Hughes - We're a decent team

Rovers boss disappointed not to hold on for win

Last updated: 19th April 2008

Hughes Mark West Ham v Blackburn

Hughes: Happy with display

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Mark Hughes felt Blackburn Rovers 'excelled' in holding Premier League leaders Manchester United to a 1-1 draw.

Roque Santa Cruz put Rovers ahead in the first half as Hughes' tactical approach restricted the opposition's usual free-flowing style.

United snatched a point two minutes from time through Carlos Tevez, and though Hughes was unhappy with the award of a corner which led to the equaliser, he was pleased with his players.

"The referee has made a wrong call," said Hughes. "It should have been a goal kick to us, not a corner to them.

Nice and solid

"We switched off and United get the equaliser. Over the years they have got back into games in similar circumstances.

"You could see how much it meant to them as it was a really important result.

"It was disappointing for us, but we were nice and solid. We excelled ourselves and proved we are a decent team."

Santa Cruz scored his 20th goal for Rovers since joining from Bayern Munich last summer and Hughes praised the Paraguayan striker's contribution.

The Blackburn boss added: "Roque has exceeded expectations. I knew I was getting a good player, but he has weighed in with some crucial goals.

"I asked him to play a specific role on the right today and he responded to the challenge."

Key game

Regarding the title race, in which United lead Chelsea by three points ahead of next week's showdown at Stamford Bridge, Hughes refused to be drawn on the battle between two of his former clubs.

"Chelsea need to beat United next week," said Hughes. "That is the key game.

"United have to lose more points and they have dropped a couple today.

"Who is to say they won't drop points from this time on?

"Chelsea now have a chance to put pressure on United and we will have to wait and see what happens."