Chris Wood marked his return to St James' Park with a stunning hat-trick as Nottingham Forest secured a remarkable Premier League victory over Newcastle, ending their seven-game winless streak. Despite Alexander Isak putting Newcastle in the lead with a penalty, Forest, restructured to exploit counter-attacks, consistently threatened the home side. Morgan Gibbs-White and Anthony Elanga had early chances, with Elanga eventually setting up Wood for a deserved equalizer against his former team. Wood continued his goal-scoring prowess, adding two more, securing a crucial win for Forest under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
The victory elevated Forest to 16th in the table, five points clear of the relegation zone. Despite Eddie Howe's side sporadically threatening, they struggled to contain Forest's pace and incisive counter-attacks. Wood, Howe's second signing at Newcastle, showcased his striking abilities, netting a hat-trick in only his fifth league start of the season. Forest's captain, Gibbs-White, contributed significantly in midfield, outshining Bruno Guimaraes, while Elanga's dynamic play on the right provided a consistent attacking outlet.
Nuno Espirito Santo, appointed as Forest's manager after Steve Cooper's dismissal, made six changes to the lineup, instigating a purposeful display that reflected a shift in tactics. The result brought Christmas cheer to the City Ground and showcased Forest's potential under their new management. Despite some wasteful finishing and missed opportunities, the team's incisive counter-attacking and Wood's clinical finishing secured a memorable victory, marking a promising start under their new leadership.
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