Palace 1-2 Forest. There's Life In The Old Dog Yet

Just as you thought he was dead and buried, Forest boss Colin Calderwood sticks two fingers up at the Grim Reaper, to earn his first away win of the season.

Many, including myself said he should have gone before this game at Selhurst Park, but CC proved there's life in the old dog yet. Forest once again turned in a decent display, but for once got the rewards. The points that Warnock and his wily warriors stole in the smash and grab at the City Ground earlier in the month, were rightfully claimed back with this 2-1 win.

Forest, as has become the norm started well and were playing some attractive football, but as has also become the norm the goals were in short supply. Early chances fell to Earnie and McGugan, but the home side held firm.

The breakthrough came on 28 mins, when Cohen's free kick found the top corner of the net. It was no less than what they deserved, having dictated the play. Even in defence, we sounded solid and confident. Wilson was out with a knee injury, but replacement Breckin filled his boots well.

The second half saw the home side make a bit more of a fist of it, but they were being held at bay by the Reds' defence. One thing that can't be said about our side, unlike others in the past, is that they do possess a fighting spirit and at least look like they want to give it a go. The effort has undoubtebly been there, just a shame the ability hasn't.

The swift kick in the nads that we were all expecting came on 75 mins from that man Shefki Kuqi. His shot earned the home side an equaliser and with it you suspected the points. That wasn't to be, as the lads rallied and for once didn't sit back. Substitue Matt Thornhill did his growing reputation no harm when he bagged a scrappy winner nine mins from time. The goal sent the travelling support into delerium and made the long trip home worthwhile. It takes us off the bottom of the table and heading in the right direction. Calderwood lives to fight another day and that day is against the Sheep on Sunday.

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