Nottingham Forest ended their four-year hoodoo against Derby County by securing a 1-0 win over their fierce rivals at the City Ground.
Yohan Benalouane’s first Forest goal after 74 seconds was enough to secure a massive three points for Martin O’Neill’s men.
Following a pulsating encounter on Trentside, we rated the men in red as follows…
Costel Pantilimon – 9
The Romanian stopper was largely given the night off by a wasteful Derby attack. Did the little bits he had to with minimal fuss.
Tendayi Darikwa – 9
All the back four played their part in a stunning defensive display and Darikwa coped extremely well with the threat of Florian Jozefzoon in the second half.
Alexander Milosevic – 9
How Forest managed to secure the Swedish performer on a free transfer is a complete mystery. As a result, Forest have looked better at the back and are now reaping the rewards in terms of results.
Yohan Benalouane – 10 – SEAT PITCH STAR MAN
Got the goal after 74 seconds and then proceeded to head, kick or block everything that was thrown in his direction. A truly heroic performance from the Tunisian.
Jack Robinson – 9
Robinson is far more adept to playing at left-back and he offers the back four better balance. The 25-year-old was neat and tidy throughout.
Ben Watson – 9
The Forest skipper is slowly earning the praise he deserves from the Reds faithful. Following his substitution last night he was given a standing ovation and rightly so.
Jack Colback – 10
Whatever it takes to sign the midfielder in the summer, Forest need to do it. Colback bossed the midfield and at times it was men against boys.
Ryan Yates – 9
What can you say about the young man? Truly sensational. The academy graduate is superb and it’s hard to see why he has been forced to wait so long for a chance.
Ben Osborn – 9
Another tireless performance from Osborn who could barely walk following his withdrawal in the second half. These are the games the man with over 200 appearances craves.
Joe Lolley – 9
The Forest winger looked a completely different player since penning a new deal. As a result, Forest now have one of the best players in the division looking bang up for every game. Last night was no different and Ashley Cole was given a torrid time.
Daryl Murphy – 9
The former Republic of Ireland international got the nod with Lewis Grabban injured and didn’t disappoint.
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