Kevin Phillips put the home side ahead after 32 minutes, before substitute Paul Dickov created an equaliser for Barry Ferguson at the start of the second half.

The Scottish striker then put Rovers ahead, only for Anders Svensson to level. But deep into stoppage time, Craig Short was penalised for a challenge on Beattie as the pair challenged for a high ball into the box, and the England international, subject of a transfer bid from Aston Villa last week, coolly dispatched the spot-kick to win the game.

Blackburn were not out of it, though, and Niemi pulled off a fine reaction block at the near post to deny Dickov.

The Scottish striker was cautioned on 77 minutes after protesting too much after a goalmouth scramble, in which he felt he had been held back. Dickov was then fortunate not to be shon another yellow card after squaring up to Graeme Le Saux.

Southampton were handed a golden chance to win the game when D’Urso awarded a penalty in stoppage time.

Telfer’s long punt up field went into the box, where Craig Short jumped with Beattie. There was minimal contact, but it was enough to convince the referee, who pointed to the spot.

The Saints captain dusted himself off to take the spot-kick himself, which he coolly dispatched.