A quickfire double by Robbie Fowler inspired Leeds United to a 3-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road today that kept alive their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
The England striker scored twice in the first eight minutes as David O'Leary's side moved to within five points of fourth-placed Newcastle United, who occupy the last Champions League qualifying spot at present.
It was only sixth-placed Leeds' second win in 12 games and left League Cup winners Blackburn fifth from bottom, only two points above the relegation zone.
Fowler raced through from inside his own half to put Leeds in front after five minutes and then converted an Alan Smith cross three minutes later despite Rovers' appeals for offside.
The 26-year-old has now scored 11 goals in 16 games since his surprise move from Liverpool last November.
Blackburn, minus the suspended Andy Cole, pulled one back four minutes into the second half through Matt Jansen after a horrendous mix-up between Leeds captain Rio Ferdinand and his defensive partner Jonathan Woodgate.
For a while Blackburn threatened an equaliser but Australian Harry Kewell made sure of the points for Leeds with a searing low drive in the 71st-minute after Rovers were caught out at the back.