Stoke City Holds Off Blackburn to Secure a Draw

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 put Rovers in the lead, but Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalized for Stoke City in the 56th minute. Stoke City finished the game with 10 men after Ash Phillips was dismissed for a second bookable offense. The draw brings Blackburn four points above the relegation zone. Forshaw's goal was his third in a decade and came after a decisive counterattack. Stoke City's Sam Gallagher had a goal-bound effort cleared off the line, while Eric Bocat's shot was blocked by Eiran Cashin. Rak-Sakyi's equalizer came after good work by Eric Bocat and Million Manhoef. 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 City late on but hit his shot straight at stranded keeper Balazs Toth. Stoke City manager Mark Robins reflected on the fans' disappointment, stating that the team needs Championship-ready players to achieve promotion. Blackburn manager Michael O'Neill emphasized that his team cannot rely on others for favors and must take their form and belief into the remaining four games.