Super Eagles defender Ryan Alebiosu expressed his frustration after a controversial late penalty overshadowed his impressive performance for Blackburn Rovers in their 2-2 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian defender earned the Player of the Match award after producing an assured display at right-back as Blackburn began their 26/27 EFL Championship campaign with a point at Molineux.
Blackburn looked on course for all three points after goals from Sean McLoughlin and Andri Gudjohnsen overturned Marshall Munetsi’s early opener for Wolves. However, the hosts received a lifeline deep into stoppage time when a Jackson Tchatchoua cross struck Alebiosu’s arm.
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Referee Farai Hallam pointed to the spot, with summer signing Raul Jimenez making no mistake from 12 yards to rescue a 2-2 draw for Wolves. Speaking after the game, Alebiosu felt the decision should have gone Blackburn’s way, insisting he believed the incident happened outside the penalty area.
“We’re frustrated, the boys have done everything to get the three points,” Alebiosu said, per quotes on The Guardian.
“The ball has been played and I thought I was outside the box… obviously the decision has gone against us.”
The 25-year-old was also keen to focus on Blackburn’s overall performance, suggesting the team can challenge strongly in the Championship if they maintain the same level.
“The boys dug deep and we thought we had it. Just the final details with the penalty is frustrating. If we play like that every week we’ll go far in the table.”
Alebiosu’s display was particularly encouraging given the quality of opposition, with the full-back showing confidence both defensively and when Blackburn had possession.
The result ultimately denied Blackburn a perfect start, but the performance provided plenty of encouragement for Tony Mowbray’s side.
For Alebiosu, his impressive start to the season offers an ideal platform to build on as he looks to establish himself as one of Blackburn’s key players during the new Championship campaign.
