Everton exacerbated Nottingham Forest’s fears of relegation with a 2-0 triumph at Goodison Park on Sunday, courtesy of goals from Idrissa Gueye and Dwight McNeil in each half. Despite the seemingly comfortable victory indicated by the scoreline, the away team found themselves denied three potential penalties in this crucial match. Initially, Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna inside the box appeared to warrant a penalty, followed by an instance where a cross struck Young’s outstretched arm within the penalty area. Furthermore, Callum Hudson-Odoi’s fall under Young’s pressure also raised appeals for a penalty, but once again, Forest’s hopes were dashed as the referee, Stuart Attwell, and the VAR team opted against awarding any spot-kicks. Understandably, Forest supporters expressed vehement dissatisfaction at the officials’ decisions.
As a consequence of the outcome, Everton now sit five points clear of the relegation zone and possess a game in hand over Luton Town, currently in 18th position. On the contrary, Nottingham Forest find themselves merely one point above the relegation zone and squandered a significant opportunity to significantly enhance their prospects of avoiding demotion – an outcome their fans argue was influenced by officiating errors.
This season, Everton incurred an eight-point deduction due to two separate violations of the profit and sustainability regulations, while Forest suffered a four-point deduction in March for a similar transgression. Both clubs are hopeful of reclaiming lost points through appeals.
Next, Sean Dyche’s Everton side will host Merseyside rivals and contenders for the Premier League title, Liverpool, at Goodison Park on Wednesday, whereas Forest will welcome defending champions Manchester City for their next match on the following Sunday.
Nottingham Forest performance and stats
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest is currently 17th in the Premier League with 26 points.
In the last 34 games, it has won 7 times, drawn 9 times, and lost 18 times. In its last match, Nottingham Forest lost 2-0 against Everton.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 42 goals and conceding 60.
Nottingham Forest will play the next match in Premier League against Manchester City on Sunday 28th of April in Nottingham.
