Stoke City Holds Off Blackburn to Secure a 1-1 Draw

Blackburn Rovers moved closer to Championship survival with a 1-1 draw against 10-man Stoke City. Adam Forshaw's rare goal gave Rovers the lead, but Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalized for the hosts. Former Blackburn defender Ash Phillips was sent off late in the game. The result means Rovers remain four points above the relegation zone. Forshaw's 21st-minute goal was his first since February 2025 and only his third in a decade. Stoke City manager Mark Robins acknowledged the fans' frustration but emphasized the need for patience and unity in their quest for improvement. Meanwhile, Blackburn boss Michael O'Neill expressed satisfaction with the point, citing the difficulty of the fixture and the team's current unbeaten run.