BENNI MCCARTHY grabbed three more priceless points for Blackburn with a 74th minute goal to see off fellow strugglers Middlesbrough at a sodden Ewood Park.

Rovers grabbed the lead in the ninth minute when Lucas Neill's long ball into the box dropped deliciously for Nonda, and the Congolese striker hammered a superb first-time volley past Mark Schwarzer.

Boro got better as the half progressed but James Morrison hit their only clear chance over the crossbar from close range while Aiyegbeni Yakubu saw an effort sail into Brad Friedel's hands.

They drew level from the penalty spot in the 61st minute after Ooijer was penalised for hauling down Pogatetz, and Yakubu stepped up to fire the equaliser low to Friedel's right.

Rovers clawed their way back into the lead in the 74th minute when Savage delivered a long ball into the box and McCarthy leapt highest to steer a fine header into the back of the net.

With Boro pushing forward, Rovers had chances to extend their lead on the counter-attack with Nonda going close to his second.