Russell Martin thinks the reason Nottingham Forest won their opening game of the new Premier League season was because of their superior attacking capability.
Morgan Gibbs-White’s goal Twenty minutes from the end highlighted the visitors’ clear superiority, which was especially noticeable in the first half. Forest had a 23-5 shot advantage, but the newly promoted Saints controlled 65% of the ball.
Although Martin claims that the most striking contrast was the presence of players like Anthony Elanga, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Chris Wood, and substitutes Taiwo Awoniyi and Jota Silva, Gibbs-White’s astute response ultimately won the game.
They had a lot of transitions in the first half because of the intense tension. We were chasing it after their objective, and it opened up considerably. We appeared to have the potential to cause issues, Martin said on Match of the Day.
“After all the work we put into them, I’m incredibly irritated that we gave up the goal from the set play because we just don’t have the same quality at the top of the pitch as them.
“The lads are watching as we have two balls across the goal’s face and we have the upper hand. They have several breakaway opportunities. We will continue to learn, but I’ve witnessed enough inspiring moments to know that, with a little more faith and effort, we can succeed.
“To truly calm everyone, that objective is necessary. We’re here now, so I understand after the last time the team was in the Premier League. The concerts have gone well, and I’m confident everyone will unwind.”
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