Blackburn Rovers are considering whether to challenge the EFL’s decision to order a full replay of their abandoned Championship clash with Ipswich Town.
Saturday’s fixture at Ewood Park was halted in the 79th minute when referee Stephen Martin deemed the rain-soaked pitch unplayable. At that point, Blackburn were 1-0 up through Todd Cantwell’s penalty and had the numerical advantage after Ipswich defender Jacob Greaves had been dismissed for hauling down Yuki Ohashi earlier in the half.
Head coach Valérien Ismaël argued that Rovers should have been awarded the victory, insisting it would have been “the fair thing to do” given the state of play when the game was stopped. He also highlighted match data which he claimed showed his side were in complete control after the red card.
Blackburn were understood to be open to the idea of completing the final 10 minutes against 10 men. Ipswich, however, pushed for a full replay with both teams starting from scratch, and the EFL ultimately sided with the Tractor Boys.
The governing body said their verdict “follows recent precedents relating to abandoned fixtures” and stressed the need to protect “the integrity of the League competition.” They also noted that the three Championship representatives on the panel, including Norwich City executive director Zoe Webber, abstained from voting due to conflicts of interest.
Blackburn hit back at “unfair” outcome
In a strongly-worded statement on Thursday, Blackburn expressed their disappointment and confirmed they are exploring all possible responses, including an appeal.
“Blackburn Rovers regrets that the EFL Board has ruled that the fixture against Ipswich Town must be replayed in full,” the statement read.
“At the time of abandonment, Rovers were leading 1-0 and had a one-man advantage, leaving us on course to secure another vital Championship win. The outcome of the EFL’s review fails to take into account the significant advantages we held on the day.
“Whilst we respect the process undertaken, we strongly believe this decision does not reflect the circumstances and we will now seek further clarity, including consideration of a formal appeal.”
Sporting integrity or lost opportunity?
While Blackburn feel robbed of three points, the EFL’s stance is that Ipswich still had time and quality to chase an equaliser, with over 10 minutes plus stoppage time left to play.
It was an unenviable call with few precedents to follow, but in the eyes of the league, replaying the game is the only way to ensure fairness — even if it leaves Blackburn frustrated and questioning the process.