Trailing Derby rue first-half penalty miss

Derby 1 Blackburn 2

David Bentley put Blackburn in the driving seat against Derby after the first half at Pride Park.

Matt Oakley had put the struggling home side ahead only for Roque Santa Cruz to pull Rovers level with his eighth goal in five games.

That goal came just after Derby missed a great chance of extending their lead when they were awarded a penalty after Ryan Nelsen brought down Kenny Miller.

Steve Howard saw his spot-kick blocked by Brad Friedel and there was a brief melee when Eddie Lewis went in on the goalkeeper and was booked.

Bentley sent a low 25-yard shot into the corner of the net shortly before the break to leave Rovers in control.