Forced into a change of system due to a lack of personnel, manager Sam Allardyce was pleased with the display of his charges, but ultimately left to rue only claiming one point.

Injuries to El Hadji Diouf and Benni McCarthy meant reduced forward options, therefore the Rovers boss opted for the 4-2-3-1 formation that had served the team well at the Priestfield Stadium in midweek.

And whilst Rovers enjoyed the better chances, they couldn't find that elusive goal to claim all three points.

Speaking to Radio Rovers after the game, Allardyce said: "We had to play a slower game and a more accomplished passing game today because we weren't as strong a force on the front line as we would have been by playing a little bit more directly like we could have done.

"I understand that the fans like us to get the ball into the box early but playing Dunny in the hole meant that we wanted to play through midfield and be a little bit more patient.

"That was very good today because everybody calls West Ham a passing side but we've completely outpassed them today and created far more chance than them.

 

"So we've shown that we can be adaptable on the basis of what players we've got available and what system we play.

"So I was pleased about that, but we'd all be a lot happier if we'd got three points and played poorly.

"But we've played well and only got one point. That is the nature of the league now.

"We've got keep plugging away and keep playing and performing as well as this. Experience tells me that they always turn into wins eventually."

The international break now follows before Rovers are back in action at Ewood Park against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday 12th September. Allardyce hopes to have all those currently out injured will be available for selection by then.