Blackburn Rovers manager Gary Bowyer said: "It was an absolutely phenomenal effort from our lads playing against a world-class team and they restored some pride in the club today.
"We always knew it was going to be a very difficult challenge but the spirit that they have and the character they are developing because it's a young squad that is improving but you could see the unity they have together.
"That has been important for us throughout the season. I have nothing but pride and praise for them.
"It would be wrong to single out individuals but on this occasion, and the fact that Paul has not played for so long, he made some crucial saves for us in the second half and his experience helped us massively."