Davies: Ref had a tough job

FOREST boss Billy Davies felt Bristol City were lucky to finish the game with 11 men following Nicky Maynard's high, lunging challenge on Chris Gunter after only eight seconds.

Gunter had been involved in controversial scenes last season, after Bristol had put the ball out of play to allow an injured player to receive treatment.

Forest were not convinced the player had a genuine problem, took a quick throw and subsequently scored.

"Maybe it was a little bit of punishment for the last game we played here.

There were one or two challenges that, if you like, could have gone a different way," said Davies.

"But I have no complaints, Bristol are what they are. They are powerful and strong and it was a big test for us.

"I also thought the referee had quite a difficult task. There could have been one or two better decisions, without a doubt.

"By the rule book, if you go with the rules on airborne challenges, maybe that early decision could have been different.

"But a point is a point. We scored a late goal last week and we conceded one this week, such is life. It is a great point and it keeps us moving along.

"It keeps us unbeaten as well, which is important.

"We are doing something right because they were a top six side before the game.

"We have to learn to compete at the City Ground, because teams will come and make life difficult for us. We have to handle the physical side of things.

"But great credit to these lads. We have come a long way since the start of the season. There will be more ups and downs between now and the end of the season, but bring it on."