SHAUN SAIKO'S second half equaliser was not enough as Martin Scott's men suffered their second defeat of the season at Rockliffe Park.

Boro lined up in a 4-5-1 formation with Stephen Thompson asked to grab the goals up front.

And it was the youngster who threatened first when his ferocious shot was well tipped over by Forest keeper Karl Darlow.

Saiko also saw a 25-yard volley pushed round the corner as the home side pressed for the opening goal.

That came moments later, however it was Forest who went ahead.

John Johnson lost possession allowing a cross shot from Max Wright to come in from the right hand side. Then ball eluded both defence and keeper leaving a simple tap in for Ryan Whitehurst at the back post.

Boro came out with greater purpose after the break and it was the dangerous Saiko who brought Scott's side level.

A lovely move involving both Thompson and Porritt allowed the latter to cut the ball back for the Canadian who made no mistake from close range.

But the visitors edged ahead soon after when a short corner form the right was flashed back across goal and into the path of Tom Sharpe who converted from six yards out.

Gary Martin went agonisingly close as Boro increased the pressure but a controversial third goal eventually killed the game.

The ball was fed through over the top with the defence and goalkeeper both stopping expecting the offside flag to be raised against Whitehurst.

They were waiting a long time as Tim Hopkinson picked up his own through ball and raced on towards Steele.

His shot was cleared off the line by Gerald Robinson but unfortunately for Boro, only into the path of the advancing striker who finished easily.