A late goal by substitute Harry Leonard ensured Blackburn Rovers salvaged a point in a pulsating 2-2 draw against Sunderland at Ewood Park.
The hosts took the lead early in the first half through Yuki Ohashi’s composed finish, only for Sunderland to overturn the deficit with two quickfire second-half goals from teenager Chris Rigg and Wilson Isidor. Leonard, however, struck in the 90th minute to cap off a dramatic match in front of 24,961 fans.
First-Half Domination by Blackburn
Blackburn started brightly, controlling the opening period with fluid attacking play. Despite missing key players Lewis Travis and Harry Pickering through injury, John Eustace’s side looked sharp. Tyrhys Dolan was at the heart of Blackburn’s early threat, creating several chances and forcing Sunderland’s defence to work hard.
The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when Dolan’s run led to a goalmouth scramble, and Ohashi pounced to slot home after two deflections. Rovers nearly extended their lead with efforts from Dolan and Ryan Hedges, but Sunderland’s goalkeeper Anthony Patterson was equal to the task. An offside flag denied Dolan from doubling the lead as Blackburn continued to dominate.
Sunderland’s Rapid Response
Sunderland emerged from the interval with renewed energy, striking twice in four minutes to turn the game around. Chris Rigg equalised in the 51st minute, capitalising on a deflected cross from Luke O’Nien to steer the ball home. Just minutes later, Wilson Isidor produced a moment of brilliance, back-heeling Patrick Roberts’ cutback past Aynsley Pears to give the visitors the lead.
The Black Cats had opportunities to seal the game, with Chris Mepham and Jobe Bellingham both going close. Jude Bellingham, watching from the stands, nearly witnessed his younger brother score, but the chance went begging.
Leonard’s Late Heroics
With time running out, Blackburn found their equaliser through Leonard. Substitute Makhtar Gueye nodded a cross into the path of Leonard, who fired in his first goal of the season to rescue a point for Rovers. Sunderland pushed for a winner, but Pears made a crucial injury-time save to deny Eliezer Mayenda.
Blackburn head coach John Eustace reflected on his team’s resilience:
“I thought we played some fantastic football in the first half, it could have been more, and we need to be more clinical. Second half we came out a little bit slow against a top team in Sunderland… I’m just delighted we never gave up and came away at least with a point.”
Writer’s View
This match showcased the quality and determination of both teams as they battle for promotion. Sunderland’s quick turnaround after halftime highlights their attacking prowess, while Blackburn’s persistence underlines their depth and fighting spirit.
