GARY Bowyer poured praise on the 1,074 Blackburn Rovers supporters who roared their side on to a 1-0 win at Yeovil Town on Saturday.

Rovers boss Bowyer was pleased by his side’s performance in what was the first competitive meeting between the clubs.

But he saved his biggest compliments for the travelling fans who made the long trek to Somerset just four days before Christmas, braving the wet weather on an open terrace at Huish Park.

And if the three points were not enough Bowyer and the Rovers players showed just how grateful they were by handing out signed gifts at the end of a pulsating encounter decided by top scorer Jordan Rhodes’ 13th goal of the season.

Bowyer said: “To bring 1,000 fans here is a phenomenal effort, so it was the least we could do to give signed balls, hats and scarves.

“Hopefully they will enjoy the win.”

Rovers ran the first half, missing countless opportunities.

But they had to ride their luck after the restart, before and after Rhodes scored the goal that secured their second straight victory.

Bowyer said: “We played some really good stuff and, as an away team, to come and put a performance on like that – the way we controlled possession in the first half especially – was a fantastic effort from our lads.”