The final away game of the 2008/09 season saw Forest make the long awaited trip to sunny Blackpool, with both teams looking to seal survival and more Championship football next season.

On a dreadful pitch, possibly the worst ever seen at this level in modern day football, Billy Davies opted to recall Joel Lynch to the side after a two game lay off, with James Perch shifted into midfield. Joe Garner partnered Dexter Blackstock in attack once again with Robert Earnshaw only fit enough for the bench and Nathan Tyson ruled out once again through injury.

Despite a shaky start during which Paul Smith was called into action more than once, the Reds drew first blood around ten minutes into the action when Lynch crossed from the left for Blackstock to prod home from close range via the cross bar.

Boosted by the goal Forest looked capable of extending their lead, although Chris Cohen’s free kick from range flew harmlessly into the home fans behind the goal.

With the Reds looking in control it was a surprise to many when former Forest loan star Brett Ormerod’s brilliant finish from an angle brought the home side level before half time.

After a scrappy start to the second half, the Reds received a major boost when ‘pool defender Ian Evatt saw red for a professional foul on Joe Garner. From the resultant free kick, Cohen forced an excellent save from Paul Rachubka who clawed a goal bound effort away for a corner.

Try as they might Forest failed to grab that all important winner. The best chances fell to James Perch whose header forced a save out of Rachubka, and after a goal mouth scramble the same player should really have done better rather than firing straight at the Tangerine’s keeper. Lewis McGugan almost entered a late goal of the season contender, but after a mazy dribble and shot, Rachubka saved easily.

In fairness, the home side had chances of their own. Paul Smith made an excellent save from Stephen Crainey’s free kick but when the full time whistle sounded both teams seemed fairly satisfied with the result.

In the end a point proved enough for both teams following Norwich’s defeat to Reading on Monday night. Great credit must go to Billy Davies and his team for holding their nerve and producing a vital five match unbeaten run at such a crucial time. Although certain performances under Davies left a lot to be desired at times, it is mission accomplished, and with a few quality additions the Reds should be capable of pushing for at least a top half finish next season.

The 2008/09 curtain will be drawn on Sunday as relegated Southampton visit the City Ground.

Forest: Smith, Chambers, Morgan, Breckin (McCleary 46), Lynch, Gunter, Perch, Osbourne (Earnshaw 70), Cohen (McGugan 85), Garner, Blackstock.

MOM: Luke Chambers - looks a totally different player at the heart of Forest's defence.