Neco Williams' fierce low drive earned Nottingham Forest a crucial 1-1 draw against Aston Villa at the City Ground on Sunday. Murillo's own goal had given Villa the lead earlier in the first half. The point moves Forest three points clear of the Premier League drop zone.
Aston Villa took the lead when Morgan Rogers' fizzing low cross from the left was turned into his own net by Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. The own goal came after few clear chances in the opening stages, rewarding Rogers for his ambition down the flank. Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels had no chance as the ball bounced beyond him off Murillo and past the line. Neco Williams restored parity 15 minutes later with a powerful low shot from the edge of the box, beating Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez. Williams had earlier tested Martinez at the near post, and his equalizer ensured the hosts went into half-time level. Both teams spurned chances in an entertaining second half. Forest striker Igor Jesus headed over and had a deflected effort saved by brilliant reactions from Martinez, while John McGinn was denied by a fine stop from Sels at the other end. Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers also missed opportunities for Villa, but Forest held firm to claim a precious point. Williams described the first half as 'brilliant' and 'exciting,' noting both sides had good moments and chances. The result leaves Forest three points above third-bottom Tottenham, who lost 1-0 at Sunderland. Villa stay seven points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea in the race for Champions League qualification spots.
