DESPITE Rovers slipping to their fourth consecutive defeat, manager Mark Hughes felt there were plenty of positives to take out of yesterday's game against Chelsea.

Rovers dominated the match at Ewood Park for lengthy periods but that touch of class proved to be the difference as Joe Cole's superb strike in the first half settled the match in the visitor's favour.

Manager Mark Hughes was particularly delighted with the performance of Zurab Khizanishvili after making his first Barclays Premier League start of the season.

The Georgian international has had to bide his time on the sidelines this season and has found chances hard to come by, but the former Rangers player came back in the side and showed no signs of rustiness at the heart of the Rovers defence.

"Zurab came in and I thought he was excellent," said Hughes

"Considering he hasn't had a great deal of football, I think that was his first league start this season. I thought he came in and did really well for us."

After shipping a hatful of goals in recent weeks, Hughes was pleased with the improved defensive performance from his side.

"It isn't just the back four that has to defend, it is right through the team and I just felt the performance overall was at the level I was expecting and hoping for."

Rovers are back in action at Eastlands on Thursday night when they take on Manchester City. Ticket information for this game can be found here.