Elliot Anderson admitted Nottingham Forest made it difficult for them in their 3-2 win over Southampton this afternoon.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side took a 3-0 lead over the bottom side of the Premier League at Manchester City, but went level on points with second-placed Arsenal.
Anderson scored the opening goal in the 41st minute. Callum Hudson-Odoi and Chris Wood equalized but Jan Bednarek and Paul Onuachu hit back early in the second half. The visitors then almost spoiled an unlikely equalizer when Ola Aina cleared off the line to deny Bednarek a second goal.
Three points at home. pic.twitter.com/BDXkDKNbMF
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) January 19 2025
Anderson told BBC Match of the Day: “We started really brightly but made it difficult for ourselves in the second half. In the end we got three points and I'm really happy.”
It was a fine job for Forest, who built on success in their midweek draw with leaders Liverpool.
“We plan to attack both games with the same spirit,” Anderson said.
“It's always difficult when you have something to lose,” the manager said. We need those three points because there are teams behind us.”
On his goal, he said: “I worked hard for it and the kids were telling me to shoot. I think I'll crash when I get it.”
Juric was upset with the first half of the show.
Just three days after they dominated Manchester United at Old Trafford before losing 3-1, the Saints are still rooting for themselves despite another disappointing display.
Boss Ivan Juric said: “In the first half, we were not competitive. This is what happened. We played with heart (in the second half) and scored a goal. That's what we have to score.
“I didn't talk to them (at halftime). We're a competitive team, but if we're down 10 percent, we can't compete. I hope a first episode like today never happens again. Their first two goals were ridiculous.
“In the second half we attacked and scored two goals. Aina saved another. 80 minutes at Manchester United We did well in the second half today. It's a real pity that we weren't ready in the 90 minutes.”