Gallagher scores as Blackburn beat Birmingham

Teenager Adam Wharton’s first senior goal helped high-flying Blackburn to a battling 2-1 win over Birmingham.

The Rovers academy graduate fired in a fine low strike just before the break to give Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side breathing space after a half in which the scoreline could have been much different had the Blues taken their opportunities.

Tahith Chong struck the woodwork early on and the visitors were made to pay through former Birmingham loanee Sam Gallagher, who slotted home from close range after a neat move in the 17th minute.

Wharton’s strike doubled the advantage three minutes before the break, continuing a merciless pattern of finishing from Blackburn in recent weeks as they were two up with their only two shots of the half.

Contrast that to Birmingham who were continually frustrated by Thomas Kaminski who made two outstanding saves to deny Scott Hogan as well as a stunning late intervention to thwart Lukas Jutkiewicz.