Stoke City Battles Back to Draw with Blackburn

Adam Forshaw scored his third goal in ten years, giving Blackburn a 1-1 draw against 10-man Stoke City. Forshaw's 21st-minute goal marked his first since February 2025 and only his second since April 2016. However, Stoke City equalized in the 56th minute with a goal from Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, on loan from Crystal Palace. The match ended with Stoke City down a player after Ash Phillips was dismissed for a second bookable offense. This draw brings Blackburn four points above the relegation zone. Forshaw's goal was a notable moment, as he curled in a shot from 20 yards after Ryan Alebiosu's cut-back. Stoke City's Sam Gallagher had a goal-bound effort cleared off the line, and Eric Bocat's shot was blocked by Eiran Cashin. In the second half, Stoke City's Million Manhoef ran at the Blackburn defense, crossing the ball into the six-yard area for Rak-Sakyi to score. Moussa Baradji retaliated with a long-distance shot, but Gavin Bazunu saved comfortably. Substitute Lamine Cisse had the chance to win the game for Stoke City but hit the ball straight at the stranded goalkeeper. Stoke City's manager, Mark Robins, addressed the fans' disappointment, reminding them that the team is still in a rebuilding process. Blackburn's manager, Michael O'Neill, expressed his satisfaction with the point earned, considering it a difficult away game, and emphasized the importance of taking the current form and belief into the remaining four games.