake Garrett, Bradley Dack