Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has spoken about the controversial late penalty that denied his side an opening day win at Wolves. The Super Eagles player, named Man of the Match, saw a handball given against him in stoppage time to allow Raul Jimenez to equalise for a 2-2 draw at Molineux on Friday, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
Referee Farai Hallam awarded the spot-kick after a cross from Jackson Tchatchoua struck Alebiosu's arm, with replays suggesting the contact occurred outside the penalty area. Without VAR in the EFL, the decision stood. Wolves had taken an early lead through Marshall Munetsi before Sean McLoughlin equalised for Rovers from a Ryoya Morishita cross. Andri Gudjohnsen then put the visitors ahead three minutes after half-time, only for Jimenez's penalty to salvage a point for the hosts.
What did Ryan Alebiosu say about the penalty?
The 24-year-old, who played the full 90 minutes, expressed his frustration after the match. He admitted the team felt hard done by the crucial call. "We're frustrated. The boys have done everything to get the three points," Alebiosu said. "The ball has been played, and I thought I was outside the box. Obviously the decision has gone against us."
Despite the disappointment, Alebiosu praised his teammates' effort and remained positive about the season ahead. He stated that maintaining the level of performance shown against Wolves would see the team challenge higher up the table. Blackburn's next match is at home to Middlesbrough, a fixture you can view on our fixtures page.
How did Tony Mowbray react to the decision?
Blackburn coach Tony Mowbray, returning to the club for a second spell, was also unconvinced by the penalty award. After reviewing still images, he believed the incident took place outside the area. "Having watched the still pictures, it looks outside the box to me," Mowbray said. "If it hits him on the hand and it is away from his body, I suppose in modern-day football (it is a penalty)."
The draw means Mowbray was denied a winning start in his first competitive game back in charge. The team showed resilience to come from behind and take the lead, a positive sign for the campaign. You can see how the squad is shaping up by checking our squad list.
What does this mean for Blackburn's season start?
Earning a point away at Molineux is a solid result, but the manner of the draw will leave a sense of two points dropped. The performance, particularly in fighting back from a goal down, provides a platform. Alebiosu's comments highlight a determined group ready to compete.
The team created chances through Gudjohnsen and McLoughlin, demonstrating an attacking threat. Defensively, they were largely organised until the late controversy. Building on this display will be key when they host Middlesbrough at Ewood Park next weekend. Fans can follow the team's progress in the standings as the season develops.
Blackburn's current squad depth will be tested throughout a long Championship season. Integrating new signings and maintaining consistency are the immediate challenges for Mowbray and his staff. The point on the road is a foundation, but converting strong performances into wins is the next step.
