In a match that burst into life in the second half, Nottingham Forest secured a valuable point against Chelsea in their battle to avoid Premier League relegation, thanks to a brace from Taiwo Awoniyi.
Forest, buoyed by Awoniyi’s heroics in their previous win against Southampton, took an early lead when the Nigerian striker headed in from Renan Lodi’s cross, beating Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Chelsea responded after the break, with Raheem Sterling equalizing by converting Trevoh Chalobah’s cross. Sterling then showcased his individual brilliance, evading Felipe before curling the ball past Keylor Navas to put Chelsea ahead. However, their lead was short-lived as Awoniyi flicked home Orel Mangala’s delicate lob, securing a draw for Forest.
Back from injury ➡️ back-to-back braces.@taiwoawoniyi18 is your #CHENFO POTM! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/f7vLf52lov
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) May 13, 2023
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The result marked an end to Forest’s seven-match losing streak in away league games and left them three points clear of third-bottom Leeds United with two matches remaining. Forest, who had struggled on their travels throughout the season, accumulating only six points from a possible 51, now face Arsenal at home in their next fixture before a trip to Crystal Palace on the final day of the campaign.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s woes at Stamford Bridge continued, as they extended their winless streak to seven home games in all competitions.
The result keeps Chelsea in 11th place, and their remaining fixtures present a tough challenge as they face three of the top four teams in Manchester City, Manchester United, and Newcastle United to conclude a disappointing season.
