BBC SPORT
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner at Nottingham Forest from the penalty spot to keep their hopes of a top-four finish firmly alive.
Isak, who had earlier cancelled out Emmanuel Dennis’ opener in the first half, coolly placed his spot-kick into the right corner after Moussa Niakhate was penalised for handball in the box.
In an eventful encounter, Newcastle substitute Elliot Anderson thought he had made it 2-1 when he thumped in a header at the back post, only for it to be ruled out by VAR for offside in the build-up.
Newcastle were on top for large spells and hit the crossbar twice in the first half, either side of a glorious chance fired over by Joe Willock from close range.
Forest’s opener came against the run of play when Newcastle defender Sven Botman unforgivably gifted possession to Dennis, who smartly chipped it over the players standing guard on the goalline.
The visitors’ pressure eventually paid off when Willock set-up Isak for a precise volley into the far corner on the stroke of half-time and the Swedish striker later delivered the winner to spark celebratory scenes in the away end in Nottingham.
The result leaves Newcastle just a point behind Tottenham in fifth – and still with a game in hand – while Forest remain two points above the relegation zone.
Newcastle’s effort pay off as Forest woes continue
Newcastle were made to work hard for their victory but it was well deserved.
They had already forced Forest goalkeeper Keylor Navas into action on numerous occasions in the second half as pressure grew inside the hosts’ half, while defender Serge Aurier made a goalline clearance and striker Jacob Murphy volleyed wide from close range.
Luck appeared to be on Forest’s side when Anderson’s goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up, but Newcastle were eventually rewarded for their endeavour as Isak stepped up again to deliver the goods.
It was the first time this season Newcastle had come from behind to win in the Premier League and it strengthens their challenge for a Champions League qualification spot.
It was also another impressive showing from Isak, who now has six goals in 10 Premier League appearances after also netting in the 2-1 win over Wolves last weekend.
For Forest it was another disappointing result. The danger of relegation remains and they were not a match for Newcastle on Friday evening.
