Stoke Fight Back to Earn Draw Against Blackburn

Blackburn's Adam Forshaw scored his first goal since February 2025, giving his team the lead in the 21st minute. However, Stoke's Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalized in the 56th minute, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Stoke finished the game with 10 men after Ash Phillips was sent off for a second bookable offense. The draw brings Blackburn four points above the relegation zone. Forshaw's goal was a rare occurrence, as it was only his third in a decade. The goal came after a decisive counter-attack, which was finished with a quality shot by Forshaw. Stoke had their chances, with Sam Gallagher's effort being cleared off the line and Eric Bocat's shot being blocked. The equalizer came after good work by Bocat, who gave Million Manhoef the opportunity to run at the Blackburn defense. Rak-Sakyi then bundled the ball home from close range. The game ended with both teams having chances to win, but ultimately settling for a draw. Stoke manager Mark Robins addressed the fans' disappointment, stating that the team is in a process and needs to be patient. Blackburn manager Michael O'Neill emphasized the importance of every point, as his team remains unbeaten in five games and looks to take that form into the remaining four games.