The Sean Dyche era at the City Ground finally registered its first league victory in dramatic fashion. Despite falling behind early in the game, the Reds’ tenacity and eagerness were enough to secure a 3-1 win over fellow strugglers Leeds, ending a nine-game winless streak. This result was a much-needed breath of fresh air and their first taste of three points since the departure of Nuno Espírito Santo.
Igor Jesus was the first to cause chaos. His sliced volley forced Lucas Perri to scramble and claw the ball away from danger at his near post. Jesus’ shot highlighted Forest’s intent and desire as they were consistently testing the visitor’s defence, yet it was the away team who struck first.
In the 13th minute, a well-driven attack saw Lukas Nmecha break the deadlock. The move began when Okafor’s tackle found Aronson. Aronson then slotted the pass through to Nmecha, whose silky feet allowed him to create space. His clinical, low shot to the bottom left corner was enough to beat Mat Sels and put the visitors ahead.
Ibrahim Sangaré quickly levelled the score for Forest. Smooth footwork and a driving run from Nydoe resulted in a perfect cross to the Ivorian international, who used his composure to coolly place the ball into the net and score his first goal for the club.
Forest came out for the second half maintaining their pressure, and the constant creativity from Hutchinson soon paid off as Morgan Gibbs-White got on the scoresheet. Hutchinson’s quick and blistering feet from the wing allowed the Englishman to cut in and deliver a pinpoint cross to the awaiting Gibbs-White who calmly headed the ball into the net.
Dan James nearly curled in a shot from distance to get his side back into the game. His close control and dribbles came with a powerful effort to the corner of the goal. Sels met the strike with brilliant acrobatics to push it wide. Gudmundsson’s response to the rebound wasn’t enough to cause any serious havoc in the Forest box.
Hutchinson once again was instrumental in the build-up. His commanding, demanding run forced Harrison to swipe his legs and a penalty soon followed. Anderson stepped up confidently and sent Perri the wrong way from the spot, securing the 3-1 scoreline and a vital first win for Sean Dyche’s revitalised men.
The final whistle brought three points and a wave of relief over the City Ground. This comeback victory signals a significant shift in mentality under Sean Dyche but provides Forest the confidence they need to climb away from the relegation zone. With Hutchinson showing brilliance and the entire team putting in a resilient performance, the crucial question now remains: can the Reds find this form week-in-week-out?
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