John Eustace was delighted with Blackburn Rovers' performance both with and without the ball after a deserved draw against Southampton.

Clear-cut chances were at a premium but both teams had opportunities to win the game at Ewood Park. Having deserved more than a 1-0 defeat to Ipswich eight days ago, this was another display that proved Rovers can match the teams right at the top.

That will be important with five very tricky games left, including trips to Leeds United and Leicester City. But for a bit more quality in the final third, they could have beaten Saints.

Eustace was very happy with both sides of his team's game. They limited Southampton to very little but still posed a goal threat themselves.

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"I thought it was an excellent, exciting game, a proper Championship match," Eustace said.

"Two good teams going at it and I was very proud of the team. We were really good with and without the ball. Just disappointed we couldn't be a bit more clinical in the final third.

"We're really pleased with the clean sheet. I think it's the first time Southampton haven't scored for 30-odd games. That's something that's very pleasing, the boys have put in a lot of work.

"We were very disappointed not to get the clean sheet at Sunderland. The boys have thrown their bodies on the line, there was commitment and togetherness. 

"We have a game plan and today it worked. We were very good without the ball but with the ball, we were good as well. We opened them up a few times in that first half. 

"Some really good spells of football. This club is an exciting footballing team and I want to continue that for the fans. It's just also very important to have a good structure behind the ball and it's been evident since we came in.

"That's vital at this stage of the season. I'm pleased with a clean sheet but disappointed we couldn't nick it at the end."

Callum Brittain's heroics on the goal-line helped ensure Rovers kept their share of the spoils. A combination of Aynsley Pears and the defender ensured Kyle Walker-Peters' shot didn't go in, which was as good as a goal.

"It is, we want the defenders to defend the box for their lives," Eustace said.

"It's one of our core principles to be hard to play against but also defend that box for your life. I think Pears saved it and it went on to Callum and that stopped it going in the net."