Volleys from Martin Olsson and Brett Emerton gave Rovers hope before Ashley Young curled home to wrap up the win for Martin O'Neill's side.

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Martin Olsson fired against the bar for Rovers but, even after Villa had Nathan Baker sent off for a wild tackle, Blackburn rarely threatened a comeback.

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At the other end, Nikola Kalinic, returning from a three-match ban, did his best to give Blackburn an outlet, teeing up Martin Olsson for a long-range drive which Petr Cech saved comfortably.

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