Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Stoke City: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes' post-match review of Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Stoke City in the Championship on Saturday, 04 October 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, that was a nail-biter at Ewood Park, wasn't it? Blackburn Rovers managed to salvage a 1-1 draw against Stoke City, a result that might feel like a point gained after their recent form. The topmost result in their recent outings is this very match, showing a much-needed halt to their losing streak. Rovers had been struggling, with losses in three of their last four games, so this point could be a small boost. On the other hand, Stoke City, who've been drawing a lot lately, will be slightly disappointed not to have nicked all three points.

The game was a real battle, with both teams showing grit and determination. Blackburn's late equaliser in the 82nd minute by an unnamed hero kept their spirits up, especially after a tough run of results. Stoke, sitting comfortably in third, might feel they let a golden opportunity slip, but they remain unbeaten in their last four. It was a game where both teams had their moments, and in the end, a draw was probably a fair reflection of the play.

Looking at the stats, it's clear both teams had their chances. Stoke edged possession with 53% to Blackburn's 47%, but it was Rovers who had the slight upper hand in corners, with 7 to Stoke's 6. What stands out is Stoke's superior dribbling, with a 73% success rate compared to Blackburn's 55%. Despite these figures, the game ended level, suggesting that while Stoke might have controlled the ball more, Blackburn were more effective in the final third.

The match was fairly disciplined, with both teams picking up just one yellow card each. The number of substitutions, four for each side, indicates both managers were trying to find that winning formula. Overall, the stats show a closely contested match, and the draw feels like a justified outcome based on the numbers.

The key moment for Blackburn came in the 82nd minute when they managed to find the back of the net. This late goal was crucial, turning what could have been a defeat into a draw and lifting the spirits of the home fans. It was a moment of brilliance that showcased Rovers' resilience, especially after a tough run of form.

For Stoke, their goal came early in the second half, in the 49th minute. This strike put them in the lead and looked like it might be enough to secure the win. However, their inability to hold onto that lead will be a point of frustration, especially given their strong position in the league. Both goals were pivotal, shaping the narrative of a hard-fought draw.

Blackburn lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Balázs Tóth in goal and a back four of Ryan Alebiosu, Lewis Miller, Sean McLoughlin, and Yuri Ribeiro. The midfield was anchored by Sondre Tronstad and Taylor Gardner-Hickman, with Ryoya Morishita, Todd Cantwell, and Ryan Hedges supporting Andri Gudjohnsen up top. No real surprises in the lineup, but the late goal suggests someone stepped up when it mattered most.

The four substitutions made by Jon Dahl Tomasson indicate he was looking for a spark, and it paid off with the equaliser. While individual performances weren't highlighted, the team's effort to come back from a goal down speaks volumes about their character and determination.

Stoke City also opted for a 4-2-3-1, with Viktor Johansson between the sticks and a defense of Junior Tchamadeu, Ashley Phillips, Ben Wilmot, and Aaron Cresswell. The midfield duo of Tomas Rigo and Tatsuki Seko provided the base, with Million Manhoef, Jun-ho Bae, and Sorba Thomas behind striker Divin Mubama. The lineup was solid, but they couldn't hold onto their lead.

Alex Neil made four substitutions, trying to maintain control after taking the lead. While the team's performance was commendable, the late equaliser will be a sore point. Manhoef's goal was a highlight, but the team will need to regroup and focus on maintaining leads in future games.

Million Manhoef earns the Ladbrokes' Man of the Match title, and rightly so. His goal in the 49th minute was a moment of quality that put Stoke in the lead. Despite not registering any assists or big chances created, his key pass and the impact of his goal were significant enough to earn him this accolade. Well done, Million!

Recent Championship matches:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Stoke City (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Swansea City (H)

• Loss: 0-3 vs Charlton Athletic (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Watford (A)

• Loss: 0-2 vs Norwich City (H)

Recent Championship matches:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Blackburn Rovers (A)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Middlesbrough (A)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Norwich City (H)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Queens Park Rangers (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Birmingham City (H)

Sitting in 21st place with just 7 points, Blackburn Rovers face a tough challenge next when they take on league leaders Coventry City on October 18, 2025, at 15:00. This draw might give them a bit of confidence, but they'll need to be at their best to get anything from this game. A solid performance could help them start climbing the table.

Stoke City, currently in 3rd with 15 points, will look to bounce back when they face Wrexham, who are in 16th with 10 points, on October 18, 2025, at 15:00. The draw against Blackburn might sting a bit, but they remain in a strong position. They'll need to focus on maintaining leads to keep pushing for the top spots.

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