Super Eagles striker flops as former Flying Eagles star Ekpiteta fires Blackpool past naughty Nottingham Forest

The Tricky Trees' stunning win at St Mary's a few days ago was drowned in their embarrassing loss to the lower league side

Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Dennis was far from being at his best as Nottingham Forest suffered a disappointing 4-1 loss at Blackpool to exit the FA Cup on Saturday.

With star forward Taiwo Awoniyi out with fatigue, Forest manager Steve Cooper handed Dennis a rare start alongside Sam Surridge in a new-look attack supported by Brazilian attacking midfielder Gustavo Scarpa.

But former Flying Eagles defender Marvin Edem Ekpiteta proved too solid a rock to break down in Blackpool's defence while lending a hand in the attack.

Marvin Edem Ekpiteta scored the opening goal for the home side before further goals from Ian Poveda, CJ Hamilton, and Jerry Yates handed Blackpool a healthy advantage. Substitute Ryan Yates netted Nottingham Forest's consolation goal deep in stoppage time.

Dennis will not be particularly pleased with his contribution as he lost possession 16 times, committed seven fouls, and won just three of his 17 duels.

The former Watford forward, however, made one key pass, missed one big chance, and hit the woodwork once.

Each of Dennis' last two games for Forest has ended in defeat, with the Reds losing to Manchester United and Blackpool. The 25-year-old did not feature in Forest's draw with Chelsea on New Year's Day and the Taiwo Awoniyi-inspired win at St Mary's a few days ago.