Awoniyi comes up clutch for Nottingham Forest against toothless Southampton

Awoniyi stole the show when the Tricky Trees claimed a big result against Chelsea and he replicate that same performance against the Saints

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi scored the winning goal for Nottingham Forest in their 1-0 win against Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium.

After claiming a big 1-1 draw against Chelsea last time out, Nottingham Forest were looking to get a result off Southampton who had lost their previous five Premier League games.

Forest boss Steve Cooper kept the faith with Nigeria international Awoniyi after his Man Of The Match performance against Chelsea. He gave the former Liverpool man the task of leading his frontline.

On the other hand, Southampton boss Nathan Jones opted to start Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo from the bench.

The Tricky Trees were the better team from the blast of the whistle and they got their breakthrough just before the half-hour mark.

Nottingham Forest went on a fast break, with Brennan Johnson showing great pace and intelligence to run into a good position. He then traded the ball into the path of Awoniyi who was arriving in the box.

Awoniyi made no mistake from close range, sending the ball into an empty net to make it 1-0.

Southampton huffed and puffed in the search for an equalizer, but they failed to produce anything in the final third.

Aribo was introduced for Southampton in the 64th minute as they tried to salvage something from the tie. But he failed to alter much.

Awoniyi had a great display. Asides from his goal, he had 23 touches and one key pass. He also helped defensively with two clearances and one interception.

In the end, his goal proved to be the crucial decider, as Nottingham Forest ran out with the 1-0 win.

For the second consecutive time, Awoniyi won the Man of the Match award. And his goal takes the Tricky Trees away from the relegation zone to 15th in the Premier League.

For Southampton unfortunately, they continue to sink. They sit rock-bottom of the league with just twelve points after 18 games.