If luck evens itself out over the course of a season, Ipswich Town should prepare for a dose of misfortune.

It's there - Ipswich Town draw level

Quite how they emerged unscathed from this match to claim an important share of the spoils is a mystery.

In terms of chances created, Forest outplayed their visitors and - unbelievably - were denied by the woodwork THREE times.

Even so, Ipswich held on for a very creditable point after snatching a dramatic leveller with a goal against the run of play.

Forest had just gone agonisingly close with two efforts against the woodwork, right at the start of the second period.

And they were left cursing their luck for a third time in quick succession when Darren Bent equalised for the Blues.

Tommy Miller's corner was headed on by Richard Naylor and Bent, in the right place at the right time, found the net via a deflection.

Ipswich - again without the services of injured skipper Jim Magilton - had started with a 4-4-2 formation and handed a debut to new loan signing Tony Dinning.

The Wigan Athletic midfielder, who has penned an initial two-month deal, came into the side at the expense of Dean Bowditch.

Despite their new look, Forest's dominance of the first half was rewarded with a goal in the 24th minute - although it was terribly harsh on Davis.

The shotstopper, in red-hot form during pre-season, had just made a brilliant flying save to keep out a bullet header by Gareth Taylor.

But there was nothing he could do to prevent the opener, bundled home from close-range by Paul Evans.

Former Blues striker David Johnson controlled a header into his path and sent a low shot arrowing towards the bottom corner.

Published Thursday August 12, 2004

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