Doyle Gets Away With Howler

Last updated : 20 February 2005 By Brian Cartlidge

The 19-year-old Blues keeper had only played one professional game for Chester and was making his debut for Forest with first-choice keeper Paul Gerrard ruled out through suspension.

But Doyle had a first half to forget after somehow allowing Jermain Defoe's free-kick to fall through his hands and gift Tottenham the opening goal on the stroke of half-time.

However, Forest striker Gareth Taylor ensured Doyle was not the villain of the day when he made the most of a mix-up in the Spurs defence and scored a crucial equaliser to earn Gary Megson's side a replay at The City Ground next month.

Doyle, to his credit, showed he was not affected by his first half error when with the scores level at 1-1 he made a superb save to deny Defoe on 72 minutes.

"The keeper made an awful error for the goal, but he showed so much character after that mistake. It was not ideal for him to make his debut in that kind of situation," Forest boss Gary Megson said after the game.

"He has come into a team which has let in 45 goals this season, but no-one had a go at him at half-time and great testament for the way he bounced back."