Emanuel Villa scores at both ends against Forest

Derby 1 Nottingham Forest 1

Since the start of the season, this was one of the biggest fixtures on Derby’s schedule – facing up against arch rivals Nottingham Forest, both joining the Championship this season from either end of the Football League.

The nerves were obviously taking over at the start of the game as neither team were able to break the deadlock with uninspiring performances from both sides and a 0-0 scoreline to show for it.

It was in the second half when the drama unfolded.

Emanuel Villa clumsily knocked in an own goal for Forest after Stephen Bywater managed to save a shot from Luke Chambers.

Villa was quick to restore himself though as he connected with a free kick from Jordan Stewart to take the scores level.

The referee and linesmen had the last laugh though as Forest’s Lewis McGugan was sent off after a nasty tackle, eight players were booked, a penalty was rewarded and missed by Nacer Barazite and a last second goal by Miles Addison was disallowed.

Many will say Derby were robbed of three points this time round. The harsh reality is we were unable to beat Forest on home turf so have to step up the gear for the return leg on 21st Feburary.