September 27, (THEWILL) — Sunderland’s impressive start to life back in the English Premier League continued with a 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest, moving the Black Cats into the top four whilst condemning their hosts to another disappointing result. The visitors adapted well to what represented arguably their sternest test since promotion, withstanding sustained pressure from Forest throughout the encounter at the City Ground.
Ange Postecoglou became the first permanent Nottingham Forest manager since the 19th century to fail to win any of his opening five matches in charge. The Australians’ tenure got off to a sluggish start as their side struggled to create meaningful opportunities in the first half, with Chris Wood’s wayward header over the bar their only notable chance before the interval.
Controversy surrounded the opening goal when Omar Alderete headed home unmarked at the far post from Granit Xhaka’s free-kick. Forest felt aggrieved by the referee’s initial decision to award the set piece, with replays appearing to support their protests about the incorrect call that led directly to Sunderland taking the lead.
Postecoglou made tactical changes in the second half, introducing fresh attacking options in an attempt to salvage something from the match. Substitutes Omari Hutchinson and Igor Jesus both came close to equalising, whilst Elliot Anderson forced Robin Roefs into action twice as Forest increased their tempo and territorial dominance.
The hosts’ failure to convert their pressure into goals proved costly, particularly when Chris Wood missed two golden opportunities in the final stages. The striker first saw his point-blank volley saved by Roefs before incredibly heading wide from six yards whilst unmarked, ensuring Sunderland claimed their first away league victory of the campaign.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
