Earnshaw to score 1st goal.

Very important and very tight game in the championship tonight as both these clubs continue the battle for epl football.

The Toon have been on super form with high scoring wins in recent weeks. Barnsley were smashed by 6 goals and to be honest they could have been lost twice that. Hes a much underrated manager probably because of his lack of experience but Hughton has done very well in his 1st year.

Forest have slipped up recently and Billys men have wobbled to some poor results. Its not time to panic though and you can be sure a man of his experience who knows exactly whats needed in the championship wont be. They have won the last 2, not by many but 2 clean sheets mean Forest are back to something close to their best.

This looks a very tight low scoring game with defences on top. Forest will play with most men behind the ball looking to sneak something on the break. I must admit when i have seen the toon up against very negative sides this season they have often struggled to break them down. We have seen a few shock results at st james as the home side are possibly lacking a bit of guile at times.

This is why i take Earny to steal it on the break for Forest. He is a top class striker a premiership player. Only 1 chance is needed and if Forest can provide it he can and will give them the lead.

1st goalscorer Earnshaw at 9.00