Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray hails Reda Khadra for ‘stepping up’ against QPR

Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray praised Reda Khadra for “stepping up” after his goal sealed a key 1-0 win over promotion rivals QPR.

Khadra, on loan from Brighton, produced a moment of ingenuity in the 77th minute as he curled in an unstoppable free-kick from a tight angle, bringing an end to almost nine hours of football without a Blackburn goal.

His fifth strike of the season highlighted his character after he missed one gilt-edged chance in the first half, which followed his penalty failure against Sheffield United on Wednesday.

It could be the most important contribution yet, ending a five-match winless run to apply pressure on the automatic promotion places as Rovers continue their pursuit for a return to the top flight for the first time in 10 years.

The win was just reward for Blackburn’s dominance and, after a seventh win in nine at Ewood Park, Mowbray praised Khadra’s work ethic and ability.

He said: “What a threat Khadra is to anybody, and yet can we sit here and criticise him for missing chances? Maybe, because if he wants to play in the Premier League for Brighton, he’s got to take those chances.

“You must sit there and watch it and think: ‘I wouldn’t want to play against him’. He’s so tricky, so fast and powerful, got a rocket in his right foot. Yet chances came and were missed, but it’s a growth area for him.

“He’s one of those lads who practice every day. If a session finishes at 12pm, Khadra is still out there at 12.45pm. He’s a kid on a journey. I hope he’s talented enough to get to the Premier League.

“I’m delighted for him. Today Khadra stepped up and scored the goal and could have had a few more. But I think we praise him for the positives rather than criticise him for the negatives of missing