Friday evening saw Newcastle U21s beaten for the first time in five PL2 games, an outcome that severely damaged their prospects of qualifying for the end-of-season playoffs.

At kick-off both sides had 20 points, United above Forest on goal difference in nineteenth - two points and three places off the last play-off spot. Robbie Stockdale's side had three games left, one more than Forest.

Playing at Forest's adopted Loughborough University home, the Magpies fell behind through an 11th minute header from old boy Chris Wood, appearing as an over-age player as he returned to action following knee surgery.

Kalum Thompson then doubled the home side's advantage three minutes before the interval, firing beyond visiting custodian Aidan Harris.

Completing 45 minutes after five months on the sidelines, Wood was replaced by Donnell McNeilly, who shot home on the hour to further extend his side's advantage.

PS: 34 year-old Wood was playing for West Bromwich Albion reserves back in September 2008, when Mason Miley - in the United defence on Friday - was born.