FIRE UP FOREST
Brave Burton fall away as Assombalonga shines
The fun and games continued unabated after the break. Pajtim Kasami’s free-kick was chipped back into the danger zone and Burke was free at the far stick to volley home on 49 minutes.
Albion, in their first match at this level, responded well and O’Grady’s goal-bound effort was superbly blocked by Forest centre-back Matt Mills.
But that first three points of the campaign were sealed with 13 minutes remaining. Burke drove forward again and his clipped cross was coolly headed home by Assombalonga.
Clough’s men refused to give in and they pulled an excellent goal back on 89 minutes – Tom Naylor heading home a Hamza Choudhury cross.
A flurry of chances then came Burton’s way in injury time – none better than Ben Turner’s back-post header dropping inches wide on 94 minutes.
But Nigel Clough, on his return to a club where he spent much of his playing career, says his side will keep their heads high.
“There was so much to be encouraged by – we never thought we would create so many chances away from home,” he said.
“We created enough chances to win two matches. We certainly didn’t deserve to lose the game.
“We’re not getting down about anything though and we won’t at any point in the season. I am sure there will be times when we get played off the park, maybe lose four or five-nil, but we will lick our wounds and go again.
“We are still two or three short. Our current players are fine fitness wise and we just need to strengthen.”