Redknapp praises Rovers strike pair

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp admitted Blackburn´s in-form strike pairing played a crucial role as his side´s Carling Cup ambitions were ended alongside their seven-match unbeaten run as Benni McCarthy inspired Rovers´ seventh win in a row.

But Blackburn´s impressive win was seriously tainted after midfielder Aaron Mokoena was stretchered off after collapsing on the pitch with nobody near him. Results of scans are expected to show he has broken a leg for the second time.

Redknapp paid tribute to Rovers´ front two of South African McCarthy and South American Roque Santa Cruz, saying: "One is very clever with the ball and the other is a strong lad who is always looking to score. They gave us problems and we conceded two bad goals."

Copyright (c) PA Sport 2007, All Rights Reserved.