By SCM Sports Writer
NOTTINGHAM — There is a unique, crackling energy that ripples through the City Ground when the floodlights bounce off the River Trent, but last night that famous atmosphere was silenced by a familiar face.
Everton arrived at one of English football’s most historic riverside cathedrals and walked away with a clinical 2-0 victory, leaving the Forest faithful shivering in more than just the winter chill.
The iconic stadium, which has seen its fair share of miracles over the decades, witnessed a masterclass in pragmatism as David Moyes’ men dismantled a Forest side that seemed overawed by the occasion.
The script couldn’t have been more painful for the home supporters. James Garner, a man who once pulled the strings in Forest’s midfield during their promotion charge, returned to his old stomping ground to deliver a dagger to the heart.
In the 19th minute, Garner found a pocket of space in the Trent End’s shadow, latched onto a Dwight McNeil pass, and fired home with the clinical edge of a man who knew every blade of the City Ground grass.
Forest, buoyed by a sell-out crowd of over 30,000, tried to manufacture a response.
The roar from the Peter Taylor Stand was deafening as Igor Jesus went close, and for a period in the second half, the stadium felt like it might tip the balance.
The “Tricky Trees” dominated 70% of the possession, peppering Jordan Pickford’s goal, but the famous old venue couldn’t conjure its usual magic.
Instead, the knockout blow came on the break. With ten minutes remaining, Garner turned provider, threading a ball through to Thierno Barry.
The summer signing, who has found goals hard to come by, showed no nerves as he slotted past the keeper to double the lead.
As the final whistle echoed across the water, the City Ground was left in stunned silence, save for the pocket of traveling Scousers celebrating a win that moves them within touching distance of the European spots.
For Sean Dyche and Forest, the legendary home comforts of Nottingham offered no protection against a ruthless Everton charge.
