Nottingham Forest head to Ashton Gate on Saturday for the biggest game of the season to date. A win will take us to within a point of second place, whereas defeat would leave us seven points adrift and automatic promotion almost certainly out of the window. So once again that ugly phrase ‘must win game’ rears it’s ugly head. But that’s what they are all are now at this stage of the season, with each game becoming more important than the last.
Both sides go into the game having won their last two. City have had a knack of scoring late in recent games, so The Reds will have to be on their guards for the full 90. If Forest fans think they have had it hard in the last few years, then it’s nothing compared to City who have spent the last eight years in League 1, most of them spent chasing yet failing to gain promotion.
They may not be able to claim promotion, but they can claim one or two celebrity fans. None other than The Wurzels, as well as cricketer Marcus Trescothick, Tony Robinson (Baldrick), Jonathan Pearce (commentator) and Justin Lee Collins (TV presenter/comedian), all admit to being City fans. But all that pails into insignificance when we can boast Steve MacDonald from Coronation Street fame.
A sell out crowd is expected, with 3,300 making the trip from Nottingham. So if you haven’t got a ticket, forget it. It will be a tense afternoon for everyone, but the good news is that Forest are for the first time this season playing well and looking like they might do something. Whether it’s blind faith or a renewed sense of optimism, fans have been in a more upbeat mood of late and should feel confident of their teams chances.
Vital Quotes:
Calderwood has, as usual only seen the good that his charges have performed and why not because they have. Ahead of the game Calderwood confidently said. ‘We’ve always had the same ambition and aim – nothing has changed.’ he told the club’s official website.
‘I’m delighted with the composure the boys have shown. Their ability has shone through in the last three games and if we can remain relaxed and not fazed about the situation, I think we will get there.
The team that handles itself intelligently between now and the end of the season will give themselves the best chance.’ Well said that man.
Bristol City Team News:
The Robins will be without the long term injured Scott Murray. ‘I’m gutted because I had set my heart on playing some part in the big game against Nottingham Forest this week,’ he told the club’s official website.
Player to watch: Phil Jevons
Jevons can be a handful on his day and has scored 11 League goals this season.
Nottingham Forest Team News:
Forest were hit this week with the news that Junior Agogo will miss the rest of the season after breaking a Pelvic bone. This could see a first start for new boy James Henry. Julian Bennett is back from suspension, but may have to settle for a place on the bench with the defense looking so solid at the moment. Wes Morgan and David Prutton should also be available after injury, which means Calderwood has something of a selection poser on his hands.
Player to watch: Lewis McGugan
It’s been a long time since we had a player that made the hairs on your head stand up when he had the ball. Lewis does just that and he can score. If he has a good game, Forest will.
Match Facts & Stats
The two sides have met a total of 59 times in the League. Forest have come off much the better in terms of wins, having won 26, lost 13 and drawn 20.
Match Prediction:
Although we are all feeling the pressure, I am confident The Reds will show us they mean business and run out comfortable 3-0 winners.
Next Fixtures:
Millwall. Away. May 7, 2007. 3pm.
