Forest took the lead 20 minutes into the second half when Chris Wood’s low 25-yard strike slipped past Dean Henderson at his near post. Henderson got a weak hand on the ball, but it still found its way into the net.
Wood’s goal capitalized on a mistake by the Crystal Palace goalkeeper, securing a narrow 1-0 win for Nottingham Forest. Despite hitting the woodwork twice, Palace created few chances in a match that featured the second-best defense against the league’s worst attack. Palace has only managed five goals in their first eight games.
Forest, missing manager Nuno Espirito Santo due to a touchline ban, moved up to eighth place with 13 points. Palace, still winless, remain in 18th place with just three points. Wood commented on his goal, saying, “I was just trying to hit the target. I had a few chances in the first half that didn’t go my way. It is important we keep going and keep looking forward.”
The victory marked Forest’s first home win in eight matches since April, while Palace’s struggles have led to their worst start since the 1992-93 season. Forest’s Elliot Anderson had a great solo run in the box, but his shot lacked the power to beat Henderson. Meanwhile, Palace’s Eddie Nketiah came close with a long-range shot that hit the post.
Palace defender Marc Guehi lamented, “At the moment, nothing’s going for us.”