Blackburn strengthened their promotion push after Danny Graham's header on his 100th appearance for the club secured a 1-0 win over Southend.
Graham's 16th this season earned the leaders their fourth straight victory, and moves them four points clear of third-placed Shrewsbury.
Southend's top scorer Simon Cox had the first real chance of the game, with a neat volley that David Raya dived through a flurry of bodies to save.
At the other end, Craig Conway lashed over and Graham should have done better with an effort that Mark Oxley saved.
Blackburn increased the tempo in the second half, which saw Jack Payne's effort blocked and Graham fire straight at Oxley after a swift break.
He made up for that miss in the 59th minute, when he met Conway's inch-perfect cross at the far post to head home.
Raya made a stunning save late on to prevent Charlie Mulgrew's clearance finding the net and the ball was hacked off the line to secure a vital win.
League One News
Ipswich and Plymouth pay tribute to Paul Mariner
Two of Paul Mariner's former clubs come together for a minute's applause ahead of kick off.
Newcastle's FA Cup shocker as League One Cambridge claim superb win
Newcastle United suffered a humiliating 1-0 home defeat by third-tier Cambridge United on a day of FA Cup shocks in the third round.
Manchester United first-team coach Kieran McKenna takes over at League One Ipswich Town
Manchester United first team coach Kieran McKenna has been appointed manager of League One Ipswich Town, the club said on Thursday.
Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton charged with assault after woman injured
Joey Barton is due to appear in court on Monday after he was charged with assault by beating, the Metropolitan Police said.
USMNT great Landon Donovan takes role with League One club Lincoln City
USMNT great Landon Donovan will join English club Lincoln City as a strategic advisor as part of a new investment deal.
Kenny Dougall fires Blackpool back into Championship
Kenny Dougall's two excellent strikes were enough to secure Blackpool promotion back into the Championship.