We didn’t learn anything from the first leg and in typical Forest fashion fell apart in spectacular style. Having got ourselves level twice through MOTM Earnshaw, we contrived to conceded 3 quick goals as our challenge fell apart in the second half.

It was pretty obvious that McKenna and Cohen would struggle to last the 90 mins and it was too much to expect Majewski to deal with their midfield on his own. As with Saturday, the longer the game continued the greater the influence of the Blackpool midfield. It’s a sign of the recent progress made by Moussi that his absence affected us more than anything over the two legs.

Perch defensive failings were there for all to see on Saturday and bizarrely, we decided to make things even harder for him by exposing him at left back. As we’ve been preparing for the play-offs for weeks then surely it would have made sense to give him some games in this position beforehand. Yet again found out when it mattered with mistakes that cost us dearly.

Tyson’s recent performances have been poor and today was no exception. His preference to Anderson was another selection that didn’t make much sense. Yet again, Boyd wasn’t given the opportunity to put his obvious talents to any use and his loan spell ended up being a massive disappointment.

Other things went against us, with a couple of close offside calls, a crucial deflection for their second and Camp’s one error of the season for the opener. All that would detract from Blackpool’s all action performance that we had no answer to.

However, it’s been obvious for a while now that the likes of Tyson, Perch and Adebola just aren’t good enough to be part of a squad challenging in this league. McGugan and McGoldrick have also struggled to make any impression whilst Garner, McCleary and Lynch have generally been unable to get on the bench.

The chairman has indicated that up to three new faces were likely to arrive but realistically it should be up to double that to add both quality and depth to the squad. We were lucky with injuries until the closing stages and it would be unrealistic to expect the same next time around.

We also have to find a massive improvement on our travels. Four wins from 23 games is a pitiful return and one that has been masked by the incredible home form. Getting the most from the obvious talents of Earnshaw and Majewksi whilst retaining enough steel in midfield would be a start.

There's still plenty to be positive after a season that exceeded everyone's expectations. There are so many memorable moments to take away and with some minor improvements there’s no reason that we can’t enjoy a similar run next time around.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Robert Earnshaw

A third defeat to Blackpool proved to be a familiar story for Forest on our travels this season. Having established ourselves in the first half, we lacked that clinical finish to take advantage of a number of decent chances that came our way. Blackpool improved after the break and we were slightly fortunate to only find ourselves a single goal down going into the second leg. The returns of McKenna and Cohen were a timely boost but the loss of Moussi through injury was to cost us through the second half.

After an even opening spell, it was Forest who took an early through an outstanding curling effort from Cohen. There looked to be nothing on but the keeper could only watch it fly into the top corner. Morgan almost doubled the lead, narrowly missing Cohen’s curling free kick before some slack defending gifted them an equaliser.

Their full back carried the ball across the penalty area before finding an unmarked player wide left to cross for another left all alone to score with a scuffed shot. Really poor defending when we needed to be at our best. Question marks over Anderson’s marking of the full back, Perch going missing at right back and no one marking in the centre.

Forest responded well and should have been back in front before half time. Anderson skipped down the left, crossed for Blackstock’s looping header off the bar and Tyson’s rebound over. Morgan was unlucky not to score with another effort cleared via the post.

Half-time came at the wrong time with Forest looking dangerous on the break, especially with Anderson down the left hand side. However, it was a different story in the second half as Blackpool took advantage of a weary Forest midfield to cause us numerous problems.

With Cohen and McKenna lacking fitness and Moussi out injured, we struggled to contain their movement from midfield. Finally their pressure counted with Perch committed a needless clumsy foul when there where others better placed to clear. Camp was sent the wrong way from Adam’s spot kick.

Perch was nowhere to be seen as Campbell was clean through but fortunately his effort cleared the bar. We had another escape when Wilson’s perfect tackle on the edge of the area was harshly judged to be a foul. The resulting kick from Adam could only hit the wall. Another bobbling shot towards the end crept just past the post with the Forest defence only watching on.

Cohen, yet again, continued to be the one most likely to equalise for us. One free kick from the edge of the area narrowly over whilst another long range injury effort needed a great low save from their keeper.

MOTM Wilson was one of the few to perform as expected for the full game. Cohen looked very good in patches but understandably tired in the closing stage. Anderson always seemed the most likely to create something in the first half but contributed little after the break.

Both Perch and Tyson continued their recent indifferent form and should find their places in doubt from Chambers and Earnshaw to provide greater attacking threat. McGoldrick and Earnshaw didn’t really make much impact as second half replacements after the workrate that Blackstock displayed. It looked a perfect chance for Garner to continue his recent form.

Despite finding ourselves behind, we’re still right in the contention for the tie overall. Back amongst familiar surroundings with a decent surface and a more favourable referee, there’s no reason why we can’t get the opening goal and take it from there.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Kelvin Wilson

Another away game without victory but, even with a reserve side, there were plenty of positives to take from the first half in particular. With most of the first team regulars missing, there were chances for some of the squad members to confirm their places on the bench for the play-offs to come.

After a slow start we soon found some form and should have scored more than that two we managed. Boyd found Garner on the edge of the area, to beat one defender and then thread an effort into the bottom corner. Just before half-time, a well worked build up down the right saw us move the ball across the area for Boyd to fire across the keeper and into the far corner. A fantastic team effort and it was comparable to Cohen’s goal at West Brom.

McGoldrick and McGugan both had good chances to extend the lead but we had to settle for a two goal advantage at half-time.

The hosts were much improved after the break and started to put some pressure on the Forest goal. After Anderson’s early volleyed chance we struggled to create too many chances. Boyd messed up two corners whilst a couple of crosses didn’t bounce favourably for us.

At the other end, Smith made a couple of smart low saves but we failed to clear one scramble which they took advantage of to make a game of it.

It looked like we’d survived the best that Scunthorpe could manage until McCleary carelessly lost the ball in midfield right at the end. Their player carried the ball forward and found the top corner from outside the area, leaving Smith with no chance.

In terms of those with something to prove, MOTM Joe Garner was the one who made the most of his chance. Finally playing as a centre forward, he caused problems throughout and scored a well-taken and deserved goal. Should find himself on the bench, especially if we’re battling away from home.

Alongside him, McGoldrick continues to frustrate, sometimes combining well with those around him but never looking like scoring and often giving the ball away cheaply from promising positions. On current form, Garner looks like the best option as a reserve striker but McGoldrick should still be on the bench.

McCleary’s pace and skill would be a great asset to have in reserve but the late error cost us the game and we couldn’t afford to risk a repeat in the coming weeks. He’s unlikely to be involved in the away leg and a small chance of being on the bench for the home game.

Boyd showed a few moments of promise and was certainly improved on his performance at Doncaster. However, compared to Anderson, we should still expect more from him in terms of work-rate. Too often he’s happy to let others take his share of tracking back and backs out of challenges. Would be a useful option to have on the bench and this goal itself should see him in front of McCleary.

McGugan missed a very good chance with only the keeper to beat but barely featured in the rest of the game. Could have won the game right at the end with a free kick narrowly wide but this has to go down as another wasted opportunity in a red shirt. If everyone’s fit, he could be struggling to be involved if McKenna makes a return and Moussi’s recent form continues.

Lynch didn’t look 100% fit in the opening stages but improved as the game progressed and didn’t let anyone down. Away from home he’d bring more height to the defence and allow Gunter back to the right but still unlikely to be involved in the coming weeks. Gunter and Chambers still remain as the best full back pairing on current form, especially with the latter’s ability to score from set pieces.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Joe Garner

Plymouth proved to be the perfect opponents for our warm-up for the play-offs. They gave us plenty of space in midfield which Majewski, in particular, took full advantage of. After missing a couple of early one-on-ones through Earnshaw and Tyson we soon got back into the usual rhythm. Majewski’s excellent through ball found Earnshaw to score with ease and then Plymouth’s clearance from Moussi’s right wing cross hit Blackstock to double the lead.

The second half was a non-event with Forest easing their way through the game until adding a third in the closing stages. McGugan’s control let him down but it fell perfectly for Anderson to chip past the keeper.

With a better pitch, there were signs of a return to the free flowing passing of earlier in the season with Majewski and Moussi both having more influential games in midfield. MOTM Morgan continued his impressive run of games this season with a dominant display. In terms of the play-offs, only the performances of Perch and Tyson leave question marks over starting places for the home leg. Neither showed enough quality to suggest that their places are guaranteed.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Wes Morgan

To find ourselves confirmed in the play-offs with 3 games to go is a fantastic achievement. We’ll enter them in plenty of confidence and should fear no other team. In the remaining games, we have the opportunity to rest a few players and give some of the squad players the chance to find some form whilst resting the likes of Gunter, Cohen and Blackstock who’ve contributed so much this season.

The first half was played with the feel of a pre-season friendly with Forest playing without their usual zip and Ipswich creating a few decent opportunities but lacking the belief that they would ever score.

Once we took a slightly fortunate lead early in the second half, we never looked back and ran out easy winners. Cohen’s free kick found Earnshaw on the edge of the area and his turn and shot found the net via Chambers hip.

Moussi had another decent afternoon for the first seventy minutes and scored a well deserved second goal. He started to feature at both ends of the pitch and it was noticeable that he had a real influence on the game. Things went downhill after he scored with a number of careless passes that always seem to let him down. He still did enough to suggest that we might be able to cope without McKenna in the important games ahead of us.

The scoring was rounded off by Earnshaw after a neat move down the left opened up their defence and we kept the ball alive via Tyson and Blackstock. Another well deserved goal for an afternoon full of endeavour.

There were signs of the old free flowing football as Majewski joined the action and started to link up the midfield and forwards. At the other end, Ipswich still created a number of (mostly wayward) efforts but never really looked like scoring.

As with most of our games this season, it was a real team effort with no one really standing out. MOTM Cohen was one of the few players to perform in both halves and continues to lead by example from midfield.

The back four has a much more solid feel to it with Gunter’s class translated to left back and Chambers obvious improvement with better players around him plus providing a real threat from set pieces. The performances of Wilson and Morgan this season speak for themselves.

The only slight disappointment of the afternoon was the performance of Tyson, who we persisted with down the right hand side for the majority of the game. Time and again he’d find himself in a decent position but got found out by a lack of a decent right foot. He looked much more settled down the left on the few occasions he was allowed to swap sides.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Chris Cohen

Whilst it was slightly disappointing to end the home winning streak without breaking the record, there was plenty of encouraging signs against one of our play-off rivals. If we’d managed to produce one of the clinical finishes that have been a trademark of the previous home games, the result might have been different. We were still able to show that we’re more than capable of providing Cardiff with a tough test.

Despite being under pressure in the opening stages, we missed the best chance of the game. Their defence failed to deal with a routine ball over the top and left Earnshaw running in on goal with only the keeper to beat. Unusually, he lacked a calm finish and hit the keeper instead.

Tyson produced one moment of class, of an otherwise disappointing afternoon, with a right wing and cross but Cohen missed the ball with an empty goal in front of him. Moussi produced another decent cross than just evaded Tyson in the middle.

At the other end, Cardiff relied on set pieces for the dangers posed and we escaped a couple of nervy moments. However, credit to our defence as the longer the game proceeded, the less likely they looked to score.

After the break, we continued to improve and cause more problems whilst the visitors lost all interest in winning the game and concentrated on stopping us playing instead.

Blackstock had the best chance of the half, winning the ball from a defender and finding himself through on goal. Similar to Earnshaw, he couldn’t find the clinical finish to beat their keeper.

McCleary showed a number of neat touches down the right and produced better service than Tyson had generally been capable of. Based on recent performances, Tyson should be considered as backup for Earnshaw instead of being stuck out on the left wing.

Defensively we looked very solid with the back five remaining as reliable and consistent as ever. Camp had a relatively quiet afternoon due to the performances of those in front of him. Gunter’s move to the left has eased our previous concerns about a lack of left back. Chambers continues to look settled at right back and poses a real threat from every set piece. Wilson and Morgan stood up for themselves well in spite of facing the obvious threat of their forwards.

Majewski’s form is the one worry from those genuine first teamers within the squad. After the purple patch earlier, he’s really struggling to have any real impact at the moment. Better news in the format of MOTM Moussi who seems to be finding some form just at the right time, one of the better players on Saturday and put in another impressive performance. His normally wayward passing wasn’t evident and he’s having an impact at both ends of the pitch.

Earnshaw and Blackstock looked a threat throughout and both should have found themselves on the score sheet. They are rightfully the number one forward pairing for us and ideally we’ll see them rested in the coming weeks to allow Garner and Tyson to show some form down the middle.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Guy Moussi

Finally we leave an away game without another defeat to our name. We had the worst possible start by conceding in the first couple of minutes but fought back well, equalised and should really have pinched the three points after the break.

We found ourselves behind before the game really got started. A long range effort following a cleared corner was deflected past Camp, leaving the keeper with no real chance.

We stumbled along in a state of shock for a while until Moussi produced a rocket from nowhere to equalise. Taking the ball from the defence, no one closed him down and he found the top corner from 30 yards.

City nearly took the lead again out of nothing. An over head kick from another corner was heading for the top corner until Camp got back brilliantly to tip over.

Things continued disappointingly until MOTM Garner joined the game and, along with Moussi, was the real highlight of the afternoon. In contrast to the disappointing Adebola, he looked full of movement and energy playing at centre forward. Their defence suddenly had very little time on the ball as Garner hassled and then dropped deep to provide the link between midfield and attack.

Tyson found himself through on goal from sub McGoldrick’s pass but their keeper smothered the shot. Garner then should have scored with a header from Chambers’ great cross but the keeper saved and was then alive to stop Tyson’s rebound.

Gunter looked very lively down the left hand side, making the most of the space in front of him when the ball came his way. Unfortunately, Boyd had another disappointing game and it wasn’t a surprise when he was replaced early into the second half. He seems to be struggling to get into the game at the moment and show off his obvious talents.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Joe Garner

No real complaints over the result, Newcastle probably just edged the game but we contributed to a decent game which turned on the opening goal. If we’d nicked a goal at the start of the second half, we might have seen a repeat of the West Brom performance but we failed to score when playing well and suffered as a result.

Having looked pretty comfortable for an hour, we conceded a really unlucky goal and the game slipped away from us. Cohen’s square pass hit Majewski’s heal and fell nicely for Ameobi to score with a scuffed shot through Perch’s legs into the bottom corner.

Tiredness and injury saw the withdrawal of Tyson, Majewski and Blackstock and we looked half the team as McCleary, Earnshaw and McGoldrick barely contributed.

Unfortunately, once the opening goal had been conceded we never looked like getting back into the game and it was no surprise when they killed off the game in injury time with another classy finish. Credit to our travelling fans - very few left after the second goal, despite the long journey home, to applaud the team off after a creditable performance.

This left us with a very similar feeling to most of the other recent away defeats. We didn’t make the most of the opportunities came our way, gave away goals that could have been prevented and lacked a little bit of support from the officials. A couple of over the top challenges didn’t receive the punishment they deserved whilst we had more reasonable penalty shouts turned down.

Defensively we looked pretty solid with MOTM Perch having an outstanding first half and another decent performance after the break. The current setup with him at right back and Gunter at left back looks like our best option despite losing the obvious attacking prowess of the latter on his natural side.

In midfield, we found space going forwards and looked dangerous on the break, however too often we lacked that clinical pass when we looked like threatening. We contained them pretty well for the first half and then had a real go after the break. Blackstock swung and missed and then lacked a little composure with another chance. Tyson’s free header was probably the best chance and he should have done much better than tamely find their keeper.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM James Perch

Up to twelve and counting now. Whilst the players looked our strongest starting XI, we started with an unfamiliar line-up with Majewski playing on the left and Anderson down the middle. This didn’t really work, missing Anderson’s running wide and Majewski’s involvement in central areas and we swapped after about half an hour.

Anderson had one dipping shot, well saved, from outside the area but nothing really to get excited about. Out of nothing, that changed as we entered injury time. MOTM Morgan won the ball on the half-way line, it found it’s way to Anderson down the left and his pull back found Morgan first time with a rocket from 22 yards.

Whilst the first half was pretty tough going with too many passes going astray, after the break we started to show a bit of the footballing side from earlier in the season. Admittedly, we were helped out by the early red card for a blatant hand ball with Earnshaw running in on goal. Palace looked disorganised and struggled to cope being a man down for long spells. Their few chances all came from Ambrose free kicks but Camp was alive to produce two excellent saves to keep them out.

We made the most of the man advantage and found plenty of space in midfield with Anderson looking lively again down the left hand side.

It was good to see Tyson finally get a break and being allowed to play down the middle. He’s been treated primarily as a left winger this season without really being considered in his natural position. His first touch from Anderson’s pass took him round the keeper to score from a narrow angle. Fellow sub McCleary created problems down the right but just lacked that conviction to go for goal having down the hard work himself. One left foot shot looked to be heading for the bottom corner until a decent save turned it away.

Both Tyson and McCleary made a difference in the closing stages and their pace on the break could be invaluable against tiring defences in the coming weeks.

Cohen, looking much more prominent in centre midfield, had the chance to complete the evening but skied his shot from the penalty spot when it looked easier to score.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Wes Morgan

Back at the City Ground and it was normal service resumed with another home victory taking our run to an amazing 11 straight wins. It wasn’t the best of performances but at this stage of the season, it’s only results that count. Peterborough caused us plenty of problems and we had to rely on MOTM Camp to make a number of vital saves.

We scored early through a typically clinical finish from Earnshaw but failed to really build on the lead. Gunter cut inside onto his left foot, found Anderson at the far post to provide the perfect pull-back.

We created enough decent chances to have made the game safe but found another opposition keeper in good form. Earnshaw, Cohen, Blackstock and then McCleary were all denied with impressive saves.

It was a similar story at the other end with Camp saving when they found themselves clean through whilst another tip over from a powerful header was the best of the afternoon. A number of accurate, quickly taken goal-kicks got us moving forwards on the break and nearly led to further goals.

Injuries continue to mount up with Perch failing to last the first half after a number of well-timed tackles. Credit to his replacement, Chambers for a solid enough performance when clearly out of position.

For the majority of the game, we struggled to get our fluent passing game going. At times our best play-maker was Morgan who brought the ball confidently out of defence on a number of occasions.

Majewski looked lively on the few times we found himself in space but too often he was crowed out in midfield. He remains the most likely in the team to produce that moment of match winning quality. On the down side, he seems to be picking up a number of bookings recently with this habit of jumping block tackles which look dangerous than they really are but will always get you in trouble.

Anderson and Cohen were full of running in wide areas whilst McCleary’s late cameo produced a number of direct runs and can consider himself unlucky not to have doubled the lead. Moussi did a lot of the untidy work in McKenna’s absence but too often proceeded to just give the ball away again.

Blackstock continues to prove that he’s the best striker at the club, battling for everything and showing quality in everything that he does. Earnshaw might not contribute as much as his partner but has that invaluable ability to be in the right place at the right time – his goal scoring record in home games speaks for itself.

West Brom look like they’ve found form at the right time and automatic promotion may well be just out of our reach. The play offs would be a fantastic achievement considering the extra resources available to the teams above us. Another couple of wins should give us enough points to make this secure. We can then spend the remaining games regaining our impressive form from earlier in the season.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Lee Camp

Another away trip to mediocre opposition but yet another defeat. The belief that flowed through the side a couple of months ago is a distant memory as we stutter through away games and struggle to exert any impression on the opposition.

It was far from our worst performance of the season but still not really good enough for a side challenging at the top of the Championship. The defence looks fragile when placed under the slightest pressure, whilst the midfield struggles to keep possession for long enough to create enough for the forwards in front of them.

In a scrappy first half, Adebola missed a couple of decent chances when through on goal with the game goal-less. At the other end, Barnsley won most of the ‘second balls’ but weren’t good enough to seriously threaten apart from the one chance that came their way.

A free kick on the half way line was lumped into the area where Morgan didn’t challenge properly, they kept the ball alive and scored with a looping header from about 14 yards. We should easily have defended this but yet another sloppy goal to concede.

Adebola missed one chance on his right foot and then hit an even better, with his stronger left, wide again. The rest was a frustrating experience with the side never really looking like hitting any form.

Similar story in the second half and eventually the frustration got too much for Earnshaw with a laughable challenge on one of their players to concede a needless penalty.

Things only really improved when Blackstock replaced Adebola and started to show some real attacking threat. One header destined for the top corner was well saved but he was unable to hold onto another effort and Blackstock was first to score from the rebound.

We had plenty of possession and crosses into the box but it felt like it wasn’t going to be our night until yet another terrible refereeing decision against us. After recent penalty shouts denied in most away games, this time Earnshaw pounced on a goal keeping mistake to ‘equalise’ but an alleged foul on their keeper soon saw it ruled out. The frustrations of our players was there for all to see after another one of those games where form, luck and rubbish officials went against us.

No real players stood out but MOTM Moussi had a reasonable game in midfield and did most the scruffy things pretty well. Perch looked an obvious weak-link in defence, whilst Wilson and Morgan never really dominated their forwards as they are easily capable of. Majewksi struggled to show his talents in midfield whilst Adebola led the line well but his first half misses cost us badly.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Guy Moussi

The improvement in the second half doesn’t mask the fact that we still look very weak on our travels and have done for a number of weeks now. Despite showing how capable we are going forwards at home, we display very little attacking intent away from the City Ground. Too often we let the opposition dictate the pattern of the game and we struggle to get going until it’s too late.

Following the West Brom game, we get very little time on the ball in midfield with teams adopting a more physical approach to prevent us passing through them. We have to adapt our approach away from home to stand up for ourselves and win the midfield battles on bobbly pitches that don't suit our natural style of play.

During the unbeaten run, we benefitted from a number of generous decisions but favours from referees have deserted us with, amongst other things, a number of recent penalty appeals being ignored.

Preston started the scoring as we were attacking with one of our own corners. The ball was cleared to the half-way line where we lost possession and found ourselves out-numbered down our right. Wallace beat Camp with ease with a calm low shot after a couple of simple passes opened up the defence.

The second arrived from a messy challenge from Cohen defending a corner. It looked like both players grappling with each other but the referee decided in their favour – Cohen really shouldn’t have got involved. Davidson hit the penalty down the middle to double the lead. Shortly after, it became three as we didn’t close down their players in midfield and James struck one from 25 yards out of nothing, straight into the top corner – Camp again with no chance.

There weren’t many to come through the first half with any credit. Boyd and Moussi won a few challenges in midfield but there was very little to get excited about. We looked a mess throughout. McGugan had our best chance with a long range curling effort that dipped narrowly wide. He paid the price for a laboured half and was replaced by Chambers – who became yet another stand-in left back for this season.

Boos followed the half-time whistle and there were plenty of travelling reds who didn’t bother coming back for the second half. Despite their three goal lead, there wasn’t much to fear from Preston and an early goal could make things interesting.

We got our first decision of the afternoon when Chambers lifted the ball over the top for Cohen to run into the area where he was brought down – Blackstock coolly converted the penalty.

From this point onwards, there was only one team in the game and Forest attacked at every opportunity. We started playing much more direct and got the ball forward quickly and with purpose. Blackstock suddenly had supporting players around him as finally McGoldrick and Cohen got into the game in an attacking sense.

Earnshaw joined the action and took advantage of Blackstock’s excellent control and pass to make a difficult chance look very easy. The remainder was all Forest but despite throwing everything at Preston we couldn’t find the equaliser. Having given the early penalty for our opener, the referee decided that one was enough for the afternoon and turned down a number of decent shouts.

Getting MOTM Cohen into midfield sparked the difference in performance and yet again illustrates the shambolic situation at a club without a recognised first team left back. His fight and energy turned what could have easily been another 5-0 Burnley defeat into nearly a valuable point.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Chris Cohen

Despite injuries to Earnshaw, Wilson and McKenna we battled through to earn a massive three points which lifts us back into the automatic promotion places. Both sides had chances to win the game but it always looked like a draw was the most likely result. However, in injury time, Chambers arrived from nowhere to continue his rare ability to score vital goals for the club.

These three points set us up perfectly for the forthcoming trips to Preston and Barnsley. Two mid-table teams where we have a great chance to turn around our recent troubles on our travels.

The injury to McKenna is a massive concern as we approach a series of mid-week games. Whilst his recent performances haven’t maintained the early standards, his presence alone in the side justifies his inclusion.

Moussi certainly didn’t do enough to suggest that he’s a worthy replacement. Either a direct replacement or a left-back, enabling Cohen to return into midfield is essential to maintaining our current position.  With the large number of games approaching, it’s likely that some of the reserves will have to step up and make an impression on this season.

In an attacking sense, Swansea got plenty of men behind the ball and left Kuqi up front on his own with Pratley breaking from deep whenever possible. It’s not hard to see why they’ve struggled to score many goals this season and yet concede so few.  Pratley did look a class act with his ability to break into space from deep, hopefully we haven’t given up the chance for him and will return with an improved offer in the summer.

On this occasion, their chances came from our own defensive mistakes. Kuqi took advantage of Morgan’s hesitation which required Camp to save smartly from close range. Chambers, for no reason, presented the ball on the bye-line for Kuqi but Pratley couldn’t reach the pull-back.

They’ll still be complaining about a possible penalty decision against Cohen on Pratley. The contact was minimal and Pratley never really made the most of the opportunity and seemed more interested in falling to the ground. We suffered similarly at Doncaster and Coventry so it’s nice to see things evening themselves out.

At the other end, we created plenty of chances but too often we lacked composure in front of goal. McGugan and Majewski found themselves through on goal but their efforts barely troubled the keeper. Blackstock had a goal disallowed for offside whilst Boyd’s effort required an excellent save.

Both sides cancelled each other out for long spells and it looked like we’d have to settle for a useful point. However, late in injury time, McGugan whipped in a perfect corner, their keeper came out and missed, the ball almost hit Chambers and flew into the goal.

Camp didn’t have too much to do but made an important save from Kuqi in the first half to keep us level. A few dodgy moments from some bouncing back-passes but we got away with them.

We looked much more balanced defensively with Cohen replacing Perch at left back. This provided much better support for the midfield in front of him. He should have scored when Anderson skipped past their left back and laid it perfectly into his path. In the end, the volley ended up high and wide when a header might have been the best option. MOTM Gunter continues to show his obvious talents at both ends of the field. Never really troubled by their attacks and showed real pace when attacking on the break.

We missed Wilson’s presence in the centre of defence as both Morgan and Chambers showed moments of panic. With Swansea’s lack of numbers going forward, we got away with it but if they had shown more ambition going forwards we might have been in trouble.

Moussi often looked a mess in midfield, arms and legs all over the place. On the few occasions he won the ball, it wasn’t long til the ball was presented straight back to a white shirt. On one occasion, he even managed to tackle Cohen. McGugan did a reasonable job in midfield and was always capable of providing decent service to Anderson and Boyd. He certainly looked much better than recent appearances. He’s likely to have an increasing involvement in coming weeks due to McKenna’s injury.

Boyd looked a classy player on his debut and showed moments of real promise. He provided important width to compliment Anderson down the right. Looked very comfortable on the ball and linked up very well with the other forwards and created some really dangerous situations breaking forward. On the other side, Anderson looked much better on the right hand side and we’ve missed his combination with Gunter in recent weeks.

Majewski struggled to have any real impact on the game and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him rested in the next couple of weeks. Hopefully the arrival of Boyd will reduce the reliance on Majewski, to create something from nothing, that’s existed for long spells this season. Blackstock continues to work tirelessly up front and too often he lacked the necessary support around him.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Chris Gunter

The scoreline implies that we took a battering but there were never three goals between the sides. We looked comfortable until the first goal but a crazy 15 minutes later the game was well and truly lost. By the end we looked ragged and we had to be grateful that our indiscipline didn’t result in us losing any players to suspension.

For the fifth successive away game, we left without scoring. We haven’t beaten an opposition keeper on our travels since Cohen beat Carson at West Brom. On that occasion we stifled and outnumbered their midfield with Moussi, allowing us to hit them on the break. It’s quite surprising that we’ve changed formations and players since without reverting back to this approach.

After destroy them in the corresponding home game, you can see the logic in starting Earnshaw but too often he was a passenger in the side when we were desperate for someone like Moussi adding fight into the midfield. In the closing stages, we should be able to introduce him against tiring defences.

After a scrappy opening to the game, it was Forest who started to look like a footballing team and exert some pressure on the home side. A series of long range efforts were blocked by their defence and the closest we came was Earnshaw’s flicked header off the bar. Half time arrived at just the wrong time for us.

At the other end, there was nothing to fear from a team built around endless long balls from back to front. They had a few set pieces but Wilson and MOTM Morgan looked in commanding form.

It was a similar story at the start of the second until poor defending from a set piece cost us badly. We had chances to clear the ball from our area but they kept the ball alive and found themselves with an easy chance. Even if they hadn’t scored there was plenty of dubious shirt pulling that may have resulted in us conceding a penalty.

The turning point of the afternoon started with our own attack. Earnshaw crossed from the right for McGoldrick to square for Perch, his goal-bound shot hit a defender on the line and was cleared. With their next attack, they were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area. The finish was unstoppable into the top corner and left Camp with no chance.

We looked a mess at this point and it was no surprise when they added another. A low cross shot from the left, with Wilson playing them onside to score from close range with a neat finish. One of those afternoons were everything went right for them in front of goal and Perch’s miss costs us badly.

This looked like a game too far for some of the squad with the midfield in particular struggling to impose themselves on the game. Blackstock did everything you could expect but lacked support around him as Earnshaw never really stayed close to him. Tyson and McGoldrick joined the game in the second half but neither did anything to suggest that they were going to turn the game in our favour.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Wes Morgan

A tight game with two decent sides cancelling each other out. Boro's side contained plenty of quality and should be higher in the league but we just had enough about us to sneak the win. For long spells it looked like nil-nil was the only likely result but Cohen provided the only moment of genuine class to win the game after good work from Blackstock and Majewski.
 
After getting ourselves in front, we looked quite comfortable and eased to victory for an amazing ninth straight home win. With a better standard of opposition and a bumpy pitch, we never really reproduced the high paced, fluid passing from earlier in the season but results are the only thing that matters.
 
Our centre-backs were in impressive form yet again. MOTM Wilson alongside Morgan form a barrier that most strikers at this level struggle to pass. Boro made very little impression apart from an occasional threat from Lita in the closing stages. With their performances Camp had a couple of long range efforts to deal with plus a number of set pieces.
 
Perch did a reasonable job at left back but lacks confidence with his left foot to bring the best out of Anderson in front of him. Too often, the time taken to cut inside onto his preferred side prevents us from breaking with the speed that has become our trademark this season. Gunter has shown his quality all season and remains one of the most consistent performers at the club.
 
McKenna was much improved, especially in the second half as Boro pressed forward. A number of timely interventions from nowhere to steal the ball and get us moving forwards again. Cohen looked rusty at times, with a uncharacteristic dodgy first touch and wayward passes. However, he was never going to hide, stuck with it and provided the one moment of class to win the game. A brilliant, cool finish to beat the rushing keeper after Blackstock and Majewski combined to open up their defence. Makewski showed moments of promise, normally from set pieces but Boro get men around him to stop him finding space. Unlucky to see one free kick beat the keeper but hit the bar. Anderson continues to provide the only genuine width to the side but suffers from the lack of a full-time left back behind him. Provides a great out-let when attacking on the break, running at their defenders at speed.
 
Earnshaw struggled to make much of an impression and missed the one clear chance of the first half when he got behind their defence but missed the target. The most important contribution was the intelligent run to draw two defenders away from Cohen leading up to the winner. Blackstock continued his impressive recent form and battled well against the powerful Wheater all afternoon. The creation of the goal was all down to him and underlines the quality that he brings to the side.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Kelvin Wilson

Our disappointing run of away games continues with another narrow defeat, this time at Doncaster. We don’t concede or score too many on our travels so a one nil score-line in either direction is always going to be a likely result. For the second time in a week, we suffered some poor officials with a blatant early penalty shout being turned down and it taking 42 minutes to receive a single decision in our favour.


Davies rested some key players and gave opportunities to Adebola, Tyson and McGugan to make a case for being included more regularly. Unfortunately, none of them did anything to suggest that they are capable of figuring with the new-improved Forest. Missing the likes of Earnshaw, Blackstock and Anderson was never going to give us the best chance of three points.


The continuity of team selections seems to have disappeared in recent games with players appearing and then vanishing again unexpectedly. A few weeks ago, we appeared to have a settled pattern for away games but we find ourselves back to the early season problems. Amongst all of this, the unwillingness to give Lynch an opportunity at left back remains questionable.


After a scrappy start, we should have been given the opportunity to take an early lead from the penalty spot. Majewski’s bit of quality found Gunter charging into the area only to be caught from behind with a blatant foul. An unpunished tackle from behind on Adebola plus Majewski’s booking for ‘diving’ also went against us.


We got caught out with one left wing cross that Camp tried to anticipate but Sharp nipped in to score with ease. For long spells, the performance resembled away trips under Calderwood rather than the quality of this season.


In the second half, we created another couple of chances but neither Adebola or McCleary could hit the target when well placed. McCleary made a slight improvement with the extra pace and potential of creating something from nothing. However, one over-ran ball and reckless lunge saw him dismissed. The reaction of their players didn’t help, with all off them surrounded the referee as soon as the tackle occurred.


Camp had a rare poor afternoon with some rushed clearances and got caught out for the goal trying to second guess the flight of the ball. Wilson had his worst game for a while and struggled to live with the pace and movement of the lively Sharp. Despite being up front on his own, he caused problems for us all afternoon.


MOTM Morgan was often the spare defender tracking the runners from deep and clearing up any knock downs. One of the few players to perform anywhere near their potential on the day. Gunter was okay but struggled to contribute much going forward and Perch’s insistence on bring the ball back onto his stronger right foot ended all pace to left wing attacks and will never get the best from Tyson.


McGugan barely figured for the time he was on the pitch and was lucky to come back out for the second half. Compared to the running and effort of Majewski and Cohen, his work-rate wasn’t good enough and, yet again, didn’t make the most of his opportunity. McKenna is suffering a dip in form and badly could do with a break, but with our limited options, there’s no way we can do without him. Lacking composure on the ball, too often he chose a first time pass without looking to give the ball away.


Majewski was unlucky to get booked for the alleged dive but it was disappointing to see our creative player leave the game when we needed him the most. That still doesn’t condone the needless boos that accompanied the change. His replacement, McGoldrick, continues to seem more interested in fancy flicks without showing any real goal threat or work ethic that’s been installed into most of the side. It’s still very early to write him off in a red shirt though.


Tyson struggled to contribute anything of note apart and missed the one clear chance we created all afternoon. Majewski again found him charging through on goal, only to shoot tamely straight at their keeper. Cohen struggled to find any form in the first half but was the one driving the side forward after the break with any real quality.


The game was setup for Adebola to cause the home defence real problems. Both starting centre-backs had to be replaced but he struggled to win anything of note in the air. On the few occasions, he found himself with the ball at his feet, it was soon given away. With the style of football we play on the break away from home, it’s essential that the lone forwards competes for everything and is capable of bringing others into the game. Had one chance when through on goal, with a bouncing ball, but could only ‘shin’ it into the crowd. Blackstock added a little bit of quality to the game but the sending off of McCleary set us back and the game drifted.


Playing on the break away from home will always require us to make the most of any opportunities that come our way. With our reserve forwards on the pitch, it was too much to ask on this occasion.


We badly need two good home results, against tough opposition, this week to relieve the increasing pressure from the chasing pack behind us. Our home form remains key to how the rest of the season will unfold.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Wes Morgan

This was a thoroughly frustrating evening where nothing went right for us in the final third. Most of the game was played in the Coventry half with the hosts unable to make any impression. We dominated for long spells in midfield but couldn’t find a way through, conceded a poor goal and lost our way in the closing stages following a number of changes.

Due to the lack of recent signings, Cohen had to be pushed into left back duty, meaning a recall for Garner on the right hand side of midfield.

Both halves followed a similar pattern, all of the play in their half but unable to capitalise on all of the possession. Then about half way in, we lost our way and the game drifted.

In the first half, the goal came from nowhere and we lost our momentum. We should have been ahead when McKenna’s quick free kick got Garner clean though but he hit the keeper’s legs. Before half time he saw a looping header drop just wide.

Second half, we really came out and got at them. Blackstock missed a sitter from a yard and the ball didn't fall for us in the area when we needed it to. The rest of the half was very stop/start with loads of ‘injuries’ to their players and the referee who was replaced.

I don't think that Billy's changes worked and we lost all structure to the side which stopped us playing football. No problems with Earnshaw for Garner but taking Anderson off lost us all width down the left hand side. The subs combined with the ref change and Coventry's delaying tactics saw the game drift in the closing stages as we ran out of ideas. When we passed the ball, we looked impressive but we got increasingly desperate and ended up with too many long balls to Earnshaw when previously we'd been passing our way through their midfield.

Losing Cohen from midfield was a huge loss even though he looked decent at both ends. His combination with Anderson at the start of the second half looked the most likely source of any goals. We just didn’t have the same effect with Garner and Gunter down the right. Moussi looked better with both McKenna and Majewski around him as we generally controlled the midfield.

Without Tyson or McCleary we lacked wide options in reserve and the introduction of McGoldrick and McGugan (along with the ineffective Earnshaw) took us backwards instead of building on our good start.

When we were playing well MOTM Majewski was at the heart of everything and Coventry couldn't handle his movement.

A lift for the club, in terms of a new face in the squad, would do wonders.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Radoslaw Majewski

After a week to forget with defeat last Saturday, no signings and our rivals continuing to pick up points, there was plenty of pressure on us to perform. We struggled for long spells against tough opposition but still had just enough quality to snatch a priceless three points. A couple of unexpected changes in midfield saw Moussi return in place of Majewski whilst Anderson was rested in favour of Tyson.
 
The footballing Wednesday side are a thing of the past under Irvine’s short reign. Similar to Coventry, they came to battle, hassle and relied solely on set pieces and especially long throw-ins to create any chances. Credit to our side for standing up to them and finding the resolve to respond to their equaliser and get ourselves in front soon after. If other sides think that we’re suspect from this approach then we’ll need many more of these performances to stay in touch.
 
We struggled to create many clear chances, with Earnshaw’s curling free kick and Tyson’s long range effort requiring decent saves. We needed a  generous decision for the penalty that Blackstock smashed in the top corner and then we looked comfortable until half time. Wednesday improved after the break but still needed a lucky rebound to find a way past our defence. We responded well and Cohen’s free kick found Blackstock to score from close range at the second attempt. Camp’s kicking might have been slightly suspect but his handling from the constant long balls into the area was almost perfect. Every time they lined up another long throw in, he made his decision early and stuck to it. Gunter and Perch didn’t get many opportunities to shine going forwards but did a decent job defensively. Perch was rightly criticised last weekend but made a number of blocks and won most things in the air, especially in the second half. The contrast between him and Shorey when in possession are obvious though and it almost negates any real threat down the left hand side. Morgan and Wilson did what was required with a number of clearing headers and blocks as Wednesday increased the pressure after the break.
 
Neither Moussi or Tyson made the most of their starting opportunities in the side. Moussi often looked bewildered in midfield, causing more problems for our own side that our opponents but his ungainly style is still capable of shielding the defence on the edge of our own area and making those scruffy challenges. McKenna’s performance seemed to suffer as a result with a number of rushed aimless clearances. Without Majewski providing the link between midfield and attack, too often we panicked and looked a much poorer team as a result.
 
Tyson struggled to get into the game and barely looked a threat all afternoon. He wasn’t helped by the lack of any real support from Perch behind him though who is obviously going to favour his right foot each time. Anderson made a real difference to the closing stages when he got the ball on the floor and starting taking the game to their defence. Cohen continues to show the form that makes it almost impossible to withdraw him from the midfield.
 
MOTM Blackstock was the difference between the sides with another well taken penalty and being in the right place for the winner. Earnshaw was unlucky to see his free kick saved from the top corner and should have done better from Perch’s pin-point pass that saw him clear eight yards out. Both forwards worked hard for the team but our midfield struggled to get going and support them well enough.
 

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Dexter Blackstock

This season continues to exceed all expectations with another crushing defeat of an established Championship side. This time it was QPR’s turn and they didn’t know what hit them. After a slow opening exchange, two quick Earnshaw goals soon ended this game as a contest. The visiting team were such a shambles that it didn’t take long for the ironic cheering of corners to start. We were playing them at a good time after the departures of Agyemang and Routledge but we still outclassed them for the whole game and thoroughly deserved the win.
 
Blackstock was fouled on the edge of the area for Earnshaw to curl over the wall and inside the post, giving the keeper no chance. The second arrived soon after, Anderson’s run, Blackstocks diversion allowed Earnshaw clean through and he never looks like missing from there. We even found time to score our first penalty of the season. Blackstock raced to grab the ball, despite Earnshaw being on a hat-trick, sent the keeper the wrong way and hammered into the bottom corner.
 
After the break, Cohen charged forward from midfield and his shot through the keeper’s hands brought the forth. Perch charged forward from the back, provided a chance to Cohen and Earnshaw and ended up scoring himself to round off a great evenings work.
 
Camp was solid throughout apart from one dodgy moment where he choose to punch rather than catch a simple cross. Fortunately, he was alive to the rebound and the follow-up ended up in the crowd. He was never really tested apart from a number of half-hit low shots that still needed saving.
 
The loss of Shorey was a concern but this was the perfect game to introduce MOTM Perch into an unfamiliar left back role, barely tested in a defensive sense but more than played his part in the win. We didn’t make the most from a number of bursting runs into the area until one late charge and missed chances fell to him to calmly score the fifth. He also seemed much stronger with his left foot than I remember and didn’t always need to switch back onto his right foot every time. One risky blind pass was the only mistake I can remember him making. Gunter, Wilson and Morgan continue to dominate opposition forward lines with QPR struggling to mount too many attacks worth mentioning.
 
Majewski had the run of the midfield to show off his range of tricks. Some of the through-balls he provided continue to show what he’s capable of and why it’s imperative that we get him signed up to the club as soon as possible. Was struggling for a while at the end of the second half but still finished the game, would have been nice to give him a break but Morgan’s injury probably ruined that. We take McKenna’s performances for granted now, defending and hassling from midfield and preventing many attacks that would previously have trouble the defence.
 
Anderson continues to look more dangerous than earlier in his Forest career with a direct running style taking defenders on. A perfect example was the 2nd goal where he drove from the half-way line, waited for Blackstock to drag the defenders away before laying the perfect ball into Earnshaw’s path. Cohen is starting to add goals to the other obvious qualities, even with the help of some amateurish keeping on this occasion.
 
Blackstock worked tirelessly as ever, bringing other into the game and deserved his goal. Won the free-kick for the 1st and made an important run in the build up to the 2nd to demonstrate how important he is to this team. Earnshaw’s class in front of  goal speaks for itself and should really have converted one of the other chances that came his way to complete the hat-trick.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM James Perch

The first half produced some of the best football we’ve seen this season and the game should have been over as a contest. In the end, we only had two goals to show for our efforts as Reading came storming back and caused us some nervy moments. The most positive aspect of the afternoon was that everyone in the squad contributed to the victory, including the substitutes.

Earnshaw’s volley and Blackstock miss when clean through on goal should have killed off the game. In the end, Anderson’s finish from Cohen’s driving run followed by Earnshaw’s smart finish from Majewksi’s pass did the damage.

We still deserved the win and the three points lifts us to within striking distance of Newcastle. It will be interesting to see how they react to some pressure; their record in the past hasn’t always been that great.

MOTM Camp had an outstanding second half, with a couple of early low saves from diving header but the best was yet to come. His poor kick actually led to Shorey’s red card and resulting penalty. However, Camp redeemed himself with the save to maintain the two goal lead. Was finally beaten in injury time but we’d done enough.

Due to the red card, Shorey could have played his last game for the club. His introduction added a new dimension to the side at both ends of the field and he will be badly missed. How we respond to his departure will be key to how the season continues. We’ve suffered before with players filling in and to take Gunter or Cohen out of their natural positions would be a massive step backwards. The addition of a specialist left back is the primary requirement of this transfer window.

Anderson was a constant threat throughout and in recent weeks has added a more threatening dimension to his performances. Previously, he would have found himself running towards the corner flag and away from danger, now he’s always looking to take on his full back. Time and again, he cut in from the left hand side to provide service for the forwards which reduces the reliance on Majewski to deliver.

On the other side, Cohen was everywhere and directly involved in both goals with his running power. Firstly, he carried the ball from inside our own half to find Anderson to score and then chasing a lost cause resulting in the poor clearance leading up to the second. With the side down to ten men, we relied on his work-rate to make up for the missing player.

Blackstock worked tirelessly at both ends and caused ex-Forest target Mills numerous problems. His ability to bring others into the game was at the centre of most of our breaks with everyone benefitting from his display. Should have finished off the game in first half injury time but that was the only negative on a great afternoons work.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Lee Camp

This season just gets better and better. This was supposed to be one of the toughest away trips of the season but we turned it into a stroll. We have the capabilities within this squad to answer any questions posed by anyone in this league. More importantly, we have a manager capable of getting the best from the squad. The way we’re playing, there’s no limit to how much we can achieve this season.

If Di Matteo thought that our lone striker formation indicated a defensive attitude to the game, then he was sadly mistaken. His team had no answer to the desire, pace and movement of our midfield and Gunter raiding down the right hand side. Anyone watching our team knows that the last thing we are is defensive with the number of options we possess. In the end, we were just too good for them.

This was our standard line-up against the tougher teams, this sees Moussi and McKenna marshal the midfield, allowing Cohen, Anderson and Majewski to cause havoc on the break, ably supported by the full backs to provide the width. Blackstock holds everything together with his work rate, hold-up and inter-play.

It took ten minutes for us to get going after a scrappy opening, but once we found our passing range there was no stopping us. Majewski corner’s found Blackstock on the volley to score with ease, off the post.

The hosts very rarely troubled us with Moussi and McKenna bossing the midfield. Every 50-50 was won by a red shirt, with the talent to attack, with quality, on the break. Gunter raided down the right, got to the bye-line but Majewski couldn’t convert the pull back – no matter, their time would come.

We continued to make West Brom look just as average after the break. They couldn’t handle our midfield and we stifled any intentions they had of playing football. The dominance of our midfield was evident with the two quick-fire goals that killed off the game.

No one apart from Moussi was bothered about their aimless clearance, Cohen nicked the ball away and into Gunter’s path. He continued into the area and his perfect cross found Majewski past the far post to score with an unbelievable left foot volley in off the bar. Unstoppable.

We continued in the same pattern and rounded things off with as good a team goal as you’ll see. A number of first time passes down the right hand side resulted in Cohen cutting inside onto his left foot and finding the bottom corner. A sign of the confidence that’s running through the side and it’s hard to imagine any recent Forest side scoring a goal of that quality.

Three goals ahead, we handed them a consolation goal. Morgan should have cleaned up either man or ball on the half-way line but a neat through ball and calm finish finally saw Camp beaten. Once Moussi had tired himself out, we lacked that dominating presence in midfield until Perch’s late appearance added some extra steel to the midfield to see us over the finishing line.   

Camp cruised through the game, handling everything that West Brom could manage. Set pieces and crosses were handled with ease, their late rally resulting in decent saves from Olsson and Miller.

Gunter nullified the supposed threat of Thomas down the left and continued to show his obvious qualities at the other end. The perfect cross for Raddy’s goal was only one of a number of dangerous runs forward. Shorey didn’t have the same impact going forward but he’s there to defend and did that job comfortably.

Centre backs Wilson and Morgan continue to go from strength to strength. One lapse cost us their goal but dominant throughout despite all the changes they made.

The game was won in midfield with everyone contributing. McKenna and Moussi were everywhere, never letting Albion settle. It was noticeable that Moussi’s departure led to a drop in the work-rate and allowed them more time on the ball. Things improved when Perch joined in for the closing stages to increase the number of challenges.

Anderson worked tirelessly at both ends and was really struggling in the latter stages. Looked lively with the ball and seems to be developing a more direct style now and taking men on. Should have earned the side a penalty after a blatant barge into his back. Cohen’s form has dipped in the past couple of games but he was looking back to his best here and looking much sharper. Rounded off a fantastic evenings work with a composed low finish for his first of the season.

This formation is reliant on MOTM Majewski’s movement, ability to find space and supporting Blackstock / tracking back when required. On this form, there’s no stopping him. Besides the obvious attacking threat his possesses, he still finds time to get back and do his share of defensive work. A finish out of this world for the second but one that he’s clearly capable of.
Blackstock hassled their defence throughout, never let them settle and forced them into numerous errors. Once the ball is under control, has the ability to make the most of it. On the rare occasions he gave the ball away, he’s always tracking back to make amends. A quality finish for the opener despite the cynical shirt pulling against him.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Radoslaw Majewski

Despite the feeling of invincibility that’s surrounded the club post-West Brom, the unbeaten run was always going to end at some stage. Just a shame that it had to be our neighbours who enjoy the pleasure but there would have been more damage done had we lost to one of our promotion rivals. We’ll quickly write this one off and get back to business next Saturday.

No complaints over the result, they just about deserved the points despite the unsavoury feeling that now accompanies these matches. Non-league Nigel didn’t do himself any favours with an afternoon spent on the touch-line arm-waving and moaning at the slightest decision.

This was one of those very rare occasions this season where we didn’t perform anywhere near our potential. The team selection didn’t help and it still feels like Billy got it wrong. Having dominated the midfield at West Brom, it seemed obvious to rest Earnshaw and get Moussi in there but we chose to retain an unchanged team. Having demolished QPR in mid-week you can see the logic but we badly missed the extra man deeper.

As the game proceeded, we were out-fought in midfield and could only bring on Moussi and Adebola as we chased the game. We should have tried to out-number them in midfield and increase our attacking options in the second half, not reduce them.  

We were unable to get any control of the midfield to get our quick passing on the break working and struggled to create and chances. Earnshaw’s early low shot almost squeezed through the legs on the line whilst Blackstock and then Anderson failed to fully capitalised on Gunter’s perfect right wing cross.

Majewski produced the one moment of quality, beating two men, but the pull back was fired at Anderson when more precision was required. We should have had the chance to equalised from the spot after Blackstock was hauled down in the area having turned their defender and through on goal. Amazingly the decision went the other way when a penalty and red card looked the only possible outcome. This summed up the frustrating afternoon nicely.

At the other end, their lack of style was there for all to see. With the midfield almost ignored, every set piece was launched towards our area even from within their own half. Missing Shorey’s calming influence, we conceded too many free kicks and corners and eventually got caught out.  Commons free-kick saw Hulse beat Perch in the air leaving Camp with no chance.

Hulse can consider himself lucky to have still been on the pitch, after one poor challenge saw a yellow card, he then went studs first into Wilson – definite foul and second yellow but nothing given. With stronger officials, this would have been clamped down earlier in the game.

MOTM Camp was solid throughout and was one of the few who played to their potential. Defensively we looked pretty solid from the numerous set pieces but lacked the qualities of Shorey to prevent them in the first place. Perch played well on Tuesday night but wasn’t really tested. We got found out here and shows exactly why a dedicated left back is required. Morgan and Wilson won plenty in the air but it was only a matter of time before someone escaped from their attention.

We lacked numbers in midfield due to the decent job they did in stopping us playing and as a result the forwards struggled to make any real impact. Their work-rate was impressive and hassled us well throughout as we struggled to make many telling contributions going forwards.

Credit to Billy for lifting the spirits of the travelling fans at the end. Obviously we’re disappointed with the result, but full of beans he wanders over pointing to his chest and pointing upwards (presumably to the Premier League) – the club is in good hands and has a lot to look forward this season, unlike our neighbours...

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Lee Camp

We managed to preserve our unbeaten record but only just as Watford provided one of our tougher challenges this season. On a difficult surface, we played some decent football in the first half in contrast to the direct approach of the hosts. However, lacking a clinical strike force, we didn’t make the most of our possession. After the break they improved, caused us a lot more problems and we escaped with a point.

With one eye on the Coventry home game, Majewski, Tyson, Earnshaw and Blackstock were all on the bench. As a general rule, draw the aways, win the homes and we won’t be too far away from the top six. It would have been nice to have challenged their defence a bit more, but this approach has served us well so far this season so no real complaints.

Blackstock’s looping header required a finger tip save whilst McGugan and Shorey saw curling efforts narrowly wide. Anderson hit another effort straight at the keeper.

At the other end, we needed three goal line clearances, including one dubious one via Shorey’s arm/chest to keep us level. Another effort curled narrowly wide whilst another bounced off the post to safety.

Camp had one of his busiest afternoons this season with Watford’s direct style of play and had to produce a number of smart interventions to keep us in the game. On the few occasions he was beaten, there was always a defender on the line providing that all important clearance. Gunter, Wilson and finally Shorey all made critical interceptions to keep us level.

With Watford resorting to launching balls from deep areas, Gunter and MOTM Shorey were able to contribute plenty going forward. Shorey, in particular, was responsible for many of our attacks with a series of accurate balls to feet and was never afraid to follow that up with another positive run forward. To round off an impressive performance, he very nearly scored with a long range curling effort narrowly wide and then kept us level via chest/arm in injury time with a goal line clearance.

He’s made such a big difference since his arrival and either his or another left back’s signing will be key during January. He’s probably too good for this division but the benefits of having a genuine left back have been obvious. Having to revert to Cohen or Lynch there again would be a disappointing step backwards.

Wilson and Chambers looked comfortable in the first half as we enjoyed the majority of possession and passed the ball around patiently. Not quite as dominant after the break but neither let the side down as they favoured the aerial approach.

Cohen couldn’t be faulted for effort but struggled to find much quality on the tricky surface. Too often, a simple pass failed to find the target or he just didn’t anticipate the ball coming his way. On the other side, Anderson was pretty ineffective on the bobbling pitch and could only hit a tame shot straight at their keeper from one nice passing move.

McGugan deserved his chance and contributed in parts but we struggled to get the ball to him often enough. He caused them plenty of problems with neat footwork around the area and was only just off target with one curling effort. McKenna did what was required, as always. He was loving every minute of the midfield scrap, organising, arguing our case with the officials, all good stuff.

McGoldrick should really have been replaced earlier in the game as the partnership with Adebola wasn’t really working. Too often he didn’t get close enough to take advantage of Adebola’s strength to hold the ball up. It was another slightly disappointing performance in terms of work rate especially considering the energy expended by his strike partner. He only really started playing in the latter stages when moved back into midfield and then onto the left hand side.

Adebola did his bit for the team, hassling the Watford defence and competing for everything that came his way. We just didn’t make the most of his efforts.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Nicky Shorey

A great display against proven Championship opposition saw us maintain the unbeaten run and establish ourselves as genuine contenders for an automatic place. We have nothing to fear from anyone at the moment.

Preston never looked likely to cause many problems and we took the three points without exerting ourselves. We were even able to rest the likes of Majewski, Earnshaw and Anderson in the second half and leave Blackstock resting on the bench.

We continue to look sound defensively and clinical up front but this victory was all about the qualities in midfield. We nullified Preston’s threat and looked dangerous on the break with a shoot on sight policy with everyone contributing.

This was McKenna’s night and his impressive first for the club got us on the way. Adebola’s clinical finish saw the game end as a contest whilst McGugan’s last finale rounded off a great evening’s work. Watching Forest isn’t supposed to be this much fun!

Camp had another quiet afternoon due to the poor quality of Preston’s finishing. One routine save towards the end of the first half was his most notable contribution. Wilson was yet again the pick of the defence with another assured display. His partnership with Morgan resulted in Preston abandoning their football and reverted to long balls to lumps Parkin and Mellor. Shorey and Gunter spent most of their time supporting our attacks with the former setting up the last two goals.

MOTM McKenna continues to lead by example and forms the heart of our side. In terms of the playing staff, our recent revival is mainly down to his arrival at the club. His ability to break up attacks and get us moving forward was a feature of the game. Preston just could not handle our quality in midfield where we looked in a different class.

Majewski in particular found space in midfield time and again to cause problems. He was unlucky not to score with one curling effort narrowly wide and we didn’t make the most of some of his drives forward. Despite being in the side for his creativity, he didn’t hide from his defensive duties.

Complimenting the presence of McKenna and creativity of Majewski perfectly was the energy of Cohen and the pace of Anderson – they were everywhere. Everything looked so fluid in midfield with the ball moving with pace and precision. Occasionally we didn’t make the most of some impressive build-up play but you can’t really complain with such a routine victory.

McGugan’s late appearance provided the clinching goal with a neat feint and finish whilst McCleary continues to show that there might just be a footballer in there with his direct running.

Adebola is starting to silence those who question his presence in the side with a number of physical displays that bring out the best in our side. On numerous occasions, his instant control and strength allowed Earnshaw and Majewski to get involved.

Earnshaw had one of those days where nothing really went in his favour. One sharp turn and finish was harshly ruled out whilst their keeper produced a smart close range save to prevent another. Despite this, both forward’s work-rate could not be fault and they took turns to drop deep when needed to regain possession. Earlier in the season, his only contribution was goals but the effort is there and he looks a much better all round player now.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Paul McKenna

Previous trips to Swansea have seen us snatch a lucky point having been given the run around by our hosts. However, this was a different story and shows how far we’ve come this season. We conceded too much space in the opening stages but withdrawing McGoldrick back into a deeper role allowed us to dominate midfield and formed the basis for the win.

The whole team seems to understand their role in the side and are playing for each other. It's great watching Forest away from home at the moment as Billy has put together a side worth travelling hours to watch, showing all the fight you need to succeed in this league. They had the better chances in the first half but we were still posing problems at the other end. From one cross, we kept the ball alive through Morgan and Adebola, allowing McGoldrick to score with a slight deflection. Swansea continued to attack, mainly through the dangerous Dyer but we defended from the front and looked increasingly comfortable. They ran out of ideas in the second half with our defence outstanding for the third time in a week. The closest they came to equalising were a couple of hopeful Trundle efforts that failed to trouble Camp.

Camp made a couple of decent saves in the first half and survived a couple of scary moments but was relatively untroubled throughout the second half. One low save, another close range block and one mis-judged cross off the bar was the closest they came.

The defence in front of him were outstanding and was the difference between the sides. MOTM Wilson continues to show the potential that suggests he may be able to succeed at an even higher level. Commanding throughout and led by example with a number of impeccably timed tackles on the edge of our area. Supported almost perfectly by Morgan alongside him and to have only conceded a very soft penalty during the three games this week is an impressive feat. Swansea’s best moments came from wide areas in the first half but Gunter and Shorey responded well after the break and left their wingers running down dead ends. Shorey showed his quality coming forwards with a number of decent left wing crosses.

The energy and enthusiasm of our midfield was key to the result in which Cohen and McKenna continually won 50-50 challenges in our favour. This allowed Majewski to find space and dictate our attacks on the break. On another day, our final ball would have been better and we would have made the most of the attacks that came our way. Majewski lasted the game very well and showed that we can contribute for the full ninety minutes.

Anderson did most of his good work defensively but started to contribute in the second half as we troubled them on the break. He should really have killed off the game when he found himself in space from a left wing cross.

McGoldrick took his goal very well and almost scored with one earlier header that nearly surprised their keeper. Could still improve his work-rate but showed that his longer term future could lie in midfield with an encouraging display. Adebola took a little while to get into the game but once he formed the lone target man he went on to show his best performance in a red shirt. Holding the ball up much better than we’ve managed in recent games, he was able to bring Majewski and McGoldrick into the game and cause them problems. He worked tirelessly for the side, constantly chasing down and defending from the front.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Kelvin Wilson

A battling display at Bramall Lane saw us escape with a point, but only just. Even though we struggled for long spells and tired badly in the second half we defended well enough to escape with a clean sheet and our unbeaten record intact. If we’re going to have an off day, as long as we keep a clean sheet we’ll come away with some reward.
 
We started the better of the sides with good movement off the ball and quick passing but too often failed to find the right pass in the final third or gave the ball away cheaply. The game soon descended into a dull affair with Sheff Utd’s aimless hoofing and Forest struggling to find the quality going forward from recent matches. They really looked a mess in the first half but were much improved after the break when the crowd finally woke up.
The change in formation to accommodate Chambers at right back (and push Gunter into midfield) was working defensively but left us lacking in options going forwards. McKenna curled one straight at the keeper and Morgan’s charge up-field almost found a way though but not much to get excited about.
 
The home side were much improved in the second half especially when the lively Camara entered the game. Forest continued to defend well from most of United’s attacks but when they got their way past Wilson and Morgan, Camp was there time and again to keep us level. One low save from a diving header, another full length save from a low shot, a double save were all badly needed as we found ourselves on the back foot. There were other saves but those ones stood out.
 
At the other end, Earnshaw found space to curl one narrowly wide whilst another well struck effort was heading towards goal until blocked. These were only rare attacks though as it was all pressure from the home side. Blackstock struggled to hold the ball up well enough against Morgan and Kilgannon whilst we lacked someone in midfield to get the ball onto the floor. Too often we got dragged down to United’s level and lumped it. Having got into the last twenty minutes, we got ourselves in a position to change the game from the bench but we didn’t use the options well enough. Adebola was needed to add strength up front but McGugan would have been ideal pushing Cohen wide.
 
With the final whistle approaching, Forest briefly raised their game with a couple of decent crosses without ever looking like threatening their keeper. We’ll take the point and move onto another tough trip to Swansea.
 
MOTM Camp has been barely troubled in the majority of games this season due to the quality of Wilson and Morgan (amongst others). This was a different story as United pressed hard in the second half and without his contribution we’d have lost easily. Chambers slotted into the back four nicely and his aerial presence was definitely needed in the second half when we came under more pressure. Shorey showed his class away from home and never looked rattled despite a lot of attacks coming down their right. Wilson and Morgan did a decent job against Cresswell and Evans but struggled more with the movement of Camara.
 
Cohen was reasonable in the first half with some decent interceptions but looked dead on his feet in the middle of the second. We should have either moved him wide or replaced with McGugan to get us playing again. Having come back from a ban, he’s already picked up 2 more yellow cards. McKenna did what was needed and this was never going to be pretty performance from him. Anderson started lively down the left but disappeared after the opening stages. Didn’t really looked fit and barely lasted an hour. Gunter got into a few decent positions and did a reasonable job down the right but he was there for his defensive qualities which he did fine.
 
Blackstock didn’t really do enough for the team in terms of holding the ball up and bringing others into the game. No surprise when he was replaced. As a result, Earnshaw struggled and had to make chances for himself out of almost nothing, nearly found something but not really his night.
 

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Lee Camp

Leicester was supposed to present the first of three tough games this week but in the end it proved to be a different story.  We fully deserved the margin of victory and from the moment we scored the first, the result was never in doubt. This season just gets better and better and we currently fear no one but the forthcoming trips to Sheffield and Swansea will tell us whether that’s justified.

They couldn’t match the passion and commitment through our side and a succession of 50-50 challenges were won by those in red. Leicester were such a shambles at times that they resorted to two unforced changes in the first half an hour, without any improvement. Their centre backs couldn’t live with the movement of Earnshaw or Blackstock’s ability to bring others into the game.

The only blemish on another excellent defensive display was Wilson’s rash challenge that should have conceded a penalty. His mis-timed challenge was easily inside the area for which the referee and linesman both rightly indicated a penalty. For some reason, the they consulted again and changed his mind to a free kick. Much amusement all round but those in blue failed to see the funny side.

Camp was a virtual spectator for the game with Leicester creating very little due to the quality of our defence and their deficiencies in attack. Gunter and Shorey dominated their opponents to the extent that they spent most of the game supporting our attacks. Shorey hasn’t been properly tested and the remaining games this week should tell us more.

Wilson and Morgan continue to go from strength to strength and were very rarely troubled by the Fryatt, Waghorn, Howard pairings. Wilson got lucky with the non-penalty decision whilst the decision against Morgan was laughable at best. Apart from these rare incidents, one of these two was always on hand with that important clearing header or block.

Majewski was probably the one outfielder who didn’t really perform on the day but the quality of this team performance was so good that it didn’t matter. McKenna had another very impressive afternoon, showing all the qualities that have become a trademark of his season so far. He held the midfield together allowing Anderson and Cohen to run with freedom throughout the pitch.

Cohen had an immediate impact on his return to the midfield, he was everywhere. Typified our non-stop running and hassling attitude from front to back which the visitors could not match or deal with.

Anderson was obviously up for the game and put in one of his best performances in a red shirt. Had one of those afternoons where he looked like to beat an opponent with ease. In the past he hasn’t made the most of decent positions by choosing the wrong option but today he looked a genuine threat. One moment where the ball went one way and he went the other stands out.  Should have scored earlier in the game where he skipped past a feeble midfield challenge but could only find the keeper’s chest. Blackstock again created the goal for him, a pin-point curling effort around the keeper and into the bottom corner.

McCleary’s cameo showed the improvement he’s making under Davies’ tuition. Twice he skipped past their suffering left back and produced crosses that should have been converted. Finally we got reward for his endeavour. He won the ball in midfield, exchanged passes with Cohen and then saw his low shot palmed out for Adebola to add the final punishment.

The quality of MOTM Earnshaw’s three finishes speak for themselves. It’s taken a while for him to get started this season but he looked as sharp as ever right from the opening stages. Too often in a red shirt he’s barely contributed to games away from goal but today was a different story with his work-rate when they were in possession. First, Gunter’s through ball, a neat dummy and finish from Blackstock’s return pass. Next, instant control and chip from Cohen’s shot. Finally, he intercepted a short pass, turned their defence inside and out before a neat chip into the top corner.

Blackstock looked disappointed to be taken off without scoring but more than did enough with his link-up play with Earnshaw. One half volley well saved by the keeper and another header cleared off the line were the closest he came. After the relatively disappointing performances from McGoldrick and others this season, we’ve found our number one pairing for the coming weeks now.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Robert Earnshaw

We've proved in the past few weeks that we're tough to beat without taking advantage of our opportunities going forward. However, whilst the performance was certainly lacking in the first half, today was all about the goals and our rise up the table.

Looking at the squad shows how far we've come and why we should count ourselves as in contention this season. Everyone in the starting XI had a natural replacement somewhere in the squad. When you include the absent list of Tyson, Moussi and Cohen, we have an impressive set of options available to us.

The starting line up looked full of goals with McCleary and Anderson either side of McKenna and Majewski, providing the service for Earnshaw and Blackstock.

Unfortunately, things didn't really go to plan in the first half. Our midfield looked lightweight and stood off their opponents too much. Against a packed midfield, Majewski showed some moments of class but these were too infrequent and we relied upon a fortunate own goal from Anderson's pull back to get us in front. For the rest of the half, it was pretty forgettable with Blackstock left to battle alone for too many long balls.

The most important change of the afternoon came at half time with McCleary swapping wings with Anderson and onto the right hand side. This allowed him to start combining with Gunter and as a pair they started to bring the best out of each other.

Eventually our extra class going forward proved decisive in our favour. Majewski's expert dipping corner found Morgan to score with a downward header. Majeski again created the third, a pin-point pass reached Earnshaw who finally found the perfect finish into the bottom corner. McGugan's instant control was his first touch and the second was to fire the ball past their keeper from an impossible angle. One late lack of concentration from a corner allowed Doncaster a deserved consolation but that couldn't deflect from our rise to fourth place.

The defence was excellent throughout and left Camp as a spectator. MOTM Wilson was immaculate and continues to dominate opposition centre forwards. Morgan alongside was also in impressive form and thoroughly deserved his goal after a couple of outstanding defensive blocks. Doncaster couldn't cope with the movement of Gunter down the right whilst debutant Shorey looked like he'd been at the club for ages with a composed defensive display.

Majewski struggled with the physical aspect of the midfield battle but showed his quality when it mattered. McKenna's passing wasn't the best but he more than made up for this with all the other impressive aspects of his game. Anderon and McCleary struggled in the first half but looked much better with their direct running after the switch during half time.

Blackstock showed some nice touches but too often was left to battle for flick-ons without getting the best from him. Still a useful run out as he returns form injury. Earnshaw had a frustrating afternoonin front of goal but showed class where it mattered for the third.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Kelvin Wilson

Despite conceeding the late equaliser, there's plenty to be positive about at the moment. We enter the international break in 8th place, with the play-offs within touching distance - this remains a very positive start to the season. The general lack of goals remains a slight concern, we've only scored 2+ goals twice in the last 12 games, but with the striker injuries clearing, we'll be in much better shape after the break.

For long spells, this game failed to live up to the dramatic events of last season with Forest and an unadventerous City side cancelling each other out. For the first half, we lacked ideas going forward with McGoldrick and Garner failing to take advantage of injuries to Blackstock and Tyson.

We looked very one sided with any reasonable attacks originating through Anderson and Cohen down the left with Garner badly lacking down the other side. Things improved in the closing stages with Garner moved into the middle, finally we had someone capable of holding the ball up and giving their defence something to worry about. City's intention was to defend and take turns to commit endless fouls without sufficient protection from the officials.

Unfortunately, we reverted back to the original formation after the break and things went back to normal. It took the introduction of McCleary on the hour to liven up proceedings and provide the pace and movement that had been badly lacking earlier. Time and again, City couldn't deal with his pairing with Gunter down the right. One run and pull back from the bye-line should have resulted in an easy tap-in for Anderson but their defender came from nowhere to clear off the line.

Davies got the substitutions spot-on again and they provided the basis for a second half improvement. Playing only one up front for an hour, enabled us to contain the opposition and then really go for them in the closing stages and it nearly paid off for us.

As full time approached, a goal-less draw still remained the most likely when we scored following a left wing free kick. Cohen's ball bounced around the area until Morgan caught it with a sweet right foot effort into the top corner. Earnshaw had also joined the fun and should have done better with a couple of late efforts as City had to stop kicking us and finally had to push forward.

As we entered injury time, it looked as though we might just squeeze out another narrow win but paid the penalty for sitting back too deep. We gave City the freedom of midfield, failed to win a header from the resulting cross and left their forward free to nick the ball past Camp. A disappointing end but still plenty to be positive about.

Morgan and MOTM Wilson formed an impressive barrier in defensive with the latter continuing to find the form he displayed upon originally joining the club. At first, the decision to drop Chambers looked a bit harsh but Wilson fully deserves his place in the centre of defence. He cruised through this game despite the obvious attacking threat that City possess. Morgan had another entertaining afternoon, solid at the back, finding the time to score his first of the season and even getting booked for diving.

Gunter provide very useful pace and energy down especially with Garner providing very little support. City struggled to keep up with him and McCleary. Cohen on the other side continues to look more like a natural left back especially when in posession.

Garner really shouldn't be playing down the right hand side for home games as he doesn't provide enough in a creative sense. To his credit, he did make a difference when he got a chance in the middle. In contrast, Anderson looked very dangerous and just lacked enough of the ball when we needed him in early stages of the second half. McCleary has done enough recently to warrant a starting place and it would be nice to see him get a chance in the next home game.

McGoldrick still hasn't been convincing this season and there's a lot more to come from him. With Blackstock hopefully back soon, we'll hopefully see a greater physical presence and retain the ball long enough to bring Majewski into the game.

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Tags: MOTM Kelvin Wilson, Games Drawn

For anyone who watched the draw with Cardiff, the progress we’ve made this season under Billy Davies is becoming very apparent. Too often in the past we’ve travelled back from Wales after a depressing one-sided defeat but on this occasion we fought as a side for the whole game and thoroughly deserved at least a point.
 
Considering the attacking talent currently injured (Blackstock, Earnshaw, Tyson all out), it was another impressive away performance and keeps us nicely in contention. There’s still plenty to work on in terms of final balls and concentration at the back but the improvement since last season is impressive. We continue to look very organised and tough to break down. The change in formation to 451 to accommodate Moussi alongside McKenna with Majewski getting forward seems to suit us very well when up against top opposition.
 
We started the game very brightly and should have been awarded a penalty when Anderson was tripped from behind. Anderson was a threat throughout and caused numerous problems down the left, the only problem was getting the ball to him often enough. Majewski and McGoldrick also looking prominent Cardiff struggled to cope with our passing through midfield as we looked easily the better side but too often we lacked composure in the final third and wasted the chance.
 
Anderson hit one narrowly wide when it was easier to score, Majewski’s free kick wasn’t too far wide and McGoldrick also should have done better with a couple of attempts. Garner won most things in the air but wasn’t really on the same wavelength as the others.
 
The hosts came back into the game using their direct approach to good effect. They didn’t enjoy the same amount of possession as us but caused us a few problems getting the ball forward quickly. MOTM Camp made a number of outstanding saves to keep us level especially one double save as Cardiff ran at the heart of our defence.
 
Despite one of two lapses in concentration, Morgan and Wilson did a great job of keeping their danger men quiet whilst Cohen continues to look much more assured at left back. Due to the form of our midfield, he might be struggling to get into the side elsewhere.
 
We were still re-organising from Majewski getting taken off when they enjoyed the benefit of another crucial decision again us - a borderline offside call. We got caught out and look disjointed at that moment and they took full advantage. This set-back didn’t stop us attacking and the game continued in the same pattern.
 
McGoldrick and Wilson should both have done better with chances in the closing stages as Cardiff sat back and let us dominate in midfield. McCleary had joined the action by this time and started to cause more problems running into space.
 
Cardiff sat back and thought they’d cruise through the closing stages and we made them pay for it. McGugan took advantage of some lucky deflections to hit a sweet left foot half volley past the keeper.

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Tags: MOTM Lee Camp, Games Drawn

No real complaints over the result, a point was probably about right after another battling away performance. The build-up play was pretty decent but too often the resulting cross wasn't good enough for us to take advantage.
 
The only time we provided any real service for the forwards, McGugan produced a fantastic low cross that was begging to be converted - McGoldrick duly obliged. There weren't too many other chances to get excited about as we often took the wrong option or failed to produce any quality service.
 
At the other end, Palace struggled to play much football but still ended up creating the better chances. We weren't helped by the performance of the referee who seemed intent on giving Palace as many shooting attempts from free kicks as possible. Almost every Forest challenge resulted in a whistle and it was only a matter of time before Ambrose found his range and the top corner. Fortunately, we re-grouped at half time and came out to force the deserved equaliser.
 
MOTM Camp has been more involved in the past couple of games as we've had to work much harder to preserve the unbeaten run. On this occasion, he kept us in the game with a series of decent saves and combined with some wayward Palace finishing left us with the draw.
 
Since his return to the side, Wilson has looked much more like the assured defender we know from a few years ago. The burden of the captancy seemed to set him back but allowed to concentrate on defending, there's no doubting that he's easily good enough for this division.
 
McKenna showed a return to the impressive form at the start of the season with a commanding display in front of the defence. Time and again he was the one making that all-important last ditch challenge.
 
Following Anderson's withdrawal following a clumsy aerial challenge, McCleary had plenty of possession down the right hand side but didn't make the most of his opportunity. The story of the game for our wide players. With Adebola in the side, we have to make sure that we play to his strengths.
 
Chambers showed his versatility in the closing stages, replacing McGugan in midfield, and doing a decent job of protecting the hard-earned point. A series of challenging headers to compliment McKenna's tackles.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Lee Camp

We extended our winning run to five games with a battling performance against a resolute Barnsley side. We played some fantastic stuff in the first half without getting our reward but Barnsley caused a few scares after the break and will consider themselves very unlucky to come away with nothing.

Barnsley to their credit, came to give us a game and certainly played their part. For the first time in ages, Camp was required to make a number of impressive saves to keep us in the game, especially in the second half. Before we’d even got started, Morgan’s clumsy foul resulted in a free kick deceiving Camp but bouncing off the bar.

McGoldrick looked lively in the first half, one brilliant arched run got himself back on-side and then through on goal but the keeper saved. Just before half-time Tyson crossed from the left and he couldn’t get the ball from under his feet and the chance was lost. Both Tyson and Anderson were causing plenty of problems with their defence resulting to illegal measures but after a number of touch games it wasn’t too surprising that they tired.

Tyson in particular got no protection from the referee and it was only a matter of time before he had to withdraw. He did well to last into the second half after a succession of challenges where the ball was an irrelevance. Combined with Blackstock’s injury, Anderson’s fatigue and McGoldrick’s poor form after the break, we were looking short of attacking options in the closing stages.
 
As we entered injury time, it looked like we’d have to settle for a point, McKenna picked the ball in midfield and finally gave Adebola something to work with. He cushioned the ball into Moussi’s path to poke the ball past the keeper.
 
Moussi typified the side on the night. Impressive in the first half but lost his way in the second and struggled to make much of an impression. Without the injuries to Tyson and Blackstock he could easily have been replaced. However, he stuck to his job and got the reward in the end. The referee had the final say, with a second yellow card for over-celebrating his first goal for the club and a red card.

Plenty of players impressed in the first half but MOTM to Gunter for performing throughout the game with his usual determination and energy. With Anderson tiring and then Garner playing in-field, he continued to provide width down the right hand side. Camp also took the opportunity to impress having been untroubled for most recent games.
 

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Chris Gunter

It was a classic game of two halves; Forest easily the better side in the first half and we should have been ahead before Blackstock scored. After the break it was a different story. Our tactics changed at half time and we sat back confident that we were good enough to prevent them from scoring.

Over the past few weeks you can see just how difficult to beat we’ve become. Despite handing Newcastle the majority of possession, they very rarely threatened Camp. One disallowed goal and Blackstock’s miscued clearance off the line by Majewski was the closest they came. At the other end, we couldn’t reproduce the quality of the first half but had still done enough to deserve the three points.

After quietly climbing the league in the past few weeks, this impressive performance won’t go unnoticed by the rest of the league. The first half display was as good as anything we’ve seen in a long time.

Blackstock was unlucky not to score with one diving header well saved, later he saw another free header hit the post and away to safety. Tyson hit a volley on the turn narrowly wide. Anderson cut in from the left wing and his curling shot found their keeper again. Have played so well it looked as though we wouldn’t get any reward. However, Majewski had other ideas; he picked the perfect pass between their centre halves for Blackstock to score with ease.

Billy got his tactics spot-on with the selection of Moussi in midfield, allowing Majewski to roam free in and around Blackstock. Against Blackpool, this tactic backfired with Moussi and McKenna getting in each other’s way.

As usual this season, Camp was rarely involved in the game. We were outstanding at the back with Wilson and MOTM Morgan challenging, blocking and dominating their forwards. On the few occasions that they avoided our centre backs, you could rely upon full backs Gunter and Cohen to arrive from nowhere to clear up the danger.

Moussi was in inspired form, winning tackles and looking composed in possession. It was a very welcome return to the form of his early Forest career. McKenna complimented him perfectly in terms of work-rate and commitment but still plays too many blind rushed passes.

 Majewski was involved in everything good about us going forward, dropping into space between midfield and forwards where Newcastle couldn’t get close to him. His inclusion in this role brought out the best of Anderson in particular due to his direct running off the ball.

Blackstock is certainly making himself the number one striker at the club. It was another impressive display, causing them problems throughout.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Wes Morgan

Despite the windy conditions, we took advantage of a replacement keeper for the second time in a week to take nine points from six days. It wasn’t a great performance but still enough to justify the win. Their sub keeper struggled with every cross that came his way and it was only a matter of time before we took advantage. With a bit more luck, we’d have sealed the game earlier with three efforts hitting the woodwork before a couple of late scares.

Our performances over the past week show the benefit from seeing the return of Majewski in midfield and having two wingers providing balance on both sides. We’ve played okay but results come before style every time. Despite the in-different start, we’ve sneaked into the top ten and find ourselves only a point after the play-offs.

Camp continued his run of faultless performances. Not often threatened but showed steady handling whenever required to take pressure off the defence. A couple of smart saves in the closing stages ensured that we held onto the 3 points.

The defence looked pretty solid despite the conditions but still had to rely on their keeper at vital times. Morgan in particular stood out with numerous interventions and Cohen is now settling into left back. We got punished from one corner where we left their player unmarked and his header left Camp with no chance.

In midfield, Anderson didn’t have the most effective games but at least gives better shape to the side and means that we don’t always look for Tyson down the left. Another slightly fortunate scuffed finish was one of a number of decent chances and we should be expecting him to contribute more goals this season. Tyson, didn’t make the most of numerous opportunities down the left where a little more composure was required. He caused enough problems so that they had to resort to illegal measures to stop him.

As we’ve seen previously, MOTM Majewski’s return continues to bring out the best in McKenna. Whilst his goal was probably a fluke, aided by the wind and the sub keeper, it was thoroughly deserved based on his recent form. It was noticeable that sub Moussi looked much more composed and less gangly than his recent performance against Blackpool.

Blackstock has performed pretty well in recent games and deserves to be considered as the first choice up front. McGoldrick had a frustrating afternoon getting wrongly penalised time and again.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Radoslaw Majewski

There were so many positives from the evening. Firstly, the team looked balanced with Tyson and Anderson given the chance to provide width for Blackstock and Garner. We started the game very brightly and should have taken advantage of numerous chances from a series of early corners. Most importantly, we actually played well. A number of players took the opportunity to put in their best performances of the season. Chambers, Gunter, Cohen, Anderson, McGoldrick and Blackstock all had impressive evenings.

We had to remain patient and it did look for a while as though we wouldn’t score but we got there in the end. We should have scored from one of Majewski’s decent corners but Cohen pinged one quick one straight onto Chambers who powered a header into the roof of the net. Another five minutes later, Anderson’s surge followed by Tyson blocked shot, allowed Anderson to cross for Blackstock to score from close range.

Camp was barely threatened all evening but produced one finger tip save via the post to save us a nervy last ten minutes.

Full backs Cohen and Gunter didn’t have too much to do defensively but found the stamina to get forward and support their wingers whenever possible. Cohen in particular had his best game of the season and had much more of an impact despite playing in defence. Gunter was unlucky not to score with one close range effort tipped over and was always breaking into space.


Chambers, back in the side having been dropped at Plymouth, responded very well and put in a commanding performance. Time and again, he was the one arriving from nowhere to clear to provide that all-important defensive clearance. Thoroughly deserved his goal, and easily have scored earlier when an effort hit a team-mate. Like Gunter, he seems to be loving playing for Forest and on this form, he deserves to be.
Morgan had a real battle with their centre forward Forte and was generally dominant apart from one late run where Camp and the post came to the rescue.
McKenna did what was required in midfield, making important challenges and making life difficult for the opposition. This allowed Majewski to get forward and dictate our attacks. As a combination they bring the best out of each other.
MOTM Anderson fully justified his selection down the right hand side with direct running and decent service. Worked very well in tandem with Gunter and Scunthorpe struggled to deal with their running off the ball. With performances like this, there’s no justification for Davies to select Garner ahead of him.

Tyson had one of those evenings in front of goal where nothing seemed to go right for him. Hampered by injury in the first half but he battled through and couldn’t be faulted for his endeavour. He just lacked that composure, especially on his right hand side when opportunities came his way.
Garner got his chance playing off Blackstock but didn’t really perform. Davies had seen enough by half time and McGoldrick got his chance. Haven’t been very impressed by McGoldrick so far but he looked a different proposition last night. He looked very bright on the ball and intelligent running off the ball. Should have done better from a couple of situations in front of goal but his introduction got us playing.
Blackstock looked a threat all evening, won most things in the air and thoroughly deserved his goal when it arrived. Of all our forwards, he’s been the most consistent and he deserves to be considered as first choice.

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Paul Anderson

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

A dismal afternoon from start to finish, we were always going to be in trouble from the minute that the team sheet was revealed. We badly lacked some quality and composure in midfield and resorted to long spells of aimless play more in desperation than expectation of scoring.
Gunter was one of the few players to leave the game with any credit. A series of storming runs down the right hand side doing the job of both defender and winger in the absence of Anderson. He’s now consistently reproducing the fine form from last season. Lynch, Chambers and Morgan were all reasonable without being outstanding but still remain incapable of keeping a clean sheet.

We were a mess in midfield, with a depressing lack of creativity. Moussi spent most of the game getting in McKenna’s way and Cohen drifting into the middle simply compounded matters. For a home game, that’s simply not enough creativity in midfield, just three guys (Tyson apart) there to scrap and work hard for the team.

In the end McGoldrick dropped deep to help out, leaving Earnshaw exposed on his own. Earnshaw headed one chance that looked easier to chest down and volley and scuffed another couple during a minute of madness in their area. He had a frustrating afternoon with very little support and instead of getting any help from the bench found himself being replaced instead.

McGoldrick continues to frustrate at the start of his Forest career. At fault for the Forest goal and whilst looking reasonable in possession away from goal, hasn’t looked dangerous in front of goal so far. In the end found himself stuck out on the right hand side of midfield as Billy threw more strikers at the problem instead of adding some creativity to help them out.

The decision to drop in-form Anderson for Moussi and sticking Cohen on the right hand side of midfield defies belief. I thought we'd moved away from those days as soon as Calderwood left the club. Cohen looks a shadow of last season's top man being asked to play all over the pitch. If Moussi needs games to gain match fitness that Tuesday’s game in the Carling Cup would have been perfect to give McKenna the night off. If Majewski is not available then surely McGugan is next in line not Moussi. On the evidence of his Forest career so far, Moussi should be considered as McKenna’s backup and no more. As usual, we seem to worry too much about stopping the opposition and not getting on with our own game. Davies’s post-match comments that we picked a team to combat Blackpool’s strengths were just laughable. We should be worrying about the problems that we can cause the opposition and not the other way around. Typically for this season, just as we started to cause Blackpool some problems, we gifted them a goal. McGoldrick gave Moussi no chance in midfield, leaving Adam to run straight past our midfield and defence and score with ease past Camp. We created a few half chances but the final efforts on goal left a lot to be desired. Too often their keeper made a routine save without having to exert himself. Whenever we got the ball wide and caused them problems, we lacked bodies in the box to take advantage. Camp had no chance with the goal due to the failings of the defence and midfield in front of him. One quality save early in the second half prevented things from getting even worse when the defence failed to clear again. The defence weren’t that bad but were rarely threatened. MOTM

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Chris Gunter

Bit disappointing last night to be honest. Another away game where we seemed intent on stopping the opposition playing rather than trying to cause them problems ourselves. Given the choice of "another valuable away point" or "chance missed to beat another mediorce opposition", I'm tending towards the latter camp, especially after seeing similar on Saturday. However, it does show signs of improvement that we can go away from home get a point and still have expected more. It's frustrating to know that we have the squad capable of winning at these places but not giving ourselves the best chance of doing so.

For the first hour we contained Ipswich but never really held onto the ball for long enough to worry them. Every time Camp got the ball, it went straight downfield for Blackstock and McGoldrick to scrap for. Their centre halves had an easy time, heading away clearances as we struggled to build up enough play to get Anderson or Garner into dangerous areas. McKenna was a shadow of the early season force in midfield and proceeded to give the ball away time and again. The midfielders roles seemed to consist of spoiling the home side and then pushing the ball forward as quickly as possible.

Defensively, we looked pretty good. Camp was very rarely threaten. MOTM Chambers and Morgan continue to develop an understanding and dominate the opposition. Gunter frustrated Martin throughout, even though Lynch did okay, he always looks the most vulnerable. One lapse early in the game, allowed a cross from their right to find their unmarked player who looked to score with yet another deflection. The closest we came to scoring was a cross/shot from Garner that hit the bar and bounced to safety. Cohen put a dangerous free kick over the bar.

We started the second half much better but it was Earnshaw's arrival that got us going. Having picked the ball up in midfield, he found Adebola on the edge of the area, took the lay-off beat a defender and scored with ease.

They had one effort cleared off the line but we looked the most lively to sneak the win. Suddenly the midfield starting looking for passes with a front two willing to drop deep to help out. The extra experience of Earnshaw and Adebola was making a big difference and we looked a different side from the earlier rubbish, especially with the extra pace which they couldn't cope with.

It was Adebola's strength that nearly won the game in the last minute. He hassled their lumbering centre back into giving the ball away and was through on goal. Their player tried to bring him down a few times before eventually getting there just as our man entered the area. Deserved red card but Earnshaw could only hit the wall with the freekick.

Getting Tyson back down the left, allowing Anderson on the right will make a difference. Garner is no right midfielder and Ipswich seemed to play on his dodgy temperament throughout. Adebola and Earnshaw both did more than enough to justify a start place on Saturday. Out of all the striking combinations we've used this season, their's looked the more dangerous and well suited last night.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Luke Chambers

Whilst the result looks pretty decent, we really didn’t make the most of another promising performance and this season continues to frustrate. Defensively we looked solid and restricted Wednesday to very limited chances but we failed to take control of the game and should have made more of the chances that came our way. There are signs that we’re not far away from being a decent side but we’ve yet to properly click as a team.

We started fantastically and should have scored in the first minute. Anderson’s run was not matched by Garner’s scuffed shot saved by their keeper. We kept attacking and were rewarded when Anderson crossed for Blackstock’s unmarked header shortly afterwards.  The pair combined again after Anderson’s left wing run but Blackstock sliced the effort wide when it looked easier to score.

Camp hadn’t been really involved in the game but found himself beaten with yet another deflected goal after we failed to clear. Having looked comfortable in the lead, we never really recovered.

Unfortunately we couldn’t find a similar start to the second half and found ourselves on the back foot straight away. We got lucky from one goalmouth scramble that we were unable to clear but Wedensday seldom came close to scoring. We scrapped and fought in midfield but struggled to retain possession for long enough to consistently threaten at the other end.

We still created enough decent chances through Anderson down the left to have won the game. McGoldrick didn’t expect one cross along the six yard box whilst Blackstock didn’t react to another chance that bobbled to the keeper.

We lacked a clinical edge up front and it was disappointing to see Earnshaw remain on the bench whilst the few chances on the break continued to pass us by.

Camp was his usual dependable self with numerous claims from their set pieces to take pressure off the defence. Very rarely threatened and no chance with their deflected goal.

After some below-par games this season, Gunter looked like he was finding his form again. Despite playing recent internationals he was still charging forwards in injury time trying to make that important contribution. In a decent defensive display, Lynch was the one weak link and the one area that they might have capitalised on. With Wilson’s recovery, this position still remains a priority.

Chambers and MOTM Morgan looked a dominant combination throughout apart from one scramble early in the second half. Their centre forwards barely got a kick and hardly figured in the game. With players returning from injury, a new centre half is looking less of a concern.

No complaints on the effort from McKenna and Cohen in central midfield but they struggled to find much quality moving forwards. In Majewski’s absence, we missed that ability to pick out an incisive pass.  

Anderson had one of his best games for the club with a series of direct runs on the break. Time and again, we didn’t make the most of his dangerous counter attacks. Unfortunately, he found himself out of the game for long spells in the second half when he should have been giving the ball at every opportunity. With more quality and anticipation from those around him, he would have been the architect of three points for us.

Garner got booked again and didn’t really contribute much after the early miss and was replaced by McCleary at half-time. McCleary did nothing to suggest he’s a better long term option with a poor half’s display when everything went wrong for him.
Blackstock and McGoldrick looked dangerous in short spells but they missed the key chances that came our way. We’re still waiting for the forwards to click and an obvious front pairing to develop.


 

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Wes Morgan

What an afternoon. If you’re going to break your league duck for the season, you might as well save it for your biggest rivals. The fall-out from this game is going to hang around for ages and the return fixture will be a fiery affair.

Last season, we failed to deal with the threat of Commons and Hulse whilst Savage ran the show in midfield. However, this time, the improvements to our squad were evident and we more than matched them. Commons struggled to have any impact and was replaced at half-time. Hulse was handled much better by Morgan and Chambers but still remained dangerous.

We’ve got a group of players willing to fight for the shirt and each other and not let the likes of Savage walk all over us. McKenna and Majewski dominated in the first half but Wednesday’s extra time caught up with them after the break.

Having taken a deserved lead into half time, we let them back into the game with a couple of freak own goals but we still ended up worthy winners. Their improvement after the break was due more to the tiredness and panic that set into our own side rather than any quality from the visitors.

Camp was threatened more by his own side more than anyone in a white shirt with Chambers slicing a clearance narrowly wide.The fun and games at the end has been completely exaggerated. Tyson obviously intended to complete a lap of the ground with the corner flag before their players started all the trouble. Before they got involved, he was nowhere near the visiting fans. It’s convenient to ignore the fact that there are also home fans at that end of the ground. A little misguided on his part maybe but it didn’t deserve the reaction from Leacock and his mates.  There was only one team who were the aggressors on this occasion.

Clough and his players obviously have very short memories of the antics of his players after last season. You didn’t hear any sour grapes from Forest when Savage was enjoying his scarf waving; we simply took the defeat, regrouped and got on with the season. Now it just looks like anything to take the attention away from a defeat by their local rivals. You just expect a little more from Clough jnr.

Camp was in commanding form all afternoon. His decision making was spot on throughout, with a series of confident catches. A couple of smart saves in the first half but very rarely required after the break despite Derby’s extra possession.

Gunter saw a return to last season’s form with a much improved display at both ends of the field. The rest of the defence struggled, especially in the second half when Derby came back into the game. As ever, Cohen looked good in possession but struggled against their wide players at times especially when Croft joined the game. A new left back has to be a priority with Wilson’s imminent return from injury.

Chambers typified the change in our player’s performance more than anyone. In the first half, he was dominant and comfortable in possession. However, the second half was a different story. Suddenly he looked rattled and more likely than anyone to make that mistake to let Derby back into the game. Morgan dealt well with the threat of Hulse but lacked a calming influence alongside him in the latter stages as the panic set in.

MOTM McKenna was the main man in midfield yet again and continues to lead this team by example. Unlike last season, Savage found himself second best as we established a winning lead. Carried from the pitch in the closing stages which left us with ten men, keep your fingers crossed for some positive injury news for our captain.

Majewski started the fun and games with an amazing strike within the first minute and continued to cause problems for the remainder of the half. Similar to his midfield partner and in common with most appearances this season, his influence decreased after the break. Once he gets used to the demands of this league and starts performing for longer spells, he’s going to start making a real impact for us.

Despite an early booking, Garner showed all the fight you need in this sort of game. He made some decent crosses from the right and starting to justify his selection ahead of Anderson. His presence makes us a much tougher team to beat. Never let Savage and Commons settle into their usual routines.

Tyson was quiet for long spells in the first half as we tended to threaten down our right. He made the all important contribution on half time with an excellent run to take advantage of Blackstock’s intelligent through ball. Much more involved in the second half as we looked to catch them on the break.

McGoldrick’s seems to be improving with each game now. Looked more switched on that at QPR and his movement, often down the right, caused them problems throughout.

Blackstock worked as a lone striker for the majority of the game with one of the other strikers taking it in turns to get close and provide support. He’s a proper footballing centre forward who ran himself into the ground and replaced early after the break. Always looking to bring others into the game and his presence will bring the best out of his strike partners.


 

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Tags: Games Won, MOTM Paul McKenna

There were certainly positives to be taken from the game. We restricted them to very few chances with Chambers, McKenna and Majewski all prominent. As with most opponents this season, QPR were nothing special and we didn’t make the most of the game.

At times we looked bright and incisive but these were all too infrequent with us often drifting into aimless hoof ball. We have to keep the ball on the floor and play more football, the players are clearly capable of doing this. Instead, we launch aimless balls to Adebola and expect him to compete against a defence full of 6 foot plus defenders.

I don’t think there’s too much wrong with the side. We’ve lacked a little bit of luck or benefitted from a refereeing decision, an early goal would do wonders for our confidence. The deficiencies in defence are obvious and Lynch’s new injury just compounded this. In midfield, we badly miss Cohen’s consistency, effort and enthusiasm and his presence would benefit the side. Up front, the selection of the strikers seems pretty random at the moment and some stability would be nice.

During the opening spell, there was only team in the game and we should have taken advantage from a string of chances. Majewski, carried the ball forward to the edge of the area, the shot was well saved and the rebound fell to Garner whose bottom corner effort was turned around for a corner.

Garner missed the next chance that came our way. Cohen’s perfect cross from the left only required the slightest touch from six yards but an air shot resulted in the chance wasted. Shortly after, McGoldrick cut inside from the right and put his left foot shot wide of the far post.

Predictably, QPR came back into the game but the opening goal came from nowhere, a long range effort destined for the top corner with no chance for Camp.

We started to put some pressure on the QPR defence after the break and eventually our direct approach paid off. The move was started by Camp’s long ball, Adebola’s flick on, with McGoldrick applying a smart finish.

After we equalised, we stopped pressing them and barely threatened. For the closing stages we even reverted back to 451 instead of believing we could win the game.

Camp didn’t have much to do, one full length save from a free kick stands out, plus one late incident where he found himself without the ball in midfield. Fortunately, the offside flag came to his rescue.

MOTM Chambers was outstanding at centre half as he eased himself back into the side after suspension. He cruised through the game, looking calm in possession and a steadying influence. He was ably assisted by Morgan who didn’t do much wrong alongside him and kept the QPR forwards very quiet.

We looked a bit weak at full back where Gunter, Lynch and then McCleary struggled to prevent crosses and didn’t make things hard enough for their opposing wingers.

It was a similar story with the wide midfielders in front of them. Neither Garner nor Cohen look settled in this positions and it seems a weird choice with the likes of Anderson waiting in reserve.

McKenna protected the back four as well as ever and competed with their midfield all afternoon. Numerous last minute tackles and interceptions, standing up to their midfield. Majewski showed some very nice touches in patches, unlucky not to score but struggles to contribute for the whole game. If we’re going to persist with someone out of position down the left, then I’d like to see him out there and get Cohen back in the centre where he belongs.

Up front, Adebola worked tirelessly for the team and ran himself into the ground in the end. Too often, the service he received was poor or his team mates didn’t get close enough to him to take advantage of his good play. McGoldrick took his goal very well but drifted in and out of the game too often.

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Luke Chambers

No complaints with the starting line-up with Earnshaw and Blackstock up front and McGugan back into midfield. After a tough start, this looked a decent chance to get the season up and running but things weren’t going to turn out that way. We never really looked like a settled side and allowed a disciplined but average Watford side to turn out worthy winners.

The early stages were end to end with both sides very close to scoring. Anderson took advantage of some dodgy defending but couldn’t beat their keeper and then Tyson created a decent chance for Blackstock but off target. At the other end Camp produced a decent low save and then found himself nowhere from a right wing cross that should have been converted.

After a promising start, we started to lose our way after McGugan’s unfortunate collision with their keeper. Another one of those incidents that didn’t go our way on the night. The resulting rebound didn’t fall for one of our players with their keeper stranded.

The game was going nowhere when they scored from nowhere. Cohen and Lynch got in each others way and Morgan lost out at the far post with Camp stranded. Poor defending all round.

We looked pretty hopeless for the most of the half, resorting to aimless long balls with little build-up play. The referee missed a blatant hand-ball to prevent Earnshaw getting through on goal but nothing much to get excited about. The equaliser,on half time, was a surprise. McKenna’s ball found Blackstock with a good first touch and calm finish.

Suddenly we started playing again and we didn’t want the half to end but couldn’t find that finish. It looked as though we had to improve in the second half and still looked set for three points.

Having got away with patched up defence, we got caught out time and again in the second half and deservedly got a hammering. When we played properly, we created chances but these were very rare and no complaints on the final result. Too often, we lacked any purpose with no real ideas of how to break down a resolute defence. Their centre backs were more than capable of dealing with a succession of long balls and we didn’t possess the quality to change the game in our favour.

One right wing throw in wasn’t lacked that dominant clearance and they took advantage. Shortly after, they took advantage of a non-existent midfield to score from the edge of the area.

Substitutes McGoldrick and Adebola looked lively and they combined for the latter to score with a steady finish. Normal service was resumed with more poor defending allowed them to kill the game off.

Camp didn’t have much chance with the goals due to the woeful defending in front of him. Cohen in particular found himself exposed on a regular basis and all the goals originated from that side of the pitch. The sooner he finds himself back into centre midfield, the better. Morgan, Lynch and Gunter all had poor nights.

McGugan had looked okay in the early stages but now finds himself out for weeks with a fractured cheekbone. Replacement Majewski looks okay in patches but not yet capable of a central midfield role on a long term basis. MOTM McKenna found himself over-run in midfield with no obvious support around him. Anderson and Tyson showed promise in patches but neither made the most of decent openings that presented themselves. We badly lack Cohen’s energy and presence in midfield as displayed all through last season. Regardless of the effect on the defence, he has to play in his best position.

With Earnshaw you have to accept that he won’t contribute much during the ninety minutes but he has the ability to score goals from nothing. Unfortunately, with him lacking sharpness in front of goal and that clinical finish, you’re carrying a passenger already. Blackstock looked reasonable in patches, took his goal well but the service was pretty poor.

Adebola was lucky not to get sent off for a blatant elbow but produced a neat finish for his goal. McGoldrick also looked lively on the right wing and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see these two leading the line in Billy’s next random front line generator at QPR.

Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Paul McKenna

We didn’t really deserve that result and did more than enough to warrant (at least) a point against an unadventurous and ordinary West Brom side.
 
Albion barely showed any attacking intent throughout the game. Apart from the early free kick and the freak own goal they showed very little ambition. Greening displayed a few moments of quality but the rest of the side resorted to cynical fouls, time wasting and the pathetic diving of Craig Beattie.
 
Despite our obvious defensive absences, our problems were at the other end. We missed a series of chances including an Earnshaw penalty whilst Albion accepted the gift own goal and couldn’t wait for the game to end. Adebola missed a couple of relatively straight-forward chances and had another ‘goal’ harshly ruled out.
 
Camp was barely involved throughout. One impressive save from an early free kick and apart that that, very quiet. In front of him, no obvious weak links as the back four and midfield restricted West Brom to very rare attacks.
 
MOTM McKenna continued his form from Reading, controlling everything in midfield and even finding team to burst forward and get a couple of efforts on goal. He’ll form the heartbeat of the team in midfield and will be vital to our season. He provided a barrier in front of the defence, whilst still finding time to drive the team forward and get shots on goal.
 
Majewski started brightly but faded in the second half when we badly needed someone to compliment McKenna’s presence. McGugan looked to have a point to prove when he joined the action and looked a better option overall. One definite change that we should be considering for Tuesday’s game.
 
Anderson also started very brightly with a series of dangerous runs down the right but again faded in the second half and it wasn’t a surprise when he was replaced. His presence gives us a much better balance and never fails to get back and help out the defence.
 
Tyson looked a threat throughout and caused numerous problems down the left despite the heavy challenge in mid-week. The standard of his final crosses was pretty good and too often the quality of his runs wasn’t matches by the finishing of his team-mates. It’s definitely worth persevering with him down the left.
 
Garner struggled to make any real impression on the game and it was hard to work out exactly where he was playing. Too often he’d drifted back into midfield when he needed to be much closer to his striking partner. He’s not doing enough to justify a starting place so far – admittedly only two games in.
 
Adebola worked tirelessly for the side and caused constant problems throughout, even up against their physical centre backs. Should have finished at least one of two rebounds that fell his way and had another goal harshly ruled out. The only slight downside of Adebola’s inclusion is that we tended to become a little predicable, looking to find him at the edge of the penalty area regardless of where we’re in possession.
 
Blackstock joined the party for the closing stages and looked sharp. One towering header looked to be heading for the top corner until Carson produced a smart save.
 
Whilst Earnshaw will rightly be criticised for losing the mind games with Carson, it was his direct incisive run that caused produced the rash challenge. Carson messed around on his line; Earnshaw started, stopped, stuttered to the ball and then scooped it wide. Pretty poor for someone of his experience when all he should be concentrating on is hitting the target.
 
The choice of the front two continues to cause debate. Adebola caused problems throughout with an impressive first touch and ability to bring others into the game. However, Garner never really got close enough to make the most of Adebola’s build-up play and for long spells we looked a little disjointed, almost playing 451. Blackstock also looked a real threat when he joined up with Earnshaw for the latter stages and deserves to be given an extended spell inthe side.
 
I’d like to see Earnshaw and Blackstock given a chance on Tuesday with McGugan also getting a start. Earnshaw’s quality in front of goal (penalty apart) should make him first choice up front.
 
There was still plenty to be positive about from the performances of our make-shift defence, to McKenna in midfield and Tyson / Adebola up front. At least Tuesday’s game against Watford an early chance to get this out of our system.

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Tags: Games Lost, MOTM Paul McKenna

A determined defensive display earned a valuable away point against a side who’ll be challenging again this season. We’ve carried on the improvements from last season and look much more resilient as a result. With a little more quality from wide midfield areas, we might have even taken the three points.

Surprisingly, Davies kept faith with Garner on the right hand side of midfield and McGoldrick up front meaning the likes of Earnshaw, Anderson and Blackstock were left on the bench.

There was nothing between the sides in the first half. McKenna and Adebola presented McGoldrick with a decent chance that he could only drag wide. Majewski also failed to hit the target from another promising situation. Another long range effort from McGoldrick at least forced a save from their keeper.

At the other end, we looked comfortable with McKenna providing stability in midfield. Time and again, he was there to break up their attacks and get us moving forwards. Gunter and Morgan provided other noticeable defensive performances but Camp was rarely involved.

Our best spell of the game arrived for the twenty minutes after half time. We started to take advantage of some decent service to Adebola, getting players around him in support.

Garner found himself in a promising position on the edge of the six yard box but should have put the ball across the goal instead of the near post. Gunter ran at their defence, cut inside onto his left foot but the half-scuffed effort didn’t really trouble their keeper.

Despite some dubious defending, Lynch remained a threat further forward and created our best chance of the game. Earnshaw read the cross before any of their defence but his effort hit their keeper and bounced to safety.

As we made further positive changes, bringing on McCleary and Tyson, Reading came back into the game and started to push us back. Things looked even worse following Chambers’ red card, completely out of the blue. A cross from their right wing was headed over the bar; there were no appeals or obvious fouls committed but the linesman thought otherwise. 

Too often, Reading found space down our left hand side but decent defending and poor finishing kept us in the game.

Camp looked in command throughout and wasn’t slow to hand out well deserved abuse to those in front of him. A series of comfortable catches took the pressure off the defence especially in the closing stages.

Gunter continued his form from the end of last season. He looked assured in possession and comfortable defensively. He showed clever play to ‘earn’ free kicks to relieve the pressure when required. We were very rarely threatened down our right hand side and he got forward well to support Garner.

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of Lynch down the left. Time and again Reading took advantage of some poor marking and we had to defend pretty well from a succession of dangerous crosses. Still manages to produce moments of quality going forwards but too often gives away too much space to opposition wingers.

Morgan looked in decent shape and put in a typically battling performance. Chambers wasn’t as bad as some other reports might suggest. He’s produced enough decent performances at centre back to suggest that he’s worthy of a place in the side in that position. Unfortunately, it looks like he could become this season’s scapegoat after only one game.

Garner worked hard for the team, as you would expect, but too often looked like a forward making up the numbers in midfield. It was a similar story with Cohen who barely figured in the game and looked to be suffering from recent injury and lack of pre-season. We’ll need a bit more quality from wide areas to make the most of Adebola’s obvious aerial threat.

MOTM McKenna brought a calming influence in midfield with drive and passion that been sadly lacking in our recent midfields. Too often last season we lacked a combative presence in midfield but it looks like we’ve addressed that now. He’s a very positive signing and one player who’ll be key for us this season.

Majewski looked assured in possession but faded in the second half when Reading came back into the game. We should get the best out of his range of passes when there’s more pace in the side. A promising start to his Forest career.

Adebola played much better than I’d expected and justified his starting place. His first touch and instant control brought other players into the game but too often we didn’t take advantage.

McGoldrick’s inclusion in preference to Earnshaw was a surprise and he didn’t really make the most of it. Too often he didn’t seem sharp enough and looked a bit off the pace.
 

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Tags: Games Drawn, MOTM Paul McKenna