FT: Blackburn 0-1 Liverpool - reaction

1. Well-worked Coutinho goal sends Reds through
2. Mignolet saves from Rovers keeper late on
3. Liverpool face Aston Villa in semi-finals
4. Click 'Live Coverage' tab for 5 live reaction

Getty Images

Now it is time for us to wave goodbye - and time for these two, plus thousands more Liverpool fans, to start planning their trip to Wembley.

Liverpool might have needed two bites at Championship side Blackburn, but they have finally booked their semi-final date at Wembley.

Aston Villa will be facing them there - for the right to face Arsenal or Reading in the FA Cup final. Stevie G's dream is still on...

Match of the Day

Missed any of the action? Highlights-tastic on BBC One in about 15 minutes, with Gabby Logan hosting Match of the Day reaction and analysis to events at Ewood Park.

Take note of the regional variations: 23:15 on BBC One NI and 23:40-00:10 BBC One Scotland. Enjoy.

Player reaction

Liverpool keeper Simon Mignolet on opposite number Simon Eastwood's late chance: "It would have been very disappointing to concede to a goalkeeper in the last seconds."

Player reaction

AP

Blackburn goalkeeper Simon Eastwood nearly earned himself a place in the club's folklore - by almost bagging a memorable stoppage-time equaliser. But his fierce low shot was stopped by opposite number Simon Mignolet.

"I got told to go up - the manager said go to the halfway line. But I wanted to get involved. I got the shot away and it was a good save from the keeper," says the Yorkshireman.

"Maybe I hit it too well! I could have shanked it and it had gone in the top bin.

"I was in more shock than anyone else just to be up there and touching the ball. I have never done it before."

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Jack Dulieu: Full credit to Blackburn, who took on a massive team which cost £100m+ to assemble, and pushed them all the way. Well played.

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BBC vote

Earlier we asked you to decide whether Champions League qualification or FA Cup success was more important for Liverpool this season. You, the jury, decided this....

BBC

Manager reaction

Blackburn manager Gary Bowyer on BBC Match of the Day: "The challenge this summer is to come out of the transfer embargo because it has made it difficult for us.

On the experience of the two games against Liverpool: "There is no better place than the Premier League. We have had a taste of it. Now we need to kick on."

Manager reaction

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers on his limited defensive options: "Dejan Lovren has not been in the team but he was outstanding, Glen Johnson has not played a great deal. Those two were outstanding.

"That is the idea of having a squad. We have lots out at the moment, if we can't find solutions from that we can have a look at the young players who are doing really well in the Under 21s."

On the impact on league form: "I made the point to the players if we could get through to the semi-final it could give us a kick on in league. We have had two poor performances and been criticised. Tonight we performed very well."

Text us on 81111

Chris from Gloucester: Liverpool win with magic from Henderson and Coutinho, and Kolo was very solid at the back. It's our time!

Niaz in Ipswich: I think Liverpool will win the FA Cup - they will try to do everything to make sure Seven Gerrard can enjoy his final farewell by winning a trophy.

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Manager reaction

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers: "Over the two games it was a difficult tie. They are strong and well organised. We knew it would be difficult. But my players were brilliant. We created chances.

On the goal: "Philippe is wonderful at that. He sucks defenders in. Great technique. Great goal to win the game."

You are the video ref

BBC

If you want to decide for yourself whether Blackburn should have been awarded a penalty - when the score was 0-0 remember - then you can. Go to the highlights tab on this page and have a gander at all of the match's talking points.

I can't say I agree with Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer about that penalty shout (see 21:58 entry). The ball faintly brushes the arm of Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen as he tries to head clear. Plus it takes two or three slow-motion replays to pick that up. Nope, I'm not having that.

BBC Radio 5 live

Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer on 5 live Sport: "You always want to win games and I have nothing but praise and pride after tonight. We had numerous opportunities, and in the second half we started ever so well.

"We feel we should have had a penalty, the ball hitting Joe Allen's arm in the area.

"Our lads gave it a right good go, they had a taste for it and it was a great atmosphere in the stadium tonight.

"We have to take confidence from this and finish the season as strong as we possibly can. We've still got loads to play for as a club."

Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer on BT Sport: "I always said we would have a go at Liverpool and everyone saw that. We are a little bit disappointed that the penalty decision didn't go our way (see 47 mins) - Joe Allen's arm is out in a natural position. There are two great saves - from Allen then Mignolet."

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Kevin Rukundo: Couthino puts an end to a miserable, forgetful week for the Reds. Wembley, here we come!

Liam Riley: Three huge saves from Mignolet kept Liverpool in that.

Paul Gourley: Another pathetic performance and fortunate win for Liverpool. Villa will tear you apart in the semi. What a poor, poor team.

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FULL-TIME

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"It's now Aston Villa at Wembley for Liverpool, and it's going to be so difficult for them to win this cup. Overall, Liverpool were moving the ball too slowly this evening - they did not have a creative spark in the middle or in the final third."

Player reaction

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson on BT Sport: "Philippe Coutinho has a great football brain. The easiest thing for me is giving him the ball and he finished fantastically well - that little bit of brilliance wins us the game.

"Hopefully we can kick on from here. We've had suspensions and injuries in defence but people have come in and done a great job. Kolo Toure came on for Mamadou Sakho and was immense. It was a great performance."

FA Cup semi-final draw

As Ewood Park quickly empties, here's a reminder of the Wembley bill on semi-final weekend...

Reading v Arsenal - Saturday, 18 April (17:20 BST)

Aston Villa v Liverpool - Sunday, 19 April (15:00 BST)

Player reaction

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson on BT Sport: "It was a very important game today, because everyone was disappointed with our performances and results in recent weeks. But, from start to finish, I thought we were brilliant tonight. I thought we controlled the game and defended well. Now we have a tough game against Villa at Wembley - but it gives the club a good lift."

Player reaction

BBC Radio 5 live

Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet on 5 live Sport: "Blackburn had big strikers and were always going to play long balls into the box. But we defended well and as a keeper you have to sometimes be there to help the team.

"I'm very pleased - the main thing was to get the victory, to get through, and we've done that today.

"We had to bounce back tonight. Everybody worked really hard, put in a shift and did the gaffer proud."

FULL-TIME

Wherever suspended Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard is watching the game, I'm sure there will be a cheeky smile etched across his face. The ex-England captain is one step closer to his dream farewell in the FA Cup final - and he hasn't been had to break sweat tonight.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

"Liverpool on their way to Wembley but indebted to keeper Simon Mignolet, especially for that dramatic late save from his Blackburn opposite number Simon Eastwood. Not a classic from Liverpool - but the victory was everything tonight."

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Daniel Kelly: We're off to Wembley! Credit to Blackburn on the defending, but on the night Liverpool were the better team. Wembley, here we come!

LFC Way: Mignolet has been outstanding. Not for the first time this season.

Younus Bendame: I think that if Liverpool play Arsenal in the FA Cup final, they won't win it. They don't have the class.

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FULL-TIME

Smiling Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers charges on to the Ewood Park pitch, embracing his sweaty players and ushering them towards the jubilant away end. Celebration time!

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Liverpool shaded that, just about. It was a good goal and overall the visitors did deserve it. Liverpool just too strong as the game progressed and they are, justifiably, just into the next round."

FULL-TIME

All over! Liverpool fans book your train tickets and start looking up London hotels - you are going to Wembley. Aston Villa are the only side who stand between them and the FA Cup final now.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"What a turn and strike that was from Eastwood! Brilliant from the keeper, almost like a striker! Brilliant, and so unlucky."

CLOSE!

Blackburn keeper Simon Eastwood almost has a Jimmy Glass moment! The ball drops to his feet and he lashes one towards the Liverpool goal. But Simon Mignolet does enough to keep out the low shot.

Blackburn have a throw and Tommy Spurr is lining up to lob a long one in. Keeper Simon Eastwood looks over at Rovers boss Gary Bowyer - he has got the nod....

PENALTY APPEAL FOR LIVERPOOL

Oooh, is it? Isn't it? We're divided in the office over whether Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen was illegally impeded by Rovers' Lee Williamson. But only one man's opinion counts - and that is Kevin Friend's. He says 'no'.

INJURY TIME

Reuters

How long have Blackburn got to save their skins? Four extra minutes....

PA

I'd guess the last thing that a Championship defender wants to see in the 89th minute of tough FA Cup tie is Raheem Sterling hurtling towards you. The England man tries to skin Tommy Spurr, twisting and turning inside the Blackburn box, but skies over the bar.

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AP

Kevin Kanty: Coutinho is fast becoming the best player in the Premier League. Forgot Gerrard, it's Coutinho that's going to take Liverpool to FA Cup glory.

Jon Evans: The biggest difference between top teams and those below is always the finishing. Blackburn haven't taken their chances, Liverpool have.

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Is there time for one last Blackburn chance? Not likely - the Championship side look sapped of energy now. Liverpool edging closer to a Wembley semi-final date against Aston Villa.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"That was a chance for Rickie Lambert. He peeled off at the far post, got a really good look at the ball and it was a free header. He really should be hitting the target at least, Lambert."

Rickie Lambert nods his first touch seconds after jogging on - and it nearly ends in a goal. The England striker meets Jordan Henderson's free-kick at the far post and his header hits the net. The side-netting that is...

SUBSTITUTION

Time for a Liverpool change. Daniel Sturridge's number is shown after a decent shift as he continues his return to full fitness. On comes the powerful presence of Rickie Lambert...

Blackburn can't do much from their own half - but that is where they find themselves. A long pass tries to pick out Reds goalscorer Philippe Coutinho on the right, but it is too strong and goes out for a home goal-kick.

The home fans have been very supportive of their team tonight, but there are a few groans as Tommy Spurr's pass goes to a red shirt. Liverpool are oozing confidence now, knocking the ball around patiently as they try to lure Blackburn out.

Ten minutes for Blackburn to stay in the FA Cup. Rovers boss Gary Bowyer decides it is time for another change - although this one is enforced. Tommy Spurr replaces centre-back Alex Baptiste who is struggling with a knock.

Brief stoppage as Raheem Sterling takes a whack in the face from Rovers midfielder Lee Williamson. The Liverpool man looked to burn past Williamson, who seemingly knew what he was doing. No booking though...

All the noise inside Ewood is coming from the away end which Liverpool are attacking. End to end stuff as Rovers midfielder Tom Cairney bursts down the Liverpool left, only to see the away side spring forward when the attack breaks down. Raheem Sterling cuts into the Rovers box, but lashes his shot high and wide.

It's a funny old game, isn't it? Just as Blackburn looked to be well on top, Liverpool - to continue the magical theme below - pulled a rabbit out of the hat. Rovers boss Gary Bowyer waves his arms into the air, in the motion of a windmill, to encourage his troops.

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Tom Bielich: Coutinho, you wizard!

Daniel Kelly: It had been coming. A well-earned goal from quality play. The little magician is at it again!

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Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Blackburn just couldn't clear their lines. Their defence was totally outfoxed by a lovely Liverpool one-two, and once Coutinho got into the area his effort found the inside of the far post. A brilliantly-worked chance by Henderson and excellent from Coutinho."

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson, BBC Match of the Day

Reuters

"Such a bright player is Coutinho. It is a superb finish. Head, knee, everything over the ball. A tremendous finish.

"It has taken real quality to get Liverpool in front."

GOAL

EPA

And here is that little bit of quality that Liverpool - and Kevin Kilbane - craved! Philippe Coutinho's invention from a short corner, a neat one-two with Jordan Henderson, ends in the Brazilian drilling an unstoppable shot across Blackburn keeper Simon Eastwood and into the far corner.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

Reuters

"No real quality from Liverpool in the final third - so easy for Blackburn to defend. But Rovers simply can't get out of their own half.

"I always feel Jordan Rhodes is better up front alongside someone else. Rhodes and Rudy Gestede will be a different proposition for Liverpool. The visitors already look so uncomfortable defensively - two long balls played into their box and they didn't deal with either."

Rudy Gestede is real handful. His size and strength caused Liverpool problems in the original tie - and he is trying to do the same again. He rises highest to meet Tom Cairney's left-wing corner before Reds keeper Simon Mignolet clears. Can Liverpool drag themselves off the ropes?

Reuters

And Rudy Gestede's introduction has given the home side - and their vocal fans - a second wind. The ex-Cardiff man combines instantly with strike partner Jordan Rhodes, but the Scotland striker's angled shot is blocked by Kolo Toure.

SUBSTITUTION

Blackburn substitute Gestede has reappeared - and receives a standing ovation as the Ewood crowd chant 'Rudy, Rudy, Rudy'. They love him. Gestede replaces Craig Conway....

Rovers's 14-goal striker Rudy Gestede was only fit enough to start on the bench - but he is fit enough to play the final 30 minutes. The burly French striker is stripped and ready. Now where has he gone? Has he gone to the loo? He has disappeared...

Liverpool continue to probe. But the Blackburn defence is putting in the hard graft, this time Alex Baptiste perfectly positioned to block another Reds cross. It looks like Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer is about to throw the tactical dice...

PA

Raheem Sterling dances into an inch of space close to the byeline, but the angle beats him as his cross/shot flies harmlessly over the Rovers goal. The Championship side are looking pretty comfortable at the back....

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

EPA

"An FA Cup quarter-final has broken out at Ewood Park.

"Blackburn's aggressive start to the second half which brought those two fine saves from Simon Mignolet has prompted a response of sorts from Liverpool.

"The supporters getting into it as well. Maybe it will not be that long, late night everyone was discussing at half-time after all."

I didn't expect Blackburn to come out swinging so quickly after half-time. But they have. Left-back Marcus Olsson skips into the Liverpool box from the flank and forces a corner which is subsequently cleared by the away defence. Was the Swede taken out by Glen Johnson just as he was about to pull the trigger there? Possibly...

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Much brighter from both teams in the first 10 minutes of this second half. Both sides are fashioning chances."

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Stuart Thomson: Liverpool aren't going to finish fourth - this is a must-win.

Peter Collins: I feel bad saying it, but I can see parallels with the Chelsea match last year. Liverpool dominant, but can't score.

Liam Riley: Liverpool need two strikers on the pitch, devoid of options in the final third. Bring back Mario!

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AFP

Liverpool appear to have been woken up by those early jabs from Blackburn. The visitors win a left-hand corner which is dangerously swung in by Jordan Henderson towards Albert Moreno. But the Spaniard cannot put enough contact on the ball under pressure from Rovers skipper Matt Kilgallon and it flies out for a goal-kick.

Hang on Blackburn, don't get too giddy. The home side are almost caught napping as Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson tries to charge through the Rovers defence. But the England man is crowded out as a number of home shirts swarm over the ball in their 18-yard box.

Getty Images

I'm not sure what Blackburn had in their half-time tea - but I want some.

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson, BBC Match of the Day

"Free header. A very good header. He got in front of his marker.

"That will have made Brendan Rodgers put his thinking cap on. He will have told them to start brightly and it has been anything but."

GREAT SAVE!

AP

Blackburn fly out of the blocks - and the Championship side could be ahead! Liverpool keeper Simon Mignolet denies the home side twice in a matter of seconds to keep the visitors on terms.

The Belgian acrobatically tips over Tom Cairney's swerving 25-yarder for a corner, then reacts brilliantly to palm Ben Marshall's firm header on to the left-hand post from the resulting corner. Did Marshall's header clip the arm of Joe Allen on the way through? Very faintly - that would be a harsh penalty.

KICK-OFF

Liverpool have the honour - game on.

Fans shuffle back to their seats armed with hot pies, and both sets of players stroll out of the Ewood Park tunnel rehydrated. The second half is upon us...

What is more important for Liverpool? Finishing fourth in the Premier League or winning the FA Cup? Have your say by taking part in the BBC Sport vote on this page.

HALF-TIME

BBC

HALF-TIME

Any plans tonight? No? Good. Because one suspects that Blackburn will be happy to take this quarter-final to 120 minutes - and a penalty shootout. Although that might be a misguided tactic against Liverpool....

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Paul Walmsley: This pitch is awful. Championship quality? It's killing the game so far.

Daniel Kelly: All Liverpool need is a goal and this game should be killed off. They've been the better team, though Blackburn are doing well defensively.

Stuart Chawira: Watching Liverpool play, you just feel Blackburn will score soon. It is heart breaking. Liverpool have lost it.

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HALF-TIME

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

Reuters

"A mess of a first 45 minutes - but you suspect that Blackburn Rovers and manager Gary Bowyer will be reasonably pleased with that. Liverpool have had plenty of possession but very little in the way of serious threat."

HALF-TIME STATS

BBC

I should clarify that it is Liverpool who need a tactical rethink at the break - they haven't created enough clearcut chances for the amount of possession they have enjoyed.

Credit must go to Blackburn for their organisation and resilience, but they have not looked like slicing Liverpool open too often. Rovers boss Gary Bowyer will be happy enough though as he unfurls his masterplan in the home dressing room.

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson, BBC Match of the Day

"Blackburn can be really pleased with the first half. It has not been the most enthralling first 45 minutes but tactically they have really matched Liverpool."

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Liverpool have had a lot of possession, territorially almost all inside the Blackburn third. But they have done very little with the possession they have had, hardly threatening at all. They haven't been able to open up a really tough, rigid Blackburn back four.

"Daniel Sturridge has had his moments but other than that Liverpool have struggled to open up this defence. Comfortable really, for Blackburn."

HALF-TIME

Nope, is the answer to the question below. Liverpool go closest to nicking the opener though, right-back Glen Johnson again testing Rovers keeper Simon Eastwood with a skimmer. But Eastwood gathers and that is virtually the last touch of the first half. Time for a half-time orange and a tactical rethink.

The fourth official hoists his electronic board into the east Lancashire sky. And it indicates there will be one minute of injury-time. Can anyone - probably Liverpool - nab a half-time lead?

Reuters

Any hopes that Liverpool had of playing a slick passing game would have evaporated when they inspected the pitch before kick-off. It has not helped them - or the quality of this game. Pretty turgid.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"The bodies Blackburn are putting in front of them is making it really difficult for Liverpool to break them down. It's so hard for them to break through.

"If it stays like this Blackburn will be delighted. They will hope they can fashion another chance like the one Jordan Rhodes missed earlier on. If they take it then this could be a famous victory."

Still Liverpool push and probe, still Blackburn have plenty of numbers back to deal with the Premier League side's threat. Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho is the most likely to wave the magic wand for the away side, but sees another attempt blocked by a blue and white shirt.

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Paul Thompson: Toure is on. Come on Rovers, you won't get a better chance now.

Ryan Lloyd: Without Sakho's aerial prowess, Liverpool might be in trouble if Gestede comes on and it's still even.

Nathan Nicholls: Liverpool have had a fairly easy run in the FA Cup, but never made it easy for themselves.

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Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

"Blackburn Rovers substitute Rudy Gestede was cheered to the echo as he warmed up - and even with a slight hamstring injury he might fancy this even more with a Liverpool central defence of Dejan Lovren and Kolo Toure to contend with."

Moments after that effort, Philippe Coutinho has another pop. But this time his 20-yard strike flies harmlessly wide into the stand behind the goal. The ball seemed to take an unkind bounce off the bobbly Ewood Park pitch, just as he struck it.

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson, BBC Match of the Day

"That almost sneaked in. The goalkeeper can't have seen that until very late. The keeper did very well but a touch off Daniel Sturridge and that would have gone in."

GREAT SAVE!

EPA

All sorts of commotion in the Blackburn box. Home defender Alex Baptiste tries to head clear the Reds corner, while team-mate Lee Williamson swings a boot as the ball pings around. Philippe Coutinho seizes the moment and pounces to fire a low shot towards the bottom corner. But Simon Eastwood is alert, dropping low to his right to claw away from his net.

Another Liverpool corner as the Championship side's defence unconvincingly hack clear...

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"This hasn't been the best of quality up to now, has it? It's largely down to the pitch, with neither side able to get the ball down. Every pass is bobbling its way along, which is making close control hard for the players out there."

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Johnny Glenn: Brendan Rodgers says a top four place is near to impossible. He was talking about the FA Cup. Come on Blackburn!

Isa Zina: Liverpool are already making defensive mistakes - there's a reason they got slaughtered by Arsenal and United...

Aaron Mortimore: Blackburn will be very cautious defensively, but they way they've been playing they will be confident up front.

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Despite Liverpool hogging possession, the Premier League side haven't really put any dirt on Rovers keeper Simon Eastwood's gloves. Until now. Right-back Glen Johnson lashes towards the near post from a tight angle, before Daniel Sturridge tries his luck with a dipping effort from outside the box. But both are meat and drink for the home stopper.

Getty Images

Rovers midfielder Lee Williamson, sporting an impressive afro and beard combo, clatters into the back of Philippe Coutinho with an over-exuberant high challenge near the halfway line. Are we going to see the first card of the match? No. Referee Kevin Friend thinks a ticking off for Williamson is enough.

SUBSTITUTION

AFP

Mamadou Sakho is tapping out - he is out of the game. Kolo Toure, fresh from his shaky defensive display at Arsenal, scampers on to replace the Frenchman. The blood pressure of Liverpool fans everywhere goes up a touch...

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"He should have scored, Jordan Rhodes. He's got excellent movement inside the penalty area. A great ball in from the wing and what a big, big chance. A great opening for Rhodes and he should have hit the target. Blackburn should lead here."

AFP

Mamadou Sakho looks in a spot of bother. The Liverpool defender holds the back of his leg, before gingerly chasing back as Blackburn attack. His immobility allows Jordan Rhodes to find space, but the Scotland striker cannot keep his header down from Craig Conway's left-wing cross.

Daniel Sturridge wriggles into a little bit of space in the right channel of the Blackburn box, only to see a heavy touch allow Rovers skipper Matt Kilgallon to nip across and snuff out the danger.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

Getty Images

"Lots of scrappy sparring so far but Blackburn Rovers might just have liked the look of the confusion a routine long ball into Liverpool's box has already caused. Mamadou Sakho's hesitation was almost costly but the defender recovered to block Craig Conway.

"And, to put it politely, Raheem Sterling's good name is currently being trashed by Blackburn's fans."

Getty Images

We all know being a football manager is a stressful business - and even Brendan Rodgers, that affable Northern Irishman with the pearly white grin, is feeling the tension. Well, judging by this picture at least. Chill out Brendan, your team are looking good so far. Still the men in red hog possession...

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson

BBC Match of the Day

Getty Images

"Daniel Sturridge pulls the trigger so quickly. A minimum amount of backlift. His first thought - score!"

Reds skipper Jordan Henderson boots the left-wing corner deep - very deep in fact - to the far post where Philippe Coutinho is loitering. The Brazilian's shot is quickly charged down by a blue and white shirt, before Daniel Sturridge flashes one over the home net moments later.

Getty Images

After that scare, normal service is resumed. Liverpool have possession - they have enjoyed about 70% of the ball so far - and attempt to make inroads in the Blackburn half. Away corner...

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Sloppy defending from Sakho, who just had to clear his lines. Fortunately he did well to make the second challenge and make amends."

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson

BBC Match of the Day

"Liverpool got away with one there. Sakho was idling. You wonder if Blackburn will get a better opportunity than that..."

Mamadou Sakho - what are you doing?! The Liverpool centre-back dwells on a hopeful punt forward from Rovers - seemingly trying to shepherd the ball back to keeper Simon Mignolet. But the Belgian is on a different wavelength as Craig Conway almost nips in to embarrass France defender Sakho. If in doubt, get it out!

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Howard Mole: Liverpool's season is getting worse, and it's about to hit rock bottom...

Matthew Walsh: Reading v Blackburn final, please!

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Ah, a first sign of encouragement for the home fans. Tricky winger Ben Marshall puts on the afterburners on the left flank, but his cross cannot pick out the head of Jordan Rhodes.

EPA

A red shirt crumples to the Ewood pitch clutching his nose like he has just been on the end of Rocky Balboa's right hook. Albert Moreno is the man in question but I'm not sure why he went down. I'm sure it was accidental. And there is no claret either - the Spanish left-back will be fine.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"How are Liverpool going to react to their new back four? All of a sudden there are more changes in that part of their side. Are there going to be defensive frailties on show?"

Getty Images

Promising start from Liverpool, who look as though they want to bury Blackburn early doors. They don't fancy a late night in east Lancashire. Raheem Sterling lurks with intent inside the home box, collecting Daniel Sturridge's pass, but is unable to sting the palms of Rovers keeper Simon Eastwood.

CLOSE!

First chance of the match - and, unsurprisingly, it falls to Liverpool. Lucas lofts a high ball into the Blackburn box, which is met by the head of Rovers defender Alex Baptiste. But it goes as far as the feet of Joe Allen, who skews a volley wide from 15 yards.

The home fans are providing plenty of vocal support for their side - but their players have barely had a kick yet.

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James Bools: I want Blackburn to win, being an Manchester United fan, but I think Liverpool will win 2-0.

Mariam Kazmi: Liverpool can beat Blackburn. I really believe that they have it in them to win the game.

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Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"The priority now for Liverpool is winning this trophy. They must win it for this season to be deemed a success. Considering what they managed to do last season, and with the attacking quality in the side, their season is at risk of falling by the wayside if they lose tonight."

David Bowie's classic 'Heroes' pumped out of the Ewood Park sound system in the seconds before kick-off - quite apt as Gary Bowyer repeatedly talked about someone becoming a hero tonight.

Liverpool - as I, erm, suspected - are playing four at the back. Dejan Lovren has seen plenty of the ball in the early stages as the Reds keep possession at the back.

KICK-OFF

Foggy is all set - and so is referee Kevin Friend. He toots his whistle for the first time as Blackburn have the honour of starting the match. A Wembley date against Aston Villa is the prize remember...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

Empics

"All set for kick-off and former World Superbike champion and fanatical Blackburn Rovers supporter Carl Fogarty has just taken his seat in the stand."

LINE-UPS

Blackburn: Eastwood, Henley, Baptiste, Kilgallon, Olsson, Marshall, Evans, Conway, Williamson, Cairney, Rhodes. Subs: Spurr, Songo'o, Lenihan, Steele, Mahoney, Gestede, Nyambe.

Liverpool: Mignolet, Johnson, Lovren, Sakho, Moreno, Henderson, Lucas, Allen, Sterling, Sturridge, Coutinho. Subs: Jones, Toure, Lambert, Manquillo, Borini, Brannagan, Markovic.

Referee: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire)

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson stares ahead intently as the two teams line up in the tunnel - he is a picture of concentration. Henderson and Rovers counterpart Matt Kilgallon are given the nod to walk out in front of a packed Ewood Park. Almost show-time - he's a quick reminder of the line-ups....

BBC Radio 5 live

While the two sets of players shuffle into the Ewood Park tunnel, 5 live's commentary team of Kelly Cates and Kevin Kilbane are already in position. Listen live now.

@juliette_grace

Other gelatine-based sweet snacks are available at your local cornershop...

Reuters

Every single Blackburn player will have been dreaming last night about being the one who bags the winning goal to knock out Liverpool. And the likeliest candidate to be that man is Scotland striker Jordan Rhodes.

"Someone has got to be the hero for Blackburn Rovers," says Rovers boss Gary Bowyer.

"We will need heroes in terms of defending and work-rate, but we also need a matchwinner. And there is probably no-one better than Jordan Rhodes.

"Hopefully he can step up and have his name in lights."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Anthony Shaw: I am so up for this - we have nothing to lose and a trip to Wembley to gain! I think we can have them tonight. Come on Rovers!

Gerardo: Finishing below fourth, I'd rather take a trophyless season to avoid playing in the Europa League next term. But the final is Stevie's birthday...

Nevangelista: "Take me home, Jordan Rhodes, to the place, we belong, back to Wembley, Blackburn Rovers, take me home, Jordan Rhodes!"

Get involved using #bbcfootball on Twitter, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to include your name and location.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"It looks as though the top four has slipped away from Liverpool, so this game is hugely important. But Blackburn too, their season is also over if they lose today. And a lot of Blackburn's players will never have played at Wembley."

Pre-match manager chat

More from Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers on BT Sport: "In the last three months we have been excellent, but the last two games have been disappointing. We can't dwell on it too much and the players have looked sharp in training.

"We have got to avoid the season fizzling out. The cup is an objective for us - it's clear we're keen to win a trophy."

On the absence of Mario Balotelli: "He travelled and he trained well. But he fell ill last night and woke up not feeling great. The advice was to send him back."

Pre-match manager chat

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has a twinkle in his eye when he tells the BT Sport interviewer that he will have to "wait and see" whether the Reds play with three or four men at the back. I'm going with three...

Rodgers also says that Mario Balotelli is missing tonight because he is "not feeling well". Whether he was saying that with a straight face or not I could not possibly comment. But you or I would have to be very ill to miss an FA Cup quarter-final...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Getty Images

Glaze in Manchester: As a Rovers fan, call me an optimist but if Bradford can beat Chelsea at the Bridge and if Boro can beat City at the Etihad, then Blackburn can surely beat Liverpool at home.

Simon from Sussex: Good to see that Brendan has reacted to Saturday's "negative start" by selecting the same super-positive midfield pairing of Allen and Lucas...

Keith in Rochdale: If Liverpool reach the final, will Steven Gerrard be in the team?

Get involved using #bbcfootball on Twitter, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to include your name and location.

Helping Steven Gerrard end his Liverpool career with a dream win at Wembley is something which the Liverpool players can't "get away from", says fellow midfielder Joe Allen.

"That is something that drives us. We all feel we owe Steven a lot," adds the Welshman.

Earlier (see 19:22) my colleague Phil McNulty mentioned the state of the patchy Ewood Park pitch - but Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer reckons (with his tongue firmly in cheek, I think) claims it is "the best it has looked in a while". Hmmm I've seen better looking surfaces in the Doncaster Sunday Alliance League...

Pre-match manager chat

Blackburn manager Gary Bowyer on BT Sport: "I give a lot of passion in the dressing room, I play every ball when the match starts. Every manager is different but I'm very passionate and I love to get involved."

Most managers would be standing in the dressing room 25 minutes before kick-off, geeing up their players with a quiet word in the ear or running through the match tactics one final time. Some might even be sitting down and having a flick through the match programme.

Not Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer. He is stood on the Ewood Park touchline chatting to BT Sport's television pundits, including former Rovers heroes Chris Sutton and Robbie Savage. Remarkable scenes.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Ewood Park

Getty Images

"Ewood Park plays hosts to a sell-out crowd for the first time in four years for this FA Cup quarter-final replay between Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool - who are looking to this competition for salvation after their top four hopes were hit by successive defeats to Manchester United and Arsenal.

"This will be no easy task with Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer convinced they can pull off a shock and secure a semi-final against Aston Villa at Wembley.

"Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has had his reservations about the Anfield playing surface this season and he is unlikely to feel any more comfortable about an Ewood Park pitch that is patchy in parts. Some might call them classic FA Cup conditions."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Rich Shimmo: As a Liverpool fan, getting into the Champions League should be job number one. But we aren't strong enough to compete there at the moment, so FA Cup all the way!

Michael Griffin: I would genuinely be happy with fifth place in the Premier League and winning the FA Cup, a definite improvement on where we were only two years ago.

Jack Lofthouse: The Liverpool back three or four costs more than Blackburn's entire squad!

Get involved using #bbcfootball on Twitter, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to include your name and location.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Blackburn's side is full of enforced changes. Rudy Gestede would have started had he been fully fit, I'm sure of that. Up front, Liverpool are as good as any team in the country. Real attacking threat, and Blackburn will have trouble containing them.

"Jordan Rhodes is a top, top goalscorer, and if he gets just one chance tonight he could punish Liverpool."

Blackburn team news

Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer is looking to take the six-times winners into the semi-finals for the first time since 2007.

FA Cup keeper Simon Eastwood is one of three changes as midfielders Craig Conway and Corry Evans are included from the side that defeated Leeds on Saturday.

Spanish goalkeeper David Raya and midfielder Jay Spearing are cup-tied and striker Rudy Gestede is only deemed fit enough for the bench after suffering a hamstring injury at Elland Road.

Two of his fellow substitutes, Ryan Niyambi and Darragh Lenihan have never played a first-team game, whilst Connor Mahoney had made one appearance as a substitute. Not exactly strength in depth...

Text us on 81111

Andrew: Blackburn Rovers go into tonight's game in the perfect position, with absolutely nothing to lose. Liverpool carry all the pressure, while these Blackburn players have the chance to be heroes and book a trip to Wembley.

Laurie: Gerrard's birthday is on the day of the FA Cup final which will also be his last game for Liverpool (if Liverpool win tonight)? Steven Spielberg has been conspiring with God!

Get involved using #bbcfootball on Twitter, or drop us a line on the BBC Sport Facebook page. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - but please don't forget to include your name and location.

Get involved

Thanks Brendan for stating the obvious below (see 19:07) - I'm pretty sure every Liverpool fan would be a little more than disappointed if the Reds finished out of the top four AND failed to lift the FA Cup.

But which takes the priority for you? Tell us by tweeting #bbcfootball, texting 81111 or posting on our Facebook page. And that's also the place to pipe up with anything else (football-related) that you want to get off your chest.

Former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane

at Ewood Park for 5 live Sport

"Brendan Rodgers said in the build-up to this game that this season will have been one of progress if they can win this trophy.

"Liverpool's recent performances have been poor but their season can't just come to a halt. This is a big match for Liverpool tonight, and you would think that they will play really positively in order to try and beat Blackburn.

"But Rovers put in a really good defensive performance in the game at Anfield, so it won't be straightforward for the Premier League side."

Getty Images

Would winning the FA Cup make up for missing out on Champions League qualification? Or is finishing in the top four the sole indicator of a successful season for Liverpool? I don't think even Brendan Rodgers is totally sure - well, publicly at least.

"I don't want to go down the route of saying that it would save our season. Our objective at the start though was to win a trophy," says the Northern Irishman, who admitted after the Arsenal defeat the Reds' hopes of a top four finish were virtually over.

"So I think if we didn't get into the top four and we didn't have a trophy this year, we would be disappointed."

Liverpool team news

So Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers makes three changes to his starting line up from that embarrassing 4-1 thumping at Arsenal.

England striker Daniel Sturridge is the most eye-catching newcomer, replacing Lazar Markovic who drops to the bench.

With Emre Can joining Martin Skrtel and Steven Gerrard in missing out through suspension following his red card at the Emirates on Saturday, Glen Johnson earns a recall, joining Dejan Lovren in a new-look Reds defence.

The Croatian, like Johnson, starts his first game in a month at the expense of Kolo Toure.

Getty Images

Spot the empty seat at Ewood Park - because there will not be many. Tonight's match is a sell-out, with almost 28,000 fans expected as Blackburn fans pack out the stadium for the first time since 2011.

"We're talking about an extra 20,000 fans in the stadium," says Rovers boss Bowyer.

"Slowly but surely their interest has gone back into the team. It's great for us because it's the next stage for us to carry on growing."

Former Blackburn striker Kevin Gallacher

BBC Radio 5 live pundit

"The absence of Josh King is a massive loss for the hosts, what with all his pace.

"It would be nice for Blackburn to get to Wembley, because my old skipper Tim Sherwood is managing the semi-final opposition, Aston Villa. Plus it's the 20th anniversary this year of Blackburn winning the Premier League. I would love to see Blackburn going through."

Blackburn team news

Blackburn striker Rudy Gestede, who has scored 16 goals this season, is only fit enough for a place on the bench.

Blackburn starting XI: Eastwood, Henley, Baptiste, Kilgallon, Olsson, Conway, Williamson, Evans, Marshall, Cairney, Rhodes.

Former Blackburn striker Kevin Gallacher

BBC Radio 5 live pundit

"Liverpool's confidence, because of recent performances, will have taken a knock. But in football you've got to be aware of an injured animal.

"Liverpool will be smarting over that massive defeat to Arsenal and the weekend, and they will want to put things right straightaway. Brendan Rodgers, in his pre-match team-talk, won't have to say very much. How did it feel after that Arsenal? Were the players embarrassed? Could they look at themselves in the mirror afterwards?

"This is what Blackburn have to be aware of - it will be such a tough game."

@LFC/Twitter

And here's a sneak peek at the 11 shirts hung up inside the Liverpool dressing room at Ewood Park. Still waiting to hear the team news from the home side...

Liverpool team news - Sturridge starts

Big boost for Liverpool - England striker Daniel Sturridge returns to Brendan Rodgers' side.

Liverpool starting XI: Mignolet, Johnson, Lovren, Sakho, Lucas, Allen, Henderson, Moreno, Sterling, Coutinho, Sturridge.

Getty Images

Both sides had contrasting fortunes on Easter weekend - Liverpool suffering an embarrassment at Premier League rivals Arsenal, while Blackburn battered their hosts Leeds in the Championship.

Liverpool's hopes of Champions League qualification were all but ended by the 4-1 defeat at the Emirates, placing even more significance on FA Cup success.

Victory for Blackburn and it is season over for the Reds. Aston Villa await in the Wembley semi-final remember....

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC Radio 5 live is the place to be for audio coverage from Ewood Park.

Kelly Cates - daughter of Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, of course, as well as a top broadcaster in her own right - hosts all the build-up in 5 live Sport from 19:00 GMT, with the commentary team of Alan Green and former Everton and Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane taking the helm from 19:45 through to... well, who knows when?

Enjoy it all by listening via the top of this page, the BBC iPlayer Radio and BBC Sport apps, digital television or radio or on 909 and 693 medium-wave across the land.

Reuters

But the first draft of that Gerrard-inspired script could be torn up and dumped in the bin by the end of tonight. That's if Championship side Blackburn have anything to do with it.

Rovers claimed a gritty 0-0 draw in the original tie at Anfield last month, earning the chance to end the Liverpool midfielder's hopes of a fairytale finish on their own patch.

And the ex-England skipper cannot even help his own cause. He is suspended.

Getty Images

If you think likening Steven Gerrard's final hurrah to a slick US military operation is a bit strong, think again. The Red Army has been mobilised. Thousands of Liverpool supporters have been talking, tweeting, and scrawling the slogan on dirty old white tablecloths.

In case you've been living under a stone for the last few months - here's a reminder why:

Liverpool captain Gerrard's match for the Merseyside club, before jetting off to sunnier climes on the west coast of the United States, would be the FA Cup final at Wembley. On his 35th birthday.

That's the kind of script that would have Hollywood movie producers salivating....

PA

Operation code name:Get Gerrard to Wembley

Key personnel:Steven Gerrard, Brendan Rodgers, Jordan Henderson

The objective:To make sure one of the club's greatest players signs off with another successful assignment

Next mission:Ewood Park, Blackburn

Duration of mission: Either 90 or 120 minutes. Possible shootout