BILLY Davies today admitted he was thrilled to have finally ended the hoodoo Doncaster Rovers held over Nottingham Forest.

The Reds had not beaten Rovers in their last six attempts – and Sean O'Driscoll's side had triumphed 4-2 on their last visit to the City Ground, leading to the sacking of Colin Calderwood.

But Forest returned the favour by hammering Doncaster 4-1 yesterday and Davies hopes his side have now laid a ghost to rest.

"I was obviously concerned before the game, because we had not beaten them in six matches," he said. "They had kept five clean sheets and they looked like a bogey team for us.

"I said that to the players – that we owed them one because of that previous record."

Forest lead 1-0 at half time through a Gareth Roberts own goal, but it was only really after the break that they got into their stride – with Wes Morgan, Robert Earnshaw and Lewis McGugan completing the rout, before Billy Sharp netted a consolation for the visitors.

"I am disappointed with the goal we conceded, because I would have liked to have kept a clean sheet," said Davies. "But in the second half our work rate, attitude and fitness were fantastic.

"We just had to play a little higher up the pitch and work a little harder off the ball.

"We moved one or two things around at half time and, work rate wise, it was excellent in the second half.

"Some of our play and passing is very, very good. We have good players and an attitude that is second to none. Our fitness is first class and that showed in the second half."

Davies was also impressed with the contribution of Nicky Shorey, who enjoyed a steady debut since signing on loan from Aston Villa.

"Nicky Shorey came in and did very well, he has not been involved in competitive football for a little while," said Davies.

"He has great quality and a calm head and adds competition. Defensively the two centre-backs were outstanding, as was the keeper.

"But right through this side, you can go through it, as a team they have great respect for each other.

"They have outstanding commitment and passion."