FOR Blackburn Rovers and their fans last night's defeat by a stoppage-time goal from 10-man leaders Fulham was a cruel blow -- coming after Rovers had dominated so much of the game that manager Graeme Souness's claim that his side are the best in the division seemed no idle boast.

But if pride was punctured by a Fulham team with Lady Luck on their side last night, Rovers' promotion hopes remain well on course -- if they and their fans keep their nerve.

Despite this stutter, Rovers have the squad and the skills to win automatic elevation. And they and their followers can still look forward to the prospect of showing Fulham who is the better side -- in the Premiership next season.