Nottingham Forest overcame their recent poor run of form to defeat Brighton under the lights at The City Ground.
Forest looked lively and got the crowd behind them in the opening ten minutes, but when Jason Steele saved Brennan Johnson’s penalty, the life was sucked from the players and crowd.
Brighton dominated much of the second half and once they took the lead, it felt like another loss was coming Forest’s way. Mac Allister conducted proceedings and despite their loss at Wembley last weekend, played the sort of football De Zerbi’s side have become known for.
But Lodi’s deflected cross ended up in the top right hand corner and Forest went into the dressing room with a renwed sense of optimism. This carrier over into the second half and Forest deservedly took the lead.
Taiwo Awoniyi put Danilo through, who showed great composure under pressure to slot one past Steele.
Morgan Gibbs-White penalty sealed the deal for Forest, who now find themselves a point above the relegation zone.
Our reporter Max Scott shares the player ratings from tonight’s huge win at The City Ground.
9. Morgan Gibbs-White (8)
Fabulous second half display in particular. Conducted much of Forest’s counter attack and put in the hard yards throughout the tie. Clinical penalty finish. | Getty Images
10. Brennan Johnson (6)
Two golden opportunities missed in the first half. Penalty was at the ideal height for Jason Steele and should have hit the target in a one-on-one despite a shove from Lewis Dunk. Ran himself into the ground despite his own setbacks. | Getty Images
11. Taiwo Awoniyi (7)
Instrumental in Forest’s second goal. Like at Anfield, he took the ball with his back to goal and threaded Danilo through. Standing ovation when replaced by Ayew. Great to have him back and firing. | Getty Images
12. Joe Worrall (replaced Niakhate 14’) (7)
It must have been tough on Worrall to find Aurier ahead of him on the teamsheet, but as ever, when called upon, he plays with the same conviction. Controlled and solid at the back. | AFP via Getty Images