by Simon Hough
... our very own Roving Reporter!

For seventy minutes this looked every bit a meaningless end of season game. Southampton looked like a team relieved of the threat of relegation and should have been more than just the single goal in front. They played with a freedom that our midfield struggled to deal with and created a number of chances that should have been converted.

At the other end, we struggled to get going with the normally reliable Cohen even having a day to forget. Moussi looked like a non-league player amongst professionals whilst Earnshaw missed any chances that came our way.

Not for the first time this season, the attitude of Joe Garner turned the game in our favour. Smith’s long kick was headed on by Anderson for Garner to lob their keeper for the second time this season. In the latter stages, Cohen’s corner was met by Chambers header which flew past their keeper.

There was still time for Smith to arrive from nowhere to turn one effort round the post before Earnshaw scored with the last kick of the season after Davies should have scored.

The hard work starts now to create a side worthy of this division without having to rely on another succession of loan signings. The late arrivals of Blackstock, Gunter, Osbourne and Turner all made a positive impact on this season but we should be aiming to start next season with players of this quality.

Smith didn’t have much to do but produced one outstanding save late in the game to preserve our lead. Has improved in the latter stages of the season and recovered well to take over once Turner was injured. It’s essential that we have competition for the keepers spot next season and not rely on one pro and a couple of kids. Turner’s arrival at least provided this competition and the penalty save at Barnsley earned us a massive point.

Gunter and Lynch have shown their obvious qualities and should be retained if possible next season. Both have the ability to defend effectively whilst getting forward to support the attack. The days of continued aimless balls downfield have become a thing of the past. MOTM Lynch has improved as the season has progressed whilst Gunter settled into this position from the moment he arrived and looks like he’s been here for years.

Breckin deserved the decent goodbye he received after a series of reliable seasons. Davies rescued him from the transfer list and he regained his place to do a decent job when required. There have been occasions when he’s been found lacking in pace but in contrast to Wilson he’s been a calming influence on our defence this season.

Chambers produced another composed display and has done more than enough in the past few weeks to justify his inclusion next season. He should be judged on his centre back performances and not the full back ones. Once played in his correct position, his quality is starting to win over the fans quick to criticise earlier in the season. His ability to find space from attacking set pieces is another useful asset.

Morgan had another outstanding season and managed to almost eradicate those frustrating errors that seemed to hold him back for so long. Wilson never really lived up to the promised of last season, too often cruising through games and lacking the application for someone with otherwise great attributes for the game. Perch should also be challenging for a defensive spot next season and hopefully he’s moved away from the midfield spot he’s taken up so often this time.

Moussi looked out of place and on this performance will have to vastly improve on his displays to retain a place last season. He showed his quality at the start of the season but these types of performances soon became the norm instead of the exception. It’s still too early to write him off having been restricted by injury for large spells. Osbourne would have a massive influence next season and his presence was badly missed.

Cohen had a poor afternoon but has fully justified the player of the season award that came his way. We would easily have been relegated without him. Just one of those games where his flicks didn’t find their target. Hopefully we’ll see the benefit of his attitude and running by him playing in the centre of midfield instead of stuck out wide. With a few more goals, we’d have a player of real quality on our hands and should be in contention to take over from Breckin as club captain.

McGugan was his normal frustrating self in the first half passing up opportunities to release team mates in better positions. Much improved in the second half where he looked much more like a team player and tackled back after losing the ball. After question marks over his fitness, needs to return next season in much better shape and with a team attitude.

McCleary struggled on this occasion but has done enough to show that he possesses qualities short in our squad. Raw pace, good attitude and an ability to take on defenders will make him a decent option from the bench next season.

Anderson has been a reliable performer this season with his contributions at both ends. Needs to add more goals to his final product but more than justified the effort we put into adding him to the squad for the season. His effort and commitment will be sadly missed if he’s not around next time.

Blackstock worked tirelessly for the team and would be a major asset if we can get him permanently. A hard working, footballing centre forward who would bring out the best in Earnshaw as they have shown on occasions.

Earnshaw did remarkably well to contribute 16 goals during an injury affected season in a side often struggling in the relegation zone. With a partner alongside him to share the work load, we’d see an even better return.

Garner has been used sparingly at times this season but still showed enough to prove that he’ll be challenging for a first team place next season. After recovering from serious injury and missing the last pre-season, he should be even better next time around.

For long spells we struggled to settle in this league as our squad’s lack of quality and depth were regularly exposed. However, Billy Davies' influence and some impressive late loan signings gave us the momentum we needed to stay up. We now look forward to next season with optimism.

Tags: MOTM Joel Lynch

Another valuable point from a decent away performance which leaves our fate in our own hands... Read More...

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Luke Chambers

A few surprises in the starting XI with Perch at left back and Chambers at centre half in the absence of Lynch and Wilson. Neither let anyone down and made a real impression on the game... Read More...

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Luke Chambers

The improving team spirit and determination was there for all to see with a battling point despite having to play for the majority with ten men... Read More...

Tags: MOTM Isaiah Osbourne, Games Drawn

This was one of those rare magical days that makes watching Forest worth every minute. For so long we found ourselves out played by a Bristol City and barely looked like picking up even a point.

Things turned in our favour with three important substitutions, each of the replacements making a positive impression on the game.

Their keeper tried to waste time and threw the ball out for himself to receive treatment. Gunter threw the ball to their full back and then charged down the clearance. The same player pulled Gunter to the floor and deserved the second yellow card. This incident combined with Garner’s arrival turned the game in our favour.

From the resulting free kick, McGugan found Garner perfectly to score with a neat header. These two players plus McCleary were providing City with plenty of problems with their pace and movement. Garner in particular looked like he had a point to prove having not played for so long.

Forest weren’t happy with a point and continued to press forward and with other results going in our favour, McCleary crossed from the right a couple of headers in the area kept the ball alive and Blackstock produced a stunning finish to complete the fightback.

Turner had a game to forget, missing one cross which led to a simple opener and then needlessly raced off his line only for their header to drop into an empty net. However, one low save with his right boot kept us in the game when conceding another would have given us no chance.

The starting line-up didn’t provide enough creativity in midfield with the Perch/Moussi combination never looking like working. Moussi struggled to make any impression and Perch dropped too deep and gave the ball away as soon as he’d won it back. As usual MOTM Cohen led by example throughout and predictably we looked a different side with him in the centre.

Earnshaw seemed to be struggling with injury but found that moment of quality to get us back into the game. Blackstock has fitted in pretty well and showed his class with the perfect finale.

Tags: MOTM Chris Cohen, Games Won

The game started positively and we looked in control in the first half hour. Osbourne and Cohen were dominate in midfield with Barnsley struggling to make an impression... Read More...

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Isaiah Osbourne

A third straight defeat but an improved defensive display provided some positives before the last phase of the season... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Wes Morgan

On the basis of this performance, we look set for a quick return to League One. Burnley barely had to break sweat for their five goal victory as Forest collapsed after another Smith error. After the terrible second half at Watford, you’d expect a reaction from the players but things just got even worse... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Isaiah Osbourne

For once, we started really well and forced Swansea back in the early stages. Earnshaw should have scored in the first minute from Chambers’ pull-back and then Anderson cut inside and saw his left foot shot flash narrowly wide. Osbourne hit the bar after a one-two with Moussi and then McSheffrey should have scored from Lynch’s left wing cross right on half time...
Read More...

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Chris Cohen

First half was poor with both teams affected by the constant downpour and Forest tended to stand off Preston for too long. We threatened with a few long range efforts but never really got behind their defence... Read More...

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Chris Cohen

The Moose is back and very much on fire... Read More...

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Guy Moussi

Derby weren’t great but were still easily the better side and put us right back in trouble... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Robert Earnshaw

The old failings are there for all to see... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Lewis McGugan

Just the sort of experience you’d expect from a trip to St Andrews. A horrible bobbly pitch, rubbish refereeing in a half empty stadium against a team relying on hoofing and scraping... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Nathan Tyson

For long spells we looked second best but credit the young players with having the spirit to prise a valuable point from a physical QPR side... Read More...

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Chris Cohen

Despite playing poorly for long spells, Forest recorded another valuable victory as we continue to move away from the relegation zone. However, injuries are starting to mount and we badly need some new faces to freshen up the squad.

Wednesday looked strong in the opening stages as Forest struggled to put any passes together and resorted to long balls up to Tyson and Earnshaw. With their defence towering over our forwards, we badly needed to get the ball on the floor and pass our way around them. Until the latter stages, we lacked the quality in midfield to achieve this.

We failed to clear one corner that was flicked towards goal resulting in a close range header past Smith. Forest struggled to mount any real attacks until McCleary provided the catalyst with a storming run from the half-way line and pin-point through ball to Tyson who made the finish over the keeper look easy.
Things turned in our favour after Jeffers was sent off for a late sliding challenge on Heath. The slippery conditions didn’t help their player but the tackle was still rash. A little sign of the continued better fortune we’ve experienced recently.

Even with a man advantage, it took ages for us to make it count. Thornhill made a difference after he replaced the disappointing Davies but it was left to Chambers to win the game with a neat flicked header from McGugan’s right wing free kick, across the keeper and inside the far post.

Smith had no chance with the goal, had a couple of nervy moments but nothing really to report. Breckin stood out with another no nonsense defensive display and continues to defy the belief that he was only good enough for the transfer list. Wilson still lacks composure and really needs to focus more on defending.
Heath had a very good all round game and was one of our better players on the night. Looking composed in possession, with a decent first touch and steady in defence. In previous games, he’s often needed the support of the midfielder in front of him to provide extra cover but on this occasion he was more than capable of getting the job done. Chambers got better the longer the game went on and never lacks effort or commitment despite some unnecessary criticism from the stands. Still needs to work on retaining possession for the team but he’s there to defend and no real complaints on that score.

Davies started brightly in the opening minutes finding space in front of their back four but too often his lack of left foot let him down. As the game progressed he failed to make any further impression and didn’t make the most of the opportunity presented following Anderson’s injury.

McCleary drifted in and out of the game but on the occasions where he ran at their defensive, he looked the most likely to create something for the forwards. His fantastic run and through-ball for Tyson’s goal arrived when we desperately needed some inspiration. Unlucky to have a goal ruled out for offside after running from deep, combining with Tyson and beating the keeper.

Perch disappointed, lacking any presence in midfield and failing to even complete the most basic of passes. Made a couple of decent interceptions but we should expect much more from this position. McGugan wasn’t much better in a game that showed exactly what we’re lacking in terms of midfield quality. Too many wayward set pieces and he just doesn’t seem to have that spark that he’s often shown in the past.

Thornhill showed some of the qualities we were missing in midfield after his introduction. He was able to find space in a crowded area, pick a decent pass and showed clever movement off the ball. With injuries mounting, he’s likely to get more chances in the coming weeks.

Earnshaw struggled to receive any sort of service that would bring him into the game. There’s really no point lumping balls forward to him when he’s marked by monster centre backs. Despite this, there was no faulting his work-rate and willingness to put pressure on their defence.

MOTM Tyson chased for lost causes all night and, like his partner, led the team by example from the front. A quality right foot finish, over the keeper and into the roof of the net when too often in the past he has been guilty of missing one-on-ones.

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Nathan Tyson

From a distance it might look as though not much has changed. Chambers restored at right back, Wilson out of position at left back, Perch and not Cohen in centre midfield. However, Davies was able to put a team together capable of getting the job done in a very effective fashion. It was a real team effort with everyone making an impression on the game with no obvious weak links.

Davies stood by the majority of the starting XI from Charlton with the exception of the injured Thornhill who was replaced by Wilson. However, this allowed Cohen back into left midfield with Wilson behind him and we looked much better for it.

Whilst the first half was nothing to get excited about, we got better throughout the second half and started to show some signs that we’re capable of getting out of this mess. We pressed Plymouth for the whole game and never sat back and let them settle. Too often this season, we have been content to watch the opposition play and never force them into mistakes. On this evidence, I don’t think that this will be the case under Davies.

Earnshaw’s smart finish from McGugan’s free kick opened the scoring and Tyson’s pull back for Anderson’s deflected drive sealed the game. Plymouth came back into the game through the powerful Fallon but were unable to finish any of the chances that came their way. The closest they came to scoring was one effort that bounced off the underside of the bar and away to safety.

Smith didn’t have too much to do due to the impressive performances in front of him. Looked a little unsure with a couple of crosses and got away with the header off the bar.

Chambers and Wilson did what was required and justified their selections even though there are obvious reservations about them playing there in the long term.
MOTM Morgan continues to impress with every game that passes. Plymouth had one tactic to find Fallon for all areas and scrap for the pieces and Wes was equal to almost everything that came his way. Even found time for a couple of surging runs from our own half.

On the few occasions that Plymouth found a way past Morgan, Breckin was there to take control. Since his re-introduction to the side he’s formed an impressive defensive barrier and made a mockery of the previous decision to transfer list him. Much more controlled in possession and this enabled us to catch them on the break.

I’m no fan of Perch in midfield but he did everything that could be asked of him, protecting the back four and letting McGugan drive the team forward. Won a few tackles when required and used the ball much better then recently. He is capable of becoming of first team regular but needs to repeat this type of performance weekly rather than monthly.

McGugan struggled in the first half but was much improved in the second. His driving breaks from midfield were one of the main features of our good spells. The one player capable of producing those rare moments of quality in a tight game as shown with Earnshaw’s chances in the first half.

Cohen was able to contribute to the game much more from his midfield position and was back to his usual best. As with McGugan, Anderson struggled to contribute in the first half but looked much better in the second with the team looking dangerous on the break.

Earnshaw is starting to find the sharpness he displayed at the start of the season and getting the goals as a result. Great finish for the opener, unlucky with a low effort just before half time and caused problems throughout. Tyson didn’t score but did enough to justify his continued selection ahead of Garner with another threatening ninety minutes.

A team built around a solid defence capable of clinically taking chances at the other end won’t go far wrong. The past few weeks have shown that we we’re getting close to achieving this.
 

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Wes Morgan

Not the best performance but three points are all that counts especially against another struggling side. Watching Charlton brought back memories of so many of our home games this season. Nice build up, lots of missed chances without any real conviction, followed by defensive mistakes punished at the other end. We retained the same starting line-up as last Saturday with Cohen at left back and Perch recovered from injury, Tyson starting on the left of a five man midfield.


Charlton started much better than ourselves and only poor-finishing and Smith prevented us going behind. We struggled to put two passes together and looked set for a touch afternoon. Out of nothing Thornhill’s cross from the right caused confusion, Anderson’s cross found Tyson to score from eight yards. It wasn’t long til we doubled our lead. Earnshaw intercepted a weak back header, beat the last defender and chipped the rushing keeper.

The second half was almost a non-event with Forest defending the lead and Charlton unable to break through and create anything meaningful. It became slightly more interesting in the closing stages with Smith finally required to make a smart save from a rising shot. Apart from that we defended well but never really looked like extending the lead at the other end.

Charlton looked the better side in midfield but struggled to make any real impression against the impressive Morgan, Breckin and Smith. At the other end, apart from the goals, Anderson wasted a couple of chances that troubled the corner flag more than the goal.

Smith looks a different keeper since his re-introduction to the side, producing another faultless display with a number of decent saves and safe handling. He looks much more confident, willing to leave his line when required and catching/punching as needed. MOTM Morgan was outstanding yet again and the dominant figure against the Charlton attack. Over the past few weeks he’s put together a series of impressive performances away from home and has played a leading role in making us tough to beat. Morgan was ably assisted by Breckin who continues to fully justify his reintroduction to the side. Chambers made a numbering of covering clearances and got better as the game progressed. Still needs to improve on his all round game and Moloney looks the better option on recent performances. Cohen had to fill in again at left back and it showed. Wasted in this position and we badly missed his drive and control from midfield.

Perch was terrible in midfield and easily the weak link of our side. We need someone in there who’s capable of putting together a string of battling performances and not one decent performance in a month. He’s supposed to be the one holding the midfield together allowing Thornhill and McGugan to break forward. He barely made a challenge throughout and gave the ball away time and again. With Cohen having played so well at Man City it was disappointing to find him taken out of the midfield again. Hopefully things will be corrected with the addition of a left back. Thornhill had one of his more anonymous games and McGugan also struggled to contribute as we found ourselves second best in midfield. Anderson drifted in and out of the game and missed a couple of half chances but got back to support the defence when required.

Tyson looked the most likely to get the side going but only lasted the first half and from that point we struggled to produce a meaningful attack. Davies replaced him but yet again lacked the quality to make the most of a number of promising situations down the left hand side. He’s made a number of appearances recently but hasn’t made a meaningful contribution. McCleary would be my preferred option to compliment Anderson on the right hand side.

Earnshaw didn’t have many opportunities to make an impact on the game but took his one chance perfectly. Garner entered the game for the latter stages and started to hold the ball up and bring others into the game. He can consider himself unlucky to be out of the starting XI at the moment.

The priority for Davies has to be a new left back and an experienced head in midfield but the signs in recent weeks are promising. We are becoming tough to score against and have strikers taking the chances that come their way. The recent away form has been impressive and we now have the opportunity to correct the home performances with two winnable games.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

 

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Wes Morgan

The team selection took some getting used to, with five changes in total. Moloney, Lynch, Wilson, Garner, Earnshaw replaced by Chambers, Breckin, Heath, Thornhill and Tyson. The latter being used as a lone striker in a 451 formation with Thornhill and McGugan supporting, Perch protecting the defence and even captaining the side.

Whilst a lot of the post-match talk on the local radio station concentrated on the deficiencies of the home side, credit should be given to our side. Unlike many games this season, the midfield five and Tyson consistently pressed the opposition resulting in a series of unforced errors. Listening to their phone-in was just like Radio Nottingham with the words Roeder and Norwich replaced by Calderwood and Forest. Was interesting to hear that they have a wage bill of 8.5M and their gate receipts are not covering their outgoings - could be problems ahead for them there...

The first half was a generally comfortable affair with Norwich struggling to create any clear chances. At the other end, Tyson caused Norwich a succession of the problems against their pedestrian centre backs with Thornhill and McGugan supporting whenever possible.

The first goal arrived after Tyson skipped down the left and the chipped the ball back for Thornhill, in space, on the edge of the area. He took a touch and his half-volley beat the keeper off the post.

On the half hour, McGugan ran from just inside their half through a series of weak challenges, past the last defender and then chipped the keeper to double the lead.

Tyson missed a straight forward chance on the stroke of half time when he sped away from the Norwich defence but dragged his shot wide of the far post. A common occurrence when he finds himself in promising situations.

We didn’t sit back in the second half and continued to look dangerous on the break. As we started to tire and Norwich threatening,
Pemberton made like-for-like changes bringing on Moloney, Garner and Earnshaw for Heath, McGugan and Tyson keeping the same formation throughout.

Norwich started to improve and forced a number of corners and free kicks, mainly down their right. From one corner, we failed to clear, they hit the bar and then the rebound hit Breckin and flew past the wrong-footed Camp.

As we found ourselves under pressure, Earnshaw picked the ball from McGugan’s pass down the left. He skipped past the defender and coolly chipped the keeper to seal the three points.

There was still time for Forest to keep it interesting as a Garner dived to block a left wing cross and could only rocket a header into the bottom corner. After five minutes of injury time, the final whistle arrived to the relief of everyone in red.

The presence of Camp in our team cannot be underestimated. Another quality display relieving the pressure from set pieces with safe handling and the positive attitude to games that sets him apart from Paul Smith. Produced two outstanding saves at critical moments, tipping over one dipping effort from before half time and then turning Lita’s header around the post with Forest under pressure at 2-1. Sign him up at all costs.

Breckin showed the battling qualities that have been lacking from our side in his absence. Dominant in the air and whilst his distribution might be a little wayward at times, a definite improvement on Wilson’s recent form. His partnership with Morgan ensured that Lita had a frustrating afternoon apart from one late header.

Problems were still evidence at full back with Chambers and Heath being found out on occasions. Chambers miscued a number of clearances that put us back into danger and looked unsteady. Norwich seemed to target Heath as the weak link in our defence with the majority of their attacks originating down their right hand side. He’s still young and there’s enough there to continue playing him instead of moving Cohen there.  I thought that Cohen could have done a bit more to help his full back out when we were under pressure.

Perch had one of his better games sitting in front of the defence and allowing the other members of the midfield to cause Norwich problems. Led by example by getting close to the Norwich midfield and putting challenges in which too often he is reluctant to do.

McGugan is the one player with the talent to possibly succeed at a higher level but too often took the wrong option when in possession or delayed the pass and was tackled. However, he remained a threat every time he came forward and took his goal very well.

MOTM Thornhill showed again a rare ability to find space in a crowded midfield and displayed notable composure on the ball. Norwich
struggled with his well timed runs into the area from deep. More than justified his selection with another well-taken goal and is starting to look the part in our midfield. The change in formation gave him the freedom to use his qualities going forward and not have to worry about tracking back.

Tyson battled hard for the team persevering when often surrounded by numerous yellow shirts and held the ball up well throughout. Norwich couldn’t deal with his pace or running off the ball and was a constant threat.

Earnshaw struggled in the past few appearances but looked much livelier in his short spell. Should have scored from a narrow angle when he intercepted a back-pass but made amends with the third goal.

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Matt Thornhill

Things started badly when the teams were announced. Despite the battling performance at Southampton last week, Perch walks straight back into the starting midfield causing Cohen to be shifted wide right and Anderson to the left. I can understand McGugan being re-instated in place of Thornhill but the rest had played well and should have been retained.
 
Typical Calderwood approach to team selection, picking his favourites instead of those deserving a start based on the previous performance.
 
The first goal was down to our own failings. Earnshaw tracked back to win the ball, then inexplicably squared the ball for their winger to cross for a simple header. For the second, Doncaster passed the ball around midfield for ages before finding a player in space to score with a perfect chip over Camp's head. Just before half time, Cohen's challenge on the edge of the area conceded a free kick. The set piece hit the ball, wrong-footed Camp and made it 0-3 at half-time.
 
Tyson and Bennett replaced Anderson and Lynch at half time as Calderwood had to change things around. Bennett only lasted a few minutes until an innocuous fall under no pressure saw Forest down to ten men with Davies having replaced Wilson earlier.
With Cohen moved to left back and Perch already at centre back, it wasn't long before Doncaster made it four. Morgan made a half challenge followed by a Camp save and Cohen's block on the line but we had no chance from the rebound.
 
As Doncaster started to withdraw their players and settle for the win, Forest made a slight impression on the game but it only papered over the cracks. Tyson skipped down the left and pulled the ball back for yet another own goal this season. In the closing stages, Cohen's left wing free kick found Garner to score with a neat finish. In between Earnshaw hit the bar but we were still a well-beaten side.
 
Camp excelled in the second half and was mainly responsible for keeping the scoreline down to a barely respectable level.
 
The one outfield player who played to anywhere near the expected level was MOTM Moloney, with Cohen and Morgan not too far behind but still not great. A definite improvement on other right backs this season and a welcome additon to the squad. However, was lucky to only receive a yellow card after a petulant kick out after a late challenge on him went unpunished.
 
Lynch barely looked like a professional footballer during his 45 minute spell. The official excuse was hamstring injury but as half time approached he struggled to complete even the simplest of passes with his confidence shot to pieces. Wilson looked badly short of confidence until his short spell was ended by illness.
 
Camp's loan spell ends after Norwich, Morgan will soon be missing for a couple of weeks, Breckin's on the transfer list and Chambers wasn't even on the bench today.
 
Perch was terrible (as ever) in midfield but marginally better at centre back with a few composed touches. Cohen started on the right side of midfield, moved into the centre and then ended up at left back, following Bennett's injury for the second half. It would be a disaster if injuries elsewhere resulted in our best player this season having to fill in at left back. McGugan spent most of the time show-boating instead of concentrating on getting the basics done first.
 
Davies was almost invisible as usual, surely McCleary offers more to the team going forward. Anderson was very rarely given the ball and was unlucky to be taken off. In his defence, he's being asked to switch between wings on a game by game basis, which
cannot help.
 
Garner started brightly but his yellow card seemed to affect his game until the late well-taken goal. Like the team as a whole, he never reached the heights of his performance at Southampton.
 
Earnshaw was badly off form and continually let the side down with poor awareness and a shocking first touch. On the few occasions when he received a decent through ball, the chance soon disappeared due to his inability. We should expect much more for someone costing over 2.5M. You have to start questioning the logic of spending so much on a single player when this sum could have been used to strengthen the side as a whole.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Brendan Moloney

Pretty even first half during which both team’s struggled to establish themselves but after half time, Forest raised their game and looked worthy winners. The desire amongst our players was obvious and we just wanted the three points more than they did. We’ve seen some pretty poor teams in recent weeks but Southampton look in real trouble.

Their one chance of the afternoon beat Camp from outside the area but bounced to safety off the post. Apart from that, the defence looked sturdy aided by the performances of Cohen and Morgan and Camp was very rarely involved.

At the other end, Earnshaw harassed their defence down the left for Anderson with only the keeper to beat. From close range, he managed to find an out-stretched foot and the chance was gone. The opening goal was unexpected but came at the perfect time. With half-time approaching, Cohen’s free kick from wide on the left found Morgan rising highest to score.

We always looked the most likely to score in the second half with Cohen and Thornhill looking dominant in midfield. However, you can never take anything for granted as far as our defence is concened.

The game remained in doubt until a quarter of an hour to go, Moloney’s interception and adventurous run with the ball set up Garner 35 yards out. Ignoring the more obvious options in through balls for Earnshaw or Moloney, Garner looked up and lobbed their keeper for an outstanding finish.
McCleary should have finished Southampton off in the closing stages after being released by McGugan. The first touch was heavy, the ball was never really under control and the chance was lost.

The passion and commitment within the side was obvious at the final whistle. Despite being dropped from the side and only playing five minutes, Chambers was first to the travelling fans and celebrating as if he’d won the game on his own.

Moloney continues to impress with every outgoing and his attacking intent provided the inspiration for Garner’s classy finish. Never looked out of place and made every effort to bring the ball at every opportunity. The side looks much better as a result. Just seems to lack that strength to see him complete the full ninety minutes.
Wilson and Morgan looked uncomfortable during the early stages when it looked like we might be set for another one of those afternoons. However, Morgan soon regained that level of performance that he has been producing over recent weeks. Completely dominate against the Saints front line and contributed at the other end with a well-taken header.

We looked much better in midfield with Cohen restored to a central position alongside Thornhill and genuine wingers available either side of them. Cohen’s ability to break up the opposition attacks and drive forward is sadly lacking when he’s stuck out on the wing. Thornhill looked stronger and up for a scrap in midfield but too often got caught in possession in dangerous areas.

McGugan’s late cameo showed the quality that we’ve often lacked in his absence and his return will provide a much greater threat going forward in the coming weeks. Hopefully this win has shown that Perch does not have to be an automatic selection in midfield, especially as McGugan’s return for Thornhill would be a more beneficial change.

Anderson looked very lively throughout but still can’t believe that miss from close range with only their keeper to beat. Davies on the other side just doesn’t do enough for me and isn’t positive enough. A couple of times he found himself on the left side of the area in a dangerous position but delayed too long and the chance was wasted. Despite the late miss, McCleary would still be my choice down the left. Even with his short appearance, I think he looked more likely to create something.
Earnshaw looked sharper than his past couple of appearances and it was noticeable that there weren’t too many occasions when aimless balls were lumped in his direction. Without Perch giving the ball away most of the time, we kept possession long enough to bring him into the game. Hopefully, with McGugan back in contention we’ll have someone to provide some decent service for him.

MOTM Garner has displayed the fighting spirit in recent weeks that we’ll need to get out of trouble and today was no exception. The obvious headlines will focus on the outstanding finish but throughout the game he defended from the front and never let the home side settle.

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Joe Garner

Typical Forest home performance this season. More than enough chances to have won the game but poor finishing, poor managerial decisions and a decent goal-keeping display deny us again.
 
In the first half, Cohen, Garner, Morgan were all denied by athletic saves whilst Perch badly missed with a free header from close range. It was a similar story in the second half as we failed to capitalise on a succession of corners and numerous promising positions.
 
I thought that Anderson had his worst game for ages and having complimented Moloney down the right so well against Barnsley and Coventry, I don't understand why we changed to accomodate Cohen's return in the past couple of games by putting him wide left. Quite a few times Anderson found himself in a decent position down the left but his only intention to cut inside make him very easy to defend against. Even if there's some logic to setting the team up in this way, why didn't we swap them around during the game just to try something different...

Personally, I'd have McCleary down the left and Cohen in the centre replacing Perch, allowing Anderson and Moloney to continue their partnership. Cohen's been our best player this season and needs to be involved as much as possible in midfield and not stuck out wide.

I also didn't understand the logic in taking Garner off as he hadn't been booked and looked lively. Far enough if he was injured but I've not seen anything to suggest that. Tyson was his usual frustrating self and a swap with Earnshaw looked the better option to me.
 
Perch, Tyson and Wilson haven't performed consistently throughout the season but still maintain their places in the starting XI.

I thought MOTM Moloney and Thornhill both had promising games but it's the lack of goals throughout the side that are the main cause for concern. McGugan missing from set pieces and Breckin missing from getting on the end of them, severely reduces our chances of scoring.

On another day we'd have won 3-0 but the issue here is that Saturday was like so many home games this season and the lack of any progress is very worrying.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Brendan Moloney

Terrible performance typical of too many this season. Our sole tactic consisted of lumping long balls to Garner and Earnshaw up against two giant centre halves. Tyson in particular struggled to get into the game down the left wing and barely threatened his full back.
 
We missed the injured McGugan badly with his ability to build up attacks and vision for a pass. Tyson started on the left wing with Cohen and Perch in the middle. Things improved slightly when Perch moved out of midfield to right back allowing Thornhill to get involved. To be fair to Perch, he was terrible in midfield but looked much better at full back in the latter stages.
 
In a game with very few chances, they took one of the couple they created whilst we missed ours. For the majority of the game after they scored, they looked pretty comfortable with Forest unable to create any real chances.
 
They should have scored early on with Moloney went missing and the cross from the right found one of their forwards a few yards out and his header was well saved by Camp. The goal came on the half hour when Wilson didn’t clear the ball properly and their player was given ages to half volley into the bottom corner off Camp’s body.
 
We had three chances during the game. Earnshaw was released by Cohen and hit a weak shot at Kenny. Tyson was also put through by Garner on his right foot which only troubled the crowd behind the goal whilst in the second half all we could manage was a back pass from one of their defenders from 40 yards which Kenny tipped over.
 
All the usual faults were on display again. No leadership or drive. A worrying inability to even pass the ball to someone else in a red shirt. We looked very static with very little option for the man in possession.  Perch, Wilson useless as in previous weeks but they still find there way into the starting XI. Shockingly poor set pieces with Cohen and Anderson consistently hitting only the first defender.
 
MOTM Morgan was the most average of a bad bunch with Garner not far behind. Cohen tried his best but it wasn’t his night but he’s excused the odd one. The rest looked like League 1 players and that’s right where we’re heading on this evidence.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Wes Morgan

A promising display but, yet again, we’re let down by an inability to defend even the most straight forward of set pieces. Our usual failings at centre back (Wilson) and midfield (Perch) continue to hold us back when we should be getting much more from the players available. Any decent side would have won the game by a couple of goals against a poor opposition who should have been there for the taking. In the latter stages, we seemed to settle for a point instead of having the confidence to go for the win but in injury time both sides had chances to take the three points.

If ever you needed a warning about building a soulless plastic jelly mould stadium then the Ricoh Arena is a prime example. We found ourselves surrounded by thousands of empty seats, with no atmosphere or character.  Visits to places like this make you appreciate our surroundings even more.

With Tyson suspended, Cohen made a welcome return to the starting XI but yet again, he found himself on the right hand side of midfield. Having been our most influential player this season, I still can’t understand why he’s wasted away from the main action. Perch isn’t the right player to be dominating the midfield away from home and today was another example of this.

Anderson and Moloney put together a decent partnership down the right last weekend and should have been allowed to continue this.
We made the worst possible start. Morgan and Perch didn’t clear the ball properly and when the resulting cross came in from the right, their centre back was left unmarked to score at the back post.  Moloney had been left marking two players and we got punished.
It took us a while to get going after realising just how bad Coventry were. Cohen and McGugan involved in most of the decent half chances that fell for Earnshaw and Garner but that quality finish was just lacking.

It wasn’t much of surprise when the equaliser came. McGugan played Cohen down the right hand side and his perfect cross found Earnshaw unmarked to score from eight yards with a low header.

However, we ruined all of the previous good work immediately by gifting them another goal straight away. Wilson looked in complete control on the byeline but managed to concede a needless corner. The cross was flicked on at the near post and Morrison took advantage of Wilson sleeping to beat Camp from close-range. We looked better in the second half, with Perch sitting back allowing McGugan to push forward and dictate our attacking play. We deservedly equalised  when his free kick was flicked into the bottom corner by Garner.

It looked as though the game was going to drift out for a stalement when both sides had great chances in injury time. Firstly, Camp produced a save from nowhere to tip a low shot from the edge of the area, through a crowd of players, around the post. At the other end, McCleary broke away from the Coventry defence and found himself clear on goal, under pressure his shot bobbled well wide of the far post. With the last attack of the game, Garner had a volleyed chance to win the game but mis-hit the shot into the ground and straight into the keeper’s hands.

Camp had very little to do apart from the goals and the outstanding late save. Yet again, another late contribution to preserve hard earned points away from home. Wilson continues to struggle and we lack Breckin’s no nonsense approach to complement Morgan’s decent spell of form.  Moloney showed plenty of confidence bringing the ball forward from defence but looked much better with Anderson in front of him. MOTM Cohen showed what we’ve been missing in his absence, with McGugan very close behind him. His drive and commitment has been a consistent feature of his displays this season and one that we’ll need to continue in order for us to survive – if only he was playing in the centre.
Too often in the first half, Perch found himself in front of McGugan and promising attacks stalled with his lack of attacking ideas. We looked much better after the break when Perch sat deep and allowed McGugan to get forward and cause Coventry problems. Anderson continues to provide a dangerous outlet when we found ourselves under pressure but on occasions the final ball was lacking on his weaker left foot.

Since Garner’s arrival, our forwards look much more threatening but we badly lacked another option to bring on for the latter stages as Earnshaw tired. Both forwards missed chances but kept getting themselves in dangerous positions and the goals came eventually. Against their towering forwards, we had to build up the play on the ground and when McGugan came into the game, we looked much better.
A decent performance in spells with both forwards scoring, Cohen’s return and McGugan impressing but usual failings continue to hold us back.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Chris Cohen

A hard earned but slightly fortuitous victory brought us slightly closer to safety after what seems like an eternity without three points. With other teams dropping points, we brought ourselves off the bottom of the table and made some ground on those currently in safety.
Following recent criticism, Calderwood changed things around in the starting line up, reverting to the diamond formation in midfield with Garner playing behind Tyson and Earnshaw. Perch just in front of the defence with Anderson and McGugan either side. Even more surprising was the return of Moloney to the squad and straight into the starting line-up. In the early stages, we looked all over the place in most areas and had to rely on Morgan and Moloney to produce well timed blocks to prevent Barnsley breaking through.

We struggled to adapt to the change in formation for the first half hour until, Tyson moved onto the left wing to allow McGugan to support Perch in the centre. If there’s one thing that we should have learned this season, we cannot compete in this league playing only one in the centre of midfield.

This change had an immediate effort with the opening goal. Our best move of the season saw Earnshaw find Tyson down the left, he carried the ball forward and his pin-point cross found Garner to score with a downward header from about six yards.
Just before half-time, we should have had the opportunity to double our lead when a blatant barge into Garner’s back went unpunished.
Things improved following the change in formation but we still found ourselves hanging on for most of the game with Barnsley looking the most likely scorers.

At the start of the second half, McGugan cut inside from the left and hit a curling shot off the bar. Lynch almost repeated the trick but his long range effort was tipped over by their keeper. That was about it from a Forest attacking point of view as Barnsley did everything except score. One long range effort was heading for the bottom corner until Camp tipped it around for a corner. Moloney got back to clear from under the bar to prevent a certain goal. Whilst they missed a sitter  when a left wing cross found its way to the back post but their header hit the bar and bounced to safety, a real let-off.  In injury time, we gave away a soft free kick that was well struck but Camp was equal to it and the three points were ours.
Camp had to be at his best in the closing stages and continues to be one of the main reasons that we are still in contention for safety.

Moloney came into the starting XI from nowhere and showed exactly what’s required from a right back at this level. His positioning was spot on, he made a number of crucial challenges but most of all, he actually played like he was comfortable in that position. It’s only one game but a very welcome addition to the squad. You have to wonder why he hasn’t been tried in that position earlier. Morgan was as reliable as ever whilst Lynch had a much better game than on Tuesday night.

MOTM Anderson continues to impress down the right wing with his determined running with the ball. Occasionally, the final ball is missing but for long spells he was the only option to relieve the pressure on our defence. Very willing to get back and support Moloney when required and they worked well as a pairing.

Perch had one of his better games for a while and made an impression in midfield. He won a succession of decent tackles and headers in midfield. However he really needs to work on his passing as a couple of straightforward square passes saw us straight back in trouble.
McGugan showed glimpses of obvious talent going forward but needs to contribute more to the rest of the team defensively.  Too often he was left up field and struggling to get back. We will miss Cohen’s energy in midfield until he’s fit and playing again.

Earnshaw was a passenger for the majority of the game. Seemingly unable to get involved due to lack of match fitness and our inability to provide anywhere near a decent service to him.

Garner has to be leading the line to get the best from him. He’s wasted dropping deep into midfield where he’s even more likely to pick up yellow cards. His attitude is an example for other members of the team (McGugan) and his presence will be key to our survival. Tyson did a decent job down the left but picked up a stupid yellow card for continuing once the ball was out of play and now misses the vital trip to Coventry.

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Paul Anderson

Two poor teams looking set for an immediate return to League One. We
won't face many worse sides in this division away from home but still we
failed to assert ourselves onto the game and rarely threatened. That's
two 'must win' games gone and only a single point to show for our
efforts.

With Cohen missing after Clingan's late foul on Saturday, McGugan came
back into midfield. Lynch and Martin replaced Heath and Thornhill.

With Forest on the back foot in the early stages, we escaped when a long
range effort from the right crashed back off the bar. Apart from a few
scrambles, we looked fairly comfortable during the first half. At the
other end, Tyson was left to scrap for the ball without too much
support. Garner released him down the left but his shot was well wide
across the goal. Another through ball saw him brought down cynically on
the edge of the area but McGugan's free kick hit the wall. Late in the
half, we created our best chance of the game, Garner's downwards header
was tipped around the post.

The second half was pretty even with neither keeper really tested. Tyson
hit an early long range effort narrowly wide, whilst Garner had another
effort narrowly over the bar after he combined with Tyson. I don't think
we had a single effort on target during this half.

Camp survived a couple of late scares with one shot that went through
him and he looked to have got back just in time to scramble away. In
injury time, we got caught out by a long range lob that drifted narrowly
wide. Apart from that, steady as usual and often frustrated by a lack of
options when he was in possession.

Wes Morgan was again MOTM with a determined defensive performance.
Dominated our old friend Gareth Taylor throughout and did everything
that could be expected. Lynch looked shakey throughout and really
doesn't look good enough on the performances I've seen so far.
Unfortunately, I think we'll have to stick with him in the absence of
Bennett. Wilson and Chambers pretty average but not really tested due to
their lack of ability.

No fight, desire, drive, especially in midfield. With Perch, Martin
almost annonymous we often looked like playing with 9 men. Too often
Doncaster had time on the ball without a Forest player anywhere near
them. McGugan occasionally found some time on the ball but too often he
was crowded out and dropped deeper into areas where he couldn't
influence the game. Anderson showed some promise but too often we
elected to launch it forward to Tyson instead of building up the play
properly.

We've used up all loans and still look well short of players. The
midfield in particular looked very weak and not capable of putting up a
fight. Yet again, our only tactic was to lump the ball at Tyson as
quickly and often as possible. With these players, tactics and attitude
we're slowly drifting towards relegation without even putting up a
fight.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Wes Morgan

All of the good work over the past few weeks falls apart after a shocking second half against ten-man Norwich. We looked set for a badly needed win at half time, but more embarrassing defending, strange tactics and lack of drive brings us right back to square one.

Calderwood’s starting XI selections continue to frustrate. The persistent choice of Wilson over Breckin cannot be justified after another erratic performance from our talented centre back. There’s no doubting Wilson’s ability but at the moment, the safer option has to be the more no-nonsense approach of Breckin.

In midfield, the continued use of right footed Anderson on the left and left footed Cohen on the right just compounds the problems we have in this area. The central pairing of Perch and Thornhill is too inexperienced and lightweight to ever succeed at this stage. The continued absence of McCleary from the team after a promising run of games also detracts from our side.

Cohen and McGugan have to be paired in central midfield on Tuesday with two from Anderson, McCleary and Martin either side of them.

We lack leadership and experience throughout the side and are having to make do with kids who are clearly not ready for a Championship relegation fight. The fact that we are still in this position despite having used up all of our available loans just makes this situation even worse.

Wilson did manage to do something right with a pin-point through ball for Tyson to run clear on goal. Their defender caught him and deserved the red card that followed. However, Norwich went straight up the other end of the pitch and scored. Wilson had plenty of time to deal with a loose ball but only gave away possession to their player who pulled the ball back for a simple finish.

We did create chances in the first half but Garner and Thornhill both saw goal-bound efforts well saved. As we enjoyed a better spell in the latter stages, Anderson cut inside from the left and his shot bobbled through their keeper for a then-deserved equaliser.

We still looked okay as half-time approached but just couldn’t capitalise during a half-decent spell.
We never really got started in the second half and resorted to long balls from all areas towards Tyson. Even injuries to their defenders resulting in Sammy Clingan playing centre-back didn’t improve things. The patient, progressive football from the start of this season is a distant memory.

If their first goal was bad enough, Norwich looked almost embarrassed to celebrate their winner. A cross from the right with no obvious target found Chambers and Cohen in such confusion at the back post that the ball ended up in the bottom corner.

Cohen and Garner were again denied in the second half but after their goal, the game drifted away from us.

Our structure become more shambolic as the game progressed. Cohen, yet again one of our best players was moved to left back and Garner pushed back into midfield in an effort to change things around.
Chambers and Wilson looked badly out of form and badly lacking in confidence. Heath and Thornhill aren’t ready for this level and shouldn’t be involved with a struggling side. Perch has one half decent game in midfield and then four where he contributes nothing.

MOTM Morgan marked Lita out of the game and continues his recent revival in form. Camp looked comfortable throughout with clean catching and a will to get the team moving forward with urgency. Cohen, as usual, was the standout performer in midfield despite playing in all positions and then at left back.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Wes Morgan

Another decent performance against well placed opposition but, yet again, those all important three points evade us. City were probably the better side during the first half but after the break we stepped things up and can consider ourselves unfortunate not to have taken the win. Yet again, we needed the heroics from Camp to preserve the point with another excellent penalty save.
 
After the encouraging second half display against Birmingham, Wilson was preferred to Breckin at the back whilst Perch and Thornhill continued in centre midfield.
 
Despite conceding possession and chances on a regular basis, we took the lead with an impressive breakaway goal. Tyson skipped down the left hand side with City defenders unable to bring him down, reaching the byline, he pulled the ball back to Garner to produce a couple of feints before smashing the ball home.
 
We looked to have weathered the City storm as half time approached when they equalised. Our midfield gave their player too long on the ball and he was able to find the top corner under no pressure from 25 yards. Camp with no real chance for the goal.
 
At the start of the second half, a long ball over the top saw their defender focussing on Garner and completely unaware of Tyson who powered through unnoticed and scored low past their keeper.
 
Yet again we didn’t have enough quality to maintain the lead and conceded another poor goal. We had numerous attempts to clear the corner but City kept the ball alive on the edge of the area. The resulting shot wasn’t struck that well but came through a crowd and ended up in the bottom corner.
 
To our credit, we never settled for the point and kept catching City on the break with Anderson and Tyson causing problems throughout. Their keeper had to make numerous sharp saves to prevent us scoring again but our set pieces were pretty poor and we failed to take advantage.
 
City had a decent spell towards the end of the game after loading the front line with forwards but we’d looked to have done enough to more than justify a point.
 
Having looked set for a valuable away point, the referee awarded a penalty from nowhere. I’ve only seen it live but it seemed very harsh. Chambers looked to jump with their forward but was judged to have pushed him in the back – I doubt we’d have got the same decision at our end. However, it was left to Camp to save the day with another excellent low save down to his left.
 
Camp continued his impressive loan spell with another confident all round display topped off by the point saving penalty save.
 
Chambers impressed again at right back with another steady performance. From nowhere, he almost stole the three points with a late 25 yard half volley that looked destined for the top corner until their keeper saved. Much improved set of recent displays and no longer looks like the obvious weak link in our side.
 
Morgan dealt well with all the forwards that City through at us. One late last ditch challenge saved us when their forward was clean through on goal. As with Chambers, he’s looking more and more like a Championship player as these weeks go by.
 
Wilson continues to show the complacency that has been increasingly creeping into his performances this season. At this stage, I’d have Breckin in there, especially away from home, based on his performance recently at Palace.
 
Heath was okay, but understandably still finding his feet. In the absence of Bennett and Lynch there aren’t any other real options. Much better to have him playing than take Cohen from midfield or experiment with Wilson/Perch out of position there.
 
Perch and Thornhill struggled to close down their midfield in the first half as they overran us in midfield. Similar to last weekend, we tended to sit back and let the opposition play instead of getting stuck into them. Whilst it was a decent strike, I’m sure that their first goal could have been prevented if one of them hadn’t been defending so deep. Things improved in the second half as we got much closer to the opposition and pushed them backwards. These two aren’t good enough as a pairing for this division and we need more steel in there, especially when protecting a lead.
 
MOTM Anderson had his best game for the club with an impressive second half display. In previous games, he’s tended to drift in an out whilst working back to match fitness. However, he was a constant threat with his pace and running off the ball, mainly down the left hand side. He also found the energy to get back to support his full back when we found ourselves under pressure. Some corner practice required this week though.
 
Cohen put in the sort of performance that we’re starting to take for granted this season. Despite being wide left or right, he was always involved. Hopefully he’ll be restored to his better central position in forthcoming games.
 
Garner and Tyson are starting to show signs of a promising partnership up front. Both goals resulted from having a strike pairing leading the forward line with each player producing a composed finish when required. Both players badly needed the goal to get their season's going.
 
We are a much better side than a month ago. Whilst the lack of win may be disappointing for some, we now have a side capable of competing and worth supporting, especially away from home. The return of McCleary onto the left, allowing Cohen back into the middle will improve things even further. The season starts now after putting together a solid set of results. With so many games against teams just above us, we’ve set ourselves up nicely after a decent return of 6 points from 4 tough games.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOM Paul Anderson

Looking at the team sheets before the game, I was quite worried about our prospects of picking up any points. With injury/suspension and illness resulting in six changes from the creditable draw last weekend. The midfield in particular looked lightweight with Perch partnering Thornhill in the centre with Cohen on the left, presumably to support Heath. Breckin and McCleary were rested/ill and Earnshaw was injured in training.

Things looked even worse when McFadden capitalised on Wilson’s hesitant defending to score on the turn past Camp. For the remainder of the half their resolute defending and bully-boy tactics in midfield prevented us from really threatening. I don’t remember us receiving so many free kicks in one half of football. At the other end, Camp had very little to do as they never really looked to extend their lead.

However, it was all change after half-time with Forest the team most likely to score, taking advantage of Birmingham’s unwillingness to attack. As last Sunday, this more adventurous approach at the start of the second half produced an instant return. Cohen’s free kick, touched back by Chambers for Perch to score with a close range diving header.

From that moment onwards, the momentum was all with Forest and we should really have taken all three points. Heath’s pinpoint pass to Garner’s feet then saw Tyson released but the shot hit the keeper’s legs. Garner also failed to beat the keeper from close range after McCleary had driven into the area. Thornhill also volleyed wide when Tyson crossed from the left.

Camp dealt well with a few crosses and set pieces but there wasn’t too much to worry about. Having sat back after their goal, they ended up with four strikers on the pitch but still failed to really threaten.

It was a fantastic second half comeback and the best home atmosphere so far this season, assisted by a decent visiting support. It says everything that we came away disappointed with only a point.

MOTM Tyson did everything but score, unfortunately that’s the story of his season so far. Up against two monster centre-backs we used his pace and running power in wide areas but (as ever) he just lacked that killer finish. Hard to pick one player out but he run himself into the ground even though we were down to the last remaining strikers. The service he got from the defence wasw much better especially in the second half which brought the best out of him.

A decent display from Chambers who put in his best performance of this season. Birmingham often rotated their player up against Chambers but each time he came out on top, against Jerome especially. Often criticised this season but has been getting slowly better since having defensive support from a winger in front of him.

Heath looked nervous in the first half but his performance grew noticeably in the second half along with the rest of the team. Got forwarded whenever possible and tested their keeper with one decent effort.

Perch was quiet in the first half but in contrast after the break he stopped admiring their midfield ‘names’ and started to get stuck into them. I was surprised that Cohen wasn’t used in the centre of midfield to combat Carsley but even from the left hand side he was everywhere and involved at both ends of the field.

The only slightly disappointing performance came from Wilson who was at fault for the goal and never really looked focussed throughout. I would expect Breckin to come back into the side once recovered from illness. Fortunately, Morgan had one of his more more dependable days.

Considering the number of players missing and our relative lack of experience, we thoroughly deserved our point and can look forward to Bristol City with some confidence.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Nathan Tyson

A fantastic battling performance aided by some generous injury time refereeing rounded off a successful week for the club. Even the most positive of fans would have been delighted with the return of four points from these away trips.
 
Whilst the first half was instantly forgettable, it showed that we're starting to believe in our ability to defend properly and make ourselves hard to score against. Whilst we struggled to retain possession for long

enough to create any of our own chances, we made them look poor due to our hard work and closing down. We looked fairly comfortable throughout this time and just lacked that little bit of quality to take advantage.
 
The start of the second half was a different matter and we came straight out at them and they couldn't cope. Earnshaw missed a sitter when he delayed and got tackled, McGugan's low shot then required a smart save. From the corner, McGugan crossed for Chambers, whose shot was save and the rebound hit their player and bobbled in.
 
We continued to look pretty good value for the lead until McGugan's rash challenge saw him dismissed. Having seen it a few times, I still don't think that tackle meritted that decision. He won the ball first, barely touched their player and can consider himself very unfortunate. The most disappointing thing is that we'll miss him in the next three games just as he was beginning to find some form.
 
Their goal was a poor one to concede but they had stepped up the pressure once they had the man advantage. Up until then, then had resorted to lumping the ball downfield which Breckin and Morgan dealt comfortably with. Commons, in particular, barely figured and really struggled to get into the game.
 
The final few minutes just descended into chaos. No one knew what was going on. One minute, we thought they'd stolen the win, then it was disallowed, then the penalty was given, which was saved. The resulting corner produced another flying save from Camp. The next corner was header into the top corner which was then ruled out and Andersen and Tyson then broke away clean through on goal for it all to be brought back for a mystery foul.
 
MOTM Camp obviously stole the show with the late heroics but throughout the game, his calming presence ensured very few worrying moments for the defence. His decision making was generally spot on with crossed dealt comfortably. It's easy to say with hindsight, but I would be very surprised to have come away with a point if Smith had been playing.
 
Two more standout performances from Morgan and Breckin who kept their forwards very quiet throughout. Both deservedly keeping Wilson out of the team and it's working at the moment. Previously in the season, there wasn't any real competition for Wilson and Morgan but with Breckin's return to form there is genuine choice to be made between the three at the moment.
 
In midfield, I thought we coped pretty well with Cohen but as our standout player of the season so far, he was always going to be missed. Anderson drifted in and out of the game and never really got the protection from the referee in the second half. Perch looked composed, starting to show the form that he started the season with. McGugan showed a few decent touches in midfield and didn't really deserve to be sent off. The reaction of their players didn't help, especially the centre backs who couldn't wait to have their say.
 
Garner showed his worth to the team again and was a constant threat for their centrebacks. They didn't enjoy playing against someone who gives as soon as he gets and just didn't leave them alone. In the end they resorting to moaning to the referee in an attempt to get him a second yellow card. He'll pick up cards and concede fouls along the way but his first few games have been very promising. Calderwood sensibly replaced him with Tyson to prevent the risk of another red card.
 
Earnshaw looks like he needs a goal to get himself going and lacking that sharpness. Missed a really straightforward chance at 0-0 when Garner helped the ball through to him. Took ages to take the shot and a defender got back to challenge. Ended up playing as an emergency midfielder after the red card.
 
Despite all of the moaning from the opposition (some of it justified), I've been impressed with the reaction of our club over the past couple of days. There has barely been a mention against the harsh red card, their offside goal that was allowed and another dubious offside that went against us. Unlike the rantings of their manager, both during and after the game, we've come away with a lot of credit.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Lee Camp

What a difference a win makes!

Instead of looking forward to Sunday with
dread, this win sets us up nicely. Great team performance showing all
the attributes that have been missing too often this season, especially
away from home. Using four (and sometimes five) in midfield restricted
Palace to long range efforts and allowed us to break with numbers
through the pace of McCleary and Tyson.

With injuries sustained against Cardiff, Breckin and Chambers were
restored to the defence with Perch in midfield and Earnshaw supported by
Garner up front. At times, Garner dropped back into midfield leaving
Earnshaw further forward.

We started well and pushed Palace back in the early stages. Earnshaw
should have scored when he turned their defence but allowed their keeper
the chance to save. Palace came back into the game but we continued to
look bright and attack whenever possible.

The opening goal repaid some of the misfortune we've suffered this
season. Cohen's free kick wide on the right missed everyone and flew
past the keeper and into the far corner.

The rest of the first half passed without too many scares apart from one
incident with a shot narrowly wide of the far post. As half-time
approached, Earnshaw found himself through on goal but his effort didn't
cause their keeper too many problems.

Palace came out of the second half looking determined to make amends for
their first half performance and missed a few half chances. Then, having
survived a succession of set pieces, they scored from out of the blue. A
free kick wrongly awarded against Tyson for shirt pulling (which should
have been in our favour) was lumped up to Kuqi, who beat Breckin to the
ball and scored from outside the area with Camp slightly unsighted.

Our heads went down for a short while and we looked likely to settle for
a point at best. Then substitutes Tyson and Thornhill started to get
into the game and were pushing forward at every opportunity. If Tyson
had some composure and awareness to match his speed, we'd have won 4-1
but time and again he found himself clear of their defence but failed to
spot a better placed team-mate. Thornhill in particular suffered after
making long runs from midfield watching Tyson shoot weakly against their
defenders.

Finally we made that all important break through. Their keeper made a
close range save, followed by a scramble with Palace unable to clear
until Thornhill slid in to force the ball over the line when it seemed
the chance had gone.

McGugan had the chance to seal the game when finally put through by
Tyson but scuffed his shot straight at the keeper.


Camp showed again the positive attitude to the game that we've been
missing. Decisive when coming to claim crosses and didn't put a foot
wrong throughout. The frequent indecision and panic from our defence
hasn't been as apparent since his arrival to the club.

The most impressive part of the evening was the performances of MOTM
Breckin and Morgan and the heart of the defence. The only header that
Breckin missed led to the goal for the rest of the game he was
outstanding and led by example. Every corner and free kick saw him
rising highest to clear. Alongside him, Morgan supported him at every
opportunity to keep Kuqi quiet and we didn't miss the injured Wilson at
all.

Chambers looked slightly suspect at times but better than previously in
the season especially with someone playing directly in front of him to
help out. Lynch also dealt well with the Palace threat down their right
hand side and made numerous sliding blocks to prevent crosses reaching
their target.

In midfield, Cohen was back to his normal self, looking full of running
and contributing at both ends of the pitch. I wouldn't necessarily play
him on the right hand side but he just seemed to be everywhere. McCleary
started nervously down the left but as the game progressed he just gets
better and better as each game passes. Never lacking in confidence or a
willingness to work harder even if things weren't going his way. Time
and again he found space to provide a decent cross from the left but
without anyone on the end to take advantage. Even Perch looked
comfortable in midfield showing the form that he started this season
with. Winning numerous headers and keeping things simple on the floor.
McGugan always looked capable of creating chances and the one to take
really advantage of the movement around him.

Garner showed his obviously qualities switching between partnering
Earnshaw and then dropping deep to support the midfield. He looks a
proper footballer, decent first touch, good awareness and able to pick
out a pass. Earnshaw worked himself into the ground, missed a couple of
chances but the sharpness is coming back.

Assuming we continue to play four in midfield, regardless of personnel,
things will improve. This gives extra protection to the full-backs and
provides options wide when were are in possession. There is enough pace
in this side from Tyson, McCleary and Anderson in particular to break
from deep positions without having to leave three up field constantly.

If we continue in this vein for the forthcoming games then the doubts
surrounding Calderwood position should quickly be dispelled. It's only
one game but there were enough positives to take from an all round team
performance to suggest that we still have a chance this season.

Tags: Games Won, MOTM Ian Breckin

A depressing ninety minutes that summed up our miserable start to life in the Championship. Despite playing well for spells during the game, it’s points and not performances that will get us moving up the table.
 
We had so many good chances I still can't believe that we didn't score. The fact we played pretty well at times and still lost just makes it even worse. Some of the chances looked easier to score but we just don't have that conviction in front of goal. We had more chances but Cardiff should really have made the most of the few chances that came their way. Bothroyd in particular missed a couple that looked easier to score.
 
We played well for the first half hour and then at the start of the second half but McGugan's rash challenge and the penalty knocked us side-ways. We then struggled to regain any momentum for the remainder of the game until Earnshaw’s arrival provoked a couple of late chances.
MOTM Garner was the highlight of the afternoon, despite only playing for an hour. He showed a very good attitude to the game, providing the fight that has often been missing this season. On first impressions, he was much smaller and slightly built than I was expecting, however, as much as Purse etc tried to knock him out of the game he got back up and came back for more. Despite his lack of stature, he plays off the last defender and competes for every ball. First touch looked pretty decent to me and able to bring others into the game. Very encouraging signs and something for the rest of the squad to learn from.
McGugan started well and was involved in most of our early good moves. He spent most of the time almost playing up front around Garner causing their defence quite a few problems. Following his rash challenge for the penalty, he disappeared and ended the game hobbling around. Other positives include the continued decent form of McCleary plus the defence looked pretty good, apart from Wilson who looks unrecognisable from the comfortable centre back of last season. Please take the captancy off him and let him get back to defending properly without the extra responsibility.
Despite the good spells, something has to change to spark our season into life. The teams we play in this league aren't that much better than ourselves, they just look street-wise compared to our naive new boys unable to establish ourselves in this league. The points gap to safety seems to increase with each passing game.
With regard to the manager’s position, it doesn’t change anything. We badly needed points from these two home games and failed. The forthcoming games look much harder.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Joe Garner

Pretty even game, few chances either side but we were badly second best
in the second half as we struggled to close Ipswich down and the game
drifted to a stalemate. We had a couple of goals disallowed for offside
and missed 2 one on ones but generally the visitors looked much more
composed that we did.

Initially I was disappointed that Smith had been singled out for our
problems this season but having seen Camp last night I might have to
change my mind.
Camp was always quick to leave the six yard box, pro-active during the
game with his distribution, catches the ball whenever possible, trying
to get on with the game quickly. He didn't really have any saves to make
though, guessed right way for penalty but no other chances to impress.
In contrast to Smith, he plays in a positive fashion and gets on with
the game.

We were terrible at the back. Morgan was probably the best of the bunch
and that sums it up. All three full-backs showed exactly why they're not
good enough especially with their distribution. We seem to have lost the
decent build-up approach to games that we employed earlier in the season
and resorting to aimless long balls. Chambers in particular struggled to
find a red shirt all night. I'd take the captaincy straight off Wilson
given the chance, just let him get back to defending.

In midfield we were outnumbered against their 5 man midfield and
struggled badly in the second half to get even get possession. Fletcher
and Cohen did what they could but struggled to find any space and barely
figured. Ipswich always seemed to have a free man and passed their way
through and around our midfield. Even though they didn't create many
chances they were one of the better teams we've played so far. McGugan
made an initial impact but then resorted to hitting first time blind
passes and giving the ball away.

There were a couple of small positives besides Camp. McCleary is quietly
getting on with establishing himself in the first team squad. An
excellent strike from distance for our goal and approached the game with
a decent attitude until he tired and was replaced. He never hides and
keeps trying to make things happen.

MOTM Anderson is starting to show signs of his quality but let us down
with the needless, clumsy challenge for their penalty. Their player went
down too easily but the challenge should never have been made in the
first place. Should have scored when clean through but took a touch too
many and then hit the keeper. Looked dangerous running at their defence
(even with the woeful Chambers alongside him) and found time to get back
and defend when needed.

Looking at the rest of the starting XI, there is no one there who is
going to score the goals to get us out of trouble. Anderson possibly and
McGugan from set pieces but when Earnshaw's missing we look desperately
short of goals. I can't see anyone else getting anywhere near 10 goals
this season.

Why did Calderwood let our only remaining fit forward, Sinclair, leave
on loan the day that Earnshaw was revealed to be injured again? Whilst
he might not be ready for first team action, we're only left with Tyson
and Cole else we're playing people out of position again. There was 1
defender and 4 midfielders on the bench again last night.

I'm at the stage now where I feel that something has to change. Every
passing game we seem to be further away from safety (6 points plus goal
difference currently) and I don't see enough at the club capable of
turning things around. Even the crowd seemed too depressed to throw any
abuse at the team/manager. It's as if everyone's resigned to failure
this season.

I can't see any other solution but for Calderwood to pack his bags and
let someone else have a go.

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Paul Anderson

The clock is ticking and time is surely running out for Calderwood if
the following two home games fail to provide a win. The crowd remained
fairly positive until the final whistle but there's little to keep them
on side at the moment. The support has been quite patient this season
but this might be one defeat too many.

Another change in formation saw us finally revert to a conventional 442
set-up and initially things looked promising. Anderson and McCleary
provided the width and tracked back to help out their full backs.
Fletcher in midfield provided the graft that has been badly lacking in
most games this season.

The first half wasn't that bad. For long spells we matched QPR and
looked much more structured and compact that at other times on our
travels. Neither sides created many chances but McCleary and Anderson
looked dangerous on the break and provided cause for optimism.

Things changed in the second half as QPR raised their game, took
advantage of poor defending and then sat back. As so often seen this
season, lapses in concentration are costing us badly and we find
ourselves unable to recover. Forest never really looked like scoring
apart from McGugan's quality freekick and Tyson's turn and shot that
required a smart low save.

Having defended pretty well in the first half, we undid all of the good
work with our inability to clear a couple of right wing throw-ins. The
first was flicked on and Smith with left with no chance with the first
time shot in off the bar. The second goal arrived after we failed to
clear another throw-in from the same area. The resulting shot from
outside the area came through a crowd of players and flew past Smith.

With the game drifting, Calderwood replaced Anderson and Fletcher with
Davies and McGugan. Cue boos and chants of "You don't know what you're
doing" from the travelling fans mostly due to Cole remaining on the
pitch. I didn't see the problem with the changes as Anderson had tired
badly and we needed McGugan's more attacking approach in midfield. The
biggest failure was not having an alternative centre forward on the
bench.

Forest struggled to make much impact going forward with Tyson and Cole
dominated throughout by the towering home centre backs. Cole in
particular just didn't look interested when we need everyone out on the
pitch to stand up and be counted. Chambers blasted one chance over the
bar but that was about it.

We finally scored and made the final stages interesting. Cohen won a
free kick 25 yards out and McGugan did the business with an excellent
curling strike into the top corner.

As soon as the goal went in, Morgan was pushed upfield to add numbers to
the forward line but to little real effect. We had a few corners but
never really came close to equalising.

The full backs looked more secure than usual with a winger in front of
them to provide cover and also the presence and covering of Fletcher.
Problems again at centre back where Morgan stills looks clumsy at this
level and Wilson a shadow of the assured defender that used to play for
us.

Fletcher impressed whilst on the pitch with his ability to cover back
for the defence whilst holding things together around him. Definitely
something we've been lacking since Moussi's form has dipped and a very
welcome addition to the squad.

Anderson looked sharp in the first half and showed the pace and direct
running that will give us a massive boost in the coming games.

MOTM McCleary was the one player who really stood out throughout,
carrying on his good recent form against Sheff Weds and Palace. Always
willing to take on the QPR defence and involved in most of the good
moves that we put together.

Tyson ran and ran for the side again and had very little support from
Cole alongside him. Cole himself put in an abject display and showed
very little interest in events around him.

With little chance of scoring combined with little chance of keeping a
clean sheet, we're always going to be in trouble.

If we were in mid-table and this type of performance was a one-off blip
then it wouldn't have been problem. However, the first half (at least)
was one of the better displays this season and it still wasn't good
enough. We've played some very average teams away from home this season
and have failed to take a single point from any of them.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Gareth McCleary

A thoroughly depressing result, which leaves us stranded at the bottom of the table. Palace were far from being a decent side but as with Tuesday night, we’re left frustrated at our inability to compete with even the very average teams in this league.
 
The team selection contained some surprises. Cole was very unlucky to be dropped after being at the heart of Tuesday’s better moments. Breckin and Lynch could also consider themselves hard done by to find themselves on the bench with Morgan, Martin and Moussi all recalled. McCleary received a deserved start after an encouraging display in mid-week.
 
We struggled to create many clear chances apart from a series of set pieces, which caused Palace problems all afternoon. Their keeper was barely tested in the second half when we should have been pushing them backwards at every opportunity.
 
Palace frustrated us for long spells through their cynical approach to the game and just bided their time until the inevitable Forest defensive mistake came along. When they arrived they took full advantage and never looked in too much trouble.
 
We started the game brightly with a succession of dangerous corners from Cohen. Bennett in particular found himself in some promising positions but was unable to convert.
 
Then Palace won a free-kick on the right hand side which found it’s way across the area for Ifill to score from 20 yards. A great strike but we should really have defended much better.
 
On half-time, McCleary worked a decent opening for Moussi to fire low across the goal but wide of the far post.
 
With Forest struggling to create any chances, Cole replaced Thornhill as we switched to 442. On this occasion, it had little effect as we continued to find ourselves frustrated by Palace and their antics.
 
Their second killed the game off with ten minutes to go. Wilson looked to have the situation under control when Smith came charging from his line. Kuqi simply brought the ball under control and lobbed the ball over Smith’s head. A terrible decision from our keeper who came racing from his line for no reason.
 
We forced a few chances from set pieces, with Bennett again the most prominent player. However, we created very little from open play throughout.
 
I’ve supported Morgan in the past but today he looked like a pub player, completely outclassed especially with the ball at his feet in the second half. Perch did enough during the game to suggest that he can make the right back position, solid and not a pressing problem.
 
Thornhill did reasonably well at Sheffield Wednesday but today he was anonymous and the game passed him by. Rightly replaced by Cole after an hour. Cohen was full of running, as ever, but failed to have quite the impact in recent weeks. Moussi looked to be getting some form back before an ankle injury forced him out of the game.
 
Martin has been transformed from a decent youngster with something to prove into a show-pony who doesn’t seem to realise that this is a team game. Time and again it was one unnecessary flick too many when a simple control and pass was required. A luxury we can’t afford to carry at the moment.
 
MOTM McCleary deserved his start following a promising performance on Tuesday and I didn’t think that he did too much wrong. Out of all the forwards, he was the one willing to get the ball on the floor and run at the opposition. Some of the final balls could have been better but a promising display and something to build on.
 
Tyson ran and ran but never looked like scoring. Cole made a difference for the last half hour and should have started the game. He was lucky not to get sent off for a blatant elbow against one of their players as the frustration grew.
 
We should scrap the continued use of 3 midfielders in an attempt to match the opposition and prevent ourselves from being outnumbered in midfield. Play 4 or 5 across midfield using wingers to provide support to the full backs. We need to make ourselves difficult to beat and then work forwards from there.
 
A couple of fresh faces are desperately required, especially in midfield if Moussi is going to be missing for any length of time. With the current squad, the only option would be to revert Perch back into midfield and re-instate Chambers. This just isn’t going to work. It’s easier said than done but we lack experienced, solid players in defence and midfield. There is talent in the squad but there is a balance missing at the moment, which we need to compete.
 
We need to be more organised and structured in our approach to games. Whilst some of our approach play has been entertaining this season it just isn’t effective enough.
 
Two weeks without a league game might have just come at the right time.

Tags: MOTM Gareth McCleary, Games Lost

Whilst it might look like another depressing defeat without scoring, there were actually quite a few positives to take from last night's game. The second half performance was encouraging and only three outstanding saves from their keeper prevented us from taking a deserved point... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Nathan Tyson

Another half-decent performance but a series of missed chances meant that we had to settle for a point. Time and again, the running of Cohen and Tyson opened up the Charlton defence but we lacked that cutting edge to finish them off... Read More...

Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Nathan Tyson

A series of poor refereeing decisions will take the headlines from this game but really we should be looking at our own inadequacies before laying the blame elsewhere... Read More...

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Chris Cohen

What an afternoon! Almost certainly the most entertaining afternoon spent watching Forest under Calderwood, which has to be a positive sign moving forward... Read More...

Tags: MOTM Lee Martin, Games Won