STAND-IN Blackburn Rovers skipper Matt Kilgallon has been hailed for ‘stepping up to the plate’.

The 31-year-old captained Rovers in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Bournemouth and Wednesday’s 2-1 victory at Sheffield Wednesday after a leg injury ruled out Grant Hanley.

Kilgallon was superb as Gary Bowyer’s side kept their first clean sheet of the year at the Goldsands Stadium before he produced a heroic performance, alongside debutant Doneil Henry, at Hillsborough as they ended their 10-game wait for a Championship away win.

Kilgallon has been in fantastic form since regaining his place in the heart of the defence in January.

And Rovers boss Bowyer, speaking after the success over the Owls, said: “Killa was magnificent tonight and one of the blocks he made in the second half was incredible.

“He’s been captain in the last two games and tonight he really stepped up to the plate.

“He was introduced to his defensive partner at 4.30pm and he led it magnificently.

“There was great responsibility on him and he shone for us tonight.

“I’ve got nothing but praise for him, his performances have been of a very high standard.

“And it’s not just his defending. He had another fantastic run out of defence tonight, to set-up a chance for Jordan Rhodes, and that’s becoming a regular thing for him to do.

“He’s really enjoying his football and I think you can see that. His experience is vital for us.”

Meanwhile, Rovers fans who have not been able to get a ticket for Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final at Liverpool, have the chance to watch the big game on the big screens in Blues at Ewood Park.

Doors open at 11am.