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 was his third in a decade and put Rovers on track for a crucial win. However, Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalized for Stoke after 56 minutes.
The match ended with Stoke a man down following Ash Phillips' dismissal for a second bookable offense. The result keeps Blackburn four points above the drop zone, while Stoke's fans continue to face familiar foes, with Rovers boss Michael O'Neill being the fourth former manager they've encountered this season. O'Neill enjoyed his return to Stoke in the first half as Blackburn took a deserved lead. Forshaw's goal was a rare highlight in his goalscoring record, and it rounded off a decisive counterattack.
Stoke responded well despite a hit-and-miss display, with Sam Gallagher seeing a goal-bound effort cleared off the line. The equalizer came in the second half, with Rak-Sakyi bundling home a cross. The former Charlton striker almost doubled his tally but curled his shot wide.
Moussa Baradji retaliated from long distance, but Gavin Bazunu saved comfortably. Substitute Lamine Cisse had a chance to win it for Stoke late on but hit his shot straight at the keeper. Stoke manager Mark Robins acknowledged fans' disappointment, emphasizing the need for Championship-ready players and reminding them that the season is a process. Blackburn's Michael O'Neill expressed satisfaction with the point, noting that every point is crucial in their survival bid.