Forest lost to Fulham for the second time this season - are they better playing three at the back only when holding onto a lead?

Nuno Espirito Santo expressed relief after Nottingham Forest avoided a fourth-round FA Cup upset by beating Exeter City on penalties. Forest, third in the Premier League and the highest-ranked team left in the FA Cup, prevailed 4-2 on spot-kicks at St James Park following a 2-2 draw after extra time.

On preparing for the challenge of facing a side lower down the pyramid, Nuno said: "We have to get ready for that [big atmosphere with fans close to the pitch]. In these game it is important to try and to find simplicity and solve the problems in a simple way. Our talent and quality will show I hope."

Dominguez’s role was flexible. The midfielder switched markers with Forest’s right-back, Ola Aina, depending on who was closer to Digne and McGinn. Then, when Forest were defending deeper in their own half, Dominguez dropped to form a situational back five to prevent Villa from overloading the left flank.

Progress, Delays, and Future ProspectsNottingham Forest is a club on the rise. Despite a setback in their 2-1 defeat to Fulham, there remains a sense of