Blackburn Rovers 1, Saints 1

A SUPERB display of shot-stopping from goalkeeper Antti Niemi ensured Saints a share of the spoils against Blackburn.

The Finn was in fine form as he thwarted striker Andy Cole on a number of occasions and his array of saves earned praise from Saints caretaker boss Steve Wigley.

Wigley said: "We deserved a point on our first-half performance and although Black-burn came back into the game, thankfully so did our 'keeper. Antti was excellent."

Kevin Phillips gave Saints a fifth-minute lead with a measured finish inside the area, having been set up by James Beattie.

Blackburn equalised on 52 minutes when pinball defending in the Saints box saw the ball break to Cole. He fired home from 12 yards through Niemi's legs.

But it was to be the only time he beat Niemi, who denied him on two one-on-one occasions and also kept out a stinging drive with a strong arm.

Brad Friedel turned Rory Delap's 20-yard shot around the post as Saints sought a winner.