Another Draw, But Unbeaten Run Continues

Forest manager Billy Davies felt that this was two points dropped last night, following the 1-1 draw at Portman Road with struggling Ipswich. But, despite the Reds’ failure to seal all three points, the signs of progress from last season are there to be seen and the unbeaten away run stretches to seven games.

Davies kept faith with the side that earned a point at Hillsborough on Saturday, but they were behind after less than a minute, thanks to a close range header from debutant Grant Leadbitter. According to the radio, it was yet another deflected goal, that adds to the this seasons’ tally of 5 OG’s so far.

Forest could have had a quick response to the visitors early goal, when a Blackstock header flew just over the bar from 12 yards out. The Reds’ were not for the first time this season guilty of squandering the ball and gave it away all too easilly at times, as the home side began to take control. As the half drew to a close, Lee Camp had to look lively, as an in swinging cross had to be tipped over for a corner, just before the break.

The second half started with Adebola replacing the injured Blackstock, who went off with a cut to the head. Adebola caused problems for the home side defence and the Reds’ began to pose a bit more of a threat. Davies then brought on Earnshaw for Garner and the change paid off straight away. Within seconds of coming on Earnshaw drew us level. Some neat build up play, between Anderson and Adebola, saw the ball land at the feet of the Welshman, who hit the ball home and into the roof of the net from 6 yards out.

Although the Reds’ are still in search of their first away win, the omens are good and the much needed signs of improvement are definitely there to be seen. Also there to be seen still, are our defensive frailties and as soon as they are addressed, we’ll be racking up the points.