The Nottingham Forest B-Team defeated Arsenal at Meadow Lane last night to claim their first win of the Premier League 2 campaign. Detlef Esapa Osong scored in stoppage time to put the seal on a 2-0 victory over the Gunners.
This was a memorable performance by a young Forest outfit. They scored their first goal just after half-time when Alex Mighten scored for the second game running; showcasing his class to round off a nice move.
The B-Team game was shown live on YouTube for supporters to watch. It proved an enjoyable game, with Forest looking comfortable in possession. Furthermore, they did well to limit a strong Arsenal team to half-chances throughout.
It was the goal scored by Esapa Osong that caught the eye. He’s been a consistent source of goals for the under-18 and under-21s in recent seasons and it would appear that he’s in the mood again during 2023/24.
The 18-year-old took advantage of some slack Arsenal defending. After closing down a Gunners central defender, he planted an unstoppable lob over the head of goalkeeper Ovie Ejeheri.
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Forest set off in celebration after the goal. It proved a bit of a shock that Forest managed to win this one, with the Reds now playing against stronger opposition following a restructuring of Premier League 2.
Esapa Osong scored wonderful goal as Forest B-Team beat Arsenal
At 18-years-old, the ceiling is quite high with Esapa Osong and his potential. His goal last night was brilliant and showcased exactly what a talent he is.
The striker has a really bright future and perhaps Forest have a big call to make on his future. The Reds must decide whether to keep him with the B-Team or loan him out for the 2023/24 campaign.
Esapa Osong was rewarded for his brilliant perseverance last night. The Arsenal goalkeeper was left stranded and it was an instinctive finish by a young player.
Forest have had some good strikers come through their academy in the past. Esapa Osong now has a genuine chance of being a future star at the City Ground if he continues his current progression.