Mick McCarthy praised the display of goalkeeper Dean Gerken and the decision of referee Scott Mathieson not to give Forest a first-half penalty after the goalless draw at the City Ground. 

Simon Cox went down under a challenge from Gerks inside the box but the official waved away the penalty appeals – much to the anger of Forest and surprise of even the Town boss. 

“It looked a stonewaller from the bench but some of the other lads said Cox was on his way down,” said Mick. 

“That was spot on. He was on his way down, Gerks didn’t touch him. Lots would have given the penalty but the referee got it right. It wasn’t one. The lad was offside as well so all in all, it was the right decision. 

“Referees get pelters when they get it wrong so he should be lauded for getting that decision right. 

“Overall it was a terrific away point for us. Gerks was outstanding. He made a couple of terrific saves for us and the one from Cox in the second-half has earned us a point.”