Nottingham Forest 0, West Brom 1: Chris Lepkowski's big match verdict

Aug 17 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

The ex-Blues striker has not yet lost the knack of terrorising Albion backlines. Albion’s first-half performance lacked cohesion. The five-man midfield never really got going, with individuals lacking the quality of previous performances. Mulumbu wasn’t at his best, nor was Dorrans.

And the end product was lacking. Moore, while always useful when he plays off the shoulder of the final defender and alongside a partner, fell a little short in impact as Albion’s lone striker. Craig Beattie came on after the break for the fast-fading Robert Koren and, though he didn’t necessarily assume an orthodox second striker role, he did give a bit more physicality to Albion’s attacking play.

The Baggies were rewarded through their fortunate goal.

And Dorrans was unlucky not to make it two just eight minutes later. Greening’s free-kick flew into the box and fell for the unmarked Scot who stretched and smashed his volley straight into the ground and over the bar.

Forest didn’t give up and picked up the tempo. They were rewarded when Rob Earnshaw collected the ball outside the box, ran at Leon Barnett and Marek Cech only to be upended by the former.

Scott Carson got himself booked after having a word or two with Earnshaw, possibly suggesting that the Welshman had knowingly run into a cul-de-sac of defenders. Earnshaw’s spot-kick was poor. He theatrically checked his run twice and, while it might have put off Carson, his finish was woeful.

So Albion held on. It wasn’t the most convincing display, but equally they won’t come up against too many sides who boast the wealth of strike power that Forest have. The likes of Earnshaw, Adebola, Tyson and Dexter Blackstock bring different qualities, some of which Albion could do with in their own ranks.

Roman Bednar’s return to the club – if we’re to assume Albion accept him back, which they should do – will be welcome, although it could be the start of next month before he’s ready for action. The right-back role will also be an issue if Gianni Zuiverloon fails to overcome a hamstring scare.

Forest’s new sponsors, a major betting company, have promised all customers a free season ticket next season if Billy Davies’ side win promotion. It’s just as well no-one has taken such a gamble as far as Albion are concerned. If they can win without playing well, then wait until they click into form.