It was a big win for us today - Souness

GRAEME Souness was once again full of praise for his battling side as they gained their third win on the trot to continue to pull clear of the relegation places.

Jonathan Stead's goal nine minutes from time was enough to give Rovers all three points against Everton at Goodison Park.

Speaking after the game, the Rovers manager spoke of his delight at the turn around in fortunes, and attributed it to the return of Lorenzo Amoruso.

"Obviously it is a big win of us today," said Souness.

"We defended well today, and since Lorenzo has come back we have been solid, we've won three games back-to-back.

"We have missed Amo, I am sure we'd be further up the table had he not missed half of the season."

Jonathan Stead was once again impressive in his partnership up front with Andy Cole, and Souness paid tribute to the young striker.

"Every week I am trying to play down the lad's contribution. But I am going to have to start telling the truth.

"His goals have been vital for us, his effort has been vital for us and his general contribution has been outstanding, I couldn't have asked for any more."

But Souness lamented on what a season that could have been so much more had Rovers had a home record to match their impressive away record.

"We are just delighted, it is the seventh game we have won away from home, if only we had won just three more times at home we'd have been challenging for a Champions League spot instead of fighting relegation.

"These last few weeks we have asked our big players to perform and they certainly have done that, they deserve a great deal of credit."

Rovers World will bring you all the post match reaction on Monday's Edition.