BOSS Mark Hughes hailed the performance of striker Roque Santa Cruz as he played a vital role as Rovers collected three points on their travels with a 2-1 away win against Sunderland on Saturday.

The former Bayern Munich frontman made one and scored the other to take his goal tally to five goals from just the nine appearances in a Rovers shirt.

Speaking after the win at the Stadium of Light, his manager spoke in glowing terms: "He's a good player, he's got exceptional talent and he's quick. I think he takes people unawares on occasions as they don't realise how quick for a big guy he actually is.

"He works exceptionally hard for the team as well, he's really appreciated and respected by his team-mates for what his does to the team

"He's a great player and a good guy as well and he scores goals."

Can Roque get the goals to fire Rovers through to the group stages of the UEFA Cup? It promises to be a huge game at Ewood Park on Thursday night, with the club once again slashing ticket prices for all areas and age groups.

Tickets for Thursday night's match are priced at just £5 for Adult Season Ticket Holders, Seniors and Club 16-21 Members, whilst Juniors can see the game for just £1. Adult Non-Season Ticket Holders are priced at £10. Click here to book online now or call the ticket office on 0871 222 1444 from 9am Monday.