Nottingham Forest 2-1 Derby County: Reds beat troubled East Midlands rivals

Veteran striker Lewis Grabban continued his scoring run

Goals from Lewis Grabban and Brennan Johnson gave Nottingham Forest victory over troubled rivals Derby County in the East Midlands derby.

After Scott McKenna headed James Garner's free-kick towards the six-yard box, Steve Cook's shot was blocked and the loose ball dropped to Grabban, who netted from close range.

Johnson started and finished the move for the Reds' late second, finding Philip Zinckernagel on the left and then galloping into the box to fire home the Dane's low cross.

Tom Lawrence pulled a goal back for Derby with a penalty after being fouled by Cook.

The visitors ended the match with 10 men after Ravel Morrison was sent off in the final moments for a reckless challenge on Zinckernagel.

It earned Morrison a straight red card and sparked a melee after the final whistle involving players from both sides.

Derby, in administration and needing a takeover to go through in order to secure the club's future, had won four and drawn one of their previous five matches - raising hopes of avoiding relegation.

They caused Forest early problems but Lawrence missed a great chance to put them ahead when he shot wide after exchanging passes with Colin Kazim-Richards.

Lawrence was also denied late in the first half when goalkeeper Brice Samba saved bravely at his feet.

The clash left Samba with a huge lump on his forehead and seemingly dazed, but he played on with a bandaged head.

Rejuvenated Forest have now won 10 of their 19 Championship matches since Steve Cooper took over as manager at the City Ground.

This win further boosted their play-off bid, while Grabban's opener was the veteran striker's third goal in as many matches and his 13th of the season.

Nottingham Forest head coach Steve Cooper told BBC Radio Nottingham:

"The only objective today was to win and that's what we've done. That's the most important thing.

"They had a decent chance with Tom Lawrence but apart from that didn't really threaten.

"In the second half we were good and I felt we created the real opportunities. It was disappointing they got a goal back, because otherwise I thought we managed the game well.

"We were definitely good for the win. There was only one winner today, no doubt about that."

Derby County manager Wayne Rooney:

"The next few days are crucial. I've had assurances that I don't have to sell players.

"We need preferred bidders to help this club exist. If not we will have to see what we can do at the end of the window.

"The administrators have said they are confident someone will come in this week. It is a terrible position to be in and needs sorting. I take care of the football and they take care of the business.

"Hopefully there will be some good news. I don't hold my breath, but I'm always pushing to see where we're at. The players and fans deserve someone to come in."