Toney scores on return as Brentford beat Nottingham Forest
Ivan Toney's comeback from a ban for betting offences was marked by a goal as Brentford defeated Nottingham Forest 3-2 in the English Premier League.
Ivan Toney's Goal on Return
Ivan Toney, the England striker, scored a stunning free kick 19 minutes into his comeback from an eight-month ban for betting offences. His goal helped Brentford secure a 3-2 victory against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday.
Toney, who was wearing a shirt sponsored by a betting company, celebrated his return to the field with an impressive goal that bent around the defensive wall. Although there were suggestions of the ball being moved illegally, the referee did not intervene.
The 27-year-old, who was the top scorer for Brentford last season, expressed his gratitude for being back on the pitch and scoring goals for the team. His ban lasted 259 days, and his absence had taken a toll on Brentford's recent league performance.
Brentford's Crucial Win
The victory against Nottingham Forest ended Brentford's five-match losing streak and provided a much-needed confidence boost for the team. Ben Mee's powerful header in the 58th minute gave Brentford a 2-1 lead, but Chris Wood equalized for Forest in the 65th minute.
However, Brentford quickly responded as Neal Maupay scored a goal in the 68th minute, aided by a VAR review that confirmed no handball. This goal proved to be the winner for Brentford. The team, currently placed 14th in the Premier League standings, moved six points clear of the relegation zone.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank praised Ivan Toney for his clever goal and commended his overall performance. Toney's influence on the team was evident in his link-up play, hold-up play, defensive contributions, and work ethic.
Mixed Reactions and Controversy
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged his team's fighting spirit despite the loss and questioned the validity of both Toney's goal and Maupay's goal. He expressed surprise that the referee did not review these situations thoroughly, as per the rules.
On the other hand, Brentford manager Thomas Frank was not aware of any irregularities during Toney's goal and appreciated the boost it provided for the team's confidence. However, he recognized Forest's strong performance and praised their fighting spirit.
The match took place at Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, England, and attracted an attendance of 17,077 spectators.
