Half-Time Report: Mark Hudson heads Cardiff City in front at Ewood Park

Championship leaders Cardiff City have a 1-0 half-time lead over Blackburn Rovers in this evening's game at Ewood Park.

Mark Hudson headed in powerfully with 30 minutes played to give the visitors the advantage going into the second half.

© PA Photos

Jordan Rhodes had an early opportunity for the hosts, but the striker hesitated when through on goal before he was closed down by the visiting defence.

Martin Olsson came to Blackburn's rescue minutes later as he cleared the ball from under his own bar from Craig Noone's effort.

Cardiff soon had the better of the possession and Grant Hanley needed to be alert as he cut out Noone's dangerous cross towards Heidar Helguson.

The away side eventually made the breakthrough on 30 minutes thanks to Hudson's thumping header past Paul Robinson following another teasing delivery from Noone.

Cardiff came within inches of doubling their lead in the final moments of the half as Craig Bellamy's drive came back off the crossbar.