Following the gutsy 1-1 draw with table toppers QPR on Sunday, Forest fans can be forgiven for daring to talk about the dreaded “P” word. With only 18 games left to play and the lads in the form of their lives, it`s a realistic and justifiable topic for discussion . Forest are currently the form team in the division and on a run that has seen us lose only once in the last 15 league games and remain unbeaten in the last 10. It`s that sort of form that has taken us up to 4th in the table and to within just a point of the second automatic promotion spot.
On paper, the game at Glanford Park looks like a walk in the park for the Reds’, with the Iron lying 2nd from bottom, on 24 points, from their 28 games. They go into the game on the back of 3 straight defeats in the league and have lost 12 of their last 14 games. Add to that, the fact that they have only won once at home all season and the odds look heavily stacked in our favour. However, the effects of playing so well with 10 men on Sunday could have an adverse outcome for us, if we aren`t suitably rested and prepared. This is where the downside of having such a small squad comes into play, with the manager having so few options to make the necessary changes.
One option definitely not open to Billy Davies, will be that of Radoslaw Majewski, who will be sitting out the first of a 3 game ban due to the straight red he picked up at QPR. Another familiar face missing from the action will be Joe Garner. The striker joined the Iron on loan until the end of the season in January, but is ineligible to play against us, as part of the agreement in the loan deal.
Forest will need to be wary in this one, as Scunthorpe will be in desperate search for the points and they are due a result. Hopefully that all changes for them on Saturday, when they entertain the Sheep at home and we inflict one final defeat on them prior to their resurgence in form and ascent to Championship safety.
Vital Quotes:
Scunthorpe United Team News:
Chris Dagnall is expected to return after his recent injury, but defenders Rob Jones and David Mirfin are doubtful. Garry Thompson is a long term injury concern and is out for at least another 4 weeks, following minor surgery.
Player to watch: Chris Dagnall
If he’s fit, he’s the most likely to score and has 6 goals to his name this season.
Nottingham Forest Team News:
Majic serves the first of a 3 game ban, following his red card at QPR. Also missing from acton will be another midfielder Guy Moussi, who is out long term with a thigh strain.
Player to watch: Lewis McGugan
Time for the clubs’ top scorer to re discover the form that made him un-droppable earlier in the campaign.
Match Facts & Stats
The 2 teams have met a total of 6 times. Forest have won 1, drawn 2 and lost 3. Last season we drew 2-2 away and won 2-0 at the City Ground.
Match Prediction:
Scunny 0-1 Forest
Next Fixtures:
Cardiff (h). 19/2/2011. KO:3pm
