Stoke City Battles Back to Earn Draw Against Blackburn

Blackburn midfielder Adam Forshaw scored his first goal since February 2025, giving his team the lead in the 21st minute. However, Stoke City equalized in the 56th minute with a goal from Jesurun Rak-Sakyi. The match ended 1-1, with Stoke finishing with 10 men after Ash Phillips was sent off. Forshaw's goal was his third in a decade and just his second since April 2016. Blackburn manager Michael O'Neill, who previously managed Stoke, saw his team take a deserved lead in the first half. Despite being down, Stoke responded well, with Sam Gallagher seeing a goal-bound effort cleared off the line. Stoke started the second half positively and were rewarded with their equalizer. The draw leaves Blackburn four points above the relegation zone. Stoke manager Mark Robins acknowledged the fans' disappointment but emphasized the need for patience and unity. Blackburn's Michael O'Neill was pleased with the point, noting that every point is crucial in their fight for survival.