Forest Edge County in East Midlands Friendly

Nottingham Forest made the short trip across the East Midlands to take on Notts County in a friendly encounter on a warm July afternoon. The match carried the usual intensity that comes with a local derby, even in a pre-season setting, with both sides eager to make an impression during their preparations for the upcoming campaign.

Forest broke the deadlock in the 27th minute when I. Jesus found the back of the net to give the visitors an early foothold in the contest. The goal proved to be a turning point, settling the away side and allowing them to control proceedings with growing confidence. Notts County struggled to respond and found themselves increasingly under pressure as the first half wore on.

The second half saw Forest extend their advantage when A. Kalimuendo added a second goal in the 54th minute, putting the result beyond doubt. By that stage, County had little answer to Forest's attacking play, and the visitors were able to manage the remainder of the match comfortably. Forest's performance was clinical and efficient, leaving little room for their opponents to build any real momentum.

The 0-2 victory handed Forest a morale-boosting win ahead of their competitive fixtures, while County will have learned plenty from the encounter about the work still required during the remainder of their pre-season. Both sides will have gained valuable match fitness from the 90 minutes, but it was Forest who left with bragging rights in this East Midlands meeting.