KHADRA'S 'FANTASTIC' ANSWER TO BOO-BOYS

JOHN Eustace saluted Reda Khadra after his spectacular goal silenced the boo-boys from former club Blackburn at St Andrew’s.

- Gary Dabson

The on-loan Brighton and Hove Albion winger scored with a 25-yard drive to settle the game in the 61st minute and dent Rovers’ play-off hopes.

But it was harsh on the visitors, as Ryan Hedges was twice denied by Blues keeper John Ruddy, while Dominic Hyam (twice) and Sammie Szmodics were off target.

“Reda is a matchwinner and he’s got that quality,” said boss Eustace.

“The way he took his goal was fantastic. He was getting a bit of stick from the travelling fans so I’m really pleased for him, and the team. We’re fortunate he’s in our group and the quality he’s got is outstanding.”

There was early drama when Blackburn seemed to have claims for a penalty.

Kevin Long appeared to clumsily pull former Blues loan striker Sam Gallagher to the ground after the defender missed his clearance as a long ball dropped, but the referee waved play on.