This was the second time that Newcastle U21s have played at this venue, defeating Derby County 4-1 there back in April 2023.

Newcastle U21s moved a step closer to confirming their place in the knockout phase of PL2 on Monday night thanks to a third consecutive victory. 

Trailing to a fifth minute shot from Zyan Blake at Loughborough University Stadium, the Magpies levelled through Johnny Emerson just eight minutes later.

Two quick-fire strikes then sent Diarmuid O'Carroll's side in 3-1 up at the interval; Garang Kuol beating George Murray-Jones from distance on 37 minutes before Sean Neave shot home three minutes later after Emerson dispossessed an opponent just outside the box.

The hosts reduced the arrears on 69 minutes, Kyle McAdam beating Aidan Harris from close range - the Forest midfielder substituted almost immediately.

Harris then foiled substitute Djamna Frank when he bore down on goal as three minutes of added time began and were successfully negotiated by the visitors. 

Three points lifted United three places into tenth - five points clear of the sixteenth and last playoff spot. Two games remain, against Reading at SJP on April 7th and Manchester City at the Joie Stadium on April 14th.