Nottingham Forest will be hoping to end the season on a high under Martin O’Neill after previous coach Aitor Karanka was unceremoniously ousted by players, joining the embarrassingly long list of 12 managers in 10 years.
Yes, this was to be a significant game for both teams who together carry lofty hopes of securing one of the elusive four playoff spots. But who was to come out better on the day?
Nottingham Forest certainly began the contest the better of the two teams.
Despite being five positions behind the home side, the visitors were rewarded for their efforts early on following a fluid passage of play, reminiscent of O’Neill’s glory days as a player, via a Stefan Johansen own goal.
Jacob Murphy equalised scoring his first goal for the Baggies before Ryan Yates provided what appeared to be the winner in the 65th minute of time.
Controversy would follow as Dwight Gayle dropped in the box in the dying moments of the game providing Jay Rodriguez with a golden opportunity from the spot. He duly dispatched.
Despite the dropped points it is Martin O’Neill who should be the happier of the two managers after their terrific performance.
“Overall I was delighted with the team. Physically they made a big, big effort They worked exceptionally hard. I’m disappointed for them and I’m disappointed for the fans,” he said during his post-match interview (via BBC Sport).
Ryan Yates deservedly took home the Man of the Match award for his offensive efforts, but credit should also be given to Jack Colback.
The midfielder, on loan from Newcastle United, was all over the pitch yesterday helping his side tick. A solid performance in both sides of the pitch, offering what fans have been missing for quite some time now. While the former Sunderland man has seen his career stall in recent years, his performance last night went some way into demonstrating the kind of quality he can offer those on the banks of the River Trent.
Brilliant effort on his return from suspension, and has earned the respect of fans who are dying to make the deal permanent.
