Stoke City Holds Off Blackburn Rovers with 1-1 Draw

Adam Forshaw scored his first goal since February 2025, giving Blackburn a 1-1 draw against 10-man Stoke City. Forshaw's 21st-minute goal marked his third in a decade, but it was enough to secure only a point for Michael O'Neill's side. Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalized for Stoke City after 56 minutes. Stoke City finished with 10 men after Ash Phillips was dismissed for a second bookable offense. The draw keeps Blackburn four points above the relegation zone. Forshaw's goal came after a decisive counterattack, where he curled in Ryan Alebiosu's cut-back from 20 yards. Despite being down, Stoke City responded well, with Sam Gallagher's goal-bound effort being cleared off the line by Eiran Cashin. Stoke City started the second half positively and was rewarded with their equalizer after good hustling by Eric Bocat. Moussa Baradji retaliated from long distance, but Gavin Bazunu saved comfortably. Substitute Lamine Cisse had the chance to win it for Stoke City late on but hit it straight at the keeper. Stoke City manager Mark Robins expressed his disappointment, stating that the team needs Championship-ready players to achieve promotion. Blackburn manager Michael O'Neill emphasized the importance of every point, saying that his team must take their current form and belief into the remaining four games.