'Beyond our expectations' — Ola Aina's boss delighted after flogging Brighton 7-0

'Beyond our expectations' — Ola Aina's boss delighted after flogging Brighton 7-0

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 18:41 - 01.02.2025

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo has expressed his delight and disbelief after watching his side dismantle Brighton at the City Ground.

Nottingham Forest bounced back from last weekend's 5-0 defeat to Bournemouth in style, thrashing Brighton & Hove Albion 7-0 on Saturday.

The convincing victory delighted manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who praised his team's huge response.

"The response on the pitch from the players was beyond our expectations," Espirito Santo told the BBC.

"We were concerned, we wanted to put it right because last week wasn't good enough, and they were aware of that, and the response was great."

Chris Wood was the star of the show, bagging a hat-trick to take his league tally to 17 goals this season.

Espirito Santo heaped praise on the 33-year-old striker, who became the first Forest player to score a hat-trick at the City Ground since Nigel Clough in 1987.

"Amazing, amazing," Espirito Santo said. "More than anything, the way he works for the team, the way he helps.

Three assists from Anthony (Elanga) also, so a hat-trick of assists. More delight."

Super Eagles star Ola Aina also played a crucial role in the win, putting in an outstanding shift down the right wing and contributing to a clean sheet.

The victory consolidates Nottingham Forest's third spot in the league, as they chase their first Champions League qualification in 45 years.

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